Object of the Day: Franche-Comtoise Clocks

These unusual clocks have a lot of personality. Sometimes called “oeil de boeuf” (Bull’s Eye) or “Morez,” many fall into the category of “Spring Driven” clocks. Many of them are “Repeaters” meaning that hour is chimed twice. Produced near Morbier in the Franche-Comté region of France, near the Swiss border, from the late 17th century to the beginning of the 20th, these clocks are decidedly French in appearance. With their scalloped hardwood cases (always ebonized), a Morez clock was often decorated with Mother of Pearl inlay.

Occasionally, other materials were used such as the mercury glass in the one pictured to the right. Two of these clocks grace my home, one from the 1850’s, another dated earlier. I am always tickled by the Repeater in my living room. It’s very insistent. “It’s ten o’clock.” “It’s STILL ten o’clock.” Comtois clocks (and their long-case and bracket clock cousins, the Morbier clocks) are increasingly difficult to find. However, you’ll still come upon one in an antique shop now and again. They’re a very good investment, and, their ticking becomes the heartbeat of the home.