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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantle clock

French shell mantel clock with ormolu mounts

Partially verified

This French mantle clock features a shell case decorated with ormolu mounts and is topped by a fruit basket finial. The clock dates to approximately 1860 and measures 33cm in height, 17cm in width, and 10cm in depth. It is equipped with an enamel dial displaying black Roman numerals and features finely cut steel spade hands. The movement is an 8-day French mechanism designed to strike on a coiled gong. The piece stands on decorative ormolu feet and includes a winding key. The auction description reports that the clock has been recently serviced, is in excellent condition, and is fully functional. The visual presentation of the case includes an ormolu mask ornament above the dial and rope-twist molding surrounding the lower panel.

Front view of the French shell mantel clock, showing the enamel dial, ormolu mask ornament, and fruit basket finial.
Front view of the French shell mantel clock, showing the enamel dial, ormolu mask ornament, and fruit basket finial. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Mantle clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
JN26
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1860
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 Aesthetic Features

The clock is housed in a shell case characterized by an arched silhouette. It is decorated with various ormolu mounts, including a mask ornament situated above the dial and a fruit basket finial at the summit. The lower section of the case features a rectangular panel framed by rope-twist molding, and the entire structure is supported by four scrolling ormolu feet.

The dimensions of the piece allow for placement on a mantel, measuring 33cm in height by 17cm in width and 10cm in depth.

Evidence for this section
  • “Ormolu mounts Fruit Basket Finial Top”
  • “Super patina to the case and design is outstanding”

Dial and Hands

The clock features an enamel dial composed of cartouche segments, which provides a traditional appearance. The time is indicated by black Roman numerals arranged around the perimeter of the dial.

The timekeeping is read using a pair of original, finely cut steel hands. These hands are designed in a spade pattern, consistent with the aesthetic of the 1860 date attributed to the clock.

Evidence for this section
  • “Enamel dial with cartouche segments”
  • “Original finely cut spade steel hands”

Movement and Functionality

Internally, the clock is powered by an 8-day French movement. This mechanism is designed to strike on a coiled gong, producing an audible signal for the time.

According to the documentation provided, the clock has been fully serviced at Vintage Clocks and is in working order. The clock is accompanied by its winding key for operation.

Evidence for this section
  • “French 8 Day movement striking on a coiled gong”
  • “Working order, fully serviced by me at Vintage Clocks”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific species or type of shell used in the case construction?
  • Can the movement be attributed to a specific French horological firm based on internal markings not visible in the provided photographs?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for French shell mantel clock with ormolu mounts
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Maker/OriginFrench“French shell mantel clock – Ormolu mounts Fruit Basket Finial Top Circa 1860”
Datecirca 1860“This clock dates to around 1860”
Movement8-day striking on a coiled gong“French 8 Day movement striking on a coiled gong”
Dimensions33 x 17 x 10 cm“Measures 33cm high by 17cm wide and 10cm depth.”
SKUJN26“SKU: JN26”
ConditionRecently serviced“Recently serviced at Vintage Clocks, it is in excellent condition and fully functional.”

Visible details

  • Ormolu mask ornament positioned above the dial
  • Enamel dial with cartouche segments
  • Rope-twist decorative frame on the lower case panel
  • Pierced steel spade hands

Research qualifications

  • The exact composition of the shell case material is not further defined beyond being described as 'shell'.
  • The specific manufacturer of the movement is not provided in the source text.

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

Consulted source

French shell mantel clock – Ormolu mounts Fruit Basket Finial Top Circa 1860

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 8a21cf7f77

Terms in this record

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

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