Lantern Clock by John Smorthwaite
COLCHESTER, ESSEX
A fine example of an early 18th century lantern clock made by John Smorthwaite of Colchester. Thirty-hour weight-driven movement running on its original recoil escapement and counting the hours on the lantern bell. The clock retains its original frets, the doors are of heavy, cast and scraped brass showing some great age and may be original to the clock. Iron backplate, original hoop and spikes. The chapter ring having Roman numerals, the deeply engraved dial plate being very typical of Smorthwaite clocks.
The clock having 5 1/2" square frame, 6 1/2" diameter chapter ring with signature "Smorthwait in Colchester" and finely engraved 6 1/8" high dial plate. The clock stands 15" high to top of bell finial.
John Smorthwaite was one of Colchester's earliest and most prolific clockmakers, working there from around 1710 until his death in 1739.
Price: SOLD