Large Striking Wall Clock, Dwerrihouse, London

A most unusual striking wall clock of longcase clock proportions by Dwerrihouse, London c. 1800.

The pale mahogany case has a wealth of well-figured veneers  – the trunk door and base are fiddleback mahogany veneers; the sides have contrasting curl veneers. The unusual case style is perhaps a variation of the teardrop tavern clock, the trunk base made wider to accommodate the weights of a two-train movement. The case has a well-constructed bulbous base, the bowed trunk door still remaining a perfect fit.

Opening the hood door reveals a handle to a wooden strut. On lifting and removing this strut, the drum-top hood and trunk door are simultaneously unlocked.

The rack-striking movement has rectangular plates and scalloped wheel crossings. It strikes the hours on a bell.

The 16-inch silvered brass dial is signed for DWERRIHOUSE, LONDON, with subsidiary seconds, and a strike / silent lever discreeted behind the round wooden glazed door. The brass hands are of a simple yet seldom-seen design.

John Dwerrihouse was an esteemed clockmaker of repute, listed at 23, Charles Street, Berkley Square, London, working from 1770-1805. From 1800-1827 he partnered with Carter  then in 1828-1842 with Ogston.

[source: Britten, F.J. (1986). Old Clocks and Watches and Their Makers]