Rating and value of clocks and cartels
Key takeaways
- Clocks and timepieces sell for between €50 and €62,000 depending on the type and quality, with pieces made of chiseled bronze and gold being particularly sought after.
- 19th-century objects made of chiseled bronze with gilding dominate the market; a First Empire clock exceeded its initial estimate in 2021, fetching €30,000.
- Free appraisal available to accurately estimate market value and guide you toward the best auction options.
If you own a clock or a cartel, and would like to know its value, our state-approved experts and auctioneers will offer you their appraisal services. Our specialists will carry out a free appraisal of your work, and provide you with a precise estimate of its current market value. Then, if you wish to sell your work, we will guide you towards the best possible arrangement to obtain the optimum price.
Rating and value of clocks and cartels
Clocks and cartels are highly prized objects at auction. They are collected by bidders of all nationalities. Nowadays, prices for these objects can rise considerably under the auctioneer's hammer. Gold clocks and cartels are particularly popular, with buyers from all over the world. The price at which they sell on the art market currently ranges from €50 to €62,000, a considerable difference, but one that says a lot about the value that can be attributed to these objects. In 2021, a chased bronze and gold clock entitled " l'Afrique " dating from the 1st Empire sold for €30,000, originally estimated at €15,000 to €20,000.
Order of value from a simple work to the most prestigious
Type of clock or cartel | Result |
|---|---|
Gilt bronze and gold pendulum | From 60 to 32 000€ |
Chased bronze and gold pendulum | From 50 to €62,000 |
Gold cartel | From €50 to €2,400 |
Estimate in less than 24h
Style and technique of the clocks and cartels most present on the market
The clocks and cartels most present on the market date from the 19th century. Many are made of chased bronze, then gilded. However, they are also available in marble and porcelain. Gilding work is virtually present on all of them.
The history of clocks and cartels over the centuries
In the 18th century, clockmaking reached its apogee with the birth of cartels. Cartels were luxury clocks designed to adorn the sumptuous interiors of palaces and aristocratic residences. They were often crafted by talented artisans and decorated with precious materials such as gold, silver and gilded bronze. These exquisite pieces reflected the wealth and aestheticism of the time.
In France, the royal manufactory founded by Louis XIV, the famous "Manufacture royale des Gobelins", produced cartels for the court and nobility. These elite watchmakers competed in ingenuity to create clocks with complex horological complications and sophisticated mechanisms. Cartels were also a means of demonstrating the power and influence of monarchs and aristocrats, helping to establish horological dynasties.
Antique cartels
Antique cartels, particularly those from the 18th century, occupy a special place in the history of watchmaking. These luxury clocks reflected the power and refinement of their owners. Made from precious materials such as gold, silver and gilded bronze, and sometimes enriched with marquetry or inlays, cartels were veritable jewels of watchmaking expertise.
Because of their rarity and exclusive character, antique cartels have become coveted collector's items. Today, they can be found in museums all over the world and feature prominently at watch auctions, along with gold watches and gold jewelry from all houses.
The success of antique clocks on the auction market
Buying an antique clock at auction offers both aesthetic and financial advantages. From an aesthetic point of view, these clocks are true works of art, testifying to refined craftsmanship and bringing a touch of elegance and timeless charm to any interior. As a financial investment, high-quality antique clocks tend to maintain and even increase in value over time, making them an attractive choice for collectors and watch enthusiasts looking for unique pieces of great heritage value.
Knowing the value of a cartel or a clock
If you happen to own a clock or a cartel, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using our form on our website. A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you promptly with an estimate of the market value of your piece, and will also provide you with all the relevant information. If you wish to sell your property, you will also be accompanied by our specialists in order to benefit from alternatives to sell it at the best possible price, taking into account the inclinations of the market.
Estimate in less than 24h
Discover in the same theme
Get a free estimate for your Louis XIV style furniture
Marquetry developed with the Louis XIV style, and wooden furniture became very fashionable. Today, they are still highly prized.
Learn more >
Rating and value of Louis XV furniture (chests of drawers, a...
Louis XV furniture is highly prized on the auction market. Elegant and inspired by nature, it is a hit at auction. Estimate in less than 24h
Learn more >
Rating and value of Louis XVI furniture (consoles, desk, arm...
Louis XVI period furniture is very popular on the auction market. Whether inspired by antiques or half-moon consoles, it has left its mark on cabinetm...
Learn more >
Secure site, anonymity preserved
Auctioneer approved by the State
Free and certified estimates
Frequently asked questions
-
What is the current value of clocks and cartels at auction?Clock and cartels sell for between €50 and €62,000, depending on their type and quality. Chiseled bronze and gold clocks command the highest prices (€50 to €62,000), while gold cartels range from €50 to €2,400. This wide range reflects significant differences in materials, era, and rarity.
-
What is the history of clocks and chime clocks as collectibles?Cartels first appeared in the 18th century as luxury clocks intended for palaces and aristocratic residences. In France, the Royal Gobelins Manufactory produced them for the court and the nobility. These pieces reflected the wealth and power of their owners, and antique cartels, particularly those from the 18th century, are now highly sought after by collectors around the world.
-
How can I have my clock or table clock appraised and valued?Auctie's offers a free, no-obligation appraisal via a form on its website. A certified expert or auctioneer will contact you within 48 hours to provide you with an accurate estimate of your item’s market value, along with key information about it.
-
Is this a good time to sell an antique clock or table clock?Yes, this is a favorable time. High-quality antique clocks and wall clocks retain and increase in value over time, and they remain highly sought after at auctions by collectors of all nationalities. They are both works of art and attractive investments for building wealth.
-
How can Auctie's help me sell my clock or wall clock?After a free appraisal, our experts will guide you toward the best sales strategy based on current market conditions. Auctie's, an auction house, supports you from the initial appraisal through to the final sale to ensure you get the best possible price.
