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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Carriage clock

French 8-Day Etched Carriage Clock

Partially verified

This French carriage clock is an eight-day timepiece dating from the 19th century, specifically between circa 1860 and 1890. It features a gilt-brass case with a hand-etched floral design on the dial plate, where roses and wild bushes surround the central hour ring. The dial incorporates a central decorative element and black Arabic numerals. The architectural case includes a stepped design and column-inspired corner elements. Measuring 20 cm in height with the handle raised, 10 cm in width, and 9 cm in depth, the piece houses a lever escapement movement. It is accompanied by an original leather carrying case, which exhibits signs of wear from historical use. The clock is noted for its polished movement and bevelled glass components. The auction description reports that the original finish on the case is in pristine condition and the clock remains in working order.

A French 8-day carriage clock shown with its original leather protective case.
A French 8-day carriage clock shown with its original leather protective case. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Carriage clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
1F
Source-reported date
Circa 1860-1890
Source-reported place
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

Case and Dial

The carriage clock is constructed from gilt-brass and features a stepped, bevelled case. The design incorporates architectural elements, specifically column-inspired supports at each corner. A hinged gilt-brass handle is mounted on the top, positioned above a glass panel that allows a view into the movement.

The dial face is hand-etched with a floral motif featuring roses and wild bushes. The central portion of the dial contains the hour ring with Arabic numerals. The clock hands are centered within a decorative floral-inspired feature. The overall design is described as being influenced by nature and historical architecture.

Evidence for this section
  • “hand crafted with stunning ormolu”
  • “original etched artwork that depicts a floral design on the top of the face”
  • “bevelled stepped case”
  • “inspiration of French Colthinem columns in each corner”

Movement and Escapement

The clock is equipped with an 8-day movement. The mechanism includes a lever escapement, which the source notes is original to the piece. The movement is described as polished and visible through the glass panels of the case.

The auction description reports that the clock functions as intended. Maintenance advice provided in the source suggests that the movement requires periodic cleaning, oiling, and dusting to ensure consistent performance, particularly regarding the pendulum's beat.

Evidence for this section
  • “polished movement”
  • “original lever escapement still in place”
  • “clock works beautifully”

Accompaniments and Condition

The clock is provided with its original leather case, which is noted for its durability. The case shows signs of age, characterized by wear and tear attributed to the history of the object and its transportation.

The condition of the clock's brass finish is reported as pristine. The leather storage case, while worn, serves as protection for the timepiece. The source identifies this as an antique item from the late 19th century.

Evidence for this section
  • “Accompanied with it’s original leather case for protection”
  • “original finish on the case is in pristine condition”
  • “there is some obvious wear and tare from the course of time and transportation on the leather casing”

Open research questions

  • Are there any maker's marks or stamps hidden on the movement or base?
  • Can the origin be confirmed beyond the general attribution of 'French Heritage'?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French 8-Day Etched Carriage Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Dimensions20cm high with handle up by 10cm wide & 9cm deep dial is 7cm in diameter“Measures 20cm high with handle up by 10cm wide & 9cm deep dial is 7cm in diameter”
EscapementLever escapement“original lever escapement still in place”
Dating19th Century (Circa 1860-1890)“This clock is believed to have been hand etched and crafted in the 19th Century (Circa 1860-1890).”
MaterialsGilt-brass, leather case“handle sitting at the top made from gilt-brass, the same as it’s casing.”
ConditionGood“Condition: Good”
Movement Duration8-day“French 8-Day Etched Carriage Clock”

Visible details

  • Floral etching on the dial plate
  • Gilt-brass handle and casing
  • Bevelled glass top panel
  • Column-style corner decoration

Research qualifications

  • The 1860-1890 dating is an approximate estimate
  • Attribution to French manufacture is based on the source description

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

Consulted source

French 8-Day Etched Carriage Clock With Original Leather Case

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 0393bfeb36

Terms in this record

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

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