M C Taylor Clocks

Description

The finest and most original example that I have ever seen.

The 30 hour duration movement with Verge escapement and a short internal pendulum that swings between the wheel trains. The pendulum bob is of a well-shaped, 3 dimensional brass 'anchor' that swings through the side doors and can be seen within the 'wings'. The un-colleted wheels are mounted on tapered iron arbors that are pivoted between 2 pairs of upright narrow plates, 3 of which are of cruciform shape. The striking release arbor that runs from front to back has a large central 'stirrup' to give clearance for the pendulum. The movement has countwheel striking the hours on the top-mounted cast bell that is hung from a decorative cross strap that has a central urn finial and sprung within the further 4, matching urn corner finials. The wheel trains are rope driven by the Huygens 'endless cord' method.

The tapered Doric style corner pillars have shaped ball feet. The 3 cast brass top frets are well executed and the front one is nicely engraved. The 6 1/4" diameter chapter ring has an outer ring, Roman hour numerals, a double ringed and divided quarter track to the inner and there and 'wheat stalk' half hour marks. The dial plate has engraved corners and centre that bears a tulip floral design with the upper area showing the maker's signature of "Sam Tinham. New Sarum". The cut iron hand has a scrolled end and a tail for time setting. The back plate is iron and the brass side doors carry exceptionally well made 'wings' with red cloth backing and engraved top frets.

Samuel Tinham is recorded as working about c.1690. He married Mary Prater on 13th November 1704 at St. Edmund's church in Salisbury (which is still there). It seems that he was also buried there on 5th July 1721. Signed lantern and longcase clocks by him are known.

This lantern clock is of extremely high quality workmanship, it is substantially made and is also of very rare originality. I cannot recall ever seeing such a perfect and original example. It is widely believed that 'wings' were exclusively Victorian additions but no one knows for sure, these may well be if I am correct in my assumptions. Oddly, there is no evidence that this clock was ever fitted with a 'Hoop and spikes' for wall hanging. There are a couple of filled holes in the top plate which don't appear to correspond to anything. I think it fair to assume that this clock was made to be placed within a tall case (this would indicate that the wings and anchor are later additions because they wouldn't be seen). It now sits very handsomely upon a purpose built, medium oak bracket and has the advantage of sitting right against a wall.