Case No. 72647, 59 mm in diameter, crafted in 14K rose gold, is adorned with exquisite guilloché engraving and a partially enameled Russian imperial double-headed eagle crest. The inner lids bear two historically significant inscriptions:
— Dedication in Cyrillic: To dear Mitya in gratitude and 30 years of loyal friendship from V. Voronov. 1882–1912
— Signature: Pavel Bure, Supplier to the Court of His Imperial Majesty, confirming the item’s high status.The enamel dial features Roman numerals, Cyrillic calendar apertures for days and months, a date indicator, moon phase aperture, and a 30-minute chronograph counter. Signed: Tchétine et Fils.
The movement is a complex bridge caliber with lever escapement, compensated balance wheel, and Swiss patent engraving No. 334. The finishing includes gilding, blued screws, and finely executed surfaces.
Marks:— Le Phare with exhibition medals— Pavel Bure— Swiss and Russian assay marks (585 / 14K and 56 zolotnik)
Dimensions: 59 mmWeight: 149 g
Provenance: Russia / Switzerland, circa 1903
Mechanism: Minute repeater, moon phase calendar, chronograph, manual wind
The house of Pavel Bure, founded in the early 19th century and awarded the title of Supplier to the Imperial Court in 1899, was a hallmark of excellence in Russian watchmaking. Its collaboration with Swiss manufactories, particularly Le Phare (est. 1888), enabled the creation of bespoke high-functioning timepieces tailored to Russian preferences.
This example, featuring a minute repeater, moon phase indicator, Cyrillic triple calendar, and chronograph, with a personalized engraved dedication, is a quintessential object of prestige. The Cyrillic inscription implies a personal gift, typical of aristocratic traditions, marking an important relationship or event.
The watch, with its rare combination of mechanical functions, personalized engraving, and prestigious origin, stands as a museum-quality artifact, representing the intersection of Swiss technical innovation and Russian imperial patronage.
In very good collector’s condition with light wear consistent with age. No deformation to the gold case, enamel dial is clean, movement is operational. Full movement revision performed.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
