HEAVY GILT-BRONZE NAUTICAL PAPERWEIGHT CLOCK WITH ROTATING TOP
PRESTIGIOUS 1960 FRENCH PRODUCT OF ANDRE WYLER
This remarkable timepiece is from my personal collection of vintage and antique clocks curated since 1972. Commencing with apprenticeship to a European master clock and watchmaker through high school graduation, freshmen year of
college and remainder of the 1970s, I sensitively restored clocks of all
types; opening service and sales showrooms in the western suburbs of
Chicago. After a 35 year "sabbatical" pursuing an appraisal career, I've
returned to the venerable trade.
Andre Wyler clocks are scarce and of high quality. Most often they feature innovative cases. For a short period, Andre Wyler designed clocks for Hermes. Some Wyler clocks have Swiss movements, others French made. Andre Wyler brand clocks I've owned and restored date ca. 1950-1965.
This paperweight clock is wonderfully appealing. The capstan swivels smoothly 360 degrees on a massive cast bronze pedestal. The domical case with hollow cavity is precisely machined to hold the watch, with a cutout for the stem and crown. Thus, the 15-jewel lever movement can be wound in situ.
An engraved presentation spanning almost half of the pedestal provides a unique "lost in time" provenance.
Charting our course for 1960
Full speed ahead - The time is right
Semper Fi
Engraving on the base personalizes the luxury gift - "To Mary T and Ed - from Sally and Larry"
Satin and polished gold finishes on the top and wheel are almost perfect. Half a century of handling caused scattered oxidation spotting beneath the pedestal waist.
I've not overhauled the movement. However, the watch has been operating reliably for months and should continue running for ? Hopefully, years before servicing is needed.
3.1 high to crest of the crown, 2.75" wheel diameter
weighs an impressive 1.5 lbs. -- papers under this clock won't fly away!
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