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CANVASES, CARATS AND CURIOSITIES

The Splendor of Art Deco: Table Clocks for Him

A table clock can be a fascinating conversation piece, or the perfect accent to any handsomely furnished room. It can attract admiration and appreciation from both the connoisseur and the layman as a work of both mechanical complexity and decorative appeal. Thus, a well-designed table clock can serve as the perfect holiday gift for anyone on your list. This holiday season, surprise your loved one with an object of timeless style - a table clock.

 

 

Retailed by J.E. Caldwell & Co., this rare timepiece boasts fine guilloche enamelling

Retailed by J.E. Caldwell & Co., this rare timepiece boasts fine guilloche enameling

 

Some of the finest crafted table clocks hail from the J.E. Caldwell & Co. clockmakers and jewelers in Philadelphia, PA. Since its beginning in 1839 by James Emmott Caldwell, J.E. Caldwell has succeeded in designing pieces that exude quality and elegance. Jewelry, silver, and objets d’art were crafted by the expert designers for their wealthy and aristocratic clientele, and soon the Caldwell name became well-known and respected throughout the country. This venerable jeweler’s talent also found its way into clock making, and they soon excelled in designing sophisticated and luxurious clocks in the sleek Art Deco.

 

 

Signed "J.E.Caldwell/France" on the dial, and signed in the case

Signed "J.E.Caldwell/France" on the dial, and signed in the case
 

 

This remarkable table clock represents the grandeur and sophistication of not only J.E. Caldwell’s talents, but also of the Art Deco movement itself. Small in scale, yet powerful in impact, this table clock is a sumptuous reminder of a bygone era. Guilloche enameling is responsible for the rich azure color that envelops the surface of the clock, radiating from a single point on each side of the clock face. Lavish diamond studded silver filigree hands keep time on the face of the clock that displays elegant Roman numerals. Sleek, white enamel frames enclose each panel of the clock, completing the piece. The clock rests in its original, gold-embossed leather fitted case and is signed “J.E.Caldwell/France” on the face.

 

 

 

Crafted of luxurious tortoiseshell, this sleek desk clock by J.E. Caldwell & Co. exudes Art Deco elegance.

Crafted of luxurious tortoiseshell, this sleek desk clock by J.E. Caldwell & Co. exudes Art Deco elegance.

 

Similarly, this tortoiseshell J.E. Caldwell table clock evokes both wealth and sophistication. The clock rests back on a stand, much like a framed photo. High-quality tortoiseshell swathes the clock in a warmth of golden browns and rich oranges, perfectly complemented by the bronze ormolu that frames the clock. The Art Deco style displays itself through the bold numbers and stylized ornamentation on the face, as well as the sleek, yet commanding design of the clock frame design. Signed “J.E.Caldwell & Co/Philadelphia/France” on the dial.

 

 

The dial is framed by a luxurious plaque of amber-hued onyx

The dial is framed by a luxurious plaque of amber-hued onyx
 

 

This impressive table clock speaks to the most important aesthetics of the Art Deco movement. A plaque of amber-hued onyx makes up the body of the clock, encapsulating the entire piece. The center dial is gilded and is delicately enameled in deep blue and rich greens, creating the perfect color contrasts to the amber hues of the onyx surrounding. This type of eye-catching, sleek and simple aesthetic created by the color contrasts perfectly exemplifies the main qualities of the Art Deco style. The clock is signed “J.E. Caldwell/Philadelphia” on the dial.

 

Any of these remarkable table clocks are sure to provide the perfect present for any friend or family member. As impressive works on their won, each of these clocks at M.S. Rau would be an elegant addition to any room. Browse our collection of antique clocks for sale.

 

 

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