Brewster & Ingrahams of Bristol, Connecticut. A gilt gallery wall timepiece. 217119.

The Brewster & Ingrahams firm in Bristol, Connecticut, manufactured this 8-day gallery wall timepiece. 

The case is constructed in wood and retains its’ original gilding. This colorful and warm treatment has been applied to the outer surfaces. The case is nicely formed, featuring deep moldings. A convex piece of clear glass protects the wooden dial. The dial is also a slightly convex form. This wooden dial is painted and is original to this clock. It is in excellent original condition. The Clockmaker’s signature reads, “Brewster & Ingrahams / Bristol, Ct. U.S.” The open spade hands are steel and display the time. The time ring is formatted with large Roman-style hour numerals. 

The movement is constructed in brass and is of good quality. This front plate is die-stamped by the Maker just below the center arbor. Also, note that the brass plates are ribbed. The gearing is laid out in an “East-West” design. This movement is powered by a large brass coil spring. It is wonderful to find clocks that still have their original brass springs intact today. Most clocks like this have had their springs replaced with steel versions. Originally, the brass versions were powerful enough to drive the clock-works for eight days. These weaken over time and may not have enough tension to run that long. Modern steel springs are available, but we are hesitant to change this spring out unless instructed by the next owner. Having a clock with its’ original brass spring is unusual and a wonderful find. The pendulum is mounted to and hangs from the case behind the movement. 

The Clockmaker’s label is pasted inside the case onto the backboard. It is in fair condition. 

This is a wonderful example. The case is 15.5 inches across the back, 3 inches deep, and the dial is 10.75 inches in diameter. The Brewster & Ingrahams firm made this example circa 1850.

Inventory number 217119.