Lot number 1628 - Auction 150
SELTENE 'AGERON'-KAROSSENUHR

RARE 'AGERON' COACH WATCH France, Paris, Francois Ageron (? - after 1783), around 1740/50 Silver plated, brass, steel, glass. H. 18 cm, d. 11 cm, weight approx. 1000g. Inscribed 'Ageron' and 'Paris' on the back plate. Round, smooth case with ornamentally perforated sound holes. Hinged, glazed lid. Enamelled dial with Roman hour, Arabic minute and day numbers. Blued ornamental hands. Setting scale for the alarm system. Spindle escapement via chain and fusee. Fire-gilded movement with floral engraving. Large, delicately crafted spindle bridge and large silver-plated regulating scale. Engraved barrels. 1/4-hour self-strike and train repetition on the bell, alarm device adjustable in the dial. Rubbed, part. damaged and chipped; function untested; with key. There are many names for this type of spring-driven carriage clock: the carriage clock is also known as a saddle clock, or alcove clock. Robustness and exquisite workmanship were the main criteria, as they had to withstand the rigors of travel by stagecoach and reflect the owner's elevated social status. François Ageron is one of the most important Parisian watchmakers of the 18th century. He passed his master's examination on July 17, 1741. He subsequently opened workshops on the Place du Pont Saint-Michel, the Quai des Augustins, the Rue Saint-Louis au Palais, and the Place Dauphine. He ceased his practice in the early 1780s, and his business was sold on May 31, 1784.