Striking gilt brass Pendule d'Officier in Louis XVI style, retailed by Thomas & Co, Paris c1890. White enamelled dial with black Arabic numerals and minute ring with quarter markers; signed Thomas & Co, Paris. Ornate gilt hands. Front door with convex, bevelled glass in a moulded gilt bezel. Outer-case with floral and ribbon gilt mounts and classic drop handle depicting a serpent consuming its tail – a symbol of the cyclical nature of life. The case is raised on four turned gilt brass feet. Twin barrel 8-day movement with jewelled lever escapement striking the hours and half-hours on a coiled gong, numbered 982. The clock measures 21.5 cm to top of handle. Dial is 10 cm in diameter. Excellent time-keeper. Watch a brief video of it striking (above).
Fully cleaned and serviced but retaining its antique patina. The clock's movement is covered by our 12 month warranty in the UK.
Striking Gilt Pendule d'Officier Retailed by Thomas & Co Paris c1890
This clock is in excellent working order. No damage to its dial or glass. Its gilt shows minor signs of rubbing at some 'highspots' on its outer case however we elected to keeps its antique character and not re-gilt it. Modern gilt on brass or bronze takes on a very different lustre to antique gilt - partly because the techniques of old cannot be reproduced today and partly due to the patina it develops over many years. Please see images as these form an important part of the description.