Lighthouse Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1825–30
The Lighthouse Clock is an American timepiece dating from 1825–30, produced by Simon Willard and Sons in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Measuring 74.9 by 26 cm (29 1/2 by 10 1/4 inches), the clock is constructed from white pine with mahogany veneer, enamel, brass, and gilt and silver mounts.
The design features a wooden base composed of an octagonal plinth supporting a tapering cylindrical column finished in mahogany veneer. Above the wooden base sits a clear glass dome enclosing the mechanism. Inside the dome is a circular white enamel dial displaying Roman numerals, bordered by a gilt bezel and surmounted by a bell finial arrangement, echoing the form of a lighthouse.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Historical context
In 1819, Simon Willard patented the first American alarm clock under the name “alarm timepiece,” intending it to be portable for domestic use or travel. Clocks of this design became known as lighthouse clocks due to their similarity to the Eddystone lighthouse in the English Channel off Plymouth, England. This specific example descended in the family of Simon Willard's brother Aaron.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- White pine, mahogany veneer, enamel, brass, and gilt and silver mounts
- Dimensions
- 74.9 × 26 cm (29 1/2 × 10 1/4 in.)
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Simon Willard and Sons, American, 1753–1848, Roxbury, Massachusetts
- Place recorded
- Roxbury
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Art Institute of Chicago collection record for this single object; how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Museum object name
- Lighthouse Clock
- Museum object number
- 1997.451
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.