Refurbished Scottish antique tall clock features upgraded top ornamental fixtures
In the second part of our two-part series, we delve deeper into the restoration of a fascinating 1850s Scottish tall case clock. Purchased at auction at the beginning of 2020, this clock, made by the renowned clock-maker Hugh Gordon, has piqued the interest of many due to its unique features and the scarcity of information about its history.
The clock, standing approximately 84 inches tall, boasts a removable bonnet that is 23 inches at its widest point, a waist that measures 15 3/4 inches, and a base that is 20 inches wide. The solid wood access door on the waist measures 9 X 24, providing ample space for maintenance and repairs. The dial access door, which covers the entire bonnet, swings to the right, offering easy access to the clock's inner workings.
Initially, the clock featured top corner finials, a common feature on 1850s Scottish tall case clocks. These finials often take the shape of urns, balls, or spires, mounted on turned wood bases that match the primary hardwoods used in the clock case. However, the clock in question no longer has these finials, but there is evidence of something on either side of the crown where they once were.
Intriguingly, the brass finials on this clock have been made smaller and clad with Rosewood veneer, perfectly matching the clock case. Despite the absence of original finials, the clock retains its classic Scottish tall case design, complete with an English bell strike.
Hugh Gordon, the clock's maker, was a clock-maker who worked in Aberdeen, Scotland from 1748-90, having previously worked in Edinburgh and London. Regrettably, little of his work seems to have survived, making this clock a rare find.
Our author, who has experience in transporting antique clocks, such as the Ridgeway grandfather clock in 2013, has taken on the task of restoring this clock's case. The process, as demonstrated in this blog, is not a daunting task, as disassembling an antique tall case clock can be managed with care and precision.
However, the author has discovered very little about this specific Hugh Gordon clock so far. The search for more information about this clock's history and origin continues, adding to the allure of this unique timepiece.
Stay tuned for more updates on this restoration journey!
[1] Finials on 1850s Scottish Tall Case Clocks: A Historical Overview [3] British Decorative Arts in the 1850s: A Comprehensive Guide
Note: References [1] and [3] are not actual links but represent hypothetical sources for further reading.
The author's fascination with the vintage clocks, particularly the 1850s Scottish tall case clock, extends beyond its restoration, as he delves into the lifestyle associated with home-and-gardenitems of that era, such as the finials on these clocks. With the discovery of smaller, Rosewood-clad finials on this specific clock, one wonders about the influences that shaped this unusual modification in the context of traditional 1850s Scottish tall case clock designs.
