Rare Cherub On A Swing Boudoir Clock with visible escapement

~ French - Circa 1870 ~

~~ Excellent condition, fully overhauled ~~

A super, rare original antique French clock featuring a cherub swinging back and forth as the pendulum. It uses a single escape wheel (compared to the Farcot patent using 2 escape wheels) with pin-pallets acting at 90 degrees to achieve the back and forth swing. The beauty of this design is that the escapement is between the plates and therefore visible through the skeletonised front plate of the movement through the centre of the dial. The case is beautifully simple and chic, made of the semi-translucent rock alabaster, applied with soap stone roundels and gilt brass. The original cherub pendulum is gilt metal. This is a delightful clock to watch, please see the video below.

The dial is enamel on copper in the form of a ring around the centre which is open to allow the skeletonised movement to be seen including the pin-pallet escapement. Please note, this type of clock does not have a glazed bezel or a rear door.

The French movement is of lovely quality and runs beautifully. We have fully overhauled it and tested it to ensure proper running. It runs for 8 days on one wind. Click the video clip below to watch the clock running!

Condition of the case is very good, the alabaster is crisp and clean. Alabaster is a delicate material and there are one or two marks, discolouration and nibbles to the edges, particularly to the rear of the top and a slight chip to the top of the front. The dial is also in excellent condition with no damage. The metal work including the cherub is in excellent clean and bright condition This is a rare and delightful clock to add to your collection.

Paris retailers mark on the movement backplate along with 'Patented'

Complete with pendulum, bell and a suitable key. Full setting up instructions supplied if required.