Allen of Wolverhampton 8-Day Tavern Wall Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
19th century
This 19th-century English wall clock, identified as a Tavern or drop-dial style timepiece, is signed by Allen of Wolverhampton. The clock features a substantial, hand-polished wooden case, described as dark mahogany or oak, which incorporates a large, circular dial surround and a trunk section with fluted pilasters and brass column capitals.
The lower trunk door contains a Gothic-arched panel with flame grain veneer. The clock is powered by an 8-day mechanical brass movement that strikes on an overhead bell. The white painted iron dial features Roman numerals, an outer minute track, and beetle and poker style hands. The clock stands 150 cm in height, 44 cm in width, and 21 cm in depth. The object is in working order and is supplied with its heavy weight, pendulum, and winding key.
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.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Tavern clock
- Depth
- 21 cm
- Maker
- Allen of Wolverhampton
- Width
- 44 cm
- Height
- 150 cm
- Material
- Mahogany or oak
- Movement
- 8-day brass
- Dial Material
- Painted iron
- Place recorded
- England
- Maker / attribution
- Allen of Wolverhampton
Design
- Visible features
- • Fluted pilasters are positioned on either side of the trunk door. • The trunk door panel exhibits flame grain wood veneer. • The dial features ornate beetle and poker hands. • Brass capitals are located at the top and bottom of the pilasters.
- Movement and Function
- The timepiece is driven by an 8-day brass movement. According to the auction description, the movement is of heavy-duty construction and is capable of striking the hours on an overhead bell. The clock is reported to be in full working order, with smooth operation and correct striking functions. Included with the clock are its pendulum, winding key, and a heavy weight required for the drive train. The auction description notes that while the clock functions correctly, minor adjustments related to leveling and balancing might be required after transit to achieve optimal performance.
- Condition and Attribution
- The wooden case is described as being in excellent antique condition, exhibiting a deep luster consistent with its age, along with minimal surface wear. The dial is reported to show light, authentic age-related crazing or patina, which does not interfere with the clarity or legibility of the markings. The clock is attributed to the 19th century and is recognized by the maker's signature of Allen of Wolverhampton. The auction description cautions that purchasers should carefully review the provided imagery to form their own assessment regarding the condition of the piece.
- Case and Dial Construction
- The clock is housed in a substantial wooden case, noted as being finished in a dark, hand-polished mahogany or oak. The trunk is flanked by fluted pilasters, which are completed with brass capitals at their extremities. The dial is made of white painted iron and features Roman numerals and an outer minute track. It is signed "ALLEN / Wolverhampton" and is fitted with hand-crafted, beetle and poker style hands. The lower section of the trunk door incorporates a Gothic-arched panel with flame grain veneer, designed to provide access to the internal weight enclosure.
Identification
- SKU
- JN233
- Reference
- JN233
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The source attributes the wood type to either mahogany or oak without definitive confirmation.
- Research required: The exact date of manufacture within the 19th century is not specified.