A pretty, late George III period satinwood balloon mantel timepiece of rare small size by this famous clockmaker.

The 4-inch circular convex enamel dial has Roman hour numerals and a double outer circle for the minutes and is signed by the maker Grant, Fleet Street, London. It has finely tapering blued steel spade tipped hands.

The elegant satinwood veneered case has an inlaid marquetry urn of flowers and ebony and boxwood stringing with crossbanding to the edge. It stands on four ogee shaped brass bracket feet.

The high quality 8-day timepiece movement has substantial brass plates and turned pillars with blued end-screws. It retains its original platform lever escapement with a fast/slow lever. It is securely enclosed within the case with a ring turned rear brass door.

Date: circa 1800

Height: 10 ¾ in (27.25 cm)

Width: 6 ½ in (16.5 cm) incl. bracket feet

Depth: 3 ⅛ in (8 cm)

* John Grant Senior, who worked in Fleet Street, was a member of the Clockmakers’ Company from 1791 until his death in 1810. He was succeeded by his son of the same name who was active between 1817 and 1867. In all probability this fine small timepiece was made by the father who is regarded as one of the best makers of his time.

Provenance

The contents of The Grange, Wendover.

HW6498