Styling 2000 17 Rubis Mechanical Travel Clock
Estimated value
$40 - $120Rarity
Ordinary(3/10)Category
Mechanical & IndustrialBrand
Styling 2000Era
1960s-1970sOrigin
🌍 InternationalAuthenticity
STYLING 2000 17 RUBIS MECHANICAL TRAVEL CLOCK: ORIGINS & SIGNIFICANCE
This appears to be a vintage mechanical travel clock, presenting a silver-toned dial with applied baton hour markers and prominent numerals at 12 and 6 o'clock. The dial is marked 'STYLING 2000' and '17 RUBIS', indicating a mechanical movement with 17 jewels. A date aperture is visible at the 3 o'clock position. The clock is housed in a cylindrical, polished metal case, likely chrome-plated brass or steel, with a faceted winding/setting crown.
ENGINEERING ACROSS BORDERS
Where This Object Echoes
The clean lines, brushed finishes, and minimalist applied markers align with the functionalist and modern aesthetic popular in mid-20th century industrial design.
The '17 Rubis' (rubies) denotes a jeweled mechanical movement, a hallmark of traditional Swiss and European watchmaking, although the brand itself might not be Swiss.
Ritual & Ceremonial Use
- •The ritual of winding a mechanical movement, a daily or bi-daily interaction with the device, contrasting with modern 'set-and-forget' electronics.
- •A personal item for travel, packed and unpacked with luggage, symbolizing journeys and temporary stays away from home.
Meaning Through Time
A practical and stylish accessory for the modern traveler, representing convenience and sophistication.
A nostalgic curio or decorative object, admired for its vintage aesthetic and mechanical charm, rather than primary timekeeping function.
ENGINEERING LINEAGE
INNER WORKINGS
The 'rubis' (rubies) indicated on the dial refer to synthetic rubies used as bearings in the mechanical movement, reducing friction and extending the clock's lifespan.
A date complication, while standard on many watches, was a practical addition to travel clocks, providing more utility to the user on the go.
HOW SCARCE IS IT?
Standard antiques commonly found at estate sales and flea markets. Plentiful supply meets modest demand.
Typical Characteristics
- Moderate production runs
- Common at estate sales
- Entry-level collectibles
Confidence Factors
- Item type is not commonly faked due to low value.
- No complex or high-value marks to be counterfeited.
- Vintage aesthetics consistent with the stated era.
ENGINEERING APPRAISER'S TAKE
Decorative Arts Specialist
Confidence is high based on clear visual identification of the object type, movement indicators ('17 Rubis'), and stylistic cues pointing to a specific era. The lack of distinct maker's marks prevents full attribution.
KEY EVIDENCE
- 1Dial markings 'STYLING 2000' and '17 RUBIS' identify it as a mechanical, jeweled movement clock.
- 2Applied baton markers and numerals at 12 and 6 o'clock are characteristic of mid-century design.
- 3Date aperture at 3 o'clock is a common watch/clock feature.
- 4Cylindrical metal case with wear and tarnishing consistent with a vintage item of this type.
UNCERTAINTIES
- •No visible maker's mark or country of origin on the dial or case to accurately pinpoint its manufacturing location.
- •The operational status of the mechanical movement is unknown from images alone.
WHAT WOULD IMPROVE CERTAINTY
- →Examine the clock's case back for any additional markings, serial numbers, or country of origin.
- →Open the case to inspect the movement for a caliber number or maker's stamp.
- →Test winding and setting functions, and observe timekeeping over 24-48 hours.
- →Use a loupe to inspect the dial and hands more closely for any micro-signatures or pristine condition beneath the dust.
CONDITION & GRADE
Condition
The overall condition appears fair to good for its age. The case shows significant surface wear, suggesting heavy use or prolonged storage without protection. The dial and hands show some visible dust and potential minor oxidation. The functionality of the movement (winding, setting, and date change) cannot be assessed from images, but the presence of dust and grime suggests it may benefit from a service.
Surface
The dial exhibits a brushed, silvered finish with some signs of age-related discoloration and possibly some dust accumulation. The applied indices and hands appear to be metallic with subtle golden accents. The cylindrical case shows a worn, slightly dull chrome-plated surface, with noticeable abrasion and grime.
Weight & feel
Given its size and metal construction, this travel clock likely has a moderate, reassuring heft, consistent with a robust mechanical movement and case materials.
INDUSTRIAL ARTIFACT VALUE
Updated: Feb 27, 2026
- Market comparables from auctions & retail
- Condition, completeness & craftsmanship
- Current collector demand & trends
- Low = quick sale, high = patient seller
For informational purposes only, not a formal appraisal.
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