M C Taylor Clocks

Description

A very pretty and superior little mantel clock by Paul Garnier.

The 8 day duration circular 'movement de Paris' with 2 trains and its original jewelled, ratchet toothed, side lever platform escapement. Countwheel striking the hours and halfs on a well-toned bell. The backplate bears the maker's mark of "PAUL GARNIER HBR DU ROI PARIS" Also "PG Brevete" and numbered 1339.

Behind just a 3 1/4" wide x 4" high white enamel dial with an outer divided minute ring that is dotted at the hours, Roman hour numerals and the upper dial centre also bearing the maker's mark. Also having fine, 'open diamond', matching and blued steel hands.

Contained in a good, rosewood case of good colour and patina. It has double brass lining to 3 sides and the top. The top is also inlaid with chased, floral Rococo designs which have mother-of-pearl flowers. It also has a cast brass, folding handle. The side panels are beautifully inlaid with musical instruments within a scrolled border with contrasting chased brass and mother-of-pearl. The silvered platform escapement can be viewed through a rectangular bevelled glass. The rear access door is plain and the front glass can be removed for winding and setting by way of a secret method resulting in no joins being visible. The short plinth has a concave top moulding and is mounted upon 4 short block feet.

I rarely see such a good example of this type of clock and it is no doubt superior. The escapement makes it totally and easily transportable and the maker is amongst the finest. The inlay is superb.