Office of Steam Forum for Model & Toy Steam Gas & Hot Air Engines

I believe this is probably from the 1890s and definitely French, but know nothing else about it. Can anyone i.d.it? I suppose Radiguet and Pericaud are possibilities. Any why so many terminals? Lastly, what is the function of that vertical rod in the photo--runs with or without it making contact. Thanks for your help.

https://youtu.be/udtEpom3BQM?si=nqQK5FHhqhvI0ZU0

Could it be a Froment electric motor?

Interesting piece! I am not at all familiar with it.

I count 8 steel plates and 8 points on the star wheel.

I am guessing the vertical rod was to be sure the star wheel system was grounded and it likely works without it because it may ground through the bearings to the frame. To avoid sparking on the bearing surfaces may be why there's a rod.