A miniature French sterling silver minute repeating travel clock, G. Keller, circa 1900.

Omschrijving

Gustave Keller

The French jeweller Gustave Keller started a firm in 1856 that immediately distinguished itself by beautiful designs and the very good quality of the objects. This statement is proven by silver medals that were won at the Parisian Exhibitons of 1867 and 1878. After 1878 the firm was continued by his sons which also started to produce silver objects. They also won medals at the exhibitions, a gold medal in 1889 and a Grand Prix in 1900. Between 1891 and 1929 the firm was located at the Rue Joubert 22. Among their clientele were the Royal houses of Spain, Russia, Greece and Romania. This small clock isn’t just beautifully made. By pushing the button on top of the case one can hear what time it is by the minute. A very useful function in a time when making a light involved fire and wasn’t just done by throwing a switch.

Arabic numerals

The 3.5-cm enamel dial has blue Arabic numerals and gold minute marks. The foliate pierced rococo hands are made of gilt brass.

minute repeating

The movement of eight day duration is driven by a spring barrel with fixed winding at the bottom. It is being regulated by a Swiss lever escapement in combination with a bi-metallic balance. By pushing the button on top of the case fully, a small auxiliary spring is wound which drives the minute repeating striking on two gongs. Just as the winding of the spring, the setting of the hands and fast/slow are mounted on the bottom of the case.

Sterling silver

The plain arched case has the ‘Minerva mark’ proving it is made of Sterling silver 950/1000. It also carries the ‘GK mark’ (for Gustave Keller) and is inscribed G. Keller. The front is adorned with a moulded surround. The moulded plinth is adorned with a pearl rim. This lovely clock is accompagnied by its original travel case which is inscribed G. Keller. 22 Rue Joubert.