18th Century Boulle Cartel Clocks

At 1stDibs, there are several options of 18th century boulle cartel clocks available for sale. Each of these unique 18th century boulle cartel clocks was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, bronze and bone. 18th century boulle cartel clocks have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 19th Century. 18th century boulle cartel clocks made by louis xv designers — as well as those associated with Louis XVI — are very popular at 1stDibs. There have been many well-made 18th century boulle cartel clocks over the years, but those made by Adrien Delorme, François Linke and Van den Bruel are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

Prices for 18th century boulle cartel clocks can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, 18th century boulle cartel clocks begin at $6,177 and can go as high as $55,000, while the average can fetch as much as $27,546.

A sophisticated clock design, whether it’s a desk clock, mantel clock or large wall clock for your living room, is a decorative object to be admired in your home as much as it is a necessary functional element. This is part of the reason clocks make such superb collectibles. Given the versatility of these treasured fixtures — they’ve long been made in a range of shapes, sizes and styles — a clock can prove integral to your own particular interior decor.

Antique and vintage clocks can whisk us back to the 18th and 19th centuries. When most people think of antique clocks, they imagine an Art Deco Bakelite tabletop clock or wall clock, named for the revolutionary synthetic plastic, Bakelite, of which they’re made, or a stately antique grandfather clock. But the art of clock-making goes way back, transcending continents and encompassing an entire range of design styles and technologies. In short, there are many kinds of clocks depending on your needs.

A variety of wall clocks can be found on 1stDibs. A large antique hand-carved walnut wall clock is best suited to a big room and a flat background given what will likely be outwardly sculptural features, while Georgian grandfather clocks, or longcase clocks, will help welcome rainswept guests into your entryway or foyer. An interactive cuckoo clock, large or small, is guaranteed to bring outsize personality to your living room or dining room. For conversation pieces of a similar breed, mid-century modern enthusiasts go for the curious Ball clock, the first of more than 150 clock models conceived in the studio of legendary architect and designer George Nelson. 

Minimalist contemporary clocks and books pair nicely on a shelf, but an eye-catching vintage mantel clock can add balance to your home library while drawing attention to your art and design books and other decorative objects. Ormolu clocks dating from the Louis XVI period, designed in the neoclassical style, are often profusely ornate, featuring architectural flourishes and rich naturalistic details. Rococo-style mantel clocks of Meissen porcelain or porcelain originating from manufacturers in cities such as Limoges, France, during the 18th and 19th centuries, exude an air of imperial elegance on your shelves or side tables and can help give your desk a 19th-century upgrade.

On 1stDibs, find a range of extraordinary antique and vintage clocks today.