Reuben Tower, Hingham, Massachusetts Patent Timepiece "Banjo" Clock, with roman numeral iron dial signed "R. Tower/Hingham", mahogany case with gilded rope moldings enclosing the reverse-painted glasses, the throat a gilt scrolled foliate, the box glass a

Reuben Tower, Hingham, Massachusetts Patent Timepiece "Banjo" Clock, with roman numeral iron dial signed "R. Tower/Hingham", mahogany case with gilded rope moldings enclosing the reverse-painted glasses, the throat a gilt scrolled foliate, the box glass a depiction of "Aurora", eight day time and strike movement with rack and snail hour strike on a top mounted bell, powered by two cast iron weights and regulated by a pendulum. Both glasses repainted, lacking dial glass, gilding losses on acorn finial, dial undisturbed including signature although showing surface dirt, original hands, pedestal drop off the clock but with the lot, movement wants an overhaul, lacking a pendulum bob, presently not running or striking. Striking banjo clocks are scarce. According to several sources, Tower was likely apprenticed to Joshua Wilder and produced banjo, shelf, dwarf and tall clocks like his master. In his spare time, he raised 14 children! For additional information on Reuben Tower please see: Spittlers and Bailey, "Clock and Watch Makers of America" p 406,