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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Travel clock

Cartier European Watch & Clock Co. Travel Clock

Partially verified

This Cartier / European Watch & Clock Co. travel clock, dated circa 1930's, is constructed from 18k yellow gold and finished with black enamel accents. Measuring approximately 64 x 42 x 15 mm in its closed position, the instrument features a manual-wind movement with a 15-jewel caliber. The clock displays a mother-of-pearl dial with Arabic numeral indices. The case, dial, and movement are signed by the European Watch & Clock Co. The design incorporates a hinged case that serves as both the housing and the desk stand for the timekeeping unit. The auction description notes the piece is a rare example of a travel clock rendered in gold, rather than the more frequently encountered sterling silver.

The 18k yellow gold and enamel Cartier travel clock in an open, upright position, displaying its mother-of-pearl dial.
The 18k yellow gold and enamel Cartier travel clock in an open, upright position, displaying its mother-of-pearl dial. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Clock · Travel clock
Maker / attribution
Cartier / European Watch & Clock Co.
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
121
Source-reported date
circa 1930's
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
4527/2551/0864/2562

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 Exterior Design

The travel clock is presented in an 18k yellow gold case featuring black enamel decorative inlays. The exterior exhibits a distinct striated pattern across the gold surfaces. When closed, the object measures 64 x 42 x 15 mm, designed to protect the dial during transit. The hinged construction allows the upper portion to unfold, positioning the dial at an angle for desk use.

The case is marked with the serial number 4527/2551/0864/2562. According to the auction description, while travel clocks were frequently manufactured in sterling silver, this 18k gold version is considered rare. The case bears the signature of the European Watch & Clock Co. The auction house reports that the case is in very good condition, noting only slight scratches on the gold surfaces.

Evidence for this section
  • “18k yellow gold and enamel travel clock”
  • “Often found in sterling silver, small travels clocks made in 18k yellow gold are amongst the rarest versions.”
  • “Case: 2-8 Very good Slightly scratched”

Dial and Timekeeping

The clock features a mother-of-pearl dial, which the auction description indicates is free from damage. It displays Arabic numerals to indicate the hours. The dial is signed with the 'Cartier' name, and the word 'FRANCE' is printed at the lower edge. The clock is powered by a manual-wind movement containing 15 jewels.

The movement is also signed by the European Watch & Clock Co. Regarding the functional state, the auction house reports that while the dial is in very good condition, the movement is in need of an overhaul.

Evidence for this section
  • “mother-of-pearl dial free from any damages.”
  • “Movement: 2* Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Provenance and Identification

The object is identified as a product of the collaboration between Cartier and the European Watch & Clock Co., with the latter responsible for the internal mechanics and signed components. It is dated to the 1930s. The clock is documented as belonging to a British collector, which constitutes its known provenance in the context of the current sale.

The identification of the piece is reinforced by the presence of signatures across the case, dial, and movement, all consistent with the European Watch & Clock Co. branding mentioned in the auction documentation.

Evidence for this section
  • “Year circa 1930's”
  • “Signature Case, dial and movement (European Watch & Clock Co.)signed”
  • “Provenance Property of a British collector”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific historical relationship between European Watch & Clock Co. and Cartier in the production of these travel clocks?
  • Can the case serial number provide a more precise manufacturing date than the broad 1930s attribution?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Cartier European Watch & Clock Co. Travel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerCartier/ European Watch & Clock Co.“Cartier/ European Watch & Clock Co.”
Materials18k yellow gold and enamel“18k yellow gold and enamel”
Datecirca 1930's“circa 1930's”
Dimensions64 x 42 x 15 mm (closed)“64 x 42 x 15 mm. (closed)”
Movement15 jewels“15 jewels”
Case Serial Number4527/2551/0864/2562“4527/2551/0864/2562”
SignaturesCartier, European Watch & Clock Co.“Signature Case, dial and movement (European Watch & Clock Co.)signed”
ProvenanceProperty of a British collector“Property of a British collector”

Visible details

  • Case decorated with black enamel inlay
  • Mother-of-pearl dial with applied Arabic numerals
  • Rectangular hinged body configuration
  • Horizontal striated gold surface finish

Research qualifications

  • Condition report mentions the movement requires an overhaul
  • Auction report notes case has slight scratches

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

Consulted source

CARTIER/EUROPEAN WATCH & CLOCK CO., TRAVEL CLOCK, MOTHER-OF-PEARL DIAL, GOLD

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 5b76da4a7c

Terms in this record

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

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