French Modern Clock

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal French modern clock for your home. Frequently made of metal, brass and animal skin, every French modern clock was constructed with great care. Find 104 options for an antique or vintage French modern clock now, or shop our selection of 2 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer French modern clock, there are earlier versions available from the 20th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A French modern clock, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Modern or Regency style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. Many designers have produced at least one well-made French modern clock over the years, but those crafted by Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Hermès are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

Prices for a French modern clock can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $125 and can go as high as $12,500, while the average can fetch as much as $1,486.

A sophisticated clock design, whether it’s a desk clock, mantel clock or large wall clock for your living room, is a decorative object to be admired in your home as much as it is a necessary functional element. This is part of the reason clocks make such superb collectibles. Given the versatility of these treasured fixtures — they’ve long been made in a range of shapes, sizes and styles — a clock can prove integral to your own particular interior decor.

Antique and vintage clocks can whisk us back to the 18th and 19th centuries. When most people think of antique clocks, they imagine an Art Deco Bakelite tabletop clock or wall clock, named for the revolutionary synthetic plastic, Bakelite, of which they’re made, or a stately antique grandfather clock. But the art of clock-making goes way back, transcending continents and encompassing an entire range of design styles and technologies. In short, there are many kinds of clocks depending on your needs.

A variety of wall clocks can be found on 1stDibs. A large antique hand-carved walnut wall clock is best suited to a big room and a flat background given what will likely be outwardly sculptural features, while Georgian grandfather clocks, or longcase clocks, will help welcome rainswept guests into your entryway or foyer. An interactive cuckoo clock, large or small, is guaranteed to bring outsize personality to your living room or dining room. For conversation pieces of a similar breed, mid-century modern enthusiasts go for the curious Ball clock, the first of more than 150 clock models conceived in the studio of legendary architect and designer George Nelson. 

Minimalist contemporary clocks and books pair nicely on a shelf, but an eye-catching vintage mantel clock can add balance to your home library while drawing attention to your art and design books and other decorative objects. Ormolu clocks dating from the Louis XVI period, designed in the neoclassical style, are often profusely ornate, featuring architectural flourishes and rich naturalistic details. Rococo-style mantel clocks of Meissen porcelain or porcelain originating from manufacturers in cities such as Limoges, France, during the 18th and 19th centuries, exude an air of imperial elegance on your shelves or side tables and can help give your desk a 19th-century upgrade.

On 1stDibs, find a range of extraordinary antique and vintage clocks today.