Reuge Ste-Croix

European Watch Clock and Jewellery Fair 1980 BF 609
This little gilded cage holds a mechanically operated singing bird covered in real bird feathers. Though barely over 20 mm long, it nevertheless contains an intricate system enabling it to open and close its beak, flutter its wings and move its tail. The bird also turns on its axis when it sings. A quartz watch is lodged in the base (12.5 x 7.5 x 18.5 cm). Right : a pocket watch with automata and alarm system; yellow, green, pink and grey gilt motifs. (REUGE Ste-Croix)