Montre de Poche Suisse à Automate « Faux Pendule » – Art Nouveau – Vers 1900 - 1850-1900

Rare Swiss pocket watch with automaton “Faux Pendule” – Art Nouveau style – Around 1900

Rare mechanical Swiss pocket watch dating from around 1900, a remarkable collectible piece for its animated dial and refined decoration, characteristic of Belle Époque antique horology.

Its polychrome dial presents a classic decorative composition, adorned with allegorical figures surrounding the central time display. At 6 o’clock, an opening reveals a lateral-oscillating mechanical automaton, called “faux pendule,” recognizable by its red marker. When the watch is in operation, this element oscillates from right to left, evoking the movement of the pendulum of a traditional clock. This animation adds a special charm to this antique watch.

The case back is adorned with a beautiful relief engraving depicting a couple in a gallant scene, surrounded by vegetal motifs and swirls typical of Art Nouveau aesthetics. The inner cuvette also bears decorative engravings of medals, accompanied by the inscription “Remontoir – Qualité Garantie.”

The brass movement bears a bilingual inscription: “Repassée en second / Repasado de segunda mano,” bearing witness to its history and its appeal for collectors.

Technical characteristics

* Type: Mechanical pocket watch with automaton
* Origin: Switzerland
* Era: Around 1900
* Style: Art Nouveau / Belle Époque
* Movement: Manual-wind mechanical, keyless
* Jewels: 15
* Feature: Oscillating automaton “faux pendule”
* Case: Brass and Maillechort (Argentan)
* Diameter: About 50 mm, excluding crown and bow
* Weight: About 75 to 80 g

Condition and operation

The watch is in working order. Winding functions correctly, the lower automaton oscillates when the mechanism is running.

Overall, it presents a beautiful vintage condition, with light signs of wear and natural patina consistent with its age. The polychrome dial preserves a particularly decorative presentation, while the engraving on the back adds further aesthetic interest.

An antique pocket watch with a distinctive character, ideal for a collector of mechanical horology, automata, or Belle Époque decorative objects.

The photographs are an integral part of the description. Please examine them carefully to appreciate the condition, dial details, movement, and case engravings.