A fine wall hanging drop dial clock signed RATTRAY / DUNDEE. 222025.

James Rattray, a known clock, watch, and chronometer maker, jeweler, and gold and silversmith, started his business in Dundee, Scotland, about 1850. It appears he took over the location and shop of Mr. William Henderson. James quickly earned a reputation for his craftsmanship, and his business enjoyed over 100 years of success. His most prominent location was at 28 Nethergate, a place steeped in the history of clockmaking. He died in 1895, leaving behind a legacy that was continued by his son George.

This is a very attractive “drop dial clock” or “Pub Clock.” Circular-shaped dial clocks are extremely popular in the United Kingdom. Clocks that feature the circular shape have been made there in significant quantities for over 160 years. The latter production was used extensively in public buildings that included railroad stations, offices, and pubs. This version, having a long drop below the dial to accommodate a longer pendulum, is not often seen. This form was far more popular in America and is similar in shape to the Seth Thomas No. 2 and the E. Howard model No 70.

This case is constructed in mahogany and has been recently refinished, enhancing the natural warm color of the mahogany used in the construction of the case. The brass bezel is fitted with glass and opens to access the flat painted iron dial. This heavy dial measures approximately 11.5 inches in diameter across the time ring. The hours are displayed in bold Roman-style figures. The minute divisions are boxed, and triangles are used as the five-minute markers. The blued steel hands indicate the time. The hour hand has a large spade-shaped tip, and the minute hand is long and narrow. This clock is signed on the dial “RATTRAY / DUNDEE.” 

The movement of this clock is of exceptional quality. It is heavily constructed in brass, a testament to its durability and longevity. The plates are rectangular-shaped and are supported by four straight brass pillars, pinned on the front plate side. It is a spring-powered fusee design and retains its original chain drive. This movement is designed to run for eight days on a full wind and features a dead-beat escapement and maintaining power. The pendulum hangs from a bridge mounted to the back of the movement. The pendulum rod is steel, and the bob is brass-faced.

The clock case measures 32.5 inches long. The wonderfully shaped wooden dial bezel is 16.75 inches in diameter. Here, the case is 6.75 inches deep. Access doors are located on the sides of the case. 

Inventory number 222025.