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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Tavern clock

Allen of Wolverhampton 8-Day Tavern Wall Clock

Partially verified

This 19th-century English wall clock, identified as a Tavern or drop-dial style timepiece, is signed by Allen of Wolverhampton. The clock features a substantial, hand-polished wooden case, described as dark mahogany or oak, which incorporates a large, circular dial surround and a trunk section with fluted pilasters and brass column capitals. The lower trunk door contains a Gothic-arched panel with flame grain veneer. The clock is powered by an 8-day mechanical brass movement that strikes on an overhead bell. The white painted iron dial features Roman numerals, an outer minute track, and beetle and poker style hands. The clock stands 150 cm in height, 44 cm in width, and 21 cm in depth. The object is in working order and is supplied with its heavy weight, pendulum, and winding key.

Full view of the 19th-century Tavern wall clock showing the circular dial and trunk door.
Full view of the 19th-century Tavern wall clock showing the circular dial and trunk door. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Tavern clock
Maker / attribution
Allen of Wolverhampton
Reference
JN233
Catalogue / lot identifier
JN233
Source-reported date
19th century
Source-reported place
England

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial Construction

The clock is housed in a substantial wooden case, noted as being finished in a dark, hand-polished mahogany or oak. The trunk is flanked by fluted pilasters, which are completed with brass capitals at their extremities.

The dial is made of white painted iron and features Roman numerals and an outer minute track. It is signed "ALLEN / Wolverhampton" and is fitted with hand-crafted, beetle and poker style hands. The lower section of the trunk door incorporates a Gothic-arched panel with flame grain veneer, designed to provide access to the internal weight enclosure.

Evidence for this section
  • “rich, hand-polished dark mahogany or oak case with a prominent circular dial surround, fluted pilasters flanking the trunk door, and elegant brass column capitals”
  • “The lower trunk door features a Gothic-arched flame grain veneer panels and opens to reveal the weight enclosure”
  • “The clock features a large white painted iron dial clearly signed “ALLEN / Wolverhampton” with bold Roman numerals, an outer minute track, and ornate hand-crafted beetle and poker style hands.”

Movement and Function

The timepiece is driven by an 8-day brass movement. According to the auction description, the movement is of heavy-duty construction and is capable of striking the hours on an overhead bell. The clock is reported to be in full working order, with smooth operation and correct striking functions.

Included with the clock are its pendulum, winding key, and a heavy weight required for the drive train. The auction description notes that while the clock functions correctly, minor adjustments related to leveling and balancing might be required after transit to achieve optimal performance.

Evidence for this section
  • “Inside, it boasts a heavy-duty, high-quality 8-day brass movement that strikes the hours on a clear overhead bell”
  • “The 8-day bell-striking movement runs smoothly and strikes correctly”
  • “The clock is in full working order and comes complete with its heavy weight, winding key, and pendulum.”

Condition and Attribution

The wooden case is described as being in excellent antique condition, exhibiting a deep luster consistent with its age, along with minimal surface wear. The dial is reported to show light, authentic age-related crazing or patina, which does not interfere with the clarity or legibility of the markings.

The clock is attributed to the 19th century and is recognized by the maker's signature of Allen of Wolverhampton. The auction description cautions that purchasers should carefully review the provided imagery to form their own assessment regarding the condition of the piece.

Evidence for this section
  • “The substantial wooden case is in excellent antique condition, showing a deep luster and minor surface wear consistent with age and use.”
  • “The dial shows beautiful light authentic age crazing/patina but remains clear and legible.”
  • “Up for sale is a beautiful and imposing 19th-century antique English Tavern wall clock”

Open research questions

  • Can the specific production dates of Allen of Wolverhampton be narrowed down within the 19th century?
  • What is the specific composition of the movement regarding the striking mechanism and gear train quality?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Allen of Wolverhampton 8-Day Tavern Wall Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerAllen of Wolverhampton“ALLEN / Wolverhampton”
Movement8-day brass“high-quality 8-day brass movement”
MaterialMahogany or oak“rich, hand-polished dark mahogany or oak case”
Height150 cm“Height: 150 cm”
Width44 cm“Width: 44 cm”
Depth21 cm“Depth: 21 cm”
Dial MaterialPainted iron“large white painted iron dial”
SKUJN233“SKU: JN233”

Visible details

  • Fluted pilasters are positioned on either side of the trunk door.
  • The trunk door panel exhibits flame grain wood veneer.
  • The dial features ornate beetle and poker hands.
  • Brass capitals are located at the top and bottom of the pilasters.

Research qualifications

  • The source attributes the wood type to either mahogany or oak without definitive confirmation.
  • The exact date of manufacture within the 19th century is not specified.

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Antique English 8-Day Tavern Wall Clock by Allen of Wolverhampton – Working Order

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 1b1472524d

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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