Skip to content

French 8-Day Etched Carriage Clock

ProbableCredible evidence exists but classification is not fully established.

Record status

Individual type · partial

Period

Circa 1860-1890

This French carriage clock is an eight-day timepiece dating from the 19th century, specifically between circa 1860 and 1890. It features a gilt-brass case with a hand-etched floral design on the dial plate, where roses and wild bushes surround the central hour ring.

The dial incorporates a central decorative element and black Arabic numerals. The architectural case includes a stepped design and column-inspired corner elements. Measuring 20 cm in height with the handle raised, 10 cm in width, and 9 cm in depth, the piece houses a lever escapement movement. It is accompanied by an original leather carrying case, which exhibits signs of wear from historical use. The clock is noted for its polished movement and bevelled glass components.

The auction description reports that the original finish on the case is in pristine condition and the clock remains in working order.

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
Dating
19th Century (Circa 1860-1890)
Condition
Good
Materials
Gilt-brass, leather case
Dimensions
20cm high with handle up by 10cm wide & 9cm deep dial is 7cm in diameter
Escapement
Lever escapement
Place recorded
France
Movement Duration
8-day

Design

Case and Dial
The carriage clock is constructed from gilt-brass and features a stepped, bevelled case. The design incorporates architectural elements, specifically column-inspired supports at each corner. A hinged gilt-brass handle is mounted on the top, positioned above a glass panel that allows a view into the movement. The dial face is hand-etched with a floral motif featuring roses and wild bushes. The central portion of the dial contains the hour ring with Arabic numerals. The clock hands are centered within a decorative floral-inspired feature. The overall design is described as being influenced by nature and historical architecture.
Visible features
• Floral etching on the dial plate • Gilt-brass handle and casing • Bevelled glass top panel • Column-style corner decoration
Movement and Escapement
The clock is equipped with an 8-day movement. The mechanism includes a lever escapement, which the source notes is original to the piece. The movement is described as polished and visible through the glass panels of the case. The auction description reports that the clock functions as intended. Maintenance advice provided in the source suggests that the movement requires periodic cleaning, oiling, and dusting to ensure consistent performance, particularly regarding the pendulum's beat.
Accompaniments and Condition
The clock is provided with its original leather case, which is noted for its durability. The case shows signs of age, characterized by wear and tear attributed to the history of the object and its transportation. The condition of the clock's brass finish is reported as pristine. The leather storage case, while worn, serves as protection for the timepiece. The source identifies this as an antique item from the late 19th century.

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: The 1860-1890 dating is an approximate estimate
  • Research required: Attribution to French manufacture is based on the source description
Can you source one of these? Submit a reference