Bakelite mantel clock by JAZ, 1930s

An incredibly stylish Bakelite mantel clock by the French firm JAZ, bearing all of the elements of classic Art Deco, the face with Modernist numerals set within a chrome surround, with ‘Skyscraper’ hands and black Ruhlmann-esque scalloped details to the plinth, the body in a deep burgundy-coloured glossy Bakelite. With a removable, moulded back with regulation adjustment and a clever recessed holder for the original key.

Stamped JAZ MADE IN FRANCE. French, circa 1930s.

Length: 11½ inches (28 cm), height: 7½ inches (19 cm) and depth 5 inches (12 cm).

Founded by a small group of French engineers in 1919, JAZ recognized the need for well-designed and stylish alarm clocks and decorative timepieces. In 1957, JAZ had sold its 20 millionth clock, and were producing more than a million timepieces each year making it the largest clock manufacturer in France, and continues under the same name, even today.

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