56.                $700

Spencer, Hotchkiss & Co. Salem Bridge shelf clock, 1829-1832.  A 31.5-inch-tall case with dark mahogany veneer and a deep, rich finish.  There is a highly carved crest with unusual side returns; the crest is typical of Spencer & Hotchkiss and can be found on other examples. On the front are two pilasters veneered in flame mahogany with carved capitals, and the clock sits on large carved claw feet in front with turned feet in back.  Both glasses are old but there is newer putty around the dial glass, and the lower glass is held in place with wooden strips.  The repainted tablet is outstanding, stating “Lafayette, The Friend of Liberty”.  I could not find a lithograph to match this tablet.  The wooden dial has been professionally cleaned, the hands match hands found on other SH&Co. clocks.  The 8-day brass, weight-driven movement will run a bit but always stops, and I suspect a bushing or two is needed, as the movement has been cleaned.  It will strike on the iron bell.  There are two proper 9-lb Salem Bridge weights and a good label behind plastic on the backwall.  A show-stopper clock deserving a place of high visibility in your home. There are five sales on LiveAuctioneers going back to 2015, averaging $1370.   $700–$1400.