Simon Willard Rocking Ship Tall Clock

Description:

Simon Willard Rocking Ship Tall Clock, Roxbury, c. 1810, the mahogany case with fret top, brass, stop-fluted, freestanding columns flanking the 12-in. painted iron Roman numeral dial inscribed Simon Willard, floral spandrels and painted arch with American coastal scene, rocking ship automaton and ship in the background, both flying American flags, inlaid rectangular waist door flanked by brass stop fluted quarter columns, inlaid base and tall bracket feet, eight-day, time and hour strike movement with two tin-cased weights, period pendulum and key, ht. 91 in.

Note: Willard's eight-day clocks were sold with painted, moon's age and rocking ship automaton arches. While the moon's age arch had practical implications, automaton arches were very popular with a clientele fascinated and amused by ships moving with the swing of the pendulum as if by magic. Inside the waist is the period inscription in paint: SW 1768, probably the chronological numbering often found on Willard tall clocks.
Estimate $10,000-15,000

Dial and signature in untouched condition, fret is a restoration, finial plinths are period, period weights, pendulum, key and blued steel hands. Feet are hundred year old replacements


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords