Product Description

French marble clocks are increasing in popularity at a time when many antique clocks are becoming too expensive for the average collector. Popular with the Victorians, they are now enjoying a well-deserved revival. Most have high quality movements with attractive cases made in a wide variety of styles, and fortunately there are still many of these clocks to be found at reasonable prices in antique shops, junk shops and market stalls. "The French Marble Clock" is the first complete book on the subject, written by Nicolas Thorpe who is an enthusiastic collector. Years of research couple with many visits to France and Belgium have made him a leading authority about them. The opening chapters reveal the history of the marble clock along with new information about their origins and makers. Photographs of factories, now demolished, are set alongside material from French archives. To many collectors, the most valued part of the book will be the practical chapters. These take a detailed look at the famous pendule de Paris movement that is found in many French mantel clocks from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Sound and sensible advice is given about examining, dating and buying, together with a clear explanation of the function of parts of the movement. This is essential reading for those wishing to restore timepieces or clocks with striking movements. The chapters on restoration and clock case styles are all clearly illustrated. One section on Collectors' Clocks shows some of the world's finest marble clocks, and one appendix has an invaluable list of known French, German, American and English makers and their trademarks. In his foreword, Michael Turner, Head of Clocks and Watches at Sotheby's, London, describes these clocks as often being 'ridiculously under priced'. This carefully researched study of French marble clocks will be a valuable guide to all collectors whether they buy clocks in fine order or enjoy the challenge of restoring a damaged bargain to full working condition.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #480347 in Books
• Published on: 1998-11-30
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 288 pages

About the Author
Nicolas Thorpe was introduced to antiques as a schoolboy. In later years he became fascinated by old clocks. His first marble clock, in need of repair and restoration, was bought from a junk shop. Unhappy about the lack of published information available, he decided to write a book that would provide both the specialist and collector with a definitive book on the subject. Careful and detailed investigations were made in England, France and Belgium. Not content with researching and writing the book he also produced and printed most of the photographs, some of the more complex taking several weeks to produce.

Customer Reviews

the definitive book for French marble clock lovers
The extensive subject matter is covered in good detail easily understood in non-technical language. everything you would want to know about these lovely old clocks is covered with good illustrations for a variety if types & styles. the information on caring for these clocks is invaluable for the enthusiastic amatuer.

If you like French Marble clocks you must have this book!
The marble clocks so popular in Victorian age are gaining respect and admiration by the day, so its great to see a book about them at last! These clocks look superb sitting on their intended soul mates - the stone fire mantle.

Nicolas Thorpe is an engineer by profession and takes us through the subject in an ordered and methodical manner. Literature this isn't't, but it is a great source of information, starting with the history of the clockmakers, leading through technical aspects of restoration and design it concludes with an excellent reference of collectors' clocks, makers and marks. Also there is a good chapter describing the process of mining and types of marble.

Verdict: If you are interested in French Marble Clocks you must have this book!