Richard et Compagnie Repeater Carriage Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1880
This French carriage clock, dated to approximately 1880, is constructed in gilt brass in a Portique style. The exterior features fluted columns situated on a stepped base and a matching fluted carry handle.
The upper section contains a rectangular, beveled glass pane allowing for the observation of the balance and escapement mechanism. The circular dial, measuring 2.25 inches in diameter, is crafted from gilt metal with an engine-turned (guilloché) center and is set against a reflective silvered mirror mask. The dial features black Roman numerals and an outer minute track, with time displayed via blued steel hands. The clock is powered by an eight-day, two-train mechanical movement, which includes a repeater mechanism that chimes on a coiled gong.
The movement utilizes an English lever escapement. The clock measures 20 by 11.5 by 10 centimeters and is supplied with a winding key.
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 1880
- Type
- Carriage clock
- Maker
- Richard et Compagnie
- Origin
- France
- Condition
- Serviced and overhauled
- Signature
- R&C in circle with Caduceus symbol
- Dimensions
- 20 x 11.5 x 10 cm
- Escapement
- English lever
- Movement Type
- Eight-day, two-train
- Place recorded
- France
- Maker / attribution
- Richard et Compagnie
Design
- Case and Dial
- The clock is housed in a gilt brass case designed in the Portique style. It is characterized by fluted columns that support the structure, resting upon a stepped base. The aesthetic is completed with a matching fluted handle for transport. The top of the clock is fitted with beveled, rectangular glass panels designed to provide a view of the balance wheel and escapement assembly. The dial is circular with a 2.25-inch diameter, fashioned from gilt metal. It features an engine-turned center surrounded by an outer track of black Roman numerals and minute markers. Blued steel hands are employed for timekeeping. The dial is set within a silvered, mirror-finished mask, which provides a reflective background against the dial plate.
- Visible features
- • Case features classic Portique style design with fluted columns • Dial center decorated with engine-turned pattern • Movement includes a coiled gong repeater mechanism • Lower left corner of movement backplate bears R&C mark with Caduceus symbol
- Movement and Mechanism
- The clock contains an eight-day, two-train movement. This movement is equipped with a repeater mechanism, designed to strike hours and half-hours on a coiled gong. The regulation of the movement is handled by an English lever escapement. The auction description reports that the movement has undergone a complete overhaul and service, and it is in full working condition. The backplate of the movement identifies the maker through a specific mark located in the lower-left corner. This mark consists of the initials R&C contained within a circle, accompanied by an image of the Caduceus of Hermes. The inclusion of these symbols signifies the product of the Richard et Compagnie workshop.
- Condition and Included Items
- The auction description reports that the object is in excellent condition, with no observable damage to either the brass case or the dial. The silvered mirror mask is described as being clean and free of blemishes. The clock is sold as a complete set including a winding key necessary for its operation. Collectors are advised to perform their own evaluation of the timepiece's specific features. This includes verifying the authenticity of the R&C trademark found on the movement backplate, as well as testing the mechanical integrity of the lever escapement and the smooth functioning of the repeating mechanism.
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: Requires independent assessment of the authenticity of the R&C trademark on the backplate
- Research required: Requires verification of the operational state of the repeating mechanism and lever escapement