Four Glass Clock with ships wheel pendulum

A rare antique French four glass mantel clock with automaton ships wheel pendulum, dated c. 1880.

The ships wheel is the pendulum, oscillating in both directions.

The regilded brass four-glass case has bevelled glasses to all sides, and is in immaculate condition.

The 8-day bell-striking movement by S. Marti et Cie, Paris is stamped with their bronze medal.  The white enamel 2-piece dial has a recessed centre with a visible Brocot escapement.  Note the very large jewelled pallets.

Blued steel spade hands.

• Height: 11½ in. (29.5 cms)

Four glass clocks are very popular at the moment as their simple geometric lines fit equally with modern furnishings as well as among other antiques. Seeing the movement of the pendulum adds to their interest, and this clock is especially interesting having an automaton pendulum.

MARTI, SAMUEL et Cie

Marti et Cie was a well-known maker in Paris in the mid-late 1800s. In 1863 he worked with two other well-known makers Roux and Japy Freres in promoting their clock movements, and won certificates for excellence as follows:

1860 – Medaille de Bronze

1889 – Medaille d’Argent

1900 – Medaille d’Or

1931 – Grand Prix, Paris

We also have a windmill automaton clock – click on this link to view.