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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

French Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This French mantel clock, dated to circa 1870, features an eight-day movement housed within an intricate bronze ormolu case. The clock is designed with an emphasis on rococo aesthetics, characterized by elaborate, heavy decorative elements. The white dial displays Roman numerals and is fitted with spade-style hands. The internal mechanism is an eight-day striking movement that sounds on a bell at the half-hour and the hour. The entire piece maintains an original finish to the metalwork. It stands 42 centimeters high, 26 centimeters wide, and 10 centimeters deep. The auction description indicates that the movement is original to the clock and remains in working order.

Front view of the rococo-style bronze ormolu mantel clock showing the dial and ornamental case.
Front view of the rococo-style bronze ormolu mantel clock showing the dial and ornamental case. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1870
Source-reported place
France
Source-reported serial
z26

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 clock is enclosed in a heavy bronze ormolu case, described as having a rococo design. The exterior displays significant decorative detailing, including ornate, scrolling foliate work and lattice-style cutouts across the lower and upper sections. The structure is supported by four feet and topped with a prominent finial.

The dial is circular and clean, featuring black Roman numerals for the hours. It is equipped with a pair of spade-shaped hands. Two winding holes are positioned symmetrically on the dial face, corresponding to the clock's time and striking functions.

Evidence for this section
  • “Sought after rococo designed case extremely heavy”
  • “Clean dial with Roman numerals”
  • “Wonderful spade hands”

Movement and Function

The object is powered by an eight-day movement of French manufacture. The mechanism is original to the clock and is designed to strike a bell. The striking sequence occurs at both the half-hour and the full hour.

The movement is reported to be in working order and retains an original finish. The source notes that the clock produces a sound described as a clean-sounding bell.

Evidence for this section
  • “8 day movement”
  • “French clock movement”
  • “Striking a bell on the half and the hour”
  • “The movement is original with a wonderful tick striking a clean sounding bell”

Condition and Dimensions

The clock is reported to be in very good condition relative to its age, with only slight signs of use. The bronze ormolu case retains its original finish.

Regarding its physical scale, the clock measures 42 centimeters in height, 26 centimeters in width, and 10 centimeters in depth. The source provides these dimensions to define the physical footprint of the object.

Evidence for this section
  • “Very good condition for age, showing slight signs”
  • “Measures 42cm high by 26cm wide & 10cm deep”
  • “Original finish”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement maker or caliber?
  • Are there any maker's marks or stamps hidden on the rear of the movement backplate?
  • Is the 'z26' SKU an internal warehouse identifier or a manufacturer reference number?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Bronze Ormolu Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Datecirca 1870“ca 1870”
Movement duration8-day“8 day movement”
StrikingBell strike on half and hour“Striking a bell on the half and the hour”
Dimensions42cm high x 26cm wide x 10cm deep“Measures 42cm high by 26cm wide & 10cm deep”
SKUz26“SKU: z26”
Case materialBronze ormolu“Rare original gilt bronze ormolu case”
OriginFrench“Antique French bronze ormolu 8 day mantel clock”

Visible details

  • Case features extensive rococo-style foliate casting and open latticework
  • Dial has two winding apertures and spade hands
  • The movement strikes on a bell
  • Case measures 42cm x 26cm x 10cm

Research qualifications

  • Manufacturer not identified
  • Specific mechanical maker or marks are not cited in the source

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

Consulted source

Antique French bronze ormolu 8 day mantel clock -ca 1870

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record b2241722e0

Terms in this record

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

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