John Birge, Bristol, Conn. sharp Gothic-On-Frame with 8 day fusee spring movement, C. 1847.
These clocks were made and marketed by John Birge in his own name and in partnership with Thomas Fuller. The movements were basically 30 hour movements in which an arbor was added at the bottom to each train to convert them to 8 day movements. The style of this case was probably required to hold the fusees, gong, and enlarged movement. The John Birge label is mostly in place, some loss, and the movement is signed "Birge & Fuller". The lower tablet is original but touched up, the middle tablet was painted by Lee Davis to match the lower. The movement has been serviced and is running and striking properly. The 25" mahogany veneer case is as good or better than the rest of this early collection. No veneer problems to speak of other than the normal bruises on the base. Finial tips surprisingly sharp, one a little dulled. Original finish never disturbed. Glued to the back are two very interesting papers, one appears to be a signed note for $8.50 dated 1815, and the other is a family death record from 1822 to 1844, recording 5 deaths. Old zinc dial is good considering the age, soiled some but paint holding. Reference: This exact case and movement is pictured and discussed in Ken Robert book, particularily page 277, but a great deal of other information on John Birge throughout the book.
Clock types
