Imhof World Time Desk Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1960s
This 1960s desk clock by Imhof is an 8-day going timepiece designed with world-time functionality. The dial displays a brushed gilt annular chapter ring with black dart indexes and Roman quarter-hour numerals.
The world-time complication consists of a rotating 24-hour silvered disc and an inner rotating gilt and silver world planisphere, which is divided into sectors representing 24 countries and cities. Internally, the clock is powered by a rhodium-plated movement with 15 jewels, featuring a straight-line lever escapement, a monometallic balance, a self-compensating flat balance spring, and a rack regulator. The dial and movement are both signed by the maker, Imhof.
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
- 1960s
- Dial
- Brushed gilt annular chapter ring
- Type
- Desk clock
- Movement
- Rhodium-plated, 15 jewels
- Escapement
- Straight-line lever
- Case diameter
- 8 cm
- Serial number
- 1612446
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Maker / attribution
- Imhof
Design
- Visible features
- • The world planisphere is centered on the North Pole • The 24-hour disc is positioned between the chapter ring and the world map • The brass case exhibits evidence of wear on the lower perimeter
- Case and Dial Design
- The Imhof world time desk clock features a circular, brushed gilt brass case. A defining feature of the exterior is the thick, domed crystal which, beyond its protective function, serves to create a distinct lens effect over the dial elements. The dial assembly is comprised of multiple rotating components. A brushed gilt annular ring serves as the primary chapter ring, featuring painted black dart indexes and Roman numerals at the quarter-hour intervals. Within this, a rotating silvered disc provides the 24-hour time indication. An inner rotating world planisphere, executed in gilt and silver tones, is divided into sectors corresponding to 24 different world countries and cities. The display is completed with gilt dauphine-style hands.
- Movement and Mechanics
- The timekeeping is provided by a rhodium-plated mechanical movement featuring 15 jewels. The watch operates on an 8-day going movement. The regulation of the time is managed via a rack regulator. The oscillation is controlled by a monometallic balance paired with a self-compensating flat balance spring. The movement utilizes a straight-line lever escapement for energy transfer. The movement is signed, consistent with the signature found on the dial.
- Condition and Attribution
- The clock is dated to the 1960s and is attributed to the Swiss maker Imhof. It bears the serial number 1612446. The dimensions are specified as 8 cm in diameter. The auction house assigns the object a grading of A. The hands are noted as being original to the piece.
Identification
- Serial number
- 1612446
- 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 auction house recommends an overhaul for the movement
- Research required: The exact year of manufacture within the 1960s decade is not specified