This rare French Industrial Waterwheel Clock (circa 1900) is a masterpiece of horological engineering and a premier example of turn-of-the-century industrial-themed automaton design. Enclosed within its original four-sided heavy crystal glass case with brass corner trim, the clock is built around a magnificent, skeletonized gilt-bronze structure that sits on a beautifully figured, mottled green onyx base. The base itself is heavily detailed with cast brass decorative reliefs depicting industrial factory components, including a piston engine, driving belts, and a flywheel system to emphasize its mechanical heritage.
The clock utilizes a fascinating gravity ball mechanism to track time and power its movement. A series of vibrant, blue glass marbles sit along the right perimeter of the large skeletonized waterwheel. The constant, uniform weight of these rolling balls drives the rotation of the wheel, providing steady power to the integrated clock movement. The center of the waterwheel features a clean crystal glass ring detailed with bold black Roman numerals and skeletonized hands for high legibility.
Adding to its complexity, the clock features a dual-function vertical elevator structure on the left, wrapped around an integrated thermometer scale. Driven by independent spring power housed in the base, this bucket ladder chain hoists the blue glass balls back to the top of the track one by one. After rolling down the multi-tiered brass incline ramps at the front, each ball triggers the mechanism and drops back into the wheel to continue the continuous loop. Mounted directly above the clock face is a circular aneroid barometer, completing this impressive three-in-one desktop weather station and timekeeping automaton.
Size: The complete dimension of this clock is 22-1/4" tall, 18-7/16" wide and 7-1/2" deep.
Condition: A week long running duration. A hairline on the thermometer plate. The green onyx base has no damage or repair, only normal wear and tear. Clock is currently in working order and keeps time. Some minor adjustment maybe required after delivery. I will include a general setup instruction and post-sale support with the sale. If you are mechanically challenged, you may need in-person professional help from a local clock specialist. Overall condition shows only normal wear and tear matching its age.
This is an extremely rare French industrial clock from c. 1900, not a reproduction. It's in nearly mint condition and complete with original glass case and winding key.
For reference, please see Mystery, Novelty & Fantasy Clocks by Derek Roberts (Last 2 photos)
Clock will be professionally packed in 2 to 3 heavy duty double wall boxes for shipping. All brand new packing materials, bubble wrap foam sheet and peanut. Delivery or pick up can be arranged, which I highly recommend, so please contact us and we can work out the detail. Our top priority is the safe delivery of your purchase, given the rarity of this clock.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
DOMESTIC SHIPPING METHOD:
All domestic shipment will be sent via UPS Ground or USPS Priority Mail. We will choose the most economical way to have your item shipped promptly and safely. All item will be carefully packed with real packing material, bubble wrap, Styrofoam, foam peanut, & NO newspaper.
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
All payment methods are accepted. Please contact us if you have any questions. Layaway plan is also available.
RETURN POLICY:
Customer satisfaction is our first priority. We accept return within 30 days after delivery. Refund will be issued in full amount. Please email first before returning. Delivery date will be according to UPS or USPS tracking system, so please inspect your item immediately upon arrival. Please visit our store pages for more detail on our return and warranty polices.
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INTERNATIONAL BUYERS:
All items will be shipped by USPS Priority Mail or UPS Worldwide Expedited to our international buyers. Online tracking number will be provided. Buyer is responsible for any import tax and/or brokerage fee.