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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Torsion pendulum clock

J. Kaiser G.m.b.H. Universe 400-day astral torsion clock

Partially verified

This vintage 1950s astral torsion clock is attributed by the source to German maker J. Kaiser G.m.b.H. as part of the Universe model series. The 400-day movement is supported on two light-coloured vertical pillars over a circular base and enclosed beneath an arched glass dome. The dial display comprises an outer chapter ring bearing Arabic numerals enclosing a celestial-themed central disc, surmounted by an arched planetary top element. Beneath the dial hangs a spherical blue terrestrial globe serving as the torsion pendulum. The circular base displays extensive flaking, finish wear, and paint loss.

Front view of J. Kaiser Universe 400-day torsion clock under glass dome
Front view of J. Kaiser Universe 400-day torsion clock under glass dome — Cottees Auctions. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.cottees.co.uk
Category
Clock · Torsion pendulum clock
Maker / attribution
J. Kaiser G.m.b.H
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
455
Source-reported date
1950's
Country
Germany

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

Identity and Attribution

The item is catalogued as a 'Universe' series model, attributed to the manufacturer J. Kaiser G.m.b.H. This identification is derived from auction cataloguing.

The timepiece is described as a '400 day astral torsion clock' and is associated with the 1950s.

Evidence for this section
  • “J. Kaiser G.m.b.H”
  • “Universe”
  • “400 day astral torsion clock”
  • “vintage 1950's”

Construction and Visual Observations

The clock features a white outer chapter ring with Arabic numerals surrounding a celestial-patterned dial centre. An arched upper plate houses a small circular celestial disc or planetary element.

The mechanism is supported by two columns and housed under an arched glass dome. The base is circular, stepped, and exhibits paint flaking and finish loss.

Evidence for this section
  • “White outer chapter ring with Arabic numerals surrounding a celestial-patterned dial centre”
  • “Arched upper plate housing a small circular celestial disc or planetary element”
  • “Stepped circular base with notable surface paint flaking and finish loss”
  • “glass dome”

Pendulum and Condition

A blue spherical globe serves as the pendulum, suspended between two columns beneath the movement.

The auction source states that the clock 'requires attention'. The functional state and the condition of the suspension spring are not verified.

Evidence for this section
  • “Blue spherical globe pendulum suspended beneath the movement between two support columns”
  • “requires attention”

Open research questions

  • Are there movement hallmarks or stamps present on the clock to support the auction house attribution?
  • What is the mechanical cause of the 'requires attention' status noted in the source?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for J. Kaiser G.m.b.H. Universe 400-day astral torsion clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerJ. Kaiser G.m.b.H“J. Kaiser G.m.b.H”
CountryGermany“Germany”
Datevintage 1950's“vintage 1950's”
ModelUniverse“Universe”
Clock Type400 day astral torsion clock“400 day astral torsion clock”
Housingglass dome“glass dome”
Condition Noterequires attention“requires attention”
Date1950s“vintage 1950's”

Visible details

  • White outer chapter ring with Arabic numerals surrounding a celestial-patterned dial centre
  • Arched upper plate housing a small circular celestial disc or planetary element
  • Blue spherical globe pendulum suspended beneath the movement between two support columns
  • Stepped circular base with notable surface paint flaking and finish loss
  • Entire mechanism and movement enclosed within a clear arched glass dome

Research qualifications

  • Source notes that the clock 'requires attention'; functional state and suspension spring integrity are unverified
  • Maker and model attribution are derived from auction cataloguing rather than verified movement hallmarks

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

Terms in this record

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