Identify My Old French Clock
An antique American Striking movement is illustrated. A clock for you in the past, you might find it interesting to know how much effort went into your repair. Below are only a few of the most common trademarks you may find on an old clock. We'll be adding more as time goes on. Click the trademark to see the maker's name and country. If you are trying to identify a trademark that you don't see here, you can submit it to the Member Forum and we'll try to ID it for you.
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Antique French mantel clocks provide an opportunity for the home decorator or beginning collector to obtain an ornate, historical piece of functional decoration. To the casual observer, they're just as impressive as their more expensive counterparts. However, French clocks are often significantly less expensive than English or American mantel clocks from the same period, so they present a more affordable entry into the antique mantel clock market. While identifying and valuing antiques isn't always an easy task, there are many telltale signs to indicate whether or not a mantel clock is a confirmed French antique.
1
Consider the price. French mantel clocks in good condition are normally priced under $100. Comparable English or American mantel clocks range from $100 to $500 in price, so a lower selling price is one sign that a mantel clock may be French.
2
Look for detailed, ornate trim. Bronze, pewter and brass trim typically adorned French mantel clocks. Inlaid ivory, marble and glass were also common materials. French mantel clock makers frequently incorporated glass domes to provide a glimpse at the inner moving parts, and built classical statuary, pillars and cherubs into their designs.
3
Examine the surface and lift the clock. The bodies of French clocks were made from black or darkly colored marble. Later manufacturers, such as Edward Ingraham, perfected a method of applying black enamel paint to wooden clock cases to simulate the look and feel of marble. Coated wooden cases will be significantly lighter than marble, and the typical dents, dings and scratches that come with age will reveal a wooden case beneath the enamel surface of imitations.
4
Examine the clock case for a metal label or stamp. Few French clock manufacturers used labels, so a label is an initial indication that the clock isn't French. Some exceptions to this rule include Japy Freres, who stamped their cases to indicate the awards they had received in the art of clock making, and Duverdrey & Bloquel, who employed a lion trademark until 1939, after which they switched to the name and trademark 'Bayard' on clock cases while retaining the Duverdrey & Bloquel on internal pieces.
Tip
- In addition to Duverdrey & Bloquel and Japy Freres, a few other French clock makers stamped or labeled their work. If you find a label on the clock case, consult a volume such as 'The Collector's Encyclopedia of Antiques' or a reputable antique appraiser for more information on the clock maker's work.
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About the Author
Rob Callahan lives in Minneapolis, where he covers style, culture and the arts for Vita.MN and 'l'étoile Magazine.' His work has earned awards in the fields of journalism, social media and the arts. Callahan graduated from Saint Cloud State University in 2001 with a Bachelor's degree in philosophy.
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