Rare E. Gubelin Turtle Mystery Water Clock

Lucerne, Switzerland, circa 1900. Sterling silver and marble. One of the rarest and most sought-after of the great mystery clocks, the Gubelin turtle mystery water clock is a true wonder of horology. This timepiece was created during the Art Deco era and features a charming turtle that, when the basin is filled with water, floats upon the surface. Beneath the basin resides the 8-day movement that operates a magnet. The turtle contains a small piece of metal that is attracted to the hidden magnet, guiding the diminutive aquatic reptile along the edge of the basin as if by magic. The time is indicated by the turtle's position in relation to the Roman numerals along the basin's edge.

Note: Sotheby's, Masterpieces from the Time Museum, 2004, Lot 613 (for similar example).