Antique American Clocks July 2021
9. $250
Olcott Cheney Empire shelf clock, 1831-1835. Mr. Cheney made wooden works clocks
in Berlin, CT. He is best known (to the extent that he is known at all) for pillar & scrolls. This is a nice example
of a 30-hour Empire shelf clock. The case has been refinished and re-veneered as necessary, the gold capitals repainted, and
the tortoise-shell columns likely repainted. The dial glass is likely original, the lovely tablet repainted by Tom Moberg. The middle mirror is period if not original, the cornice mirror a relatively recent replacement. The dial board is moderately
soiled with good color in the corners and little fading. The wooden movement is running with two old weights and a period pendulum
bob, but not striking. The iron bell is included but not attached. There is a working key for both latches. Only
a half-dozen examples of this clockmaker’s work, and just one in this style, having sold in 2011 at RO Schmitt’s for $190. My
consignor would crown me if I let this one go that cheaply. $250-$500.