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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Wall clock

Patek Philippe Louis XV Cartel wall clock

Partially verified

This Patek Philippe solar wall clock, reference 812.00 E, dates to approximately 1965. Housed in a gilt brass cartel-style case, the clock features a white enamel dial with both Roman and Arabic numerals, complimented by ornate brass hands. The exterior case design incorporates scrolling foliate ornamentation and an argyle-patterned screen located beneath the dial. This decorative screen serves as a functional element, concealing an integrated panel of photoelectric solar cells used to power the internal components. The timepiece is driven by a Patek Philippe caliber 17-250 mechanical movement, which contains 29 jewels. According to the provided information, the energy harvested by the solar cells is supplemented by a backup lithium battery. The movement, dial, and case are all signed by the manufacture.

Front view of the Patek Philippe solar wall clock showing the white enamel dial with Roman numerals and Arabic minute markers, and the lower solar-cell screen.
Front view of the Patek Philippe solar wall clock showing the white enamel dial with Roman numerals and Arabic minute markers, and the lower solar-cell screen. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Clock · Wall clock
Maker / attribution
Patek Philippe
Reference
812.00 E
Catalogue / lot identifier
656
Source-reported date
circa 1965
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
1270

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 Design

The Patek Philippe wall clock, identified as reference 812.00 E, is crafted with a brass case exhibiting a form described as a Louis XV cartel.

A notable feature of the case design is an argyle-patterned screen positioned on the front of the timepiece. This decorative element serves a dual purpose by concealing a panel of photoelectric solar cells, allowing the integration of modern power collection while maintaining a specific aesthetic appearance.

Evidence for this section
  • “The case is exuberantly embellished in the Louis XV style with scrolling foliate work and an argyle-patterned screen punctuated with rosettes.”
  • “The decorative screen conceals a panel of solar cells on the front of the timepiece.”

Movement and Power Source

The clock is powered by a Patek Philippe caliber 17-250 mechanical movement containing 29 jewels. This movement is specifically designed to function using energy harvested by integrated photoelectric cells.

To ensure operational consistency, the system is equipped with a backup lithium battery, which supports the caliber 17-250 movement alongside the energy provided by the solar cells.

Evidence for this section
  • “These photoelectric cells, along with a backup lithium battery, power the caliber 17-250 mechanical movement.”
  • “Caliber 17-250, 29 jewels”

Dial and Signatures

The clock features a white enamel dial, marked with both Roman and Arabic numerals to indicate time. The time is displayed via ornate brass hands, consistent with the overall cartel design.

Signatures from Patek Philippe are present on the case, dial, and the internal movement, identifying the object as a product of the Swiss manufacture.

Evidence for this section
  • “It tells the time on a white enamel dial with both Roman and Arabic numerals and ornate brass hands”
  • “Signature case, dial and movement”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific maintenance history of the circa 1965 solar charging system?
  • How does the caliber 17-250 movement integrate with the solar-electric power supply system compared to standard mechanical calibers?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Patek Philippe Louis XV Cartel wall clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference812.00 E“REF. 812.00 E”
Movement Caliber17-250“Caliber 17-250”
Jewel Count29“29 jewels”
Case Number1270“Case No. 1270”
Movement Number873721“Movement No. 873721”
Dimensions355mm length, 222mm height, 90mm width“Length 355 Height 222 Width 90”
ProvenanceItalian gentleman“property of an Italian gentleman”

Visible details

  • Case features scrolling foliate design
  • Dial displays both Roman and Arabic hour markers
  • Internal movement visible with 29 jewel count
  • Argyle-patterned screen conceals solar panel

Research qualifications

  • Long-term functionality of the original circa 1965 solar cells is unverified
  • Exact nature of the battery backup integration mentioned in source

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

Consulted source

PATEK PHILIPPE, SWITZERLAND, REF. 812.00 E, LOUIS XV CARTEL, BRASS

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record e62522456a

Terms in this record

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

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