BENJAMIN GRAY and JUSTIN VULLIAMY, London c1740
Description:
An exceptional George II longcase clock by one of the most eminent partnerships of the period. The elegantly proportioned Tompionesque case is veneered case with richly figured walnut of fine colour and good patination. Standing on a double plinth, the case rises to a caddy top with three brass ball finials.
The twelve inch square brass dial is mounted with well-cast mask head spandrels, a silvered chapter ring and a large subsidiary seconds dial. Above six o’clock is an aperture to view the day of the month and there is a silvered cartouche signed by the makers and applied to the matted centre.
The high quality bespoke movement has eight day duration with rack strike and the hours sounded on a bell.
The clock is complete with the original steel rod pendulum with large bob and calibrated rating nut beneath. The quality of the movement is emphasised by the small eight pound weight required to drive the clock.
Justin Vulliamy arrived in London from Switzerland c1730. He married Benjamin Gray’s daughter and in 1743 he joined his father-in-law in partnership in Gray’s already well-established business in St James’s Street before moving to Pall Mall in 1752. Gray was appointed Clockmaker to George II in 1744. The partnership developed a great reputation as innovative makers of fine clocks and watches. The Royal association was maintained by the Vulliamy family until the mid-nineteenth century.
Clockmaker: BENJAMIN GRAY and JUSTIN VULLIAMY, London
Circa: 1740
Stock Number: 3885
Height: 82 inches (209 cm.)