FIRE-GILDED BRONZE MINIATURE CLOCK with 3/4 repeater, c. 1790, Louis XVI style
Key facts
- Style
- Louis XVI
- Production time
- around 1790
- fire-gilded
- Miniature pendulum
Description
The high-quality case rests on a base made of Carrara marble supported by four feet; the base is lavishly curved, featuring two large acanthus leaves at the front and floral decoration on the sides, whilst the top is crowned by a small vase-shaped finial; the fire-gilding is very well preserved. There is a soldered joint on the reverse. The case was completely dismantled, all individual parts were carefully cleaned and then reassembled. The very high-quality, functioning, fire-gilded movement (pocket watch movement) with spindle escapement, chain and worm gear, as well as a 3/4 repeater striking a single bell, has been completely overhauled (and fully dismantled for this purpose). The movement is in very good, unaltered condition; the watch has presumably been used only very rarely. Above the 12 o’clock position is a pusher to activate the striking mechanism (it does not strike automatically) It is marked ‘Chantelot a Marseille’, as is the original enamelled dial; the two hard-gold hands are likely to be the originals. Although the case and movement date from the same period, the watch was evidently assembled in the 19th century; however, they complement each other well stylistically. Dimensions: Height: 18 cm Width: 13.5 cm Depth: 7.5 cm A matching key is included in the offer.