A rare French Art Deco nickel and glass Reutter patent atmos clock, circa 1934.

Description

Jean-Léon Reutter

Jean-Léon Reutter presented his first prototype atmos clock in 1928. The ingenious movement that winds itself by means of temperature changes, received much appraisal and admiration. Around 1930 a commercial production was started of these clocks with many different cases. Besides the now known models with glass panels in a metal frame there were more traditional models based on antique clocks. There were also much more avant garde models. In model CH 1 the characteristics of Art Deco can clearly be seen. The design of the CH 1 is composed of various geometric nickel-plated and glass elements in which the influence from architecture is clearly visible. The numerals on the dial and the shape of the hands themselves are also very typical of the period. This fine clock was and is a real designer object.

Pendule Perpetuelle

The 14-cm dial has stylised Roman numerals and stylised black arrow hands. The centre is inscribed ATMOS Pendule perpetuelle below Kirby, Beard & Co Paris for the retailer. There is a rectangular opening in the lower part of the dial which allows a view of the balance wheel.

Temperature

The movement is driven by a spring. This spring is wound by a mechanism which functions on changes in temperature. It causes a drum to turn. This turning motion winds the spring. The exceptional movement requires very little energy to run. With only one degree Centigrade temperature difference, the clock can run for 48 hours. The clock is regulated by a large horizontal balance wheel which has a thirty second oscillation time. Since there are always changes of temperature during the course of the day, the clock is wound continually and will run continually. That is why Reutter called ‘Pendule perpetuelle’ (perpetual clock).

J.L. Reutter

The movement is fitted in a rectangular nickel plated case flanked by heavy glass panels connected by a nickel plated bar laying across. At the back of the case is a plaque inscribed ‘BREVETS J.L. REUTTER S.G.D.G. MADE IN FRANCE.’ The whole is mounted on a rectangular base raised on block feet.