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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Bracket clock

C. Mitchell Balloon Bracket Clock

Partially verified

This Mid-Victorian period bracket clock, attributed to C. Mitchell of London, is housed in a mahogany case featuring brass stringing. The clock incorporates a double fusee movement that strikes a coiled gong and utilizes an anchor recoil escapement. The time is displayed on an original hand-painted dial, which features black Roman numerals and a baton minute track, protected by a convex glass and brass bezel. The clock includes original English steel hands. According to the provided information, the object measures 43cm in height, 29cm in width, and 18cm in depth. The auction description notes that the clock has undergone servicing and is currently in working order. The ensemble includes the winding key and pendulum.

Front view of the C. Mitchell balloon bracket clock, showing the painted dial, brass bezel, and mahogany case.
Front view of the C. Mitchell balloon bracket clock, showing the painted dial, brass bezel, and mahogany case. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Bracket clock
Maker / attribution
C. Mitchell
Reference
JN45
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1855
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

The clock is encased in mahogany, designed in the balloon style. The exterior exhibits brass stringing as part of its original finish. The case is supported by four brass feet, providing elevation for the structure.

The dial is an original hand-painted surface featuring black Roman numerals and a baton-style minute track. A convex glass panel, framed by a brass bezel, serves to protect the dial. The time is indicated by a pair of original English steel hands.

Evidence for this section
  • “Original finish to the case with brass stringing”
  • “Convex glass and brass bezel protecting the dial”
  • “Black Roman numerals with baton minute track”
  • “Original English steel hands”

Movement and Mechanism

The timekeeping mechanism is a double fusee movement. This system includes an anchor recoil escapement to regulate the clock's oscillation. The striking train is designed to sound the hours upon a coiled gong.

The movement is a front-wind configuration. The clock is supplied with its pendulum and a corresponding winding key, allowing for standard operation.

Evidence for this section
  • “Double Fusee movement striking a coiled gong”
  • “Anchor recoil escapement”
  • “Front wind movement”
  • “Comes with winding key and pendulum”

Service and Condition

The auction description reports that the clock is in working order following a period of servicing. The seller specifies that the maintenance was conducted personally.

The object is described as possessing its original decoration, which is noted to be bright, cleaned, and crisp. The description further states that the clock is in terrific condition.

Evidence for this section
  • “fully serviced by myself”
  • “Working order, fully serviced by myself”
  • “Original English Georgian bracket clock, wonderful original decoration bright cleaned and crisp”
  • “it is in terrific condition and full working order”

Open research questions

  • What is the full professional background of C. Mitchell of London active circa 1855?
  • Are there specific records documenting the origin of the brass stringing and its frequency in mid-Victorian balloon clocks?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for C. Mitchell Balloon Bracket Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerC. Mitchell“by C Mitchell of London”
Datecirca 1855“This clock dates to around 1855”
Dimensions43cm x 29cm x 18cm“Measures 43cm high by 29cm wide and 18cm depth.”
SKUJN45“SKU: JN45”

Visible details

  • Balloon-shaped mahogany case with brass stringing
  • Hand-painted dial signed C. Mitchell London
  • Visible coiled gong inside rear access door
  • Four brass bun-style feet

Research qualifications

  • Date is stated as 'around 1855' rather than definitively confirmed
  • The servicing was performed by the seller, not an independent specialist

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

Consulted source

Superb Mahogany English Balloon Bracket Clock – Double Fusee Mantel Clock by C Mitchell of London

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 1a87e404ab

Terms in this record

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

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