Late-Victorian English Skeleton Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1880
This late-Victorian skeleton clock is an 8-day timepiece of English origin, manufactured circa 1880. The mechanism is mounted within a frame of cut-out brass plates, designed to display the movement and wheelwork.
It is powered by an 8-day single-chain fusee movement regulated by an anchor recoil escapement. The dial consists of a fretted, silvered skeletonised chapter ring featuring Roman numerals. The clock is housed under a protective glass dome and stands on a mahogany plinth base. Measuring 50cm in height, 50cm in width, and 30cm in depth, the piece exhibits an authentic patina on the brass elements. The auction description notes that the steel hands and the chapter ring are replacements.
The clock is reported by the seller to be in working order and maintaining reliable time, with sound fusee chain and spring tension.
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 1880
- Type
- Skeleton clock
- Origin
- England
- Serial
- JN151
- Movement
- 8-day single-chain fusee
- Dimensions
- 50cm x 50cm x 30cm
- Escapement
- Anchor recoil
- Place recorded
- England
Design
- Case and Dial
- The clock features a skeletonised aesthetic, utilizing a frame made of cut-out brass plates. This structural design exposes the internal wheelwork of the timepiece to view from all angles through the protective glass dome. The clock is mounted on a mahogany plinth base which supports the brass structure. The dial is presented as a silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals. According to the provided information, the chapter ring and the steel hands are replacements for the original components. The brass frame itself is noted as having an authentic patina, with the silvered dial described as remaining crisp and legible.
- Visible features
- • Fretted brass frame with ornamental cut-out detailing • Silvered chapter ring with black Roman numerals • Single-chain fusee movement construction • Mahogany plinth base and protective glass dome
- Movement and Escapement
- The clock is built around an 8-day duration single-chain fusee movement. This mechanical system is designed to provide consistent power to the gear train. The auction description confirms that the movement is in working order and capable of keeping reliable time. The internal components, including the fusee chain and spring tension, are reported to be sound, supporting the clock's ongoing operation within its open frame construction.
- Condition and Maintenance
- The seller reports that the clock is currently functional and maintains accurate time. The integrity of the power delivery system, specifically the fusee chain and the spring tension, is confirmed as being in good working order. There is no damage reported to the brass structure or the glass housing. For transportation purposes, the auction description provides instructions regarding the secure handling of the object.
Identification
- Serial number
- JN151
- 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 notes the hands and chapter ring are replacements.
- Research required: The source provides no specific maker attribution beyond 'English' origin.