Rodney Brace of North Bridgewater, MA. A triple-decker shelf clock with a wooden geared eight-day movement. 221075.

 

If you are looking for a large shelf clock with a distinctive case design, then Rodney Brace might be your clockmaker of choice. This Empire-influenced case design features choice selections of figured mahogany veneer that has been lovingly rubbed out and meticulously cared for over the years, ensuring its excellent condition. The case is built on a larger scale, 38.5 inches tall, 22 inches wide, and 7 inches deep, and should fit perfectly in the homes of the mill owners and managers of the 1830s and beyond.

This triple-decker example is in fine condition. The center panel features a remarkably well-preserved selection of book-matched veneer. The middle section has an access door that doubles as a mirror, and the top door provides access to the dial, both of which are fully functional. An overhanging cornice top finishes the top of the case. Four columns with Ionic carved capitals are also included in the case design. These are intact and beautifully detailed.

The wooden dial is nicely hand-painted. The gilt decorations are enhanced with a raised gesso base. The time is displayed on a closed minute ring with Roman-style hour numerals. This dial also features a secondhand display. Open diamond hands display the time.

The weight-driven movement is wooden-geared and designed to operate for 8 days on a full wind. Two rectangular-shaped wooden plates support the steel pinions, wooden arbors, and wooden gearing. The strike train features a count-wheel system. It will strike each hour on a cast iron bell mounted to the backboard inside the case. 

The pasted label is very nicely detailed. It was printed by "S. Bradford, Printer, Taunton." The label features the E.Pluribus Unum patriotic banner in the form of an American eagle depicted with its wings outstretched, claws clutching arrows, an American shield, and holly branches. Below is the company advertisement. "MODERN IMPROVED / EIGHT DAY / CLOCKS. / MANUFACTURED AND SOLD / BY / RODNEY BRACE, / North Bridgewater, Mass." on either side are the directions for setting up and operating the clock. This label is in very good original condition.

The case measures 38.5 inches tall, 22 inches wide, and 7 inches deep.

The clock was made circa 1835.

Inventory number 221075.

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  • Rodney Brace 8-day shelf clock. 221075.
  • Rodney Brace of North Bridgewater, MA. clock label. 221075.