Clock No. 236
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Purchase Price |
SOLD |
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Weights |
1 |
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Length |
52 inches |
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Wall Stabilizers |
Old |
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Case Condition |
1 |
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Winding Key |
Old w/wood handle |
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Mechanism |
Dirty |
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Mechanism Mount |
Wood seat board |
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Beat Scale |
Porcelain |
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Pendulum |
Zinc backed |
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Clock 236
Base
Dial
Interior
Top
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Long-duration Viennese wall clocks are typically the focus for collectors of the finer Vienna Regulators. This timepiece in its warm, honey-colored case combines the quality of a month-duration mechanism with the flowing lines of the serpentine style. And, while it is difficult to convey the size of these clocks, please note that this clock measures 52 inches from top to tail - it is an imposing piece.
As I was reviewing the website I was surprised to still see this clock was available. It is such a wonderful piece, with such a magnificent case, of month duration, and so very correct.
Though month-duration clocks are fairly common in the earlier periods, it is rarer to find long duration Serpentines. And, to find a case in this nice of condition is an added treat! While the case would benefit from a good cleaning, the underlying quality shines thru the patina - the finish is original and in excellent condition. In fact, I cleaned the top of one end of the carving to the top of the case and was amazed how perfect the underlying finish really is. When cleaned, the finish on this piece will almost feel velvety it is in such excellent condition. I have not cleaned this piece because I don't have time to clean every piece before I offer them for sale. And besides, many collectors want to receive their clocks in "as found" condition. If you are interested I can provide you with guidance in bringing this piece back to its original glory. While I do use special products to clean and polish cases, it is not difficult to do, and would be extremely rewarding cleaning a case that is as nice as this one. If interested in doing the case cleaning yourself I can supply the materials that I would recommend you use.
And now, back to describing the clock! Note the complex bottom finial, elaborate top treatment, locking door with key, the old winding crank with wooden handle, old wall stabilizers: This clock offers an excellent example of the serpentine style, and it is a month runner to boot. The white porcelain dial is in very good condition with one hairline crack to the chapter ring between the X and the XI (which would all but disappear if the dial is cleaned), the pulley is exactly the right size (note the weight lines hanging straight down, parallel to each other - always a good sign that the pulley is the right size), the larger weight appropriate for a month runner, the bob with no dings, the lovely beat scale, and all of the glass appears to be old: A nice clock for someone looking for a special Serpentine.
It is important to remember that, while I do not go into a great deal of detail about the mechanisms, long duration Viennese clocks have some of the finest mechanisms ever made. These clocks run a month on a weight that would drive the nicer German clocks for a week. They have finer pivots, beautifully cast bridges (not the bent brass found in factory-made clocks): They really are a pleasure to work on, and have such a quiet beat. And to find a clock like this one in this perfect of condition – this truly is a special find.
Caveats: None. A nice, original piece.
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