Antique JTL French Metronome, c. 1890s-1910s, Solid Wood Case, Brass Mechanical Wind-Up, Fully Functional
Regular price
€260,00
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Maker: Jérôme Thibouville-Lamy (J.T.L.) / Maëlzel System
Origin: Made in France (Paris)
Era: c. 1890s–1910s (estimated)
Case: Solid pyramid wood construction with a rich, natural grain finish and aged patina
Movement: Solid brass mechanical wind-up mechanism
Tempo Range: 40–208 BPM
✨Price reduction due to minor cosmetic imperfections (see photos) that do not affect functionality.
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Crafted during the golden era of French instrument making, this genuine Jérôme Thibouville-Lamy (J.T.L.) metronome represents early 20th-century tempo-keeping at its finest. Founded in Mirecourt and headquartered in Paris, J.T.L. was world-renowned for crafting elite stringed instruments and fine musical accessories. While Paquet mass-produced the vast majority of antique French metronomes, J.T.L. examples were produced in far smaller quantities, making surviving working models noticeably rarer and highly sought after. Featuring the iconic obelisk-pyramid silhouette, it houses a precision-engineered French brass clockwork movement that produces a crisp, resonant acoustic click. A true piece of Parisian mechanical craftsmanship, an essential acquisition for serious antique collectors and classical musicians alike.
This metronome is in excellent antique condition with light character consistent with its age, showing only minor surface marks that are barely visible upon close inspection. The wood case retains a gorgeous, warm luster and solid structural integrity throughout. Please review the listing photos carefully for a detailed visual assessment.
Mechanically, the piece is fully functional. The internal solid brass clockwork mechanism operates smoothly, and the mainspring retains strong tension. When tested at 208 BPM, a single full winding runs for approximately 16 minutes (equivalent to roughly 55 minutes of continuous operation at 60 BPM) with a steady, reliable beat. The case has been lightly cleaned and conditioned with a thin layer of protective wood wax to preserve and nourish the vintage finish.
When compared to modern electronic metronomes, it is not laboratory-precise, but it keeps time very closely and operates as expected for a vintage mechanical instrument. Minor variation is normal and part of the character of traditional wind-up metronomes. Noticeable defects are shown in the listing images. Please note that this is a vintage item, and minor signs of age or use may remain despite careful inspection.
Processing:
Ships within 1–2 business days
Estimated delivery:
Europe: 1–7 business days
US/Canada: 2-4 business days
Rest of world: 3–7 business days
Unless stated otherwise, customs and import duties are the buyer’s responsibility.
