An antique Napoleon III ormolu mounted alabaster and ebonized mantel clock, French, mid 19th Century
27 June 2025
Description

This is a clock I inherited from my grandmother. She called it her French clock and said it was made in the 1800s. It is in pristine condition with no damage or imperfections. The keys are included as well. It has always been protected and covered by a glass dome. I am not sure who made it, but on the bottom of the original wooden base, long ago someone has written "Napoleon Bonaparte III-Compeigne, FR". While moving the clock a decade or so ago, I broke the original glass dome, but replaced it with an identical antique dome and base from the same period. It is a beautiful piece in perfect condition, and in my research, I have never come across another like it. It may be an original piece that was made as a special request for someone. The knight, weaponry, stand, and other ornaments are quite impressive. The mechanism was inspected by an expert about 15 years ago, runs perfectly, and it keeps accurate time.

Dimensions

About 12" wide X 15" tall

Acquired from
Inherited
For sale
Yes
Answered within about 7 hours
By Delia
Jun 27, 20:57 UTC
Fair Market Value
$1,200 - $1,800 USD
Suggested Asking Price $2,000 USD
What does this mean?

Hi Thomas,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique Napoleon III ormolu mounted alabaster and ebonized mantel clock
French, mid 19th Century
gilt bronze & alabaster under glass dome with ebonized base, unknown working order, has key
Depicting a standing armor-clad figure , the circular white-enamel dial surmounted by accoutrements of war, on an alabaster base with ormolu, metal and chains, on a shaped ebonized base.
15 inches tall, 12 inches wide
CONDITION: Not the original dome but otherwise this appears to be in good condition and is in working order.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$ 1,200-1,800*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia

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