June 24, 2023 Brian Lebel's Santa Fe Old West Events Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/24/2023
Vintage custom, Morenci turquoise, six-piece matching Zuni set, through the collector and Zuni Pueblo trader C.G. Wallace (1898-1993). All unmarked except for the watchband, but included C.G. Wallace letter states they are Roger Skeet conchos and Jose Bowannie inlay. A hallmarked watchband by Fred Thompson is mounted on an authentic Rolex Oyster Speedking watch (watch is not working). An extraordinary, one-of-a-kind ensemble, expertly done with exquisite and rare stones from a long-closed mine. Lot includes copy of 1960 Wallace letter regarding the set.
a) Concho belt with seven oval conchos with starburst design inlay and matching butterfly-style inlaid buckle, all mounted on a black leather belt. Conchos measure 3 - 1/2"" x 2 - 7/8"" each, buckle measures 4"" x 2 - 7/8”, belt is 34” to the center hole.
b) Rolex Speedking watch on a custom inlay band by Fred Thompson that was obviously made to match the rest of the set. 6 - 1/2"" inside circumference, with Thompson hallmark.
c) Matching inlaid concho bracelet. Concho measures 3 - 1/2"" x 2 - 7/8"". The bracelet has an inside length of 6"", excluding the 1 - 3/8"" gap.
d-e) Pair of inlaid rings designed to match each other and the rest of the set. Sizes 8.75 and 9.
f) Bolo tie with matching inlaid concho and fancy tips on a black leather braided cord. Concho measures 2 - 7/8"" x 2 - 3/8""; tips are 2 - 7/8"".
Included in the lot is a note stating that the watch is the only marked piece and is Fred Thompson at Tobe Turpen Trading Post in Gallup. Also included is a photocopy of a letter from C.G. Wallace dated November 3, 1960, which details how unique the set is with its top quality turquoise, and notes that it is unlikely another set will be made.