Atmos Clock Information

Atmos is the brand name of a perpetual clock made by Swiss watchmaker Jaeger-LeCoultre. The clock is powered by atmospheric pressure, which is where its name originates.

History

The Atmos clock was invented by Jean-Léon Reutter in 1928. The patent was purchased by Jaeger-LeCoultre, and the Atmos clock went into full production in 1939.

Function

A small spring in the Atmos clock is compressed and released when the temperature in the room rises and falls. This produces enough energy to wind the clock.

Timeline

An Atmos clock can be dated by its serial number. A clock with a number below 25,000 was manufactured in the 1930s or 1940s, while more contemporary clocks are numbered 700,000 or higher.

Fun Fact

The Atmos clock is the official gift of the Swiss Confederation and has been presented to notable people such as John F. Kennedy, Sir Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin.

Value

Depending on its age, design and condition, an Atmos clock can be worth $1,500 to more than $100,000.

Considerations

The Atmos clock needs to be set on a level surface to function properly.

References

• Jaeger-LeCoultre: History