E. N. Welch Ripple Case Beehive Clock, with its original blue label, pays homage to 'Late J. C. Brown,' a highly respected figure in the clockmaking industry. JJ-100.

This clock retains its original blue label, which pays homage to "Late J. C. Brown."

This Beehive mantel clock is a special example of a popular form. Beehive-shaped clocks were produced in large quantities by all the Connecticut industrialized clock companies. Some offered variations of the beehive case form in the catalogs for over 100 years. 

This unusual case features a series of ripple or rattan-shaped moldings. This particular example showcases five distinct variations. This fine example, despite showing evidence of being well used, was well cared for and not abused. Its rosewood case still retains its original surface, which is in remarkable condition, a testament to its quality and durability over the years. Have a look at the sides of the case. Notice how the finish is darker at the top. It lightens as you move down to the vertical surfaces, which would not have had the same exposure to the ambient elements in the room that is serviced.

The case's access door is at the front. The lower square-shaped section features a frosted glass tablet. A traditional decorative design is cut into the acid-etched glass from the back. The opaque nature of this decoration allows one to see the motion of the brass-faced pendulum that swings behind it. This glass is original to the clock. The upper section of this door is fitted with clear glass. Through this, one can view the clock dial. 

This original zinc dial is painted. The time ring exhibits generations of use as the close minute ring and Roman-style hour numerals are somewhat faded. An opening in the dial center provides room for the brass alarm disk. The original hour and minute hands are steel and display the time.

Open the door, and you will see that this clock retains its original Manufacturer's blue label, which is pasted inside the case on the backboard. It lists the operational directions as well as the Manufacturer's information, "EIGHT DAY / BRASS CLOCKS, / SPRINGS WARRANTED NOT TO FAIL / MANUFACTURERED AND SOLD BY / E. N. WELCH, AT THE OLD ESTABLISHMENT OF THE / LATE J. C. BROWN / FORESTVILLE, CONN."

The eight-day movement is brass construction. It is spring-powered and wound with a key. It is a time and strike design and is of good quality. The Manufacturer's name is die-stamped into the front plate. All the gearing is made of brass, and the pinions are made of steel. The escapement is a recoil. The strike is actuated by a count-wheel striking system located between the plates. It is designed to strike each hour on a wire gong, mounted to the backboard inside the case. This example features an alarm. The alarm mechanism is mounted at the bottom of the case and is wound independently because it is powered by its own spring. The alarm hammer strikes the bell mounted inside the case.

This excellent example was made circa 1860. 

This clock case measures approximately 19 inches in height, 10.5 inches in width, and 4 inches in depth.

Inventory number 225122.