Rare Antique Museum-Quality French 18k Ormolu Verge Fusee Dragon Clock c1750’s

Presenting an extraordinary, museum-quality antique French desk clock, explicitly crafted for the elite Chinese market during the 18th  century. This horological masterpiece seamlessly blends European mechanical genius with powerful Asian iconography. Housed within a spherical globe supported by a magnificent 18k gilt bronze (ormolu) dragon, this timepiece is a highly significant artifact of the historic East-meets-West trade.

Pieces of this caliber, condition, and thematic precision were historically commissioned for the Qing Dynasty Imperial Court or wealthy Chinese aristocrats.

Historical Context

During the 18th and 19th centuries, European master clockmakers in France, Switzerland, and England developed a highly specialized, lucrative trade with China. Known as “Chinese Market” pieces, these clocks were characterized by their lavish use of gold, complex movements, and integration of auspicious Chinese symbols. The dragon represents imperial power, strength, and good fortune, while the Guardian Lion (Foo Dog) surmounting the globe symbolizes protection and prosperity. The opening globe design reflects the era’s fascination with astronomy, mapping, and the universe, highly prized by Chinese emperors.

Detailed Specifications

• The Case: Masterfully cast in solid bronze and finished with a brilliant 18k ormolu gilding. The base features a highly detailed, dynamically posed Asian dragon with intricate scaling and fierce facial features. The dragon supports a perfectly smooth, hinged golden globe that serves as the clock housing. The globe is crowned with a beautifully sculpted Chinese Guardian Lion (Foo Dog). The entire structure rests securely on a polished, dark stone plinth.

• The Dial: The globe opens to reveal a pristine white enamel dial featuring crisp, black Arabic numerals and a winding aperture positioned at the 2 o’clock mark. It is finished with beautifully delicate, golden sunburst/star-shaped hands.

• The Movement: Beneath the dial lies a spectacular antique French verge fusee movement. The movement features a breathtaking, hand-pierced, and profusely engraved gilt balance bridge—a hallmark of elite European craftsmanship from this era. The fusee chain and architectural pillars are visible, showcasing the intricate mechanical artistry.

• Origin: France (Movement and Case), designed for the Chinese Export Market.

• Included: Comes complete with a winding key.

Condition Report

• Case: Excellent antique condition. The 18k ormolu gilding remains vibrant and rich, with exceptional preservation of the fine chased details on the dragon and lion. The hinge mechanism on the globe operates smoothly. No major dents or structural damage.

• Dial: Excellent condition. The enamel is bright and legible, with only the most minor surface wear commensurate with age.

• Movement: Visually stunning and structurally intact. The intricate engraving on the balance bridge is sharp. (Note: As with all antique mechanical timepieces, it is sold as-is. While the movement appears intact and well-preserved, we always recommend a professional cleaning and oiling by a qualified horologist to ensure optimal daily timekeeping).

Shipping & Handling

This is an exceptionally rare, museum-grade investment piece. It will be packaged with the utmost professional care, utilizing custom-cut foam, double-boxing, and full insurance to ensure it arrives at your collection safely.

• Domestic & International Shipping: Ships globally via expedited, fully insured courier service (FedEx/DHL) with required signature upon delivery.

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Please carefully review all high-resolution photographs as they are a central part of the description. Do not hesitate to reach out with any specific questions regarding this magnificent timepiece.

The clock comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR 6,000.00!

Now is your only chance to buy this amazing piece!

NOTE:PLEASE OBSERVE CAREFULLY THE PHOTOS! IT IS A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THE DESCRIPTION. Every possible defect which is shown in the photos,but not mention in the description,will be considered for described.All the photos shoot by professional Nikon 105 Macro lens under 40x diopter magnification,so you can explore even the smallest detail like under microscope!

Free shipping to worldwide by DHL overnight courier.