OLD FRENCH CLOCKS COMTOISE

Welcome to Antique French Comtoise Clocks. We restore authentic Comtoise clocks, testaments to ancestral craftsmanship, for history and elegance enthusiasts in the United States. Discover our unique collection, each piece restored with passion and precision.

Over the years, Philippe  Roussel, a French craftsman based in the Ariège region, in the shadow of the Château de Foix, has carefully searched for authentic Comtoise clocks. In his workshop, he restores and recommissions each piece, skillfully handling both the mechanical components and the woodwork.

Philippe has assembled a remarkable collection of more than one hundred clocks, which he is now offering for sale on the American market. Some are fully operational, while others require restoration. The entire collection can be shipped to the United States in a container.

He has chosen to present this collection worldwide: these very old French clocks, known as “Horloge Comtoise,” were historically produced in the Franche-Comté region, located in the Jura Mountains. This distinctive type of clock was first created in 1684 and further developed around 1700—over 300 years ago. Today, such antique clocks are rare and increasingly difficult to find, and we are proud to include two exceptional examples in our stock.

A defining feature of these clocks is their mechanical core, known as the “iron cage,” which ensures simple, robust, and reliable operation.

The entire mechanism is mounted within a tall vertical wooden case, called a “coffre,” typically standing between 2.2 and 2.3 meters high. These clocks are designed to run continuously for a full week, after which the two weights—responsible for timekeeping and striking—must be rewound.

Philippe has successfully gathered an important collection from southern France, including 15 fully restored Comtoise clocks, more than 110 mechanical movements, 55 wooden cases in good condition ready for restoration, and a substantial inventory of parts along with specialized tools.

The restoration process involves two distinct crafts: horology and cabinetmaking. Each requires time, precision, and expertise. Once restored, these clocks are ready to operate reliably for many years to come.

A part of his exceptional collection is now available for sale online.