A striking and unusually versatile Swiss Goliath timepiece dating to around 1900, housed within a finely finished, substantial rounded gunmetal case which retains its original deep blue-black oxidised finish.
The large white enamel dial is classically presented with bold black Roman numerals, an outer minute track and recessed subsidiary seconds dial at six, complemented by attractive blued-steel hands and a warm gilt-brass bezel. At approximately 6.8cm diameter, it has considerably more presence than a conventional pocket watch while remaining compact enough for a desk, bedside table or travelling case.
One of the most interesting aspects is its ingenious dual-purpose construction. The shaped brass stand folds completely against the reverse when not required, but opens to support the clock securely on a desk or table. At the top is a retractable suspension fitting which allows the clock alternatively to be hung, making this an unusually adaptable late-Victorian travelling timepiece.
The reverse is particularly distinctive. Rather than an anonymous plain movement plate, it is unusually and prominently engraved in large flowing script Ancre, identifying the Swiss anchor or lever escapement, together with the individual serial number 651837. The plate also carries its winding arrangement, directional winding arrow and an exposed rate regulator, allowing the movement to be finely adjusted to run faster or slower. The regulator is clearly visible through its shaped sector on the left of the rear plate, giving the clock an appealingly mechanical and functional character.
The elaborate Ancre script inscription gives the normally functional reverse considerable decorative character and is a feature not commonly encountered so prominently displayed on comparable Goliath clocks.
The Ancre lever movement represented the better class of Swiss mechanical movement of the period, offering improved reliability and reduced friction compared with the simpler cylinder escapements widely used in less expensive contemporary watches.
The rounded gunmetal case is another particularly attractive feature. Importantly, it has not been polished back to bright metal and retains its rich original blue-black surface, with subtle petrol-blue tones appearing as the light moves across it. This aged gunmetal finish contrasts beautifully with the gilt bezel and fittings.
Presently in good working order, this is an appealing piece of turn-of-the-century Swiss mechanical design: part oversized pocket watch, part travelling clock and part desk timepiece, with an unusually modern simplicity to its rounded form.
Size: approximately 7cm diameter; dial 5cm; depth 3.2cm.
*Please go to our shop on for other similar items, we can also look to combine postage where possible
Related Items:
Antique c.1900 Cabinet Card Photo Man Nuzzling His Little Dog – Ornate Black...
$25.00
Antique c1900 F&M German Stein Pewter Royal Railway Presentation Teutonia Heavy
$500.00
Antique c1900 Copper Fish Crab Mold Repousse Tin Lined Brass Handles
$189.99
