The London model shelf clock made by the Atkins Clock Company of Bristol, Connecticut. 221223.
This very interesting mantel clock incorporates several bold architectural elements in the case design. It is logical to assume that Solomon Spring was involved in creating this case form. This case is constructed in rosewood, and it retains an older finish. Rosewood exhibits a strong grain pattern. This is evident behind the current finish. The case features two access doors. The lower door features a veneered wooden panel. Open this door, and one can access the pendulum. Two turned and split columns are applied to the midsection of the case. The upper door is divided into two sections. They are both fitted with glass decorated with a fancy gold foil design. They are original to this clock. Through the upper section, one can view the painted dial. It features a Roman numeral time ring. Behind the dial, one will find the large brass 8-day, spring-driven, time-and-strike movement. The clockmaker’s label can be found pasted onto the backboard. It is in very good condition.
This clock measures approximately 17 inches tall, 5 inches deep, and 12.5 inches wide.
This clock was made circa 1862.
Inventory number 221223.
This firm was established in 1859 to succeed the Atkins Clock Manufacturing Company, which went bankrupt in June of 1858. In 1859, 12 employees made approximately 4000 clocks.
Merritt W. Atkins was born in 1804 and died in 1873 at the age of 69. He worked in Bristol and later Forestville, Connecticut. He was a manufacturer of brass movement clocks and was involved in several firms. Most notable was the firm of Atkins and Porter. His firm, M. W. Atkins, spanned the years 1840-1857.
For additional information regarding the Atkins firms, please see Phil Gregory and Robert King's The Clocks of Irenus Atkins.
