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Whitehurst & Son, Derby

Nightwatchman's clock

Mahogany, brass, glass, silver | 33.0 x 25.0 x 145.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 3106

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  • A 'tell tale' or nightwatchman's clock in a rectangular mahogany case with projecting top and base. The engraved silvered revolving dial has the 12 hours represented by black roman figures, retractable steel pins and a fixed pointer and a brass setting disc in centre of dial. The eight day timepiece has a fusee movement and anchor recoil escapement.
    Provenance

    The tell tale clock was introduced around 1800 and made throughout the 19th century. As a timekeeping device, the dial rotates and the pins on the dial's periphery move through the pointer position, underneath the lever. Once the watchman actuates the lever, then the pin is depressed and will verify the watchman's visit to the clock at that time. The acclaimed scientist and horologist John Whitehurst of Derby 1713-1788, founder member of the Lunar society, is associated with the invention of the tell-tale clock c. 1750. From the early 19th century onwards the firm was run by his two nephews, becoming Whitehurst and Son of Derby.

  • Medium and techniques

    Mahogany, brass, glass, silver

    Measurements

    33.0 x 25.0 x 145.0 cm (whole object)

  • Alternative title(s)

    Tell tale clock

  • Place of Production

    Derby [Derbyshire]


The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.