Louis XVI milestone clock signed HOGUET in Paris

Magnificent Louis XVI period boundary clock signed “HOGUET A PARIS” on the dial and plate. The case is in white Carrara marble, richly decorated with finely chased gilded bronzes.

Clocks signed by Toussaint-François Hoguet, a watchmaker active in Paris between 1743 and 1804, are high quality timepieces, often made in collaboration with renowned bronzemakers such as Robert Osmond.

The white enamel dial features Roman numerals for the hours and Arabic for the minutes, with finely worked gilded brass hands. It is surrounded by a pearled frieze and a frame of gilded floral garlands. The whole is surmounted by an ornamental marble and gilded bronze vase, surrounded by hanging garlands, a typical Louis XVI decorative element.

The sides of the clock are decorated with plant and floral motifs in gilded bronze, extending to the base. The lower part is richly adorned with sculpted decoration, including scrolls, garlands and foliage, resting on six finely worked gilt bronze toupie feet.

The original movement had its escapement replaced in the 19th century, a common modification at the time to improve precision. The mechanism is in good working order, striking the hours and half-hours.

Authenticity and provenance:
This clock is a superb example of the refined work of 18th-century Parisian clockmakers. The signature “HOGUET A PARIS” attests to its authenticity, and the quality of the execution of the bronzes and marble confirms its attribution to a prestigious workshop. It is in a remarkable state of preservation, with its original mercury gilding well preserved.

dimensions: H: 46cm W: 26cm D: 12 cm