Rare and fine Swiss gold minute repeating lever watch Circa 1910

Gold hunting cased minute repeating watch by Audemars & Cie.
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A rare and possibly unique Swiss yellow gold hunting cased minute repeating watch with independent seconds made for the Russian market, circa 1910. Ligne lever movement, 45 jewels, two hammer repeating on two gongs, bimetallic compensation balance, minute repeating with two polished steel hammers. 18k Yellow gold finely engraved hinged contract case, monogram and coat of arms.
White enamel dial with personalized indexes for Michel Isakoff in Cyrillic, with hairlines, repeating slide in the band. Case, dial and movement signed.
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Diameter: 53 mm
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Signed: Audemars & Cie.
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This watch was given to Mr Paul Souvray in consideration of his exceptional and loyal service in the court of the Tsar of Russia, and it was gifted by the Tsar’s son, Michel Isakoff, for whom the watch was customized. An original letter from 1913, written by Mr Souvray accompanies this watch, a unique and exquisitely chased minute repeating hunting cased watch with independent seconds.

The letter attests to the many exceptional qualities of the timepiece. The award winning chronometer movement was especially ordered from Louis Audemars & Cie. Founded in 1811, Louis Audemars & Cie made high quality watch movements and precision complications ranging from repeaters to chronograph mechanisms. Their movements were arguably the finest available at the time and they were often sold unbranded to users all over Europe. It is interesting to note that that the cuvette of this watch is signed and celebrates the firm.

The most striking feature of this timepiece is the chased case, the artistry of which took three years to complete by expert engravers from Russia. The fine texture to the case is derived from minuscule carving very much like scrolling foliate scrolls. One can imagine the immense effort involved in chasing an entire case with this delicate and whimsical pattern, only truly visible under close observation. 

Comes with an original attestation letter from the previous owner, Mr Paul Souvray, dated October 28, 1913.