Ithaca Calendar Clock, No. 5 Emerald. The jewel of the Ithaca self-clock models. 224062.
Here, we have a truly exceptional piece, the Ithaca Calendar Clock, No. 5 Emerald. This is a rare find, a seldom-seen model that truly reflects the height of Victorian design in its case form.
The Ithaca Calendar Clock Company of New York holds a significant place in the history of timekeeping. Specializing in manufacturing calendar clocks from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, they produced some of the most unique and sought-after pieces. This rare Number 5 Emerald is a fantastic example of their craftsmanship and is in excellent original condition.
The double calendar dial presentation is an iconic Ithaca format. The clock features a dual display to give viewers the time of day, date, and alarm. An opening in the center of the time dial adds interest to the clock. Here, one can see a portion of the escapement and mechanism. Furthermore, the calendar is perpetual, enabling the clock to self-adjust for variations in the lengths of the months and leap years. The day and mouth are displayed in the slotted windows. Both paper roles are in excellent original condition. The calendar date is numbered along the perimeter of this lower dial—a hand points to the appropriate date. The curved cutout above the dial's center shows the nickel-plated pendulum bob.
The case is constructed in rich black and burl walnut. Architectural details include serpentine sides, ebonized burled applied panels, an arched top, and an elegant carved scroll and leaf fret. The center finial is shaped with scalloped sides.
The 8-day spring-powered movement strikes the hour and half-hour on a Cathedral gong mounted inside the case. The movement manufacturer die-stamped the front plate. An alarm movement is located at the bottom of the case. This is wound through the calendar dial. Its hammer hits a small cast iron bell mounted in the bottom of the case.
This model was made circa 1882.
The Emerald shelf clock case is 33″ inches tall, 15 inches wide, and 5.5 inches deep.
Inventory number 224062.
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.
