Lot 311

Losses to painted decoration throughout, wear to gilt on edges of some mounts, crack to enamel on dial around one winding hole, silk panels degraded, old worm damage to rear door.


The opinions expressed in the condition reports are a guide only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Prospective buyers are encouraged to seek further information or request additional images during our pre-sale period where Leonard Joel staff are available for advice. Please note condition reports can be amended during the pre-sale period, so we strongly suggest any interested bidders check the published condition report available on the website before the auction commences. Leonard Joel makes no guarantee of the originality of mechanical or applied components. Absence of reference to such modifications does not imply that a lot is free from modifications.

The Robert Compton Jones Collection, Sydney

Jean-Baptiste Baillon (1702-1772) was one of France's most celebrated clockmakers of the 18th century. He was first received on 14 July 1727 as Valet de Chambre-Horloger Ordinaire de la Reine, then Premier Valet de Chambre de la Reine (before 1748) then Premier Valet de Chambre and Valet de Chambre-Horloger Ordinaire de la Dauphine Marie-Antoinette (1770). Established in the Place Dauphine (1738), then the Rue Dauphine (after 1751) he was one of the most prolific Parisian clock makers of the time. A contemporary described his workshop as ‘the finest and richest Clock Shop'.