French striking Carriage Clock

A fully restored French striking carriage clock, dated c.1870s. The case features barley-twist columns topped with corinthian capitals, a style echoed on the fold-flat handle.

The clock is completely original, other than the regilding of the case, bringing its condition to “as new”. All beveled glasses are in perfect condition, as is the white enamel dial.

The eight-day movement is signed for R & Co., PARIS. It strikes the hours and the passing of the half hour on a gong. The original silvered lever platform escapement is visible through the rectangular top glass.

The movement has been overhauled and is guaranteed for 3 years.

The parent firm Richard et Cie was founded in Paris in 1848 as Lemaitre & Bergnann, In 1857, London branch was added, becoming Richard & Co. of 24 Cannon Street, London in 1867.  Their full trademark comprises an R and C with entwined snakes in between, enclosed in an oval. Items such as this one bearing the mark R&Co are thought to denote a clock retailed by the company but not necessarily made by them.  The London business lasted until 1881.