Early Victorian Barwise Overdoor Dial Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1840
This Early Victorian overdoor dial clock is attributed to the London maker Barwise, dating to approximately 1840. The clock features an oak case carved with oak leaf and acorn motifs, accented by a knotted ribbon design at the base.
The dial measures 8 inches (approximately 20.3 cm) in diameter and is finished in a cream tone with black Roman numerals, minute tracks, and black steel club-style hands, protected by a cast brass bezel. Internally, the clock is powered by an eight-day mechanical movement with a fusee drive system. The construction includes thick brass plates and a pendulum rod. The clock is reported to have undergone a complete service and overhaul, and it is currently in working order.
The wooden case exhibits natural patina consistent with its age, while the dial surface shows minor discoloration and fine crazing.
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
- Date
- circa 1840
- Type
- Overdoor dial clock
- Maker
- Barwise
- Condition
- Serviced and operational
- Mechanism
- 8-day fusee
- Dimensions
- 37 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm
- Case Material
- Oak
- Dial Diameter
- 8 inches
- Place recorded
- England
- Maker / attribution
- Barwise
Design
- Visible features
- • Oak case with carved leaf and acorn ornamentation • Black club-style steel hands • Cream-colored dial with Roman numerals • Cast brass bezel surrounding the clock face
- Movement and Mechanism
- This timepiece is driven by an eight-day mechanical movement equipped with a fusee transmission system, designed to maintain constant power to the escapement as the mainspring unwinds. The assembly features substantial brass plates, which are visible along with the fusee barrel, chain, and pendulum rod. The source reports that the movement has received a complete service and overhaul. It is stated to be currently in good working order and fully operational.
- Signatures and Provenance
- The dial is signed with the mark "BARWISE LONDON" positioned in the center. The source notes that this signature appears faintly on the surface. There is no specific provenance history provided, though the object is presented as an early Victorian piece from approximately 1840. The current physical condition is described as very good, with a well-preserved oak patina and structural integrity maintained throughout the case.
- Case and Dial Construction
- The clock is housed within a carved oak case characterized by naturalistic decorative elements. The circular frame surrounding the dial features a detailed relief of oak leaves and acorns, while the lower section is adorned with a carved knotted ribbon detail. A simple base provides support for the structure, and a metal suspension loop is attached to the upper rear for mounting. The 8-inch circular dial is finished in a cream hue and features black Roman numerals complemented by precise minute markers. It is fitted with black steel club-style hands. The dial is protected by a cast brass bezel. The surface of the dial displays minor discoloration and aesthetic crazing, which the source describes as natural for an object of this age.
Identification
- 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: Condition of the fusee chain or wire
- Research required: Authenticity of fasteners and mounting hardware
- Research required: Legibility of the manufacturer's signature under varying light