Founded in the late 19th/early 20th century by Jules and Léopold Lacloche, Lacloche Frères was a renowned Parisian jewelry house known for their exquisite Belle Époque, Art Deco and Retro designs. The four Lacloche brothers, and their two sisters, all worked in the jewelry industry at one point, designing under different names, but Lacloche Frères became the standout. Following the tragic death of Jacques in 1900, the three brothers consolidated their resources and formally established Lacloche Frères. The firm earned attention for their exquisite designs and by 1908 there were seven European locations. Their innovative Belle Époque designs were known for their floral motifs, lace-like appearance, and superb gemstones. Lacloche Frères also collaborated with prestigious craftsmen such as Verger Frères, Paul Brandt, and Fernand Paillet. In 1920, Jacques, the son of deceased Jacques Lacloche, took over the business. The firm captured the market with their exquisite Art Deco designs, inspired by Chinese and Egyptian style, and meticulously set with buff-topped gemstones and extraordinary diamonds. With this success, the firm expanded across Europe and opened a boutique in New York. However, following the stock market crash of 1929, Lacloche Frères filed for bankruptcy in 1931, closing most of their stores. A few years later, a new Jacques, the nephew of the original Jacques Lacloche, established a new business under his name and restored some of Lacloche Frères’ legacy. Through the 1930s and beyond, Lacloche Frères continued to create exquisite pieces that embraced the design trends of the times with remarkable craftsmanship and creativity. Today Lacloche Frères is still celebrated, with many collectors and historians prizing their iconic designs.

Provenance: Purchased at A La Vielle Russie.

Overall Condition: Watch shows patina to dial and chipping to crystal. The watch does not wind, set, or run at the time of cataloguing. Some nicks to enamel. Light scratching and wear to metal consistent with age and use. A few of the emeralds are abraded.

Diamond Characteristics (graded insofar as mounting permits)
Color: G-H-I.
Clarity: VS-SI.

Please note that Freeman’s does not warranty the watch at the time of the auction or after its purchase. Potential buyers should be advised that though the watch may be running at the time of cataloging, it may stop running before the auction and servicing is recommended for all timepieces. The authenticity of individual parts is not guaranteed since repairs and restoration may have occurred. Freeman’s assumes all watches are unisex and does not specify the gender of a piece. For size reference, please see the case measurements of the piece listed under dimensions.

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