Chauncey Jerome Bristol, Connecticut. A Miniature Pillar & Scroll Shelf Clock 1830. ZZ-66.
Chauncey Jerome of Bristol, Connecticut, made this miniature Pillar & Scroll shelf clock. This is a difficult model to find due to the seemingly small number of miniature clocks produced. This is based on the very limited opportunities to purchase such an example.
This miniature formatted case measures approximately 24.5 inches tall, 13 inches wide, and 3.5 inches deep. If one compares these dimensions to the more standard or commonly found size of 31.5 inches tall and 17.5 inches wide, it is quite a bit smaller in scale. Yet, the proportions of this clock are excellent.
This case is constructed of mahogany and mahogany veneers are applied over white pine secondary wood. It retains its original finish. The decorative turned feet and horns are original to this example. The single door is composed of two sections. The lower half features a reverse-painted tablet that depicts a traditional theme for this shelf clock form and period. This tablet is original to this clock and has some very minor areas of loss.
The wooden dial measures 8.35 inches tall by 9.5 inches wide. It is paint-decorated with gilt scrollwork. The hour numerals are indicated in Roman-style numerals.
The wooden geared movement is weight-driven and designed to run for 30 hours on a full wind. It is a time-only design. The weight is suspended from the top of the case by a directional pulley. The movement is in excellent working order. Interestingly, this is a miniature movement and would not fit in a standard-sized transitional shelf clock model. The oak plates are solid, and the train features five arbors.
Pasted onto the backboard inside the case is a Maker’s label. Norton & Russell Printers, Hartford, printed this label. This is in very nice condition.
This rare clock was made circa 1830.
This clock is pictured in “Pillar & Scroll,” printed by the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, Inc. By the National Watch and Clock Museum. On exhibit 11/2006 to 5/2007.
Inventory number ZZ-66.
Chauncey Jerome was born in 1793 in Canaan, Connecticut, the son of a blacksmith and a nail-maker. He has a storied history in the Connecticut clock industry, becoming one of our nation's giant employers and producers during his lifetime. His autobiography has been reprinted and is available at the American Clock and Watch Museum in Bristol, CT. It is a worthy read.
Chauncey began his clockmaking career as a joiner. First, making wooden dials for tall clocks, and then in 1816, he went to work for Eli Terry. Jerome made the cases for Terry's Pillar & Scroll shelf clocks. Soon, he decided to work for himself, making cases and trading them with Terry for his movements. By 1822, Jerome moved his business to Bristol. He was an innovator in clock case construction and design. In 1842, he again moved his shop, this time to New Haven.
In 1850, Jerome formed the Jerome Manufacturing Company. In 1853, he formed the New Haven Clock Co.
Throughout his lifetime, he weathered numerous business disasters and windfalls. He was a well-respected citizen and served in the state legislature and as mayor of New Haven. He died penniless in 1868.
