Number Fifteen
The works for this clock came from a typical "Napoleon Hat" mantle clock, the most common form of mechanical clock in the first half of the twentieth century. The strike mechanism was modified so that it no longer required long chiming rods common to this kind of mantle clock, but would instead sound it's tome on a circular gong. This change allowed the mechanism to be housed in a more compact vertical arrangement.
Initially I had no vision for the wood or finish for this clock and the design was only envisioned as that area outlined by a white inlay in the finished clock. But in reviewing the other clocks I have made I was inspired by Number 7 to explore the form further. In the process of the evolving design I imagined the clock with a "ceruse" finish, as it now appears. This type of finish has contrasting colours between the surface of the wood and the open grain pores. First popularized as a "limed oak" finish in the 1920's, the style of finish became popular again in the 1950's and 60's and is currently experiencing renewed interest with other colour combinations.
Sister Ceruse, which is the name I have given to this clock, is the first in a series I intend to produce that explores the finish technique. But for this first of the series I intended the clock to express a dressed-up appearance in a pin-stripe suit.
The clock features half-hour strike and hourly count strike, brass bezel, domed glass, brass keyhole surrounds and solid oak construction. It has a very quiet tick and pleasant gong.
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