Angélus Carillon, 1950

Conclusion

This Angélus Carillon clock, with its 8-day movement and refined striking mechanism, embodies the elegance of Swiss horology in the 1950s. Combining sober design, noble materials, and precise mechanics, it reflects the high level of quality reached by Angélus during the mid-20th century.

Description

Table clock by the Angélus brand, Carillon model, produced around 1950 by the Stolz Frères company in Le Locle.

Dial diameter: 15 cm
Base: green onyx, width 27 cm
Total height: 20 cm
Caliber: Angélus 160
Escapement: lever
Power reserve: 8 days
Striking: hours and half-hours on gong
Period: 1950

Historical Note

Founded in 1891 in Le Locle by the Stolz brothers, the Angélus manufacture became renowned for its table clocks and innovative chronographs. The Carillon models, equipped with the caliber 160, stood out for their 8-day autonomy and gong striking, making them among the most refined table clocks of their era.

The Angélus caliber 160 marked an important milestone for the brand, offering 8-day clocks with hour and half-hour striking in a compact and elegant format. These models, often more expensive than simple clocks, were aimed at a discerning clientele seeking a timepiece that was both functional, musical, and decorative.

Today, these 1950s Angélus clocks have become rare and highly sought after, both for their technical quality and for their heritage value.

The Movement

The caliber 160, with a diameter of 26 lignes (about 60 mm), is distinguished by its 8-day power reserve and its clear striking of the hours and half-hours. Compact and robust, it is equipped with a lever escapement and 15 jewels, ensuring reliability and precision.

This movement, often used in the brand’s high-end table clocks, reflects the quality and expertise of Stolz Frères in Le Locle. It provided these clocks with the mechanics of a miniature striking clock, elegantly housed in refined cases.

Restoration

The restoration of this clock required a complete disassembly of both the movement and the case. Each component was carefully cleaned, inspected, and lubricated to restore optimal performance.

The striking mechanism was thoroughly revised to ensure that each chime regained its clarity and accuracy. Finally, the gilt brass case and its green onyx base were delicately cleaned to revive their original luster, while preserving the natural patina of time.