Description

Asa Munger empire flat-top (ironing board) shelf clock, 1818-1825. A second example of this iconic clock, 39 inches tall and 23 inches wide at the top. The mahogany case has a very old finish and a nice patina, with rope-twist half-columns. The dial glass is old but not original and has been repainted after the original glass was broken (see photo). Many of these clocks had zinc dial surrounds, but apparently not all. The mirror is very old and possibly original. The dial holds the original paint and numbering and is unsigned; it is soiled and will not readily clean up. The finely carved barbed hands are likely original, as is the seconds bit. The 8-day, time-and-strike brass movement will run briefly and will strike; it is unsigned (typical). The replacement lead weights are suspended on pewter Munger pulleys at the top and should be compounded on a second set of pulleys, but those are missing – there are hooks at the top to allow compounding. The flying eagle pendulum bob is original, as is the wallpaper inside the case. There is a good label inside on the backwall. $450–$700.

Record courtesy of AntiqueAmericanClocks.com