Patek Philippe Pendulette à énergie lumineuse Table Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1970
Maker / issuer
Patek PhilippeThis Patek Philippe table clock, identified as a Pendulette à énergie lumineuse, features a rectangular-shaped body constructed from gilded and lacquered brass.
The design incorporates lacquered surfaces finished to imitate marble, accented by polished and satin-finished brass elements. Measuring approximately 190 x 200 x 105 mm, the clock is powered by a mechanical movement that utilizes solar energy. The system employs a photo-electric cell to drive a remontoir train, which subsequently winds the main barrel spring, aided by a lithium battery backup, Ref. CP 300 H. Internally, it is equipped with the 17-250 E caliber movement, derived from the Gondolo line and featuring 29 jewels and a Gyromax balance.
The dial displays radial Roman numerals and is signed by the manufacturer.
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
- Table clock
- Maker
- Patek Philippe
- Caliber
- 17-250 E Q
- Dimensions
- 190 x 200 x 105 mm
- Escapement
- Lever escapement with Gyromax balance
- Case Number
- 2 000
- Construction
- Gilded brass and lacquered brass
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Movement Number
- 874 368
- Maker / attribution
- Patek Philippe
Design
- Visible features
- • Rectangular case design with four rounded, polished ball feet. • Dial features an octagonal-shaped chapter ring with radial Roman numerals. • Lacquered paneling shows a variegated red and brown finish mimicking marble. • Signed Patek Philippe Geneve on the dial.
- Case and Dial Composition
- The object presents a heavy, rectangular-shaped housing characterized by the contrast between polished brass accents and decorative lacquered brass panels. The panels are specifically finished to emulate the visual texture of marble, providing a variegated, deep-toned appearance that frames the central dial. The structure rests on four stout, rounded feet, which elevate the primary body above the surface. The dial is set within the front panel, featuring a clear, octagonal-shaped arrangement for the time display. It uses standard radial Roman numerals for the hour markers, paired with hands that match the gold-toned aesthetic of the frame. The dial is signed with the manufacturer's name, confirming its original production intent.
- Condition and Attribution
- The auction description provides a grading assessment for the object, categorizing the overall state as excellent. The case exhibits minor wear described as slight scratches, while the dial remains in very good condition. The hands are recorded as the original components installed at the time of manufacture. The object is attributed to Patek Philippe, Geneva, and is dated to circa 1970, placing it within the company’s broader initiative of solar-powered table clocks that gained popularity during the 1960s.
- Movement and Power Mechanism
- At the core of the clock is the 17-250 E caliber, a 29-jewel movement that is fundamentally a horizontally placed pocket watch caliber based on the Gondolo line. The mechanism integrates a lever escapement with a Gyromax balance to regulate timekeeping accuracy. The timepiece functions through a solar-powered system, using a photo-electric cell that captures light energy. This energy drives a remontoir train, which is responsible for winding the barrel spring. A lithium battery, designated as Ref. CP 300 H, acts as a power reserve to ensure the movement operates during periods of low light.
Identification
- Serial number
- 874 368
- 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 description recommends an overhaul for the movement.
- Research required: The finish of the brass is described as imitating marble rather than being genuine stone.
- Research required: The functional state of the internal lithium battery is not explicitly verified.