Carriage Clocks

A carriage clock is a small, spring-driven clock designed for traveling. The case is usually rectangular glass with a carrying handle on the top, installed for easy transportation. A feature of carriage clocks is the platform escapement, sometimes visible through the top of the case.

Traveling clocks were being made as early as the 15th century. But the first authentic carriage clock was made in Paris by Abraham-Louis Breguet in the 1800's. It was fashionable to own a carriage clock in the 1800's. During that period the wealthy were traveling more and wanting to know the time. The clock's revolutionary lever escapement and their sturdy leather traveling case, helped it to stand up to the rigors of traveling by carriage-hence their name-carriage clock. Based on historical legend carriage clocks are also know in France as an "officer's clock". It is said that Napoleon, having almost lost a battle because one of his officers was late, ordered his military chiefs to carry a carriage clock with them at all times.

Carriage clocks faded from popularity around 1930 but are still produced today. You can purchase them in a variety of styles. They range from inexpensive to thousands of dollars.