23.      $10,000

Curtis(s) & Clark “Eight day brass clock”, 1824.  Perhaps you saw the article in the NAWCC Bulletin last summer on Curtis & Clark shelf clocks (Watch & Clock Bulletin, July/August 2021, page 232) by Joseph Arvay.  This clock is shown in the lower left corner of the first page (Fig. 1).  I am extremely fortunate to be able to offer it for sale here.  The 22.5-inch case is veneered in mahogany; I see no chips or repairs other than a small break at the upper door-hinge mount.  The carved columns are spectacular, along with the paw feet; also note the brass inlay along the top edge of the cornice.  Both glasses are original, with an original Masonic-themed tablet in outstanding condition. Some of the putty around the glasses appears to have been replaced in a less-than-professional manner, and has been painted or stained red it seems.  The painted iron dial is colorful with gesso gilding, baize green spandrels, and an elaborate signature; the three hands are original.  The spring-driven brass, Salem Bridge-style movement is running and striking delicately on the bell mounted above the movement.  There is a well-preserved label inside and a small key to wind, and a door key.  Please read the Arvay article for the story of the 31 surviving clocks from the original 100 produced; as the author notes, these were the best shelf clocks money could buy in 1824.  Only three sales on LiveAuctioneers, going back to 2011 ($18,000 for one in similar original condition, sold at Skinner’s); one with a similar Masonic tablet sold in 2004 at Cottone’s for $34,000, and I am told is now in the NAWCC museum. $10,000-$20,000.