Posted 4 years ago
bh0561
(1 item)
Hello,
Can anyone tell me the story about my clock? It was given to me by a friend years ago and I thought it's about time I find something out about it. I've done some research but can't seem to find anything specific. It is stamped E.N. Welch Mfg Co. Forestville, Conn U.S.A. We simply adore the style, color and ornate design and it still keeps perfect time. It rings on the hour (sometimes) and dings (always) on the half. I assume from my research that this is a Sessions clock but would like to know for sure.
Thanks,
Bob
Hi Bob,
The movement is stamped Welch so if it is original to the case I would have to assume that this is a Welch Clock. The Company was bought and renamed the Sessions Clock Company in 1903: https://www.collectorsweekly.com/clocks/sessions
I'm not finding an exact match in either my Welch or Sessions reference books. Do you know if there are any side ornaments (or anything else) missing?
The dial looks like it has been altered, or that it may not be original to the case. I don't know for sure one way or the other since I can't find a model catalog description for it. The minute and hour hands are mismatched styles and the pendulum bob is unlike anything I've seen before.
In my opinion your clock is a good example of an American Black Mantel Clock from around the turn of the 20th Century, maybe give or take a decade.
Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
Hi Bruce99,
No apologies you've provided more information than I could find in my research and it is very much appreciated. To answer your question, I believe there were side ornaments at one time. I see two holes on both ends and some shin of the finish where the ornaments were mounted. There were no ornaments when I took possession. I've had this clock for over 25 years and never noticed the mismatched hands. However, I have noticed the unusual pendulum which I have to assume was that the original was damaged or lost and this was some clock maker/repairman unique creation. Both sides of it are stamped with the identical design.
Thank you for your expert comments and being from the turn of the century is close enough. I would never think of selling it as we adore it.
Thanks,
Bob
Hi Bob,
Thank you. That bit of info helps a great deal. I think you have a slightly altered Welch Clock Co. model called the "Sorma" from circa 1901. Here's another example online:
http://hortonclocks.com/Completed_auctions/2014/Apr14/small/apr14_small_006.htm. Scroll down to the bottom of the page. It's clock # 314
You get a pretty good look at the original side ornament, or "clapper" for this model. If you set up a saved search on eBay, you may be able to find a pair. They might not match your clock's other metal parts though.
The Auction photo also shows the original dial and hands.
If that solves your mystery, please indicate "Mystery Solved" in your posting.
Thanks for sharing your prized antique clock gift from your friend.
Regards,
Bruce
Bruce that is the exact clock by aspect and dimension that I have apart from the modifications you pointed out. You solved my mystery!!
Thanks you, thank you
You're very welcome Bob. I'm glad that we could help.
Regards,
Bruce