Lafontaine Opticien Paris Pedometer - Nickel plated brass - 1850-1900 - Collectible Pedometer

• Rare antique oscillating-mass pedometer - Lafontaine Opticien Paris - circa 1870".
A fascinating and rare vintage mechanical pocket pedometer (step counter) with a display back, made around the turn of the 20th century. This portable scientific instrument was used during the Belle Époque to measure distances covered on foot during outings, walks, or military activities.
The dial is in beautiful original white enamel, perfectly preserved and free of hairline cracks or chips. It bears the signature of the celebrated Parisian shop: "Lafontaine - Opticien - 18 Palais Royal 18 - Paris". It features an outer scale graduated from 1 to 10 for counting units, and a secondary subdial at 6 o'clock, graduated up to 100, for recording long distances. The blued steel hands are original to the period.
The Case and Display Back (Rare):
The case is made of polished nickel ("Metal") and is fitted with a rare rear cover with its original glass. This protective period feature allows the ingenious and refined oscillating-weight movement (inertia system) to be admired in complete safety, without the need to open or dismantle the instrument.
The Internal Mechanism:
The rear glass clearly reveals the high-grade watchmaking mechanism, with fine finishes including a blued steel counter spring and flame-blued screws. The plate bears the original maker's mark, protected by the rear glass, which leaves the movement entirely on view.
Condition and Technical Notes for Restoration:
• The dial, nickel case, and rear glass are in excellent cosmetic condition, with a beautiful patina of age.
• The internal movement is sound and runs freely: the oscillating bar responds correctly to movement, and the gears are not seized.
• Collector's note: The small internal metal stop tab (marked with the letter "D" for the Derby commercial model) has detached from its position on the upper suspension ring. The broken piece is present and will be supplied with the pedometer. This is purely structural damage, external to the main mechanism, and can be repaired with precision laser micro-welding by a goldsmith or restoration watchmaker.
A piece of exceptional historical and collectible interest, enhanced by its transparent back, perfect for adding to a collection of antique measuring instruments or vintage chronographs.