Essai sur l’horlogerie; dans lequel on traite de cet art relativement à l'usage civil, à l'astronomie et à la navigation, en établissant des principes confirmés par l'expérience. Dédié aux artistes et aux amateurs [...].

2 vol., 4to: [4]-lv-[1 bl.]-477-[11], [4]-viii-452 pp.; 38 pl. (some spotting and soiling, some pl. browned or spotted).

Contemp. mottled calf, gilt orn. spines with 5 raised bands, red leather title labels, red edges (corners rubbed, some def. to upper covers of 1st vol., joints splitting, def. to head and tail of 2nd vol.).

First edition of this outstanding work on horology by the famous Swiss watchmaker Berthoud (1727-1807), established in Paris early in his career. His "Essai" is the most important basic work among his other authoritative publications. Copy complete with 38 technical fold. plates by Pierre-Philippe Choffard.
Ref. Houzeau & Lancaster 10199. - Poggendorff I:168. - Tardy 51. - Bailli (Clocks & watches), p. 262. - Bailli (Watchmakers & Clockmakers), p. 24. - Brunet I:819. - BnF.