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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Desk clock

Cartier 'Altar' Art Deco Triptych Desk Clock

Partially verified

This Cartier 'Altar' Art Deco triptych desk clock is dated to 1928 and constructed from 18k yellow gold. The object features a geometric aesthetic, detailed with red and black enamel decorations on the case exterior. The dial incorporates Arabic numerals and houses a manual-winding mechanical movement manufactured by the European Watch and Clock Co. The clock is characterized by its triptych design and slim, vertical proportions, measuring 40 mm in length and 24 mm in width. The auction description notes the presence of a maker's mark and an eagle hallmark on the object. The clock requires an overhaul to its mechanical system. Its physical appearance includes the gold case with enamel accents and a crown positioned at the top for manual operation.

Front view of the Cartier 'Altar' Art Deco triptych desk clock showing the enamel decoration and dial.
Front view of the Cartier 'Altar' Art Deco triptych desk clock showing the enamel decoration and dial. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Clock · Desk clock
Maker / attribution
Cartier
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
192
Source-reported date
1928
Source-reported place
Switzerland

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

Case and Aesthetic Design

The object is an 18k yellow gold desk clock configured as a triptych. The rectangular form is finished with a crown positioned at the top, which serves for manual winding of the internal mechanism.

The overall dimensions are 40 mm in length and 24 mm in width, with a recorded weight of 79.18 grams. The rear panel of the clock is finished with a brushed texture, providing a contrast to the highly decorated front face. The auction house reports the case as being in very good condition, noting minor surface scratching.

Evidence for this section
  • “18K YELLOW GOLD”
  • “geometric red and blackened cartier breveté geometric red and black enamel decoration”
  • “Case: 2-8 Very good Slightly scratched”

Dial and Movement

The clock dial features Arabic numerals positioned around a central square. The time is indicated by hands, and the dial bears the signature of Cartier along with the word 'Breveté'. The manual-winding mechanical movement housed within the case was produced by the European Watch and Clock Co.

As reported by the auction description, the movement is in very good condition but necessitates a professional overhaul.

Evidence for this section
  • “manual-winding mechanical movement by european watch and clock co.”
  • “arabic numeral indice”
  • “Movement: 2* Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Marks and Attribution

The clock is attributed to the year 1928. It is identified by the Cartier brand and the 'Altar' model name. The auction description states that the object features a maker's mark and an eagle hallmark, though these identifiers are subject to confirmation.

Comparable examples of this model are referenced in published literature, specifically H. Nadelhoffer's 1984 book 'Cartier' and Judy Rudoe's 1997 exhibition catalogue 'Cartier 1900–1939' at The British Museum, where items 70 and 71 illustrate related pieces.

Evidence for this section
  • “Year 1928”
  • “numbered, with maker's mark and eagle hallmark.”
  • “For comparable examples see: H. Nadelhoffer, "Cartier", 1984, colour plate 70; Judy Rudoe, "Cartier 1900–1939", exhibition catalogue, The British Museum, 1997, items 70 and 71, p. 132.”

Open research questions

  • What specific patent does the word 'Breveté' refer to in relation to this clock model?
  • How do the enamel patterns on this specific example compare to the cited examples in the British Museum catalogue?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Cartier 'Altar' Art Deco Triptych Desk Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerCartier“CARTIER”
OriginSwitzerland“SWITZERLAND”
Material18k yellow gold“18K YELLOW GOLD”
Movement makerEuropean Watch and Clock Co.“mechanical movement by european watch and clock co.”
Dimensions40 mm x 24 mm“Length 40 mm Width 24mm”
Weight79.18 g“79,18 g”
ConditionCase in very good condition with slight scratches, movement requires overhaul“Case: 2-8 Very good Slightly scratched Movement: 2* Very good Overhaul recommended”

Visible details

  • Case features geometric red and black enamel patterns
  • Rectangular case with top-mounted winding crown
  • Dial displays Arabic numerals arranged in a square layout
  • The reverse side of the clock is plain brushed gold

Research qualifications

  • The source notes that all marks, numbers and hallmarks must be formally confirmed prior to the sale
  • The mechanical movement is stated as requiring an overhaul

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

Consulted source

CARTIER, SWITZERLAND, "ALTAR" ART DECO TRIPTYCH DESK CLOCK, 18K YELLOW GOLD

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record bb7d7329df

Terms in this record

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

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