Clock With An Imperial Eagle – Napoleon III Period, Circa 1855

An elegant Napoleon III-era clock in patinated regule and gilded bronze, dated 1855, adorned with a majestic eagle with outspread wings dominating the dial. The piece is further enhanced by a naturalistic decoration of oak leaves—a symbol of strength and power—resting on a finely carved base adorned with a feminine mascaron.

The circular dial is particularly refined. It features twelve white enamel cartouches with scalloped edges, accented with Roman numerals painted in cobalt blue. The center is richly chased with raised foliage motifs and surrounded by an outer scale from 1 to 60 corresponding to the minutes. A wide, finely molded gilded bronze bezel elegantly frames the entire piece.

The mechanical movement is equipped with a striking mechanism for the hours and half-hours. It bears a “Médaille d’Argent 1855” stamp, an award presented at the Paris World’s Fair, attesting to the movement’s high-quality craftsmanship.

This clock is a remarkable testament to French watchmaking expertise during the Second Empire, combining high-quality craftsmanship, rich decoration, and excellent readability.

Period: 1855 (Second Empire)
Materials: gilded patinated regule
Movement: mechanical, key-wound, striking the hours and half-hours on gong
Condition: in very good condition, in good working order

Dimensions:
Height: 54 cm
Width: 39 cm
Depth: 9 cm
Dial diameter: 35 cm
Base: 11.5 × 10 cm