An unsigned weight-driven Massachusetts Timepiece of Boston origin and features an Alarm. 221059.
Pictured here is a fine Federal Massachusetts timepiece or "Banjo clock" made in Boston circa 1835. It is a late example, identified by the turned mahogany bezel, canted frames, and push-button door catches.
One should first notice the bell mounted to the top of the case. This is a clue that this timepiece has the unusual feature of being fitted with an alarm. This is reinforced by the third hand on the dial.
The movement is weight-driven and designed to run for eight days fully wound. The two brass plates are sized and shaped to accommodate the additional gearing necessary to operate the alarm. Both the alarm and the time train are wound with a key through the dial. A separate lead weight drives the alarm feature. It is guided through a narrow channel in the throat section of the case and travels alongside the time weight. When engaged, the alarm strikes the bell mounted at the top of the case. This bell replaces the finial. The backplate of the mechanism is designed with two ear extensions cast into opposite corners. These are mounting points to secure the movement to the back of the case. Mounting screws are used and threaded through these holes directly into the pine backboard. Hardened steel shafts support the brass gearing. The escapement is a recoil design. The pendulum hangs from a bridge that is mounted to the front plate. The rod is steel, and it supports a brass-covered bob. This swings in front of the weight and weight divider or tin. A rectangular shape brass pendulum tie-down is mounted to the tin panel.
The case is constructed in mahogany and retains a clean shellac finish. The turned wooden bezel is fitted with glass and protects the dial. The bezel is secured closed with a push-button catch. This iron dial is painted with black graphics. The minute ring is closed. Each of the five-minute positions is marked with triangles. The quarter hours are a little fancier. Here the triangles are converted to arrows. Roman-style hour numerals are positioned on the inside of the minute ring. Nicely formed arrow-shaped minute and hour hands display the time. The third hand would be used to set the alarm.
The canted frames are fitted with reverse-painted glass tablets. The tablets are hand-painted in good color and depict traditional themes. They are original to the clock and are in good restored condition. The artwork exhibited in both panels features a classic design for the period. The lower door is hinged on the right, and locks closed on the left via a push-button catch mechanism.
This really clean example measures approximately 32.5 inches long overall. It is 10.25 inches wide and 3.75 inches deep. This alarm timepiece was made circa 1835.
Inventory number 221059
