We are pleased to offer an especially fine example of the rare Boston Clock Company balance wheel escapement tandem-wind Crystal Regulator clock.

One of the most attractive, interesting, and difficult to find American clocks of the late nineteenth century is the Boston Clock Company tandem-wind, or 'One-Wind' eight day time and strike mantle clock. It was invented by Joseph Eastman and built by his 'Boston Clock Company', 1888-1897, which, using his balance wheel marine movement, became the famous 'Chelsea Clock Company' in 1898 known throughout the world for its ship's clocks.

Boston Clock Company pieces are unique among Crystal Regulators (high quality regulator clocks in brass bound cases glazed on all sides) in that both time and strike mainsprings are wound from one winding arbor!

Boston Clock Company clocks are also unique among mantle clocks in that they use a balance wheel escapements rather than a pendulum! Virtually all mantle/table clocks were built around an escapement using a pendulum. The swinging pendulum below a mantle clock's dial is an attractive part of its design. HOWEVER, A PENDULUM WILL NOT FUNCTION AT SEA. The pendulum escapement requires a stable platform to work.

Ships and boats roll and pitch due to wave action. Balance wheel escapement timepieces were the only mechanical ones that could function at sea. Ocean liners and coastal passenger ships of the late nineteenth century often featured well furnished dining halls and 'Saloons' with all the Victorian comforts of home including faux mantles with clocks. Very large and impressive sail and steam yachts were built in the late nineteenth century featuring truly luxurious accomodations which would require a fine clock. We believe Joseph Eastman created this deluxe Crystal Regulator for use at sea, particularly aboard yachts where they might run well undisturbed by wave action striking hours and half hours on a well toned gong in the same manner as the 'Commodore' might enjoy at home.

This Boston Clock regulator was built to the highest standards of the period. the movement is a superb piece of machinery in all respects. The dial is of the best quality with pierced brass center, and the case is beautiful, with architectural detail, and quality seldom seen on other crystal Regulators of the period. This particular clock has another feature not seen on other mantle type clocks - brass brackets on the case bottom either side so the clock might be securely mounted wherever displayed as protection against rough seas.

This beautiful and tasteful clock was a complex piece to build and no effort was spared in movement or case to create a superior piece for a luxury clientelle. The difficulty for today's clock or marine collector is that the Boston Clock Co. was in business for a short period, and the demand for such a specialized luxury piece would have been limited. Consequently very few Boston Clock Company Tandem-wind Crystal Regulators are seen today

This rare clock is in fine condition running and striking nicely, with an excellent dial, and the case is especially crisp with a fine patina.....it would be a fine additioin to a collection of fine American clocks or marine antiques.

Please view all the detail photos of this clock by clicking on the photo above.

Dimensions: 10" high , 8" wide, 6" deep
Price: $ 1550.00