19th Century, Japan, Shitan Wood Pillar weight driven striking clock, Meiji Period.

19th Century, Japan, Shitan Wood Pillar weight driven striking clock, Meiji Period. This clock is larger than the previous lot and of course has a full set of time markers, 13 engraved and 12 blank, which assist in telling the time on a 24 hour scale if desired. On this model the "weight" which powers the time train is a separate spring wound striking movement which descends in the pillar. Projections on the rear of the markers trip the strike, which sounds on a small bell. Using the striking unit as a weight to power the time keeping is a concept unique to Japan. The hood on this clock is a later replacement, well done, but without the sliding glass in the front for winding without removing the hood. Still, this is uncommonly small for a striking example and worth re-building the hood. Height 18.5 inches