The "Columbia" wall clock made by the William L. Gilbert Clock Company of Winstead, Connecticut. 223192.


The William L. Gilbert Clock Company listed their Columbia model in their 1901 catalog. It was one of the fancier models they offered.

The case of this 'Columbia' model is made of walnut, a durable and elegant wood, and retains an older, pleasing finish. The wood's deep, rich brown coloring provides a lovely contrast to the ivory-colored painted dial and the silver-stenciled decorated door glass. The case design features numerous shaped and carved moldings, Eastlake carvings, and turned wooden finials, all of which contribute to its aesthetic appeal. Centered on the upper finial is the bust of Columbia, the female personification of the United States. 

The 8-inch-diameter paper dial is applied to a zinc pan trimmed with a nickel sash. A closed minute ring supports the Roman-style hour numerals. Below this is printed, "MADE IN THE UNITED STATES BY WM. L. GILBERT CLOCK COMPANY. WINSTEAD, CONN." Above the hour VI is Gilbert's trademark, a "G" centered in a diamond. Please note the interior nickel trim ring and the Maltese-shaped hands.

The brass-constructed, spring-driven movement is an eight-day time and strike design. It is key wound and features Geneva winding stops. The front plate is die-stamped with the manufacturer's name. The strike train features countwheel regulation. The hour is struck on a coil wire gong mounted inside the case. The works are mounted to the backboard with four screws. The pendulum is suspended from a bridge in the middle of the front plate. Its wooden rod supports a large brass-faced bob that can be viewed through the glass door in the front of the case.

This door is fitted with a decorative panel. The silver decoration is applied to the back of the glass. It remains in excellent condition.

Pasted on the back of the case is the clockmaker's label. This yellow label lists the model name of the clock and the manufacturer.

This clock, a testament to the craftsmanship of the early 20th century, was made circa 1905. Its age adds to its historical value and makes it a desirable piece for collectors and antique enthusiasts.

It measures approximately 37.5 inches in length, 17.5 inches in width, and 5 inches in depth.

Inventory number 223192.

 

  • The "Columbia" wall clock made by the William L. Gilbert Clock Company of Winstead, Connecticut. 223192.
  • William L. Gilbert Clock Company Columbia glass. 223192. Delaney Antique Clocks.
  • William L. Gilbert Clock Company Columbia dial. 223192. Delaney Antique Clocks.
  • William L. Gilbert Clock Company Columbia label. 223192. Delaney Antique Clocks.
  • Gilbert Clock Company movement and pendulum. 223192. Delaney ANtique Clocks.
  • William L. Gilbert Clock Company movement die-stamp. 223192.