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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Carriage clock

French Mignonette Brass Carriage Clock

Partially verified

This mignonette carriage clock is identified as a French production, dated circa 1870. The term mignonette refers to miniature carriage clocks measuring under 4.25 inches in height, with this specific example standing between 2.25 inches and 3 inches tall. , featuring a rectangular brass or gilt case. The object is fitted with beveled glass panels on all sides to allow visibility of the internal mechanics, along with a top-mounted glass window designed to display the platform escapement. The white enamel dial is marked with black Arabic numerals for the hours. The auction-house description attributes the manufacture to France and provides the approximate dating, though the lack of maker marks or catalogued references leaves the specific origins and identity of the craftsman unverified by independent investigation.

Front view of a miniature brass carriage clock next to a silver coin.
Front view of a miniature brass carriage clock next to a silver coin. — One Source Auctions / Invaluable. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Clock · Carriage clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
206042907
Source-reported date
circa 1870
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 Construction

The clock is defined by its small scale, adhering to the mignonette category of carriage clocks, which are manufactured to be portable and compact. The housing is constructed from either brass or gilt metal, forming a rectangular structure that protects the delicate interior mechanism.

A notable feature of the case design is the inclusion of beveled glass panels on all sides, which allows for visual access to the clock's internal components. A dedicated glass window is situated at the top of the case, directly above the movement, to reveal the function of the platform escapement during operation.

Evidence for this section
  • “rectangular brass or gilt case”
  • “beveled glass panels on all sides”
  • “top-mounted glass window to view the platform escapement”

Dial and Timekeeping

The dial consists of a white enamel surface featuring black Arabic numerals to indicate the hours. The dial is set within the front-facing beveled glass aperture, framed by the gilt or brass structure of the carriage case.

The overall dimensions of the piece are quite small, measuring only 2.25 inches in height when the hinged carrying handle is in the lowered position.

Evidence for this section
  • “2.25" tall (3" handle up)”

Attribution and Documentation

The object is associated with 19th-century French horological production. Information regarding its specific origin is based on auction-house data, which categorizes the piece as a mignonette carriage clock from approximately 1870.

There are no specific catalogue numbers or maker signatures provided in the existing records. Consequently, the attribution and dating are considered to be based on the auction-house descriptions rather than independent, verified documentation or expert authentication.

Evidence for this section
  • “19th-century”
  • “Attribution and measurements are the auction house’s statements”
  • “independent type authentication remains research required”

Open research questions

  • Are there any hidden maker marks on the movement plates or base?
  • Does the platform escapement feature any hallmarks or secondary identifiers?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French Mignonette Brass Carriage Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerUnattributed“Attribution and measurements are the auction house’s statements”
MaterialBrass or gilt“rectangular brass or gilt case”
Dimensions2.25 inches height (3 inches with handle up)“2.25" tall (3" handle up) x 1.5" x 1-5/8”
DesignationMignonette“specifically denotes carriage clocks that stand under 4.25 inches tall”
OriginFrance“French Mignonette Brass Carriage Clock”

Visible details

  • White enamel dial with Arabic hour numerals
  • Top-mounted glass window for viewing the escapement
  • Hinged metal carrying handle
  • Beveled glass side panels

Research qualifications

  • Independent verification of the type attribution is required
  • Specific maker and provenance remain unrecorded

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

Consulted source

French Mignonette Brass Carriage Clock

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record b402b265f1

Terms in this record

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

Other carriage clock records