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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Longcase clock

Longcase Clock by Willm. Russell, Wootton

Partially verified

This longcase clock, attributed to the maker Willm. Russell of Wootton, is housed in an oak case and dated circa 1870. The clock features an 8-day movement with an anchor escapement and a gong striking mechanism. The dial, visible in the arched hood, consists of a silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals mounted on a brass plate, accompanied by ornate hands and a subsidiary seconds dial. The dial corners are adorned with ormolu spandrels. The case, which measures 212cm in height, includes a lockable door and a swan-neck pediment featuring a brass ball and eagle finial. The overall construction exhibits an aged patina, and the clock is reported to be in working order by the vendor.

The dial of the longcase clock, showing the maker's signature 'Willm. Russell' and the location 'Wootton'.
The dial of the longcase clock, showing the maker's signature 'Willm. Russell' and the location 'Wootton'. — Vintage Clocks UK. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
vintageclocks.uk
Category
Clock · Longcase clock
Maker / attribution
Willm. Russell
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
2292
Source-reported date
circa 1870
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 Design

The clock is housed in a solid oak case displaying an aged patina, measuring 212cm in height and 44cm in width. The hood features an arched top with a swan-neck pediment, accented by a brass ball and eagle finial. The case is designed with a lockable door.

The dial consists of a silvered chapter ring featuring Roman numerals, mounted on a brass background. Ornate hands provide time indication, while a subsidiary seconds dial is positioned within the main dial. Four ormolu spandrels decorate the corners of the brass dial plate, and the maker's signature, "Willm. Russell Wootton," is engraved on a cartouche.

Evidence for this section
  • “Incredible solid oak case”
  • “broken swan neck top pediment topped off with a brass ball and eagle finial”
  • “silvered chapter ring with roman numerals, mounted on brass surrounded by ormolu spandrels, subsidiary seconds dial”

Movement and Mechanism

The clock is driven by an 8-day movement, which incorporates an anchor escapement to regulate timekeeping. The striking mechanism operates via a gong. The internal components, including the brass plates and winding drums, are visible in the provided imagery.

The vendor reports the clock is currently in working order. The construction includes a gear train consistent with an 8-day duration movement.

Evidence for this section
  • “8-Day movement”
  • “Gong striking”
  • “Anchor escapement”

Signature and Attribution

The signature "Willm. Russell Wootton" is clearly visible on the dial, inscribed within an arched cartouche situated below the center of the dial. This signature serves as the primary attribution for the clock's maker and locale.

The date of the object is attributed to circa 1870 by the vendor, based on the style and construction of the clock case and dial.

Evidence for this section
  • “Clock is circa 1870”

Open research questions

  • Confirm the specific Wootton location (e.g., Wootton, Bedfordshire or similar) associated with this maker.
  • Investigate the history of the clockmaker Willm. Russell to better understand the production period.

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Longcase Clock by Willm. Russell, Wootton
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Datecirca 1870“Clock is circa 1870”
Movement8-Day“8-Day movement”
EscapementAnchor“Anchor escapement”
Dimensions212cm x 44cm x 23cm“Measures 212cm high by 44cm wide & 23cm”
Case MaterialOak“English Oak case”

Visible details

  • Brass eagle and ball finial atop a swan-neck pediment
  • Signature reads 'Willm. Russell Wootton' on the dial cartouche
  • Ormolu spandrels at the four corners of the dial
  • Lockable case door with a visible keyhole

Research qualifications

  • The exact significance of the 'Wootton' location is not established
  • Condition assessment relies on external vendor report

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

Consulted source

Fabulous Antique English Oak case Longcase 8 day clock – 1870

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record e2f9ad355a

Terms in this record

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

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