Approximately 1845: Clock Manufactured by Chauncey Jerome Ogee
In the realm of antique American clocks, the Chauncey Jerome 30-hour or one-day clocks from the 1840s hold a special place. Known for their historical significance and quality, these clocks are not rare but are highly sought after by collectors.
Chauncey Jerome, a prominent American clockmaker, revolutionised the industry in the 1840s with his innovations, including affordable, mass-produced brass movements. His 30-hour wooden movement clocks, produced in the late 1830s, were soon replaced by standardised brass movements, and by the 1840s, the classic Jerome 30-hour brass movement ogee clocks and "octagon" cases were spreading rapidly throughout America and overseas.
The current market prices for these Jerome clocks vary based on their condition, authenticity, and originality of both movement and case. For instance, a recent listing for a Chauncey Jerome clock crafted between 1845–1856 was seen at the Mordialloc Vintage Market, asking for $595. However, prices can be influenced by local market conditions and the specific clock's condition and provenance. On broader online platforms, similar clocks might range from $200 to $1,000 or more, depending on factors like originality, condition, and case design.
The described clock in question is a Chauncey Jerome 30-hour ogee clock from about 1844-1845. It features a dial in good condition with attractive Gesso spandrels, and the movement is from the same period as the clock itself. The Jerome name under the twelve on the dial is barely readable, and the chapter ring has faded, adding to the clock's antique charm.
The case of the described clock will be repaired using traditional materials and techniques, including shellac, old slot head screws, old wood, and square nails. A replacement coil gong for the clock will come from a donor ogee case. The clock came with the correct weights, but the strike bell is not original, and the suspension spring and leader are missing.
Despite the perceived hassle of needing to be wound daily, the author expresses interest in 30-hour ogee clocks. These clocks, a 19th-century U.S. shelf clock with a distinctive S-curve molding, were popular from the early 1840s to the 1890s. The moon hands of the described clock look original, adding to its authenticity and value.
In conclusion, the Chauncey Jerome 30-hour or one-day clocks from the 1840s are not extremely rare due to high production volumes, but they are valued for their historical importance and quality. Servicing the movement and later refreshing the case of the described clock will ensure it remains a treasured piece of American industrial history for years to come.
Behind the renewed appreciation of Chauncey Jerome's 30-hour ogee clocks, these mechanical antiques seamlessly blend with contemporary lifestyles. The vintage charm of these clocks, becoming a unique addition to fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts' homes, enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. Meanwhile, food-and-drink connoisseurs can enjoy the calming ticking of these clocks in the peaceful setting of their home-and-garden, creating a timeless ambiance. In the process of repairing the case of a 1844-1845 Jerome 30-hour ogee clock, the restoration mirrors the craftsmanship present in the production of fashion accessories or even homemade recipes, demonstrating the commitment to quality that transcends the realm of clock repair.
