Swiss 18k gold minute repeating automaton Circa 1890

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A fine Swiss minute repeater with concealed automaton in a decorative gold full hunter case, circa 1890. Keyless gilt bar movement with going barrel, frosted steel wolf’s teeth winding work. Plain cock with polished steel regulator, compensation balance with blue steel overcoil hairspring. Club foot lever escapement. Slide minute repeating on two polished steel gongs. White enamel dial with subsidiary seconds, Roman numerals and blue steel hands. Substantial 18-carat full hunter case, both covers profusely engraved in a foliate pattern leaving a part of the design vacant on the front cover clear for a monogram. Chased and engraved bezels and middle, gold slide for the repeat. Opening the plain gold cuvette reveals an amorous scene under a glazed cover of two polychrome enamel figures on a gilt engine turned background. When the repeat is activated the man springs to life as the train runs.
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Diameter: 55 mm
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Signed: LeCoultre

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In excellent condition. The movement is signed under the hour hammer.