105. $2500
Abner Jones Empire shelf clock, 1835-1841. Abner Jones is known for his large Empire shelf clocks, many of which have drawers at the bottom. However, after Jones moved
to West Bloomfield NY in 1835 he diversified his clock styles in response to growing competition (Oechsle, Without Equal, The Clocks
of Abner Jones, page 71). This clock is part of a group of clocks made with beveled rather than rounded cornices, termed “sharp
cornice tops” by Oechsle, and of which there are several examples. This exact clock is shown in the book as ‘Clock 6-C’ on page
105. These cases typically have carved half columns and a mirror below the unique two-part dial. Here the refinished walnut/mahogany
case is 35 inches tall with carved half-columns and the original mirror; the dial glass is old and possibly original. The dial
was repainted by The Dial House; the center section is pinned to the movement and the chapter ring and dial surround are attached
to the door. The hands are original and heavy brass, with the hour hand fixed in place by a set screw. The full-front
door opens by pushing the unusual latch button downward. The heavy, cast brass movement is driven by two 10-lb iron weights
compounded on pulleys, and strikes on a large iron bell at the top, using a rack and snail mechanism. It is running strongly,
the strike a bit sluggish, but when it strikes, you hear it. Jones numbered his movements on the backplate and is thought to
have made about 100; this one is numbered ‘50’. The most recent sale I can find of a Jones clock without drawers was at Cottone’s
in 2014 for $4000. $2500-$4000.
Antique American Clocks July 2022
Can I return my clock if I don’t like it?
Absolutely! Save your packing and box, you have 30 days from receipt to return
it if you are unhappy. If the clock is not as described, or I missed something important and that is not evident from the pictures,
I will refund your shipping costs (both ways) as well. Find another auction company that does that!