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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Skeleton clock

Mid-Victorian skeleton clock with passing strike

Partially verified

This skeleton clock is a mid-Victorian timekeeping instrument manufactured circa 1860. The clock is constructed with substantial cut brass plates featuring an open, fretwork Cathedral-style design that exposes the internal movement. It includes a silvered, engraved chapter ring with Roman numerals and blued steel hands. The movement incorporates a passing strike mechanism, which is designed to sound a single bell on the hour. The entire clock is mounted on an oval, polished ebonised wooden base and is enclosed within its original glass dome for display and protection. The clock stands at a height of 17 ½ inches, or 44 cm. It is sourced from a private collection in the United Kingdom.

Front view of the mid-Victorian skeleton clock, showing the movement, dial, brass frame, strike bell, and protective glass dome on its ebonised base.
Front view of the mid-Victorian skeleton clock, showing the movement, dial, brass frame, strike bell, and protective glass dome on its ebonised base. — Dorset Antique Clocks. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.dorsetantiqueclocks.co.uk
Category
Clock · Skeleton clock
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1860
Source-reported place
Not established

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

Movement and Strike Mechanism

The clock is powered by a mechanical movement contained within the exposed architecture of the skeleton frame. The design allows for full visibility of the gear train and plates.

A passing strike mechanism is integrated into the clock, configured to sound a single strike on the hour. The bell is positioned atop the upper assembly of the movement to project its tone.

The hands are fashioned from blued steel, contrasting with the brass components and the silvered chapter ring.

Evidence for this section
  • “substantial cut brass plates, crafted in a graceful Cathedral style”
  • “This skeleton clock features a passing strike mechanism, sounding a bell on the hour with a clear and resonant tone.”

Case and Display

The clock is designed for display on a table or mantel. The movement is supported by feet attached to an oval-shaped, polished ebonised wooden base, which provides a stable platform for the clock assembly.

To protect the movement and maintain its condition, the clock is accompanied by its original glass dome. The dome covers the entire clock, including the dial, movement, and the strike bell, allowing for visibility while shielding the mechanism from external elements. The ebonised finish of the base complements the brass materials of the clock.

Evidence for this section
  • “the clock rests on its original oval polished ebonised wooden base, protected by its original glass dome”
  • “original oval polished ebonised wooden base, protected by its original glass dome, ensuring both preservation and a visually striking display.”

Provenance and Condition

The clock is documented as having originated from a private collection in the United Kingdom.

The current presentation includes the original protective glass dome and base, which are identified as original to the piece.

Evidence for this section
  • “Provenance: Private collection, UK”
  • “Serviced and guaranteed for 3 years.”

Open research questions

  • What is the name of the workshop or maker responsible for this skeleton clock?
  • Are there any maker's marks or stamps hidden on the brass plates or base that identify the place of origin?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Mid-Victorian skeleton clock with passing strike
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Datecirca 1860“CIRCA. 1860”
Height17.5 inches“Height: 17 ½” or 44 cm”
Movement mechanismPassing strike“This skeleton clock features a passing strike mechanism”
ProvenancePrivate collection, UK“Provenance: Private collection, UK”

Visible details

  • Silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals
  • Blued steel hands
  • Polished ebonised oval wooden base
  • Original glass dome cover

Research qualifications

  • The exact identity of the clockmaker remains unstated
  • The specific origin of manufacture is not explicitly attributed to a country, though styled Victorian

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

Consulted source

EXQUISITE SKELETON CLOCK WITH PASSING STRIKE

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 52d00fe170

Terms in this record

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

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