Louis XV Ormolu, Marble and Poryphyry, Pendule a Cercels Tournants Clock

Catalog Note: Michel Stollenwerck was of German birth but recorded in Paris by 1730. He first established his workshop in the precincts of the Abbey St Germain des Pres in 1739 but moved to the rue de la Comedie Francaise by 1747. Stollenwerck had exceptional mechanical talent and specialized in musical clocks. Stollenwerck supplied clocks for the French nobility and the crowned heads of Europe including King Stanislas Leszczynski, Frederick II of Prussia and Augustus III of Saxony. The horizontal rings that indicate the time in cercles tournants clocks can be troublesome, in that they can rub or jam if incorrectly balanced, or not handled with great care. The 90 degree change in the direction of rotation required to drive the rings can also introduce problems. The clock offered for sale here demonstrates Stollewercks innovative solution to this problem. By using rings of rigid construction, a stout, well supported motion transmission arbor, and a disc with wheel bearings to reduce friction and to decrease the chances of the rings fouling each other, the failings of other clocks of this type are avoided. He invented this system. The square, two train movement is very well made and finished, and a testament to the fine work being done in Paris during the mid 18th century. Stollewerck employed the finest craftsmen of his time for his clock cases, including bronziers such as Jean Joseph de St. Germain and Robert Osmond. The stonework and castings are of exceptional quality, and appear to retain most of their original gilding. By the time of his death in 1768, he was considered to be one of the finest makers in Europe.