Reuben Tower Patent Timepiece with Alarm or "Banjo" Clock

Description:

Reuben Tower Patent Timepiece with Alarm or "Banjo" Clock, Hingham, Massachusetts, c. 1820, timepiece-form mahogany case with wooden bezel over the painted iron Roman numeral dial faintly inscribed R. Tower/Hingham, engraved brass alarm disk with Arabic numerals, pierced steel hands, alarm bell and brass finial mounted above, half-rounded frames enclose reverse-painted tablets all with mustard background, the waist with gold leaf floral decoration, the box with gold leaf eagle and Federal shield, eight-day time and integral alarm movement with recoil escapement regulated by a pendulum and powered by lead time and alarm weights, ht. 34 in.
Estimate $2,500-4,500

Both glasses appear to be original, dial is original with faint, in places illegible, signature, ultra violet lamp proves very useful to read full signature, alarm mechanical elements are complete and original, including the bell and finial, refinished case.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords