Rating and value of clocks and cartels

If you own a clock or cartel, and would like to know its value, our state-approved experts and auctioneers can 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 very popular items 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 "Africa", 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

Style and technique of the most popular clocks and cartels on the market

The most common clocks and cartels 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. The gilding is almost always present.

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 watchmaking dynasties.

Older 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 exclusivity, antique cartels have become coveted collectors' 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 watchmakers.

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 with great heritage value.

Knowing the value of a cartel or clock

If you happen to own a clock or a cartel, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal using the form on our website. A member of our team of experts and certified auctioneers will contact you promptly to provide you with an estimate of the market value of your piece, as well as any relevant information about it. If you wish to sell your property, our specialists will also be on hand to help you find alternatives for selling it at the best possible price, taking into account market trends.