Unsigned French Carriage Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
Circa 1890
This unsigned carriage clock, attributed to France and dating to circa 1890, features an eight-day going movement. The clock is constructed with a gilt brass case that is fully engraved with foliage and floral motifs.
Its rectangular movement is mounted between four pillars and utilizes three separate barrels to power the going, striking, and alarm trains. The movement includes a duplex escapement positioned on a frosted gilt platform, a bimetallic compensation balance, and a flat balance spring regulated by an index. The mechanism is capable of striking and repeating the hours and half-hours on an internal bell. The white enamel dial incorporates time indication, an alarm subsidiary dial, and a date indication.
The object is accompanied by its original traveling box. The auction description notes that the case shows slight oxidation and scratches, and it recommends an overhaul for the movement.
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 1890
- Type
- Carriage clock
- Maker
- Unsigned
- Condition
- Slightly oxidized and scratched case, overhaul recommended
- Functions
- 8-day going, half and hour striking, alarm, date
- Escapement
- Duplex escapement
- Place recorded
- France
- Case dimensions
- 102mm height, 59mm length, 58mm width
- Movement details
- Gilt brass, rectangular plates, four pillars
- Country of origin
- France
Design
- Case and Dial
- The clock is housed in a gilt brass case adorned with detailed engravings of flowers and foliage, which cover the external surfaces. The upper section of the case is fitted with a hinged carrying handle, also featuring matching engraved patterns. The white enamel dial is integrated into the front of the case and includes a main time-telling chapter ring with Roman numerals. Two additional subsidiary dials are located beneath the primary display, designated for the alarm function and the calendar date respectively. The dial is equipped with original hands.
- Visible features
- • Case features extensive floral and foliage engravings • White enamel dial with integrated alarm and date displays • Includes an original leather-covered traveling box • Duplex escapement mounted on a frosted gilt platform
- Movement and Escapement
- The movement is constructed with rectangular gilt brass plates held together by four pillars. It is powered by three separate barrels which provide energy to the going train, the striking train, and the alarm mechanism. The clock is designed to strike and repeat the hours and half-hours on a bell mounted within the housing. The timepiece is regulated by a duplex escapement, which is situated on a frosted gilt platform. Precision is maintained through the use of a bimetallic compensation balance paired with a flat balance spring. The rate is adjusted using an index regulator.
- Condition and Accessories
- The auction description provides a grading for the clock, noting its overall condition. The gilt brass case is assessed as having minor wear, characterized by slight oxidation and surface scratches. The movement is reported as being in good working order but is noted to require a professional overhaul to ensure continued performance. The clock is supplied with its original traveling box, which serves as its primary storage and transport accessory.
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: Movement overhaul is currently recommended
- Research required: Case is described as slightly oxidized and scratched