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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Electric shelf / mantel clock

Bulle Model G Electric Shelf / Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This lot documents a Bulle Model G electric shelf or mantel clock presented by Willow Auction House. The design features a circular black-painted drum clock head mounted with a top suspension bracket onto an arched wooden backboard resting on a shaped stepped plinth. The off-white dial displays stylized Arabic numerals, darkened hands, and an exposed central aperture revealing motion work gearing. It is signed 'BULLE-CLOCK' beneath the 12 o'clock position and 'FRANCE' at the lower margin. The catalog notes an overall height of 15 3/4 inches and width of 11 3/4 inches.

Front view of Bulle Model G electric clock on arched wooden mount
Front view of Bulle Model G electric clock on arched wooden mount — Willow Auction House. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.invaluable.com
Category
Clock · Electric shelf / mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Bulle
Reference
Model G
Catalogue / lot identifier
395
Source-reported date
Not established
Country
France

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Identity and Structure

The catalog lists the object as a 'Bulle Model G French electric battery powered shelf / mantel clock.' Dimensions recorded by the auction house indicate an overall size of 11 3/4"W x 15 3/4"H.

Visual observation shows a circular drum casing—lacquered or painted black—secured with a top suspension fitting to an arched wooden backboard. This upright structure rests on a stepped wooden plinth with a shaped apron base.

Evidence for this section
  • “Bulle Model G French electric battery powered shelf / mantel clock.”
  • “11 3/4"W x 15 3/4"H.”
  • “Circular black-lacquered or painted drum casing mounted with a top latch/suspension fitting onto an arched wooden backboard.”
  • “Stepped wooden plinth with a shaped apron base.”

Dial and Visual Characteristics

Visual inspection documents a light dial featuring stylized Arabic numerals and darkened hands. An open central aperture exposes the underlying wheelwork.

Direct inscriptions on the clock face include 'BULLE-CLOCK' situated beneath the 12 position and 'FRANCE' at 6 o'clock.

Evidence for this section
  • “Light dial with stylized Arabic numerals, darkened hands, and an open center revealing wheelwork.”
  • “Dial marked 'BULLE-CLOCK' below 12 and 'FRANCE' at 6 o'clock.”

Condition and Technical Notes

The auction description explicitly classifies the clock as 'Untested.' Under general auction terms, movements and electrical components are not evaluated prior to sale.

Reported physical condition issues include 'Scratches to wooden base below clock, apparent repainting to clock case.'

Evidence for this section
  • “Untested.”
  • “Scratches to wooden base below clock, apparent repainting to clock case.”

Open research questions

  • Does the battery compartment in the base or backboard retain its original battery holder or modern wiring adaptations?
  • What specific electromagnetic movement components and pendulum assembly are present behind the dial casing?
  • Can paint analysis verify the extent of the repainting noted on the drum casing?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Bulle Model G Electric Shelf / Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
ModelModel G“Bulle Model G French electric battery powered shelf / mantel clock.”
Dimensions11 3/4"W x 15 3/4"H“11 3/4"W x 15 3/4"H.”
Condition notesUntested, repainting and scratches reported“Scratches to wooden base below clock, apparent repainting to clock case.”
Power sourceBattery powered“Bulle Model G French electric battery powered shelf / mantel clock.”

Visible details

  • Circular black-lacquered or painted drum casing mounted with a top latch/suspension fitting onto an arched wooden backboard.
  • Stepped wooden plinth with a shaped apron base.
  • Light dial with stylized Arabic numerals, darkened hands, and an open center revealing wheelwork.
  • Dial marked 'BULLE-CLOCK' below 12 and 'FRANCE' at 6 o'clock.

Research qualifications

  • Untested movement condition noted by the auction house.
  • Auction description reports scratches to the wooden base and apparent repainting to the clock case.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Sold at Auction: Bulle Model G Electric Clock

Reviewed 2026-10-21 · Record b54af70cba

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.