Gübelin World Time Globe Desk Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1960
This Gübelin world-time desk clock, dated circa 1960, features an eight-day going movement housed within a globe construction. The object is composed of a gilt-brass axis that supports a Perspex globe, which is decorated with an outline map of the world in gilt.
Encircling the equator is a gilt-brass band engraved with the names of 29 world cities, complemented by an outer Perspex ring featuring blue 24-hour numerals. The clock stands on a domed aquamarine lacquered base adorned with gilt-brass stars. Internally, a brushed gilt-brass annular chapter ring displays radial Roman numerals, with time indicated by blue baton hands. The rhodium-plated movement, measuring 50 mm, utilizes a straight-line lever escapement, a monometallic balance, a blued steel balance spring, and an index regulator.
The piece measures 21.5 x 14 cm and is accompanied by its original fitted box.
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
- Date
- circa 1960
- Type
- Desk clock
- Maker
- Gübelin
- Dimensions
- 21.5 x 14 cm
- Movement size
- 50 mm
- Base description
- Domed aquamarine lacquered base
- World time cities
- 29
- Maker / attribution
- Gübelin
Design
- Visible features
- • Perspex globe features painted gilt world map • Base is finished in aquamarine lacquer with applied stars • 24-hour ring is made of clear Perspex with blue numerals • Annular chapter ring has radial Roman numerals
- Case Construction
- The clock is designed as a desk-mounted globe supported by a central gilt-brass axis. The structure features a transparent Perspex globe bearing an outline of the world map finished in gilt. Surrounding the center of the globe is a horizontal gilt-brass band, which is engraved with the names of 29 international cities, facilitating the world-time function. Below the globe, a domed base finished in aquamarine lacquer provides stability. This base is decorated with applied gilt-brass stars, contributing to the visual theme. An outer Perspex ring integrated into the design carries blue 24-hour numerals, which work in conjunction with the city band to track time across different zones. The total dimensions of the clock are 21.5 x 14 cm.
- Dial and Timekeeping
- The time display consists of a brushed gilt-brass annular chapter ring mounted internally within the Perspex globe. This ring features radial Roman numerals to mark the hours. Time is indicated by blue baton-style hands. The clock is powered by an eight-day going movement, which requires winding to maintain operation over the week. The movement is rhodium plated and measures 50 mm in diameter. It incorporates a straight-line lever escapement, a monometallic balance, and a blued steel balance spring. An index regulator is provided for timing adjustments.
- Provenance and Condition
- The clock is accompanied by its original fitted box, which is included in the lot. The case is signed by the manufacturer. Regarding the condition, the auction description provides a grading system. The case is graded as '3 Good', while the dial is graded as '3-01 Good'. The hands are stated to be original.
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: Condition report suggests overhaul is recommended
- Research required: Exact date of manufacture is approximate