DESCRIPTION:
Matthaus Hipp, Neuchatel, a rare electromagnetic master clock with skeletonized dial, the cast iron openwork frame mounted to a molded wooden base on toupie feet, the frame both concealing the wiring, and supporting the electromagnet, movement and roman numeral, white enamel dial, black painted Breguet style hands, with concentric indicator showing dead seconds, very heavy, faux gridiron pendulum with damascened bob and jeweled toggle, spotted, oblong brass plate below the movement carrying the contact and engraved "M. Hipp Neuchatel Suisse", with glass dome
CONDITION:
base with minor joint separation at back, front section of base reglued, minor dings and scratches, feet dirty, cast frame very good, movement and other brass components appear to retain their original lacquer, dial with faint hairlines at 2:00, 9:00, hands painted, pendulum bob with minor spotting, the two narrow steel pendulum rods with minor oxide, dome good. Appears to be complete, but operating condition unknown. Matthaus Hipp (1813-1893) was born in Blaubeuren, Germany and at age 16 he was apprenticed to clockmaker Johan Eichelhofer. He was a pioneer in the field of electrical timekeeping, and was regarded by Frank Hope Jones as among the most important early contributors to this discipline. In addition to his horological achievements, Hipp also made significant contributions to telegraphy, developed a visual traffic signal, an electric loom, and an electric clavier.
ESTIMATE:
$3000
-
$5000
PRICE SOLD:
$8500
CIRCA: 1870
DIMENSIONS: 28.5in x 14in x 10in
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