Clock No. 240
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Minimum Bid |
SOLD |
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Springs |
3 |
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Length |
28 inches |
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Wall Stabilizers |
Old |
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Case Condition |
1 |
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Winding Key |
Brass |
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Mechanism |
Perfect |
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Mechanism Mount |
Metal brackets |
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Beat Scale |
Old |
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Pendulum |
Zinc backed |
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Clock 240
Base
Dial
Dial detail
Interior
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Mechanism
Signature
Top
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This very rare and unusual spring-driven clock runs roughly 2 days. Complete, except for the top finial, with an exceptional mechanism, this is a clock that will appeal to those wanting a quality, but small example of the Altdeutsche period, as well as those who appreciate a truly fine mechanism.
Claterbos lists this clocks maker - Weisz - at Landstrsasse Kollergasse 4 in 1872. Claterbos further indicates that in 1900 he received a silver medal from the Lower Austria Board of Trade and Commerce. While it is details like this that help these clocks come to life for the collector, it also reinforces the evidence presented by this clocks mechanism – the maker was a very talented clock-maker.
As seen in the accompanying photos, the dial center has been set aside to afford a view of the mechanism’s skelatonized plates, and of gears slowly turning. Don't get me wrong, the dial center, with its lovely old german script makers name, comes with the clock. But, I can understand why the previous owner ran the clock without it: It is fun to see the levers and gears move when the clock strikes!
The back of the mechanism shows even more clearly the meticulous work that went into its production: The gear spokes are so narrow, the plate cut-outs so nicely done, a real gem.
Note the locking door, original wall stabilizers, winding key, beat-scale, very unusual pendulum with figures to the center of the bob and a zinc back. All in very nice condition! The dial center has a small chip next to one of the winding grommets, while the dial chapter ring, though it looks perfect, has two or three faint hairline cracks between the seven and eight positions (yes, I can see the hair-lines with my bench microscope, but I doubt you will ever notice them). The side glass is old, the door glass later.
The finish on this very small case is in excellent, original condition with the aged walnut hue that looks so good. It is always hard to show how well some of these cases are made, this one being no exception. The carving is excellently done, the base very unusual with its complex shape, and everything on such a cute, diminutive scale. As appropriate for a Viennese-made piece from the late 1800's, the mechanism is held to the backboard with a pair of brass shelf brackets and thumbscrews.
If you want a very unusual and rare granne-sonnerie striking Vienna Regulator and you can appreciate the opportunity to wind it every couple of days...
Caveats: The clock is missing its top finial, though, for $40 a perfect match can be provided.
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