Rare Birge, Case & Co Triple Decker Scroll Shelf Clock, Weight Driven, Works

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

Rare Birge, Case & Co Triple Decker Scroll Shelf Clock, Weight Driven, Works :
$4000.00

This is a truly exceptional example of an early shelf clock. It is a triple decker column shelf clock. It was made circa 1820 by Birge, Case, and Company out of Bristol CT. It has a very rare reverse painted glass scene of the J. C. Brown residence in Bristol CT on the middle section. The bottom section is also reverse painted red & gold with a cut out section so you can see the pendulum move.

The case measures about 37 inches tall, 17 inches wide, and 5.25 inches deep. Many triple-deckers are built on a larger, bulkier scale. This example is quite nice and is manageable in stature. At this height, the weights have enough room to run the clock for eight days before it needs to be rewound. The case is divided into three separate sections. The artwork is in stunning condition, especially when considering its age.

The upper section has a door that provides access to the dial. The case is elevated on wooden feet that are carved to resemble claw feet. The columns are also decorated with gilt work and black paint - which does have some chipping. At the top of the case is a gallery. The carved fruit bowl & leaves are the predominant decorative feature at the top

The dial is painted on wood and features gold designs in the corners. The center of the dial has an open cutout. This clock was made during the transition from wooden movements to more reliable brass designs. This cutout allowed one to visually notice that this clock was not wooden geared and that it featured the latest brass technology.

The movement in this clock is constructed in brass. The plates are formed by riveting straps of brass together. The gearing is located between the two frames. This is a time-and-strike design. It is weight powered and will run for eight days on a full wind. It will strike each hour on the hour. (The photo of the movement was taken before the movement was cleaned and overhauled.) The Clockmaker's pasted label can be viewed by opening the lower door. It is located on the backboard. It is in wonderful original condition.

This super clock is a survivor. It is in outstanding original condition. Clocks like this one were intended to sit on a wall shelf, mantel, or on top of a piece of furniture. This example was made circa 1845.