Beschreibung:

An early Victorian mahogany library timepiece with passing strike John Carter London, mid 19th century The four pillar single fusee movement with anchor escapement, Vulliamy style wide jaw pendulum suspension and passing strike on a bell mounted to the rear, the backplate with pendulum holdfast bracket and signed John Carter 61 Cornhill, LONDON, the 5 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with repeat signature to centre and blued steel moon hands within cast brass bevel-glazed bezel, the rectangular plinth form case with tablet upstand and ogee moulded cornice above flame figured front and sides, on tall moulded skirt base with squab feet, 30cm (12ins) high. John Carter is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as apprenticed in 1817 and gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1829. He was an accomplished chronometer maker who won numerous awards at the 1838 chronometer trials; by 1840 he had set up business at 61 Cornhill. In 1855 Carter held the position of Jurer at the Imperial Exhibition, Paris and was appointed Master of Worshipful Company of Clockmakers three times (in 1856, 59 and 64). As well as being a highly skilled horologist John Carter was also notable as a civic activist - perhaps due to his experience as a child as he was orphaned at an early age. His charitable nature lead him to be elected Lord Mayor in 1859, he died in 1878. IMPORTANT NOTES REGARDING THE CATALOGUING OF CLOCKS Movements, dials and cases: movements and dials are described as relating to the cases in which they are housed in one of the following three ways: the case.... we are of the opinion that the movement and dial started life in the current case. in a case... we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are in a case of correct period and type (and may well be original to the movement and dial), however there is evidence to suggest that they may not have started out life together. now in a case... we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are no longer in the original case or one of correct period and/or type. Pendulums, weights, winding and case keys: we cannot guarantee that the correct number of weights (where appropriate) and/or keys are present with the clock, nor do we indicate in the catalogue description whether weights or keys are present as many clocks are consigned without them. Please check with the department to establish whether they are present or not prior to bidding. Condition: due to the mechanical nature of clocks and the fact that most are of great age we cannot offer any guarantee as to whether they are in working order or free from major faults or restoration. Although we endeavour to catalogue items in a fair and informed manner, omission of any comments or observations regarding the condition or originality of a clock in the description does not necessarily indicate that it is free from significant faults, restoration or is in working condition. We would strongly advise any prospective purchaser to view the item in person or request a condition report and/or further images prior to bidding. Measurements: dial measurements are given in inches, other dimensions such as height are given in centimetres (and inches for English clocks). The measurement given for the height of a longcase clock excludes any removable finials in order to provide an approximate minimum ceiling height in which the clock can be accommodated. Condition report disclaimer