Repair of French Carriage Clock
In the heart of a collector's treasure trove lies an intriguing 8-day carriage clock, dated to the 1880s and housed in a moulded, rectangular brass case. The clock, adorned with four beveled glass panels and a fold-down travel handle, presents a captivating blend of antique charm and intricate craftsmanship.
Upon closer inspection, several unique features stand out. The clock boasts a white enamel dial with Roman numerals, blued steel hands, and a spring-driven movement with a platform lever escapement visible through the top beveled glass. The movement plates are secured by screws rather than taper pins, a testament to the clock's robust design.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this clock is the "73" stamped on several parts, possibly an internal production stamp. The search results do not provide specific information about the meaning of this number on an unsigned carriage clock. However, numbers on clocks can often refer to production dates, model numbers, or other internal identifiers used by manufacturers.
The clock's escapement bears the stamps "S" and "F", which could potentially be markings related to quality control or specific craftsmanship processes. In French clockmaking, stamps like these might indicate inspection or approval by a particular standard or technician, but without more specific context, it's difficult to determine their exact meaning.
Interestingly, the key of the clock has "France" inscribed on it, suggesting that the clock might be French. However, the "S" and "F" stamps on the escapement, traditionally found on the case or movement rather than the escapement itself, hint at a possible English origin. This discrepancy adds another layer of mystery to the clock's origins.
The clock was cleaned and inspected, but the platform escapement was not serviced. This leaves room for further exploration and potential restoration, making this 1880s carriage clock a fascinating find for any horology enthusiast.
As with many antique clocks, the delicate glass panels are difficult to replace, adding a sense of preservation and appreciation to the piece. The clock's history, while not definitively known, is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its time.
For more precise information, consulting a horology expert or a specific reference on French clockmaking practices would be advisable. The clock's unique features and intriguing stamps make it a captivating piece of horological history, ripe for further exploration and study.
The collector's collection, beyond the vintage clocks, also includes various sporting memorabilia, adding another layer of intrigue to the treasure trove. With the key of the vintage clock indicating a potential French origin, it's fascinating to imagine how the art of vintage clocks and sports memorabilia might have intertwined in the lives of its former owners.
