Patek Philippe’s cloisonné enamel dome clocks are perennial favourites at auction both for their innovative solar panel movements and uniquely designed themes. First released in 1955 these ground breaking clocks where developed by Patek Philippe’s Electronic Division, first established in 1948, with the goal to research and develop photoelectric, electronic and nuclear timekeeping technology. The use of cloisonné enamel represents a return to the time honoured tradition of enamel work as a means to decorate timepieces. Each panel was decorated with a general theme often in bright and colourful hues.

The present Dome Clock from 1976 is a superb representation of a second series of clock. The multi-chrome cloisonné enamel scene called “Travestis” by the well-known enamellist Marie Françoise Martin demonstrates her distinct style and manner with vibrant bright colours and free flowing form. In a relaxed cubist style she portraits a range of dressed and masked characters against a dark blue background. Playfully called “Travestis” or “transvestite” the scene has a joyful operatic sensibility with each gender difficult to determine. A true objets d’art, Patek Philippe’s Dome Clocks follow form and function and a wonderful addition to any collection.