Antique grandfather clock with date, moon phase and centre seconds

Dimensions: H x W x D: 246 x 53 x 26 cm

Description:
Antique Lancashire longcase clock from the late 18th century with a particularly interesting clock face.

The wide lower part of the case is fitted with a mirrored veneered panel. The curved door at the top is flanked by quarter columns.
Below the head we see fine openwork in front of red fabric and a dentil moulding above.
The fluted columns found on the centre section are repeated on the sides of the clock head, here with gilded bases and capitals. The decorated swan neck finial and the glass panels with gold painting are absolutely typical of the area around Liverpool. The turned finials are removable, reducing the height to around 230 cm.

The arch-shaped dial with silver-plated dial ring and the cartouche-like clockmaker's signature set against a chequerboard-like hatched background is also typical of the region.
With their C-shaped curves, the corner appliques still reflect the taste of the mid-18th century.
At the top of the arch we see the painted moon phase disc and the silver-plated ring for the moon age. The engravings "Time Shew's The Way Of Lifes Decay" and "Time Is Valuable" remind us of the transience of life and remind us to use time wisely.

The functions of the clock are unusual. In addition to the openworked steel hands for the time, we also see a golden date hand and a straight seconds hand with a counterweight. Both the centre seconds and the type of date display are very rare in watches of this time and region - a small seconds display with a sub-dial below the XII is much more common.
The small dial recesses above the signature and in the centre between the winding holes are also quite unique. The current month and day of the week can be read here.

The movement is a weight-driven 8-day movement with lever escapement and hour strike on a bell. It was manufactured by John Clifton who ran his workshop in Fazackerly Street in Liverpool from 1777-1794.

Condition:
Both the movement and the case are in absolutely authentic condition. The case has been gently cleaned and the surface has been refreshed to preserve the patina. The movement has been completely dismantled, cleaned and overhauled. Here you can see, using another watch as an example, what work is involved in the general overhaul of a movement.

Price: 12500,- €