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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Mantel clock

Lenzkirch Mantel Clock

Partially verified

This German mantel clock is attributed to the maker Lenzkirch and dates to approximately 1890. Housed in a case constructed of walnut and ebonized wood, the clock features decorative bronze ormolu mounts, including scrolling details at the base and an ornate cresting element. The silvered dial is engraved with decorative patterns, black Arabic numerals, and fitted with cut steel hands, protected by a convex glass set within a brass bezel. Internally, the clock is powered by a German 8-day timepiece movement featuring an anchor escapement and a pendulum. The piece measures 35cm in height, 19cm in width, and 11cm in depth. It includes a winding key and pendulum. According to the auction description, the clock is in working order and has undergone a service.

Front view of the Lenzkirch mantel clock showing the walnut and ebonised case with ormolu mounts and engraved silver dial.
Front view of the Lenzkirch mantel clock showing the walnut and ebonised case with ormolu mounts and engraved silver dial. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Mantel clock
Maker / attribution
Lenzkirch
Reference
JN17
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1890
Source-reported place
Germany
Source-reported serial
80999

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 Construction and Design

The clock is presented in a mantel configuration, with its external form incorporating a combination of walnut and ebonized wood. The case design is heavily adorned with bronze ormolu mounts, which are utilized for the feet at the scrolling base and as decorative elements surrounding the dial aperture and the lower case front.

The architectural silhouette is completed by an ormolu finial positioned atop the upper section of the case. The front aperture is secured by a hinged brass bezel containing a convex glass, which serves as a protective cover for the clock face.

Evidence for this section
  • “Classical scrolling bronze ormolu case”
  • “Walnut and ebonised wood”
  • “Ormolu feet to the scrolling base”
  • “Dial protected via a convex glass and brass bezel”

Dial and Timekeeping

The dial of the clock is crafted from silver and features detailed engraving across its surface. It displays the time using black Arabic numerals. The time is indicated by a pair of finely cut steel hands, which provide contrast against the silvered background.

Mechanical operation is managed by an 8-day timepiece movement located within the rear of the case. The movement is driven by a pendulum and utilizes an anchor escapement for regulation. The auction description reports the clock is functional and has been maintained by the seller.

Evidence for this section
  • “Original silver engraved dial”
  • “Black Arabic numerals”
  • “Original finely cut steel hands”
  • “German 8-day timepiece movement”
  • “Pendulum driven clock with anchor escapement”

Signatures and Marks

The mechanical identity of the object is confirmed through marks visible on the movement backplate. The plate displays a distinct stamp associated with the Lenzkirch factory, serving as the primary maker identification for the timepiece.

Below the manufacturer's stamp, the serial number 80999 is engraved directly into the brass plate of the movement. This number is visible from the rear of the case when the door is opened, providing a unique identifier for the clock mechanism.

Evidence for this section
  • “Clock is by Lenzkirch”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific model or production series associated with the serial number 80999?
  • Can the specific date of manufacture be narrowed beyond the circa 1890 estimate based on the serial number?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Lenzkirch Mantel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerLenzkirch“Clock is by Lenzkirch”
Datecirca 1890“This clock dates to around 1890”
MaterialsWalnut, ebonised wood, bronze, brass“Walnut and ebonised wood”
Dimensions35cm x 19cm x 11cm“Measures 35cm high by 19cm wide and 11cm depth.”
Movement Type8-day timepiece“German 8-day timepiece movement”
EscapementAnchor“Pendulum driven clock with anchor escapement”
Service statusServiced“fully serviced by me at Vintage Clocks”

Visible details

  • The movement backplate bears a stamped Lenzkirch logo and the serial number 80999.
  • The dial exhibits an engraved foliate or engine-turned design.
  • The ormolu mounts feature a central cherub motif on the lower front section.

Research qualifications

  • The exact provenance history of the clock is not documented.
  • The extent of the service performed by the seller is not specified beyond the general report of being fully serviced.

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

Consulted source

Incredible German Lenzkirch Mantel Clock, Ormolu Mounts Silver Dial

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record b0435c80a7

Terms in this record

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

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