Robert Breakinrigg of Wyndmill, Edinburgh, Scotland. A traditional burl walnut veneered case. 21236.

Scottish tall case clocks that share this early case form, as exemplified by this example, do not often appear for sale in this country. This example showcases several early design elements throughout the case presentation. Some of which include a double stepped base molding that rests flat to the floor, a long tomb stone shaped waist door with viewing aperture enabling one to see the motion of the brass faced pendulum bob, turned bonnet columns that are applied to the bonnet door, heavy or large waist and cornice moldings and a flat top bonnet and the use of figured burl walnut wood in the case construction. 

The dial also shares several early features. It is constructed of brass. The center section of which is matted, and the winding arbors are decorated with ring turnings. The applied chapter ring and seconds ring have been silvered. The larger ring is decorated in an early manner, having the interior edge marked with minutes, and a fleur-de-lis design is engraved between the hours. This dial is also fitted with decorative applied brass urn spandrels.

The narrow proportions of the case are excellent. The case is veneered in figured burled walnut. The richness in the grain pattern and the darkness of the moldings' color contrast very nicely.

The movement is constructed in brass and is designed to run for eight days on a full wind. It is of good quality. It features a rack and snail striking system that strikes the hour on a cast iron bell mounted above the movement. It is a two-train design and is powered by two brass-covered weights.

The dial features a moon phase or lunar calendar mechanism in the arch. This wheel also displays the hour of high tide in Edinburgh on the inner ring.

This clock was made circa 1760 and stands 7 feet 6.5 inches tall.

Robert Breakinrigg is listed in G. H. Ballie's Clockmakers and Watchmakers of the World Volume 1, as working from 1757 to 1770. He is listed as an "Able Maker." It is also reported that he made a clock with a very early duplex escapement. Robert is also listed in John Smith's A Handbook and Directory of Old Scottish Clockmakers from 1390 to 1850 A.D. He lists him as being in business on the north side of the Grassmarket. He was prosecuted as an unfreeman. This offense was punishable by imprisonment in the tollbooth if the Incorporation chose to exercise its powers. Robert refused to join and remained outside their jurisdiction his whole life.

Inventory number 21236.