Cartier Nephrite, Ruby & Enamel Desk Clock

This exquisite Art Deco travel clock by Cartier features a lustrous jadeite frame studded with four ruby cabochons. The expertly crafted 8-day movement tells time on an engine-turned silver dial set within delicately enameled bezel. With Roman numerals marking the hours, the dial's radiant guilloché pattern is well-complemented by elegantly pierced hands. An outstanding example of Art Deco design, this luxurious timepiece is in excellent condition.

Signed “Cartier France” on the dial and engraved “2225/Made in France” on the rest

Circa 1910

2 7/8” square

The Cartier tradition of clock and watch making extends almost as far back as the founding of the company. In 1898, Louis Cartier, one of the three Cartier brothers and grandson of founder Louis-François, moved to 13 rue de La Paix with his father, Alfred. Louis was a talented creator of jewels and art objects, and confirmed his talent by tying his craft with clock making traditions, lost now for more than a century. Thereafter, Cartier's clocks, table clocks, and watches were manufactured with an emphasis on perfection, beauty and originality. Clock making, at first a secondary activity, became the predominant activity and prestige of Cartier.