A large, well proportioned French brass repeating carriage clock by Richard et Cie c1895. Substantial rectangular case with cast handle and cast case elements. Bevelled panels and top window displaying its original jewelled lever platform escapement. Bevelled silvered frame to its white enamelled dial with black roman numerals and minute ring. Blued steel hands. A twin barrel 8-day duration movement striking the hours and half-hours on a coiled gong. Overwind stop on the going train. Backplate stamped with the Richard et Cie trademark (bottom left). Supplied with double-ended brass key. Height is 15 cm excluding handle (19 cm with handle), width is 10 cm and depth 9 cm. Excellent time-keeper. A quality example!
Fully cleaned and serviced but retaining its antique brass patina. The clock's movement is covered by our 12 month warranty in the UK.
Richard et Cie was founded in Paris in 1848 (as Lemaitre & Bergnann), adding a London branch at 24 Cannon Street in 1867 which traded as Richard & Co. They advertised as offering “French clocks and carriage clocks (own make)” – going out of their way to stress “All Own Made Goods are of Guaranteed Quality and bear our Trade Mark”. Their full trademark comprises an R and C with entwined snakes in between, enclosed in an oval. Other items just bearing the mark R&C are thought to denote a clock sold by the company but not made by them. The London business lasted until 1881 with the Paris workshop based at Rue Bondy continuing on until the beginning of the 20th Century.
For an overview of the development of the carriage clock visit our Maker's History pages.
Large French Brass Repeating Carriage Clock by Richard et Cie c1895
This clock is in excellent condition. No chips or cracks to the enamelled face or glass. No damage to the brass case which retains a lovely antique brass patina. Please see images as these form an important part of the description.