Ithaca Calendar Clock Co. Model Number 5.5 Hanging Belgrade. 8-day, time, strike, and calendar wall clock. 224117.

This is an excellent example of Ithaca’s Belgrade No. 5.5 calendar wall clock. The walnut case retains an older finish. The case design features applied moldings, carvings, turnings, and inscribed decorations highlighted with gold paint. The gold coloring enhances the contrast in colors.

Both display dials are behind a glass door. This example features white paper dials, and their graphics are finished in black. The upper dial, the time dial, measures 7 inches in diameter. It features Roman-style hour numerals and a closed minute track. The interior trim ring or sash is brass. Decoratively shaped hour and minute hands display the time. The lower dial displays the calendar information. This dial also measures 7 inches in diameter. The day of the month is located along the outside perimeter. A long, narrow hand mounted in the center points to the appropriate date. The perpetual calendar mechanism in this clock is located behind the lower dial. It automatically adjusts for the variations in the lengths of each month and leap year. The day of the week and month of the year are displayed on separate rolls. Rectangular-shaped windows in the dial allow for them to display their information. Both of these are original to this clock and are in excellent condition. The company trademark and information are also printed on this lower dial.

The wooden pendulum, an original feature of this clock, swings below the time dial but in front of the calendar dial. This pendulum, with a means for time adjustment located at the bottom of the rod, is a unique and authentic part of this historical timepiece. 

The 8-day E. N. Welch brass movement, a testament to quality craftsmanship, is a time-and-strike design, striking the hour on a wire gong inside the case. Access to the movement is conveniently located at the back of the case, which features a single-piece backboard, adding to the clock's functionality and ease of maintenance. 

This fine wall clock measures approximately 37 inches long and 14 inches wide. 

This example was made circa 1885.

For a more in-depth discussion about the Ithaca Clock Company, please read Joel Warren’s fantastic new book, Ithaca’s Clock Makers.

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 lifespan. This clock venture ended its operations due to bankruptcy on March 14, 1917.

Inventory number 224117.