This rare French industrial clock is powered by large steel ball bearings (not spring driven). This clock also features a thermometer and barometer. The ornate case is made of gilded bronze and is topped by a regal lion in repose. The clock functions in this manner: The lion top is removed and steel ball bearings are placed on a ramp. Gravity directs the balls onto a waterwheel, which turns the gears. When each ball reaches the bottom, it falls into the storage drawer below. As you can see in the catalog "Timepieces in the Imperial Palace Classics of the Forbidden City", this extraordinary clock is almost identical to one in Palace Museum in the Forbidden City in Beijing. The clock has been cleaned and restored. The lion statue on the top is a modern replacement. Catalog not included. 22" X 11 1/4" X 9" $3000 - $5000 Please contact us for high resolution images of this lot. Shipping: We are unable to ship this item. Please contact a third party shipper for a quote. Please be sure and include your shipping address, a description of the lot, including any dimensions, the speed at which you will need it shipped and the amount you would like to insure it for. You may also hire your own third party shipper, they must be willing to pick the item up from us. Please contact us for a list of recommended shippers. Please email shipping@converseauctions.com if you have any questions.