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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Table clock

Charles Frodsham antique English table clock in walnut case

Partially verified

This antique English table clock attributed to Charles Frodsham is dated by the auction source to the early 20th century and measures 30 cm in height. The timepiece-only movement is enclosed within a figured walnut case. The front displays an arched dial assembly featuring a silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals and outer Arabic minute indicators, surrounding a textured dial centre with a winding arbor above the six o'clock position. Ornate gilt spandrels frame the corners and arch, where an oval silvered plaque is inscribed 'Chas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King'. The case is finished with a pierced gilt-metal basket top with an articulated handle.

Front view of Charles Frodsham walnut table clock with pierced basket top, handle, and arched brass dial
Front view of Charles Frodsham walnut table clock with pierced basket top, handle, and arched brass dial — Leski Auctions Pty Ltd. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.invaluable.com
Category
Clock · Table clock
Maker / attribution
Charles Frodsham
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
487
Source-reported date
early 20th century
Country
United Kingdom

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 Architecture and Exterior Decoration

This antique English table clock is described as having a walnut case and measuring 30 cm in height. The top of the case features a pierced gilt-metal basket dome fitted with an articulated bail carrying handle.

The lower structure rests on a rectangular molded plinth base supported by flattened bun feet. The front door encloses the arched dial assembly within the walnut frame.

Evidence for this section
  • “antique English table clock in walnut case”
  • “30cm high”
  • “Pierced gilt-metal basket dome on top fitted with an articulated bail carrying handle”
  • “Rectangular molded plinth base supported by flattened bun feet”

Dial Configuration and Inscriptions

The clock displays an arched dial fitted with pierced decorative gilt spandrels surrounding a silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals and a textured dial centre.

Above the chapter ring in the arch, an oval silvered plaque is inscribed "Chas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King". A single winding aperture is positioned in the textured dial centre above the 6 o'clock mark, corresponding to its description as a timepiece only.

Evidence for this section
  • “timepiece only with Roman numerals”
  • “bearing maker's plaque "Chas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King"”
  • “Arched dial with pierced decorative gilt spandrels surrounding a silvered chapter ring and textured dial centre”
  • “A single winding aperture visible above the 6 o'clock position on the dial”

Mechanical Dating and Operational Limits

The auction description assigns the clock to the early 20th century. In its condition report, the seller notes that the clock is running but losing approximately five minutes per day, with professional service recommended.

Internal movement construction, escapement type, pendulum details, and movement signatures or stamps are not recorded or pictured in the source documentation.

Evidence for this section
  • “early 20th century”
  • “timepiece only with Roman numerals”
  • “Running but losing approximately five minutes per day. Professional service recommended.”

Open research questions

  • What type of movement and escapement (e.g., balance wheel or pendulum) is housed within the walnut case?
  • Does the movement backplate carry maker signatures, stamps, or serial numbering matching Charles Frodsham production records?
  • Which British monarch (such as Edward VII or George V) corresponds to the royal warrant indicated on the maker's plaque?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Charles Frodsham antique English table clock in walnut case
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Case materialWalnut“antique English table clock in walnut case”
FunctionTimepiece only“timepiece only with Roman numerals”
Maker's plaqueChas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King“bearing maker's plaque "Chas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King"”
PeriodEarly 20th century“early 20th century”
Height30 cm“30cm high”
Reported conditionRunning but losing approximately five minutes per day“Running but losing approximately five minutes per day. Professional service recommended.”

Visible details

  • Pierced gilt-metal basket dome on top fitted with an articulated bail carrying handle
  • Arched dial with pierced decorative gilt spandrels surrounding a silvered chapter ring and textured dial centre
  • A single winding aperture visible above the 6 o'clock position on the dial
  • Oval silvered plaque within the arch inscribed 'Chas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King'
  • Rectangular molded plinth base supported by flattened bun feet

Research qualifications

  • Movement caliber, escapement, and interior construction are not pictured or described in the source
  • Source reports clock is running but losing approximately five minutes per day, recommending professional service

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

Consulted source

Sold at Auction: CHARLES FRODSHAM antique English table clock in walnut case, timepiece only with Roman numerals, bearing maker's plaque "Chas. Frodsham, Clock Maker to H.M. The King", early 20th century, 30cm high.

Reviewed 2026-10-21 · Record e2837f377b

Terms in this record

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

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