An especially beautiful example of the famous English Fusee "Skeleton" clock, circa 1860.

The 'Skeleton Clock', so named for its design wherin the supporting frames (plates) of the mechanism are artfully designed and cut away so that a viewer may see the complex and finely engineered mechanism of the clock at work became popular, especially in England, from the early 19th century throughout the Victorian period. In addition to being a great point of interest and status symbol a skeleton clock of this quality was considered a work of mechanical sculpture, in its period. To us they still are.

This especially handsome and finely made example represents the best of its type. It is a single train eight day fusee timepiece with 'passing strike' on the hour (the bell strikes one stroke each time the hour is passed). The 'Fusee' is a system wherby the power of the mainspring is transfered through a miniature handmade steel 'bicycle' chain to a shaped fusee the purpose of which is to keep spring pressure on the operating 'train' constant through eight days - from the time the spring is wound tightest until it is wound down.

This clock's thick supporting plates are particularly well designed and cut in scroll or 'lyre' form. The wheels (gears) are very finely cut and have five spokes each instead of the usual four spokes. The silvered dial shows exceptional quality in its design and piercings. Overall this clock exhibits a much higher level of design and craftsmanship than others of its type. This clock was created by an especially fine clockmaker who used it as a vehicle to display his expertise in craftsmanship and design.

This clock is in fine mechanical condition. All brass elements have a lovely light golden polish and patina and the steel elements are in matching condition, the dial retains 99% of its silvering, and the hands retain their original 'Fire Blue' finish. The clock is mounted on its original double tiered marble base with handblown glass dome.

This is an especially handsome and impressive example of the classic antique 'Skeleton Clock'. This clock was a 'Show off ' piece when new and it still is a century and a half later.

Please review our detail pictures of this clock by clicking on the photo above.

Dimensions: 18 1/2" high, 13" wide, 8 1/2" deep.

Price $2250.00