A mahogany serpentine cased wall hanging drop dial clock, UK origin. 223298.

This “Drop Dial” or “Pub Clock” has a seldom-seen form. It differs from the more common circular forms by having an octagon-shaped bezel and a serpentine-shaped case. The dial clock form is very popular in the United Kingdom and has been made there in large quantities for over 160 years. Clocks like this were used extensively in public buildings such as railroad stations, offices, and pubs. This unusual version has a long drop below the dial to accommodate a longer pendulum and is not often seen.

This mahogany case has been refinished, enhancing the natural caramel tones of the wood. The lower section features a horizontal grain pattern that seems to move with the changing perspective. Applied ears on the sides of the base visually support the octagon-shaped wooden bezel. The veneer grain radiates outward from the cast brass bezel. The bezel is fitted with convex glass and opens to access the painted iron dial. This heavy dial measures about 11.5 inches in diameter across the time ring. The hours are shown in bold Roman-style figures. Minute divisions are boxed, and triangle markers mark the five-minute intervals. The blued steel hands indicate the time. The hour hand has a large spade-shaped tip, and the minute hand is long and narrow.

The movement of this clock is of exceptional quality. It is heavily constructed in brass, showing its durability and longevity. The plates are rectangular and supported by four straight brass pillars pinned to the front plate. It is a spring-powered fusee design and retains its original chain drive. This movement runs 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 28 inches long. The wonderfully shaped wooden dial bezel is 16.5 inches in diameter. Here, the case is 6.75 inches deep. Access doors are located on the sides of the case.

Inventory number 223298.