Regulator with Three Movements and 15-Day Duration

This remarkable regulator contains three movements ingeniously linked together: one for the main dial, one for the grande sonnerie striking mechanism, and one for the moon phases and calendar of the lower dial. Grande Sonnerie striking makes it possible to know the exact time to the quarter hour: the quarters strike on two bells, and the hours on a third bell. For example if it is 1:30, the hour bell will strike “1”, and the quarter hour bells will strike twice, so you know that two quarter hours have passed.

The three linked movements are a marvel of horological engineering: fifteen day weight-driven movement with maintaining power, externally mounted Graham-style dead-beat escapement, independently suspended grid-iron pendulum. The pendulum bob has painted symbols representing astronomy, geometry, music and medicine amongst a white cloud on a blue background. Incorporated on the pendulum is a white enamel temperature indication plaque.

The top dial for telling the time is situated on a blue enamel plate with applied ormolu trim and jeweled adornments. The lower dial displays a calendar with month and date, and an aperture for the lunar scale. The enameled moon is exceptionally rare because it accurately maps features of the lunar landscape, including impact craters and maria (plains). Both dials have finely cast and chased gilt bezels.

Two Latin inscriptions adorn the case. The first is found on the enamel temperature indication plaque and roughly translates to “The elements are overcome by their own arms.” This phrase can be found on a number of clocks from this period. The second Latin inscription is taken from number 18 of the Odes II by the Roman poet Horace, which reads, “Day is driven on by day, and new moons go on to perish.”

On silvered panels beside the lower dial, Janvier dedicates the regulator with an inscription, reading “Presented to A. F. J. Lhuillier by his friend the 1st of January, 1812.”