The design of this skeleton clock, dating from the 1850s was years ahead of its time.
John Pace and Benjamin Parker are renowned for their skeleton clocks, both making this same design. This example by John Pace, Bury St Edmunds was in the ownership of the Pace family until now. It was loaned to Derek Roberts to research his book British Skeleton Clocks (later Skeleton Clocks, Britain 1800-1914) , and this very clock has a full page illustration, figure 3/10. A signed copy of the book dedicated to the John Pace accompanies the clock.
The quality 8-day fusee timepiece movement is set between a circular backplate raised on C-scrolls. The shield-shaped front plate has chamfered edges. All wheels have five crossings and the movement has an anchor escapement and short pendulum.
The skeletonised 6½-inch dial has silvered pierced Arabic numerals within brass rings punched with dotted minute markers.
Fine blued steel moon hands.
The beautifully finished oval base has tapering sides and is signed in the centre John Pace, Bury. The clock is then mounted on a brass plinth with a recessed lip for the glass dome. The plinth has three adjustable ball feet.
Overhauled and guaranteed for 3 years.
- Height 10 inches (including dome) 26cms
Width 8 inches
Depth 5 inches