Williams & Hatch of North Attleboro, MA. Keyhole wall clock. 27132.

This is a very nice example of a wall timepiece made in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. 

This is a very difficult model to find. We have had less than a handful of opportunities to purchase this model in the last 25 years. This clock is often referred to as a "keyhole" due to its distinctive shape. Interestingly, other clock companies made this form as well. The E. Howard & Company version is very popular. The Seth Thomas Clock company also made a similar model. 

This case design features a large round head, a straight-sided waist, and a curved bottom. This form is often called a "Keyhole." This name is given to this clock due to the similarity of the case's shape to that of a hole used when the key is the skeleton type to operate a lock. This mahogany case measures approximately 33.5 inches long and retains its original finish. This finish appears to be untouched. The lower door is fitted with glass. It is painted from the back, having a gold design within a black field. An opening is left so that one can view the motion of the brass pendulum bob. This tablet is original to this clock and is in excellent condition. The door opens from the left, allowing one access to the pendulum and cast iron weight. The pendulum features a circular keystone, a shaped wooden rod, and a detachable brass bob. The upper wooden bezel is fitted with clear glass and opens to a painted dial that features a time track that is formatted with Roman numerals. Behind the zinc-dial is a brass weight-driven movement. This movement is designed to run for eight days on a full wind. The plates that frame the movement are trapezoidal. The rear plate is mounted to the pine backboard with two screws through the back plate. The movement also sits on a seat board that serves double duty as a weight stop. This clock was made circa 1865 and is a very attractive example.

This clock form was illustrated in an advertisement for the Williams & Hatch firm. This advertisement was placed in the "Massachusetts Register and Business Directory" in 1867. It is from this ad that the attribution of Williams and Hatch is made. 

Inventory number 27132.