Month-Going Regulator Clock

Movement and Mechanism

The clock is built as a weight-driven regulator intended for long-term timekeeping, specifically designed to function for one month on a single winding. A primary feature of the mechanical construction is the inclusion of a deadbeat, or Graham, escapement. This mechanism is intended to eliminate the recoil associated with anchor escapements, thereby increasing the precision of the timekeeping.

The movement is signed by the horologist Jean-Aimé Jacob. Regulator clocks of this configuration were originally produced to serve as reference instruments in public and government buildings, facilitating the calibration of other horological objects. The mechanical components are housed behind a full-length glass door, providing a view of the pendulum and weight system.

Cabinetry and Design

The exterior case is constructed from plum pudding mahogany, a material noted for its mottled finish. The design incorporates ebony and gilded metal accents to complement the mahogany surfaces. The structure is built in a tall, neoclassical form that features a rectangular base and a tall glazed trunk to house the pendulum.

The case is attributed to the atelier of Adam Weisweiler. While the senior Weisweiler was an ébéniste active during the Louis XVI period, his workshop continued under the management of his son until 1844. The design aesthetic reflects styles established by the elder Weisweiler, who was known for creations favored by the French court and European aristocracy.

The proportions of the case utilize ebony and gilded trim to accentuate the architectural lines of the clock. This construction is described as being consistent with neoclassical furniture production methods associated with the Weisweiler workshop.

Context and Attribution

The clock is dated to circa 1830. The attribution of the case to the Weisweiler workshop aligns with the historical output of that firm, which maintained a reputation for the use of high-quality materials and precise construction.

Regulator clocks were produced in limited numbers due to the high cost associated with their mechanical complexity. As keepers of time, they were essential tools for institutional and scientific settings. This specific regulator is categorized as a mechanical object that retains the characteristics of precision horology prevalent in the early 19th century.