Ithaca Calendar Clock Co. Model Number 3.5 Parlor. Shelf clock. Time-only 30-day. 219090.
This is an excellent example of a 30-day version of Ithaca’s Parlor 3.5 calendar shelf clock. The case is walnut and features applied carvings and moldings that have been ebonized. The contrast in the dark coloring of the decorative details and the warm color of the walnut wood is complimentary.
The upper dial, the time dial, measures 5 inches in diameter. It is paper and applied to a dial pan. It features a black field and silver Roman-style numerals. Several of the numerals exhibit some paint loss. The trim ring or sash is treated with a nickel finish. The decoratively shaped hour and minute hands are brass. The lower dial displays the calendar. It measures 8 inches in diameter. This dial is actually glass and is painted decorated in silver paint from the back. The day of the month is located along the outside perimeter. The date would be indicated by the long, narrow hand mounted in the center. Separate roles show the day of the week and month. Both of these are original to this clock and are in excellent condition.
The calendar mechanism in this clock is a perpetual design, automatically making the appropriate adjustments for the variations in the lengths of each month and also for leap year. The glass pendulum is original to this example. It features the Maker’s monogram “ICC0.” which is engraved into the back surface. This pendulum has a means for time adjustment, which is located at the bottom of the rod. The pendulum swings in front of the calendar dial.
The 30-day brass movement is well constructed. It is a time-only design using the power from two springs to drive the mechanism. One can gain access to the movement from the back of the case. This model features a single-piece backboard. This example is accompanied by the original setup label, pasted to the backboard.
This fine clock measures approximately 20.5 inches tall and 10.5 inches wide. This example was made circa 1880.
For a more in-depth discussion about the Ithaca Clock Company, please read Joel Warren’s fantastic new book, Ithaca’s Clock Makers.
Inventory number 219080.
The Ithaca Calendar clock Company was formed in 1865 to manufacture clocks with calendar mechanisms. It was located in Ithaca, New York. Henry B. Horton applied for and was granted a patent on April 18, 1865. This patent was improved several times over its life span. This clock venture ended its operations due to bankruptcy on March 14, 1917.
