R. Grove of Upton, UK. An inlaid mahogany case tall clock with an automated dial in the form of a rocking ship. 225021.

This is a fine mahogany long-case clock with a painted dial signed "Grove / UPTON." There are five R. Groves listed in Brian Loomes's book Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World. Loomes speculates that one of the five may have moved to Upton. Which one is not known? Upton is a village in the northern part of the Wirral Peninsula, England, and is situated within 10 miles of Liverpool.

The painted iron dial exhibited in this clock is truly special. In the dial arch is an automated rocking ship. The man-of-war frigate flying the red ensign is sailing through the narrows. A guarded fortress protects the right side of the outlet. The fort is proudly flying the Union Jack. On the left is an outcrop of rocks and what appears to be a cave. Between the two structures, the frigate will move in a side-to-side motion with the action of the pendulum. The painted scene behind the ship is set back to allow room for it to move, adding to the visual depth of the scene. Dials like this are referred to as rocking ship dials. This type of automation gained popularity as a result of the Napoleonic Wars. They are believed to have been special-order purchases at an additional cost. The Clockmaker signs the dial in the traditional location "Grove / UPTON." The four spandrel areas are decorated with a simple floral design. The time ring is traditionally formatted with Roman hour numerals, a closed minute ring, Arabic quarter-hour makers, and a subsidiary seconds dial.

This mahogany case clock is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship, exhibiting fine proportions and a well-selected mahogany wood. The present finish accentuates the grain patterns. The case stands on four applied bracket feet. The base features a line inlay pattern that follows the shape of the panel. The waist section is fitted with a rectangular-shaped waist door featuring additional inlay patterns. The bonnet is a swan's neck pediment form. The horns center a single brass finial mounted on a plinth. The bonnet columns are also turned smooth and fitted in base capitals and bases. The bonnet door is fitted with glass and opens to access that dial.

The time and strike movement is brass, eight-day duration, and of good quality. This movement, a testament to the technical prowess of the period, is designed to strike each hour on a cast iron bell that is mounted above it. The use of brass in the movement ensures its durability and precision. Tall clocks from this period are excellent runners, a testament to the quality of their craftsmanship and design.

This clock stands approximately 89.5 inches tall. The hood is 18.75 inches wide and 9.5 inches deep.

The tall clock was made circa 1835.

Inventory number 225021.