When the Franco-Prussian War broke out, Marchtaler was assigned to the 4th Infantry Regiment.

Since 1886, Marchtaler served as an adjutant on the staff of the XIII (Royal Württemberg) Corps.

He was promoted to Oberst in 1897 and in the next year was assigned to the Ministry of War, since 1900 also serving as Württemberg's Military Representative.

On 11 June 1906, Marchtaler became the minister of war replacing Albert von Schnürlen.

He also was named Deputy Commanding General of the XIII (Royal Württemberg) Corps.