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Few pieces of antique furniture command as much respect and admiration as the Irish Chippendale tall clock crafted by the esteemed Dublin clockmaker John Reilly around 1760. This extraordinary timepiece exemplifies the elegant proportions and fine craftsmanship characteristic of mid-18th-century Irish design, reflecting the rich materials that defined that era.

This rare timepiece, dating back to approximately 1816, represents the earliest known developmental form of the iconic Seth Thomas Pillar & Scroll clock. Only six examples of this specific configuration are known to exist to us. Two were documented in W. F. Pritchett's 1962 article in the NAWCC Bulletin, one illustrated in "American Clocks", Volume 3 by Tran Duy Ly (page 143), and two held in private collections.

This early iteration showcases distinctive features that set it apart from more commonly encountered later models. Notably, it has a full-length reverse-painted glass tablet flanked by reeded moldings—an uncommon and elegant variation. The case also features lower-profile scrollwork horns and shortened feet, all of which remain original to this clock.

Crafted in 1745 by the renowned clockmaker Marmaduke Storr, this exceptional longcase clock showcases high craftsmanship. Storr operated his workshop at the foot of London Bridge, the longest inhabited bridge in Europe and a thriving hub of commerce. Today, English clocks of this caliber are increasingly rare in the marketplace.

 

This dazzling rocking ship tall case clock was crafted in Boston, Massachusetts, circa 1800. A treasure of Federal-era design, it boasts superb proportions, exquisite inlay work, and masterful construction in richly figured mahogany with warm, lustrous tones and refined brass ornamentation.

 

Fine Federal Massachusetts Banjo Clock by Waltham, retailed by Tilden-Thurber Co. / Providence, RI– Circa 1906

This exceptional Federal-style Massachusetts Timepiece, commonly known as a Banjo Clock, is a fine example of early 20th-century craftsmanship. Signed on the dial by the prestigious Tilden-Thurber Co., Providence, this clock was manufactured by the Waltham Clock Company of Waltham, Massachusetts, around 1906—its first year of production.

 

According to E. Howard Clock Company catalogs offered four different sizes of Model No. 59. However, this particular mid-size version is noticeably missing from their catalog, making it a rare find. Records document this model, referred to as the 59-9, only once—an order placed in 1880 and sent to their Boston store, as my brother John discovered during his research of the remaining E. Howard Clock Company records. The case of this uncommon size measures 4 feet 3 inches in length, compared to the smallest version, which features a 6-inch dial and a 3-foot-long case. E. Howard offered variations of Model No. 59 in oak, ash, cherry, or walnut.

 

This Rhode Island shelf clock, crafted by David Williams of Newport in 1815, is a notable example of the Massachusetts shelf clock tradition. This style is primarily associated with Boston, particularly the Willard family of Roxbury. Refined proportions and elegant craftsmanship characterize it. Although produced outside Massachusetts, these clocks retain their designation due to Willard's influence on their design.

 

This choice E. Howard Model No. 3 wall timepiece, crafted around 1870, exemplifies 19th-century craftsmanship by blending elegance with American horological practicality. Its elongated banjo shape captures attention on the wall, and its proportions are thoughtfully balanced to accentuate without overwhelming the space. At 38 inches long with a 9-inch dial, it occupies an ideal size between the largest and smallest models in the series. The deep, faux-grained case beautifully contrasts with the vibrant, painted glass panels, drawing the eye to its refined details.

This handsome, inlaid mahogany tall clock, made circa 1807 by Sibley & Marble of New Haven, Connecticut, is a superb example of 19th-century American clockmaking. Its unique brass-faced pendulum bob is beautifully engraved with the maker's names. With impeccable proportions and masterful craftsmanship, it blends aesthetic refinement with mechanical ingenuity, serving as a functional timepiece and a decorative masterpiece.

 

Freeman Hoyt crafted this Mirror Clock in Burlington, Vermont, circa 1828. It represents a remarkable blend of function and artistry. This rare Vermont mirror clock is a striking timepiece and a decorative mirror. Mirror clocks were highly valued in colonial homes for fulfilling two essential functions. Like all clocks, their primary role was to tell time—a luxury not overlooked in an era when timepieces were rare. Unlike today, when clocks are everywhere, having just one clock at home meant time was displayed in a single, central location. Consequently, it was crucial to place the clock in an accessible area, often within a frequently visited room. Beyond showing time, the mirror clock also functioned as a wall mirror, allowing homeowners to view their reflection—a rare convenience. Large mirrors were not yet widely available and regarded as wealth symbols. The mirror's reflective surface also brightened the room by enhancing light and creating the illusion of more significant space, further boosting its utility and charm.