Hailing from the first part of the 20th century, this LeCoultre "Mini Kodak" is a decently sized example of a travel clock, embodying the spirit of the era, in particular the sense of adventure that accompanied the earliest days of travel. This clock is part of a rich history, and a time when pieces like these would have been offered in a wide variety of leather types and casings, as well as dial configurations and colours.
The clock is small enough to be slipped into a suitcase or travel bag, with a corresponding textured leather case that covers the face when the clock is not in use. The cream-beige dial is still crisp and remarkably fresh, with slanted indexes that mark the hours. Meanwhile, the cathedral-style hands are filled with lume for legibility in the dark, and a power reserve indicator can be seen just above the hands.
Intriguingly, this clock marks a time before Jaeger merged with LeCoultre to form the brand we know today, as evidenced by the small signature just above the 12 o’clock numeral – similar clocks from the period can usually be found with a full or partial “Jaeger-LeCoultre” signature, which is given a more prominent place near the centre of the dial. This example bears several markings and numerals engraved unobtrusively on the reverse of the case that indicate it was serviced at least once, hinting at a well-used life and history of actual use during travel.
An excellent companion to any bedside table, the clock can also be placed on a desk as an elegant touch, or brought along on a cruise or extended holiday to help recapture the romance of a lost time.
If sold within the United Kingdom, this Jaeger-LeCoultre mini Kodak travel clock will be subject to 20% VAT.
