[Notes on EBay accompanying clock:] French "Bicyclist" Paris A Brest Novelty Clock Circa 1890. Up for bids here is a handsome antique spelter clock featuring a bicyclist waving his hat as he pedals his way down the road. Behind him is a sign reading "Paris A Brest". We speculate that this clock was made to celebrate the first Paris-Brest et retour race that took place in 1891; the oldest bicycling race that is still being run today. The 1200km race was originally staged and sponsored by the publication Le Petit Journal as a test of endurance for the 207 riders who participated (only 99 finished). The winning time was 71 hours and 22 minutes. The success of this race was the inspiration for the now-legendary Tour de France, first run in 1903. This clock has a 30-hour movement with a white Roman-numeraled enamel dial. The height is approximately 13.25" and the base is 10.25" x 4.5". The condition is very fine with some sticker residue on the dial that could easily be cleaned, not currently running. This is a rare case style and very desirable to any bicycle enthusiast. |
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