Edwardian Drop Dial Wall Clock by Chas Keates
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1900
This Edwardian drop dial wall clock, dated to approximately 1900, is attributed to the maker Chas Keates based in Belper, England. The clock features a case constructed from a combination of walnut and flame mahogany, enhanced by decorative satinwood inlay.
The design includes carved ear-like embellishments on the sides of the case and a glass panel in the lower section that allows viewing of the pendulum. The clock is powered by an eight-day mechanical movement, which incorporates a gong striking mechanism. Winding is performed through two holes positioned on the dial, which corresponds to the dual-train movement designed for timekeeping and striking functions. The clockface displays Roman numerals and minute markers, accompanied by spade-patterned metal hands.
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 1900
- Type
- Drop-dial wall clock
- Hands
- Spade hands
- Maker
- Chas Keates
- Origin
- Belper, England
- Movement
- 8-day mechanical
- Materials
- Walnut and flame mahogany
- Place recorded
- United Kingdom
- Striking mechanism
- Gong striking
- Maker / attribution
- Chas Keates
Design
- Visible features
- • Case features carved side ornaments resembling earrings • Dial is signed 'Chas Keates' and 'Belper' • Visible dual winding arbors on the dial plate • Lower case includes a glazed window with fretwork for pendulum viewing
- Dial and Timekeeping
- The clock dial bears the name of the maker, Chas Keates, along with the location of origin, Belper. Time is indicated using Roman numerals for the hours and minute marks around the outer perimeter of the dial. The hands are identified as spade-patterned metal hands. The dial includes two winding holes, which provide access to the internal mechanical movement, signifying a dual-train design intended for both timekeeping and the operation of the striking system.
- Movement and Condition
- The timepiece is operated by an eight-day mechanical movement. It is equipped with a gong striking system, which is configured to sound at set intervals. The clock is considered to be in fair condition relative to its age, though the casing exhibits standard signs of wear and age-related markings. The source advises that prospective owners should inspect the integrity of the winding springs, the operational status of the gear train, and the condition of the glass and wooden joints, as these components have not been fully surveyed.
- Case Construction and Design
- The clock is designed as a drop dial wall clock, a form produced during the Edwardian period. The main casing utilizes a combination of walnut and flame mahogany woods to provide a decorative finish. This woodwork is complemented by satinwood inlay detailing applied across the body. The silhouette of the clock incorporates carved wood ornaments on the side panels, described as resembling earrings. The lower section of the case is fitted with a glass window, which allows for visual access to the pendulum's movement, behind a decorative fretwork screen.
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: Internal condition of gear train and springs not independently verified
- Research required: Completeness of original internal components not confirmed