Horloge van goud

About this artwork

diameter 5.1 cm x height 6.9 cm x width 5.1 cm x depth 1.5 cm

Art Historical Context

Nestled among our collection of exquisite timepieces, *Horloge van goud*Golden Clock) is a delicate masterpiece crafted by the esteemed Firma Berthoud around 1700–1800. This compact gold watch, measuring just 5.1 cm in diameter, 6.9 cm in height, 5.1 cm in width, 1.5 cm deep, exemplifies the pinnacle of 18th-century horology Produced by the Berthoud firm—renowned French clockmakers, including master Ferdinand Berthoud—it reflects the era's fusion of scientific precision and opulent artistry. Gold as a medium was reserved for elite clientele, symbolizing wealth and status during the Enlightenment, when pocket watches became fashionable accessories for Europe's nobility. The Berthoud workshop specialized in high-precision mechanisms, often for marine navigation, blending intricate metalworking with innovative timekeeping. This piece's petite scale highlights the technical virtuosity required to create reliable, portable luxury items amid the Rococo and early Neoclassical movements. Visitors will appreciate how *Horloge van goud* captures a moment when timepieces evolved from cumbersome clocks to elegant jewels, underscoring the cultural shift toward personal time management among the affluent. A true gem of horological history!