Posted 13 years ago
timeless5
(80 items)
Got this clock about 15 years ago, it's wooden clock works has bell on top and I do the the weights it's34 1/2" tall The name inside says Chauncy Boardman. Sorry thats all I know. Thats my problem I guess if I see a clock I like I just buy it not looking to who made it or how old it is. I buy it just because I like it.
Competition among American Clock manufacturers was ferocious! I'm not familiar with Boardman's clocks but there are records of his bankruptcy sometime in 1850-52. Chauncey JEROME and his brother Noble were probably two of the main folks that put Boardman out of business. They truly offered innovations in American clock manufacturing. I would say that you probably have a rare clock there. It may not be historically significant, depends on what Mr. Boardman was selling as "Improved". Does the label offer any explanation or clues? It's a very nice looking "Column and Splat" style clock. I can easily see why you wanted to get it. If the fine print is legible, please let us know what the label says about the clock's improvements.
We can definitely get into a conversation of wooden, brass and fusee movements if warranted but I'd like to know what the label on your clock says
Here are a couple of auction results for THIS particular type of clock, the Column and Splat, the movement which he marketed as "Improved"
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/4591821
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/6446948
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/10679468_boardman-and-wells-reverse-painted-mantle-clock
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/417312
By the way, Kevin, I'm not certain but I believe that Chauncey Jerome's brother Noble is the one credited with inventing the "Groaner" wooden clock movement
so named because of the noise the striking train made...circa 1824
As I said earlier, Chauncey and Noble were probably two of the main reasons that Boardman went into bankruptcy.
I'm just a collector Kevin, like you. I would definitely like to know what was
"Improved" about this clock.
"Warranted if well used." I love it!!
There was "Snake Oil" sold in a lot of American markets. If this clock did use some improved technology or design it would be historically significant and would hold more financial value for Misty's collection. Also, it could help identify and/or date the clock...it was probably just marketing but you never know until you know...
WOW AR8 & Bruce! you guys got my head spining! The knowledge the two of u have is amazing! I will see what I can do to get more info for u It's not going to be easy as the clock is bolted to the wall! Plus I'm having surgery to my knee fri. so I'll be down for a couple of weeks.(torn menisus & a piece broke off) But all I can say is Thank you both & WOW!!!
What's amazing is what surgeons can do with arthroscopic procedures these days. I hope that your surgery goes well and that you have a speedy, complete recovery.
Take care of yourself Misty, you'll be needing that knee for a long time! :)
Misty,
I've found a Chauncey Boardman Half-Column and Splat shelf clock with a 30-hour "groaner" time and strike wood movement which is very similar to yours. It is a real old-timer, circa 1830's. The columns on this clock have been carefully cleaned to reveal their beautiful leafy stenciling which is what I see on yours as well. The height of this one is 35 1/2". The decorative "splat" and column "chimneys" are not exact matches to yours but on this particular clock they are not original.
This clock sold at a New England area auction in 11/2009 for $100.
Here are some photos:
http://www.roschmitt.com/1109/images/1065_A.JPG
http://www.roschmitt.com/1109/images/1065_B.JPG
Based on this, I'm speculating that your clock was made in the 1830's, probably before the Depression of 1837.
Chauncey and Noble Jerome are credited with developing mass produced brass 30-hour movements used in "OG" clocks. Those clocks were based on a very successful improvement and were much less expensive than wood movement clocks to produce. It was a tough market and the late 1830's were tough times.
Bristol Connecticut was an extremely important center for American Clock manufacturing. At one time or another it had 280 clock making firms.
This is a beautiful clock and a great pick on your part. Thanks for sharing this historically significant piece with us.
Thanks again, I'm going to try & take the face off. I looked at it & after taking the hands off it looks like 2 tiny square type nails are holding the dial on, if I don't do it today it will be a while before I can get up on a ladder. I'll post it tonite if I get it. Thanks for all your help. Misty
That's up to you. I think you'll probably confirm what Kevin and I dug up. He's a good, thorough and knowledgeable collector. You be careful on the ladder and whatever you do, don't force anything.
As a casual observer to this conversation I find it quite invigorating and educational. Thank you for the post and all your amazing responses!!!!
Thanks trunkman, this site is soooo great & the people are unbelievable! Can't say enough about the people that I have talk to.
I've seen many C. Boardman Clocks in Antique marts. Most go from $100-$150, but non have been as big as the one pictured above. That's a neat find. Thanks for sharing :)