Paris, circa 1700, the architectural case having brass veneer with tortoiseshell and ebony inlays over walnut, decorated in ormolu mounts with torch and artichoke finials, featuring a finely chased 7 1/2 in. round gilt dial with twelve-piece enamel Roman numeral chapter cartouches, above a Classical pierced arcade signed MARTINOT A PARIS, bell striking twin barrel movement with square plates, verso with exterior count wheel, boldly signed APARIS / Baltazar Martinot on the backplate. Includes pendulum.

21 1/2 x 12 1/4 x 5 in.

Born in Rouen to a family of watch makers, Balthazar Martinot (1636-1714) became one the most sought after clockmakers in Paris during the 17th and early 18th century. He was appointed Horloger Ordinaire du Roi et du Conseil, and he was also clockmaker to Anne of Austria. Balthazar was established at Rue Galande in 1683, and Quai de Orfèvres at La Belle Image in 1697. Noted for their fine craftsmanship, his clocks are featured in the world’s most prominent collections, such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Musée du Louvre in Paris, and numerous others.

Some scattered inlay lifting and inlay losses, with some areas of associated restoration; artichoke finials are later replacements; old but likely later pendulum; some cracks to lower side of case (appears stable); later glass to door; some mis-shaping to upper pediment moldings; some later nails to ormolu mounts; rear count wheel activates bell chime when tested; unknown if in proper working condition. Please See Terms and Conditions of Sale: Clocks and Watches.

$1,000 - 3,000