Small English Fusee bracket clock by French, London

Dating from the 1830s and standing at less than 10 inches high, this is an unusually compact English bracket clock by French of London, an eminent maker of precision clocks and chronometers. In excellent original condition, this clock has a finely made rosewood case and a bell-striking fusee movement.

The rosewood case has some lovely veneers with no signs of earlier loss or replacement, with both front and back doors retaining working locks and key.

The clock has a finely made two-train chain fusee movement, the arched plates united by five tapered pillars. It has an anchor escapement and rack strike on a bell, and is signed for the maker French, Royal Exchange, London. It has a trip repeat on a cord which extends to the outside of the case.

It has the original stirrup pendulum and pendulum lock.

The 3-inch gilt dial has an engine turned centre and polished dial ring; below this it is intricately engraved with foliate scrolls. There is a discreet strike/silent lever above the XII, hidden behind the door.

Matching moon hands.

According to Britten’s Old Clocks and Watches and their Makers, Santiago James Moore French was Free in the Clockmakers’ Company in 1810 and worked as a clockmaker until 1842, at the Royal Exchange, London between 1808-1838. He was succeeded at 9 Royal Exchange by John French, and later William French (1849-75), presumably his son.

• Height: 25cm (9½ inches)
• Width: 16cms
• Depth: 12.5cms

The movement is to be overhauled and guaranteed for 3 years.

The price includes delivery within mainland UK.