It was listed by M. C. Taylor. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.
M. C. Taylor has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
The clock is incomplete in a minor way which can be easily rectified
The top-mounted bell sits very neatly within the frets and the strap has an ornate integral top crossing. it also carries the central of 5 matching finials. The front fret is boldly engraved with the bottom being shaped over the
5 1/8" diameter, silvered chapter ring with outer Roman hour numerals, 1/2 hour Fleur-de-Lys markings and an inner quarter track. The chapter carries the makers name of "Ambrose Vowell (of) LONDON" between the V and VII hour numerals. The dial plate is also boldly and well engraved with a symmetrical Rococo design and the centre has a silvered alarum setting disc with outer Arabic hour numerals, a quarter track and floral design centre. The blackened steel had has a tail for setting and a pierced end. The top case corners have four matching finials. The hammer crown wheel assembly and hammer verge staff are rear mounted and the clock is hung via a steel 'hoop' and lower 'spikes'. The removeable side doors are engraved with "Tempus Fugit" to the outsides and the inner sides are filled with further engraving that seems to be a practice piece.
Ambrose Vowell is listed as being apprenticed in 1714 and died in 1776. This clock is extremely similar to an example made by John Smorthwaite of Colchester. The engraving to the doors is probably practice work by a previous owner however, the doors appear to be original and it is a good example of an early 18th century lantern clock of small size.
Condition: The movement of the clock is fairly clean and well maintained however, the case backplate alarum rope and weights are missing. the alarum release needs work and adjustment because a poor attempt has been made to correct it. Other than this, the movement is in good working order. I fitted rear spikes that were missing and the going train is running reliably and keeping time but it would benefit from a general overhaul. The case would benefit from simply a light wash to remove rope dust. This is basically a nice original clock that is in good condition and even the original rope sprockets are still present.
Price: The price is for the clock in its present condition. A price and timescale for any work required by the purchaser can be advised upon enquiry.
For further information please contact us at info@bournemouthclocks.co.uk
M. C. Taylor has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Clockmakers and restorers established 1987
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the M. C. Taylor Profile Page
A Small Lantern Timepiece/alarum Wall Clock by Ambrose Vowell, London. Circa 1730.
