Antique Bolviller à Paris French Carriage Clock, c.1885 – 8-Day Striking, With Key

This elegant Bolviller à Paris French carriage clock is a fine example of late Victorian-era horological craftsmanship, dating from the mid-1880s and presented in good overall condition for its age. Displaying light signs of previous use consistent with over 130 years of history, it retains much of its original character and charm.

Antique Bolviller à Paris French Carriage Clock, c.1885

Dating from the mid-1880s, this beautiful French carriage clock features an 8-day manual-wind movement and retains its winding key. The movement has been fitted with a replacement Swiss platform escapement, an important detail for collectors and enthusiasts of antique horology.

The clock is housed in a classic gilt brass case with beveled glass panels to the front, both sides and the top, allowing an excellent view of the dial and movement. The glass remains in lovely condition and is free from cracks. The rear door is beautifully decorated with an elaborate engraved foliate design, adding to the clock’s Victorian charm and reflecting the quality of its craftsmanship.

Working Order and Service Note

The movement is currently in working order and keeps good time once running. The bell strikes clearly as intended; however, the movement can be difficult to start after winding and would benefit from a professional service. This has been reflected in the description and should be taken into consideration before purchase.

Condition

The white enamel dial remains attractive, with some light hairline crazing to the upper right corner, together with small chips to the upper left and lower right corners. There is also a very small corner chip to the glass panel at the upper left and upper right corners, all consistent with its considerable age and previous handling. Please study the photographs carefully for a full assessment of the condition.

If you would like extra photographs or a short video of the clock running and striking before you buy, just contact us.

Specifications

• Maker: Bolviller à Paris
• Origin: France
• Date: Mid 1880s
• Movement: 8-Day Manual Wind
• Escapement: Replacement Swiss Platform Escapement
• Function: Time & Bell Strike/Chime
• Includes: Winding Key
• Case Material: Gilt Brass
• Glazing: Bevelled Glass Panels to Front, Sides & Top

Measurements

• Height: Approx. 14cm
• Height including handle: Approx. 18.5cm
• Width: Approx. 9cm
• Depth: Approx. 7.8cm

About French Carriage Clocks

Carriage clocks were designed as portable travelling clocks, with a carrying handle on top and a compact, glazed brass case. They became hugely popular during the 19th century, and France was the main centre of production, supplying carriage clocks to buyers across Europe and especially to Britain. Paris makers and retailers signed many of the finest examples, which is why a dial or movement marked “à Paris”, as on this clock, is so appealing to collectors.

A carriage clock uses a platform escapement – a balance-wheel escapement mounted on a small platform on top of the movement – which allows the clock to keep time even when it is being moved. On this example the platform has been replaced with a Swiss platform escapement, something collectors often like to know about when assessing an antique clock. To learn more about antique clocks and their care, the Antiquarian Horological Society is an excellent resource.

Why Choose an Antique French Carriage Clock?

A French carriage clock brings genuine Victorian-era character to a mantelpiece, desk or bedside table, and the bevelled glass panels mean the movement can be enjoyed as well as the dial. With its gilt brass case, engraved rear door and clear bell strike, this Bolviller à Paris clock would make a handsome centrepiece and a memorable gift for a collector or anyone who loves antiques.

Caring for Your Carriage Clock

Wind the clock gently with its key about once a week, taking care not to force it, and keep it on a level surface away from direct heat and damp. As noted above, a professional service by a qualified clock restorer is recommended to help the movement start reliably after winding.

Buy with Confidence from Simply Collectable

• Free UK delivery – orders over £100, including this clock, are sent by Royal Mail Special Delivery, fully tracked and insured. See our delivery and shipping information.
• Fast dispatch – orders are dispatched within 1–2 days, with delivery usually in 2–4 working days.
• 30-day returns – all items, including pre-owned and antique, can be returned within 30 days. Read our refunds and returns policy.

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