Antique French carriage clock with leather travel case
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1870
This antique French carriage clock, dating to approximately 1870, is constructed in a 3/4 size format. The clock features a brass case decorated with engraved and chased ornamentation.
The case design incorporates glass panels on the sides and a bevelled, oval glass window in the top to provide a view of the balance mechanism. A hinged carrying handle is attached to the top. The dial is finished in white enamel with Roman numerals for the hours and dark-coloured hands. Internally, the clock is powered by a two-train mechanical movement with an eight-day power reserve and a balance escapement. It is capable of striking the hours and half-hours on an internal bell and includes a repeat strike function activated by a push lever.
The clock is accompanied by a protective leather-covered travelling case lined with red velvet, featuring a viewing window, brass handle, and lock.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Carriage clock
- Period
- circa 1870
- Striking
- Hours and half-hours on a bell with repeat strike
- Place recorded
- France
- Case dimensions
- 3/4 size
- Country of origin
- France
Design
- Visible features
- • Engraved and chased brass case decoration • Oval bevelled glass window on top for balance view • White enamel dial with Roman numerals • Leather travel case with red velvet interior
- Case and Dial Construction
- The clock is housed in a 3/4 size brass case featuring extensive engraved and chased decorative motifs. The design integrates transparent glass panels on the sides, allowing for visibility of the internal components. A notable feature is the bevelled, oval glass window positioned on the top of the case, which provides a direct view of the balance assembly. The clock is fitted with a hinged, decorative carrying handle. The dial is executed in white enamel, featuring Roman numeral hour markers and dark hands. The clock is stored in a dedicated leather travel case, which includes a red velvet-lined interior, a viewing window, and a brass handle and lock mechanism.
- Movement and Functionality
- The timepiece is driven by a two-train French movement designed with an eight-day power reserve. It utilizes a balance escapement to regulate timekeeping. The movement is configured to strike the hours and half-hours on an internal bell. Additional functionality includes a repeat strike mechanism, which is manually activated by a push lever. No information regarding the current working condition of the strike train or the repeat function is provided by the source.
- Condition and Collector Considerations
- The auction description notes that there is no official record regarding recent servicing or ongoing operational performance of the movement. Prospective owners are encouraged to inspect the clock for the condition of the springs and the status of the balance jewels. Further examination is recommended to verify the integrity of the enamel dial and ensure the glass panels, including the top oval window, are free of cracks or chips.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Official service history not documented
- Research required: Specific operational status of springs, strike mechanism and balance jewels unverified