Omega - The Geneva Watch Auction: THREE Geneva Saturday, May 14, 2016 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Omega
    Year: 1923
    Reference No: 23.7 widened into 17'''
    Movement No: 7'033'595
    Case No: 6'068'707
    Model Name: Lépine
    Material: 18k yellow gold and enamel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 23.7LEP, 15 jewels
    Dimensions: 45mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Omega Extract from the Archives confirming production of the watch in 1923
    Literature: The present pocket watch is illustrated on Omega Watches by John Goldberger page 25

  • Catalogue Essay

    The beginning of the 20th century was an era of great artistic creativity where the “Art Nouveau” and the later “Art Deco” movements took their roots. The years following World War I brought with them Asian influences leading artists to integrate their view of Japanese art in their creations.

    The present watch, manufactured by Omega in 1923 is a perfect representation of this influence. The engraved and enameled crane found at the center of the faux Lapis Lazuli enameled caseback is an auspicious bird symbolizing longevity in the Japanese culture. This influence is also visible with the stylized Asian-inspired numerals and the FRM engraving on the dial. The 18-karat yellow gold case features a delightful chased bamboo design. Simultaneously a timepiece and a piece of decorative art, this pocket watch is a testimony of Asian influence on European arts.

  • Artist Biography

    Omega

    Swiss • 1848

    Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed its name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph wristwatch to be chosen by NASA in 1965 — the first watch worn on the moon.

    Key models sought-after by collectors include their first, oversized water-resistant chronograph — the reference 2077, early Speedmaster models such as the CK 2915 and 2998, military-issued versions of the Seamaster and oversized chronometer models such as those fitted with their prestigious caliber 30T2Rg.

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151

Ref. 23.7 widened into 17'''
A very attractive and extremely rare yellow gold-cushion shaped dress watch with enameled case back simulating lapis lazuli and centered by a panel depicting a crane

1923
45mm. Diameter
Case and movement signed

Estimate
CHF4,000 - 6,000 
€3,700-5,500
$4,100-6,200

Sold for CHF8,750

Contact Specialist
Nathalie Monbaron
+41 22 317 81 83

The Geneva Watch Auction: THREE

Geneva Auction 15 May 2016