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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Table clock

Patek Philippe Pendulette à énergie lumineuse Table Clock

Partially verified

This Patek Philippe table clock, identified as a Pendulette à énergie lumineuse, features a rectangular-shaped body constructed from gilded and lacquered brass. The design incorporates lacquered surfaces finished to imitate marble, accented by polished and satin-finished brass elements. Measuring approximately 190 x 200 x 105 mm, the clock is powered by a mechanical movement that utilizes solar energy. The system employs a photo-electric cell to drive a remontoir train, which subsequently winds the main barrel spring, aided by a lithium battery backup, Ref. CP 300 H. Internally, it is equipped with the 17-250 E caliber movement, derived from the Gondolo line and featuring 29 jewels and a Gyromax balance. The dial displays radial Roman numerals and is signed by the manufacturer.

A side-profile view of the Patek Philippe table clock showing the marble-effect lacquered panels and the octagonal dial.
A side-profile view of the Patek Philippe table clock showing the marble-effect lacquered panels and the octagonal dial. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Clock · Table clock
Maker / attribution
Patek Philippe
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
284
Source-reported date
circa 1970
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
874 368

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 Dial Composition

The object presents a heavy, rectangular-shaped housing characterized by the contrast between polished brass accents and decorative lacquered brass panels. The panels are specifically finished to emulate the visual texture of marble, providing a variegated, deep-toned appearance that frames the central dial. The structure rests on four stout, rounded feet, which elevate the primary body above the surface.

The dial is set within the front panel, featuring a clear, octagonal-shaped arrangement for the time display. It uses standard radial Roman numerals for the hour markers, paired with hands that match the gold-toned aesthetic of the frame. The dial is signed with the manufacturer's name, confirming its original production intent.

Evidence for this section
  • “dial with radial Roman numerals”

Movement and Power Mechanism

At the core of the clock is the 17-250 E caliber, a 29-jewel movement that is fundamentally a horizontally placed pocket watch caliber based on the Gondolo line. The mechanism integrates a lever escapement with a Gyromax balance to regulate timekeeping accuracy.

The timepiece functions through a solar-powered system, using a photo-electric cell that captures light energy. This energy drives a remontoir train, which is responsible for winding the barrel spring. A lithium battery, designated as Ref. CP 300 H, acts as a power reserve to ensure the movement operates during periods of low light.

Evidence for this section
  • “powered by photo-electric cell driving a remontoir train which winds the barrel spring (with lithium battery back-up, Ref. CP 300 H)”
  • “Caliber 17’’’, 17-250 E Q (based on “Gondolo” movement), 29 jewels, lever escapement with Gyromax balance”

Condition and Attribution

The auction description provides a grading assessment for the object, categorizing the overall state as excellent. The case exhibits minor wear described as slight scratches, while the dial remains in very good condition. The hands are recorded as the original components installed at the time of manufacture.

The object is attributed to Patek Philippe, Geneva, and is dated to circa 1970, placing it within the company’s broader initiative of solar-powered table clocks that gained popularity during the 1960s.

Evidence for this section
  • “Grading System Grade: AAA Excellent”
  • “Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”
  • “Year circa 1970”

Open research questions

  • What specific type of photo-electric cell technology was implemented in the Ref. CP 300 H power system?
  • Is there further archival documentation confirming the production total for the Pendulette à énergie lumineuse series?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Patek Philippe Pendulette à énergie lumineuse Table Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerPatek Philippe“Brand Patek Philippe, Geneva”
Movement Number874 368“Movement No. 874 368”
Case Number2 000“Case No. 2 000”
Caliber17-250 E Q“Caliber 17’’’, 17-250 E Q”
ConstructionGilded brass and lacquered brass“Gilded brass and lacquered brass (imitating the marble)”
Dimensions190 x 200 x 105 mm“Dimensions 190 x 200 x 105 mm. (approx.)”
EscapementLever escapement with Gyromax balance“lever escapement with Gyromax balance”

Visible details

  • Rectangular case design with four rounded, polished ball feet.
  • Dial features an octagonal-shaped chapter ring with radial Roman numerals.
  • Lacquered paneling shows a variegated red and brown finish mimicking marble.
  • Signed Patek Philippe Geneve on the dial.

Research qualifications

  • The auction description recommends an overhaul for the movement.
  • The finish of the brass is described as imitating marble rather than being genuine stone.
  • The functional state of the internal lithium battery is not explicitly verified.

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

Consulted source

Patek Philippe Mechanical solar-powered table clock; gilded brass and lacquered brass -- “Pendulette à énergie lumineuse”

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record c1880d25fb

Terms in this record

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

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