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Object Overview
A rare aneroid barometer from one of France’s leading horological families, Louis Clément Breguet, exemplifies the technical and artistic mastery of the mid-19th century. Dated to 1850–1860, this instrument showcases the precision of engineering and attention to detail characteristic of early aneroid barometers.
The barometer is encased in a brass housing with an open dial crafted from silvered brass. The scale is calibrated in London inches of mercury and features standard textual weather indications listed with periods. A notable feature is the curved mercury thermometer with a Fahrenheit scale, seamlessly integrated into the design, adding aesthetic refinement.
Above the thermometer tube is the true signature of Louis Breguet — the grandson of the legendary French watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet, founder of the iconic brand. Louis Breguet continued the horological work of his grandfather and father while also expanding production to include scientific, electrical, and telegraph instruments. In 1862, Louis-Clément Breguet received the entire business of aneroid barometer production from Lucien Vidie, the inventor of the aneroid, and in 1870, he sold the barometer production to the firm Lion & Guichard.
5368
coil spring Breguet
brass, glass, silvered brass, wood
Through the open dial, one can observe the expertly crafted mechanism transmitting the movements of the Vidie vacuum capsule to the pointer via a system of levers. Its distinctive design includes an external coil spring, characteristic of early aneroid mechanisms. Unfortunately, part of the original fusee chain has been replaced with copper wire, which likely affects the instrument’s accuracy.
The barometer’s dial is protected by flat glass securely mounted in a brass bezel. Centered on the glass is a brass trend indicator with an adjustable knob, allowing the user to mark readings and adding an interactive element to this engineering marvel.
The barometer rests on an exceptionally lightweight base made from balsa wood veneered with oak. This combination creates a visual illusion: the massive oak texture, with its deep tones and rich grain, conceals the lightweight balsa core, giving the base an extraordinary sense of lightness. The base’s shape mirrors the contours of the barometer, while decorative side elements in the form of wooden discs enhance the harmonious composition.
This barometer is not merely a device for measuring atmospheric pressure but a unique collectible that combines French horological tradition, elegance of form, and exceptional engineering ingenuity.