Antique Swiss Chinoiserie Mantel Clock Platform Escapement Serviced 1930s

Mabel is a wonderfully decorative little clock with considerably more personality than her modest proportions might suggest. Her black lacquered case is hand decorated in the chinoiserie style with figures, pagodas, birds and flowering plants, picked out in flashes of warm red, green and gold.

Made during the early decades of the twentieth century, she has survived with her character very much intact. The lacquer shows genuine age-related wear, scattered marks and small areas of loss, particularly across the curved top and moulded edges. These have been deliberately preserved rather than disguised, leaving Mabel looking like an authentic antique rather than a modern reproduction.

Swiss Mechanical Movement

Behind the Roman-numeral dial is a Swiss-made, eight-day mechanical movement fitted with a traditional platform escapement. Unlike a conventional mantel clock, Mabel requires no pendulum and can simply be placed on a level surface, wound and allowed to run.

The movement is time-only, with no strike or chime, making her ideal for a bedroom, study or any room where the visual appeal of a mechanical clock is wanted without an hourly interruption. The original captive winding key remains fitted at the back.

Serviced and Ready to Enjoy

Mabel's movement has been fully serviced and carefully tested. She is running well and is ready to be enjoyed by her next owner. As with all antique mechanical clocks, minor regulation may occasionally be required following transport and when settling into a new home.

Condition

The clock is presented in attractive antique condition. The case displays expected wear, rubbing, scratches, scattered spotting and small losses to the lacquer and painted decoration. The brass-toned bezel has mellowed naturally, while the dial shows age-related toning and discolouration around its centre.

These imperfections are clearly shown in the photographs and form an important part of Mabel's history and appeal. The case has not been aggressively refinished, allowing its original decoration and aged surface to remain honest and characterful. Please inspect all photographs carefully, as they form an essential part of the description.

A characterful mechanical survivor — decorative, easy to live with, and full of quiet charm.