Miniature Alarum Timepiece by Thomas Sutton

MAIDSTONE, KENT

A late 18th century miniature brass lantern alarm timepiece by Thomas Sutton of Maidstone.

The silvered, break-arch dial with fine floral engraving to dial corners, arch and dial centre. Applied Roman numeral chapter ring with lozenge half-hour markers and inner quarter-hour track, alarm setting disc to dial centre. Single steel hand. Maker's signature "Tho's Sutton Maidstone" inscribed to circular boss.

The single train, weight-driven movement with anchor escapement and 28" long pendulum. The lantern frame with rectangular iron corner posts and iron backplate, post-mounted bell. The timepiece keeps excellent time and the alarm is in full working order.

The clock having 3 3/4" square frame and 8 1/4" high by 6" wide break-arch dial. The clock stands 8 1/4" high.

Thomas Sutton worked in Maidstone from circa 1790 until 1823.