JEAN-LÉON REUTTER (1899-1971) - Lot 153

JEAN-LÉON REUTTER (1899-1971) ATMOS P.0.1 also known as Radiology Model created in the 1930s Atmospheric pendulum with perpetual motion under a glass globe. The nickel-plated metal base is topped by a black opaline base with a curved glass globe above. Skeleton dial, silvered and patinated annular circle with painted Roman numerals, stylized hands, the words "Atmos - Pendule Perpétuelle - Made in France". Visible balance wheel with oscillating weight, visible counterweights on the balance wheel, the movement works with atmospheric pressure differences. Dim. 24 x 34 x 16 cm Provenance: this clock has been kept in the same family by descent from the original owner. The Reutter Atmos Radiologie is an iconic clock designed by French engineer Jean-Léon Reutter in the 1930s. This clock, also known by the reference P.0.1, is renowned for its innovative perpetual mechanism and distinctive Art Deco design. Key features : Perpetual mechanism: The Atmos clock operates without manual winding, drawing its energy from variations in temperature and atmospheric pressure. This ingenious system uses a hermetically sealed capsule containing a mixture of gas and mercury, whose expansion and contraction drive the clock's movement. Art Deco design: the Radiologie model is distinguished by its clean lines, with a skeletonized dial featuring Roman or Arabic numerals, often protected by a glass globe. The base is usually in chrome-plated metal or black opaline, reflecting the Art Deco style of the period. Limited production: Between 1930 and 1937, an estimated 7,000 Atmos clocks were produced in France by Compagnie Générale de Radiologie, under Reutter's supervision. Today, these pieces are highly prized by collectors for their rarity and technical ingenuity. Heritage and history of this model The Reutter Atmos Radiologie is considered a feat of twentieth-century watchmaking. Its innovative mechanism and elegant design make it a sought-after timepiece for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. Conceived by French engineer Jean-Léon Reutter in 1928, the principle of the Atmos clock was to become a revolutionary object, and this Reutter Atmos P.0.1 model, also known as "Radiologie", embodies the perfect alliance between technological innovation and artistic design, testifying to the French watchmaking expertise of the 1930s. This same know-how was later taken over by the Jaeger Lecoultre manufacture, which continues to produce this type of "Atmos" clock to this day. In 1935, the Swiss manufacturer Jaeger Lecoultre took over Reutter's patents and improved the mechanism, only starting to produce under his name in 1937 and continuing to this day.