VR-366 - Late Biedermeier 2 weight Vienna Regulator
The Biedermeier period is noted for one and three-weight Vienna Regulators, making the odd two-weight clocks a rarity. And this clock, with its beautifully adorned case, would be an extremely collectible piece even without the unusual mechanism. The eye is first drawn to overall pleasing shape - the rounded top to the door, and the double arch to the top. As you draw closer you realize that this simple, very Biedermeier case is more than initially meets the eye, with extensive trim that transforms this simple shape into a very complex, very ornate piece. What amazes me is the excellent condition of the case - clearly this case has been well protected from the vicissitudes of life. From the contrasting banding around the windows to the numerous applique, there are no obvious flaws.
To compliment this lovely case we find a very nice mechanism with curved tops to the plates, a sculpted crutch end, and the gong-mount secured to the wooden seaboard, instead of to the back mechanism plate - all signs of an earlier mechanism. I also noted that the gong mount is labeled “..LITTLOCH”, “HB” and “WIEN”. While I could not find a match in Claterbos, it could be all but the first two letters of the makers name.
While the winding key is not original, it is quite nice, but not real old. The weights are in great shape with unusual hooks and very special, domed washers, the wall stabilizers are smaller than unusual, but still have the grooved edge with perfect knurling. And even the top covers of the weights are knurled! And yes, these are all small details, but that is what makes a clock like this so wonderful - the evidence of the attention of a master clockmaker showing his skill in even the smallest of details.
Note too the matching and correct pulleys, the very small winding hole grommets, the unusual and quite attractive suspension spring hanger, and hands that are amongst the nicest pair in the auction - so very delicately pierced, but made of excellent spring steel, with all the strength necessary. And, all of the glass is old and wavy!
Read MoreTo compliment this lovely case we find a very nice mechanism with curved tops to the plates, a sculpted crutch end, and the gong-mount secured to the wooden seaboard, instead of to the back mechanism plate - all signs of an earlier mechanism. I also noted that the gong mount is labeled “..LITTLOCH”, “HB” and “WIEN”. While I could not find a match in Claterbos, it could be all but the first two letters of the makers name.
While the winding key is not original, it is quite nice, but not real old. The weights are in great shape with unusual hooks and very special, domed washers, the wall stabilizers are smaller than unusual, but still have the grooved edge with perfect knurling. And even the top covers of the weights are knurled! And yes, these are all small details, but that is what makes a clock like this so wonderful - the evidence of the attention of a master clockmaker showing his skill in even the smallest of details.
Note too the matching and correct pulleys, the very small winding hole grommets, the unusual and quite attractive suspension spring hanger, and hands that are amongst the nicest pair in the auction - so very delicately pierced, but made of excellent spring steel, with all the strength necessary. And, all of the glass is old and wavy!