Converted English Lantern clock by John Knibb, Oxon. Circa 1680 and later.
An almost totally original case made by an extremely famous and sought after maker.
Stock No: 14411
The circa 1900 substantial and high quality two train movement with Dead-beat escapement and half and hour rack striking. Made by W & H and having a rear mounted pin wheel to operate the top-mounted hammer that strikes on the original bell.
Unusually, during conversion to 'improve' this clock, the top and bottom plates have been retained and lie beneath the later, blank plates. It is also believed that the doors and backplate (now with the hole for the alarum verge wheel filled) are also original.
* 'Lantern' or 'Chamber' clocks were often converted not to deceive but rather 'improve' them; they could be placed on a table instead of hung on a wall with the ropes or chains dangling, they would be much more accurate and had a minute hand and lastly, they only needed winding once a week instead of once or twice a day. Because of these conversions, these examples are usually only a fraction of the price that they would be if totally original and in this case, being made by a very famous maker, the price is probably only 5% of what it would be! That being said, this clock is an amazing purchase for someone.
** John Knibb of Oxon: He was born in 1650 in Claydon, Buckinghamshire. He was the brother of Joseph Knibb and worked for him in Oxford from 1664. He was made free in 1673 and continued to work there until he died in 1722. He retired to Hanslope.
Dimensions: Chapter ring: 6 3/8" diameter. Height: 15 1/2". Frame: 5 3/4" square.
Circa: 1680.
Condition: The movement is clean and working very well but has not been attended to
by me. The case has residue from metal polish that should be removed
(washed off). The alarum disc, hoop and spikes and one square headed fret
screw are not present. The top finial is a replacement.
Price: £2,000 in its present condition. Any work required by the purchaser can be
advised upon enquiry and actually, with another clock used as a 'Donor' the
movement could be re-instated.
