Brass French Striking Lantern Clock with Alarm c.1740 by Ridro a Palaiseau. Good example of a mid-18th century French striking lantern alarm clock. The clock has a posted frame construction with turned columns and decorative finials and feet in the corners. The movement has its original verge and crown wheel escapement. It has a short pendulum with pear-shaped brass bob and original frets. The clock hangs by its hoop and spikes. The signature on the clock reads “Ridro a Palaiseau”. Tardy records Simon Ridro (or Ridereau) at Palaiseau between 1737 and 1747 (see pictures). This gives the clock a firm date between 1737-1747 which matches the style and elements of the clock. The 30-hour movement has a going train with verge escapement and a striking train with a count wheel. The clock also strikes every half hour by means of passing strike. The alarm mechanism is mounted on the back of the clock and has a separate hammer to ring the alarm. Both trains in the movement have a winding mechanism based on a ratchet and click system, which is very unusual to find on a Lantern clock. The clock has six later iron weights, matching the shape of the original weights.