This small table clock was likely originally gifted as a love token, since it is fitted with a little rebus!
The frame is made from silver and decorated with a floral border. The frame holds a single piece of banded agate, which displays a beautiful play of colour and a mix of opaque and translucent areas. The front of the frame is decorated with an open-worked border, which shows a row of pansy flowers and the words: 'a moi'. When read out loud, this rebus reads 'Pensee a Moi''which is French for 'Think of Me'.
The tiny mechanical clock is still in good working order and can be wound by hand at the back. It has a white enameled dial with blue Roman numerals and tiny gold accents.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 85 x 55 mm.
Weight: 93.60 grams
Age: Late 19th Century, circa 1890s.
Hallmarks: The hallmarks tell us the frame was made from 900/1000 silver in Vienna between 1872 and 1922. There is also a maker's mark, which I believe reads 'KF', which I was not able to identify.
Condition: In great antique condition with only minor signs of wear, consistent with its age. The agate is still in good condition. The clock has not been revised and I cannot give a guarantee on it, but is currently working in good order.
Please note that this shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import taxes.