Rare Metronome in Walnut Coquille / Shell. Circa 1910.

Rare Paquet Metronome in Walnut Coquille / Shell. Circa 1910.

Large Walnut Paquet Coquille Metronome in a relatively rare form called a 'Coquille'. It was made by the French company Paquet. The walnut panelled case has been tempered (soaked) and rounded to give the shell shape and requires a very clever and slow process to maintain this shape without splitting the wood panels, hence rarity of construction. This example shows no stress marks or cracks. It is extremely attractive externally, with fabulous walnut grain and a trace of the original Paquet type transfer mark symbol on the front.

Inside the door, the tempo scale is of the typical Paquet type and clearly legible. This differs from the standard tempo scale with the words "Paquet Forme Coquille" and "Modèle Déposé" too and bottom of the scale. The functioning bell provides a very good tone on all four of the bell settings, i.e either on every 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 6th swing of the pendulum. The pendulum is good, well balanced and audible. It provides 60 beats per minute for a total running time of approximately 45 minutes.

The base is held by 3 wood turned feet (with serial number to base). To access the mechanism the feet need to be removed. The winding key is original.

It is very difficult to find this model in working condition on the market today, and only a very limited number were made (approximately 1000).

Condition: Excellent with only superficial scratches commensurate with age. Consistent wear marks are visible around the winder and the front catch. This example shows no stress marks or cracks.

Dimensions:
Height = 28 cm
Width = 13 cm
Depth = 13 cm