A chrome plated and leather covered mechanical, eight day, folding, Cartier travel clock with alarm function. The clock design was originally conceived by Jaeger LeCoultre in the 1920's, and was called the 'Ados', and came in a variety of different shapes and formats, and was made by Jaeger for many other notable retailers at the time such as Hermès, Cartier and Asprey.
This particular example is, in fact, a piece made in house by the then Cartier watch and clock makers; European Watch & Clock Company. “E. W. & C. Co Inc.”. Based in the Jaeger-LeCoultre factory, after Cartier struck a deal with Edmund Jaeger, E. W. & C. Co. movements quickly gained a reputation for being of the highest quality and most exacting specifications. This was a partnership that did not last very long (from the 1920's-1950's), and as a result of which, these E. W. & C. Co. pieces fetch a premium, and are seen as truly original Cartier time pieces. This clock has the movement and case all fully signed European Watch & Clock Co., and is stamped both on the leather case, and on the back plate of the clock under the serial number with Cartier reference stamps.
The protective cover of the dial folds back on itself to become the stand for the clock once placed in position. The dial has a stunning anodized copper finish, with the center polished to a high shine and is fully signed, including the number '8' above the six o'clock position. This signifies that the mechanical movement is an eight day movement, meaning once fully wound, it will have enough power to run for eight days without being wound again. The dial features beautiful applied copper arrow head markers, and the hands are a stunning dauphine shape. There is an additional smaller hand which, is for the setting the alarm. This can be switched on through the main winding stem. This is truly a very rare indeed clock, presented in excellent original condition. There are slight losses to the leather in small areas of the frame, and the dial has a line of discoloration running down from the twelve o'clock marker. However, for its age, it is in excellent condition. Made in Switzerland, circa 1930's.
