A Chelsea Antique marble & Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock. 223307.
This green marble & bronze case mantle clock features a sophisticated case design and a high-quality Chelsea Movement. Related examples that appear on the marketplace are occasionally signed by the New York City retailer Edward F. Caldwell & Co. Although fancier than most, this clock presentation was most likely designed by this firm and sold out of their 31 East 17th Street retail store.
Green marble is a natural product that is difficult to find and sourced from select regions worldwide. As a result, it has a higher level of exclusivity, elevating any design compared to the commonly found white versions of the stone. As a result, it is more expensive than the more standard varieties. When figured with veins, the stone is full of character and sophisticated.
The clock is presented in a case that is shaped like a pedestal. The circular mahogany base is the foundation for the Ormolu mythological winged maidens. These surround the first section of green marble, elevated off the wooden platform. A fancy ormolu casting is mounted atop the cylinder-shaped marble. This supports the green marble. This dial measures 8.5 inches in diameter and is approximately one inch thick. The front is decorated as a dial with gilt bronze work applied to the surface. Four beaded rings are incorporated into the design. Two outermost rings frame the perimeter of the marble, front and back. The next two rings frame the skeletonized time track. Roman-style hour numerals mark each hour. The time is displayed with fancy gilt pierced and engraved hands. A bronze flame finial is mounted above the hour XII. Behind the dial is a brass-decorated circular-shaped cover at the back of the clock. The movement is housed in this protective case. The case is also decorated with applied classically themed designs, strengthening the high-quality theme. A dore bronze finial is positioned at the top of the clock. All of the bronze work is finished in gilt. Most of this original treatment remains in excellent condition. The green marble features a series of white veins. This adds depth and character to the stone. The marble is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs. This clock has been well cared for over its history. It is attractive from all sides and may be displayed in the center of the room.
The brass spring-driven eight-day time-only movement is signed “Chelsea Clock Co., Boston, USA” and numbered 130020. This serial number suggests that the movement was made in 1919. It is of excellent quality and is in excellent running condition.
This clock is 16.5 inches high. The mahogany base is 10 inches in diameter.
Inventory number 223307.
The Chelsea Clock Company Board of Directors met for the first time on July 28, 1897. The Board consisted of Whipple N. Potter, Jr., President, Charles H. Pearson, Treasurer, Reginald Foster, Clerk and Secretary. Allen L. Shepherd served on the Board with the elected officers. This first group of individuals was not together long. The Chelsea firm persevered and has enjoyed a long run of success as a result of making clocks of superior manufacture. This company made many clocks. Some of which were in the style of the Willard timepiece or banjo clock, the E. Howard Model No., 70 and more famously, marine clocks. This company remains in business today.
