French Industrial Series. This Lighthouse-themed clock, with its unique automated top, is a fascinating addition to any collection. 224133.

In the late part of the 18th century, the French, Championed by Andre Guilmet, made a series of mantel timepieces we now call the "Industrial" series. This group of clocks was modeled after various themes, and many of them were automated in some manner. Themes included industrial apparatus, transportation, military, nautical, and lighthouses. This example is modeled after a lighthouse and should be considered a middle-sized example—the series ranges from 9 to 24 inches tall.

The lighthouse-themed clock measures 17.5 inches tall to the top of the spire. The brass-made case is mounted on a disk of slate. Its jet-black coloring is polished and contrasts nicely with the brass case. The case is designed to emulate the new designs of the lighthouse construction of the day. The outer surfaces are segmented, inferring a structure built from interlocking granite blocks. The entire column is designed in this manner. The base of the building serves as the Keeper's quarters, complete with windows and a decorative dome-shaped door. This door provides the winding access for the movement that turns the crown or turret above. This spring-powered movement will rotate the upper turret for approximately a day. The middle column, fitted with two additional windows, is tapered. This supports the turret.

The upper turret, a distinctive feature of this clock, is topped with a spire. Its base is a ball mounted on a plinth at the top of the crown. The column below features the displays, including the time and barometer displays. All of this rotates slowly when the lower movement is wound. The walkway is fenced off, with a decorative railing, adding to the charm of the clock. Unfortunately, one section of the fence is missing, but it is located at the back of the case, ensuring it does not detract from the overall aesthetic. 

The primary displays are the time and barometer displays. Both measure 2.25 inches in diameter and are protected by beveled glass fitted in brass bezels. The time is displayed on a tri-colored dial. The center inset is brass, and the time ring is silvered. The graphics are done in black for contrast. Arabic five-minute makers are separated from the Roman-style hour numerals by a segmented minute ring. The hands are formed from blued steel. The timepiece mechanism is spring wound and designed to run for 8 -days when fully wound. An aneroid barometer, a device used to measure atmospheric pressure, opposes it, adding a functional and decorative element to the clock.

The barometer dial also measures approximately 2.25 inches in diameter. This tri-colored dial is calibrated from 26.5" to 31.5" and is labeled with typical weather indications. The two hands are mounted in this location. The more extended black hand is the pointer for the barometer. This hand records the current mercury level in the barometer tube inside the case. The smaller brass hand is manually adjusted by the operator/observer. The adjustment is performed by turning the knob on the protective glass. One would set this brass hand under the current position of the black hand. When you return, the black hand will have moved away from the set brass hand. This reading illustrates the changing of the weather. Both hands are decoratively shaped.

Between the circular dials are two thermometers, one reading centigrade and Reaumur and the other Fahrenheit. The top is capped with a finial. I like the walkway around the turret. It is fenced off with a decorative railing, which is a lovely detail. All of these are constructed in an impressive and lifelike manner.

For additional information about this clockmaker, please read Derek Roberts' book Mystery, Novelty, and Fantasy Clock.

This clock stands approximately 17.5 inches tall.

Inventory number 224133.