BENJAMIN GRAY & JUSTIN VULLIAMY London, c1750
Description:
A very fine George II bracket clock of small proportions. The bell top case, veneered with fruitwood with an ebonised finish, stands on moulded brass feet. There are finely pierced wood frets to the sides and a single carrying handle to the pediment. The brass dial is mounted with corner spandrels and three enamelled discs, the main disc is for the chapter and the two subsidiary discs, which flank a false pendulum aperture, are for rise and fall regulation and strike/silent option. The eight day duration time piece movement is of exceptional quality with the unusual features of a silent verge escapement and a passing strike with the hours sounded with a single blow on the bell. The backplate is delicately engraved with a polished area to receive the bold signature of the makers, Benj Gray and Just Vulliamy, London. Benjamin Gray and Justin Vulliamy formed an important partnership working in Pall Mall from 1743 until 1762. Vulliamy was the son-in-law of Gray and between them they made many fine clocks and watches which are exhibited in museums around the world. Justin Vulliamy was the first of the Vulliamy family to arrive in England from Switzerland and also the first to receive Royal Patronage.
Clockmaker: BENJAMIN GRAY & JUSTIN VULLIAMY London
Circa: 1750
Stock Number: 3901
Height: excluding handle: 12 inches (30 cm.)