Cartier Art Deco 'Model A' Pendule Mystérieuse Mystery Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1928
Maker / issuer
CartierThis circa 1928 Cartier 'Model A' pendule mystérieuse mystery clock features a transparent rock crystal case supported by an onyx plinth base with beaded gold trim.
The dial incorporates mother-of-pearl chapter ring segments beneath gold Roman numerals, framed by an inner diamond-set circular bezel. The ornate diamond-set hands appear to float unattached within the central crystal disc. As source documentation reports, the manual-wind mechanism is hidden within the frame, driving the hands via rotating crystal discs. The case measures 93 mm by 54 mm by 138 mm.
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
- Mystery clock
- Circa
- 1928
- Movement
- Manual
- Case Size
- 93mm x 54mm x 138mm
- Case Numbers
- 0760, 0782, 2345
- Case Material
- Rock Crystal, Gold, Agate, Enamel, Diamonds
- Place recorded
- France
- Maker / attribution
- Cartier
Design
- Visible features
- • Faceted, beveled rock crystal superstructure enclosing a circular chapter ring. • Mother-of-pearl dial ring overlay with gold Roman numerals and inner diamond-set circular bezel. • Ornate diamond-set hands centered on transparent crystal without visible mechanical arbor. • Rectangular polished black onyx plinth base bordered by beaded gold trim. • Small 'FRANCE' inscription visible at the bottom of the chapter ring near VI.
- Mechanism and Display
- The clock utilizes a manual-wind movement concealed within the frame and base. The hands appear to float without a visible mechanical arbor. The hands are mounted within two rotating transparent crystal discs featuring toothed metal rims, which are driven by gears hidden within the clock case.
- Condition and Documentation
- The item is dated to circa 1928 and includes a Cartier Certificate of Authenticity dated 23 May 2002. It is accompanied by a later fitted presentation box and a key numbered 2345. Reported condition includes a small chip to the rock crystal case back above the 11 position, noted as not visible from the front, and traces of tarnishing on silver components. The gilt bottom plate displays discoloration consistent with age, and the mother-of-pearl dial parts are intact.
- Physical Identity and Composition
- This Cartier 'Model A' mystery clock is constructed with a faceted, beveled rock crystal superstructure mounted upon a rectangular polished black onyx plinth base. The base features decorative beaded gold trim. The timepiece measures 93 mm by 54 mm by 138 mm. The dial consists of a mother-of-pearl chapter ring segment featuring gold Roman numerals, complemented by an inner circular diamond-set bezel. A 'FRANCE' inscription is noted at the bottom of the chapter ring near the numeral VI.
Identification
- Reference
- Model A
- Serial number
- 0760, 0782, 2345
- 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: Movement is concealed inside the case framing and base, not directly visible.
- Research required: Christie's condition report notes a small chip to the rock crystal case back above 11 (not visible from front) and traces of silver tarnishing.