Note Type
1992 Inventory NotesNote
This is undoubtedly a unique historical specimen. Very ornate, base 8.25 x13.25. Clock case 14.25 high, by 7.25 x 12.25, with pagoda-style roof. The clock has a silvered brass face inscribed "Thomas Blatchley" and "Bermudo" (the latter may have been to avoid using the name "Bermuda", if this name was Crown-copyrighted).
Note the playing trio of chamber musicians and playing instruments, when the clock is wound up and working; and the hour four of four parallel lines rather than Roman IV.
Thomas Blatchley, who made the clock, advertised himself in the "Bermuda Gazette" of October 30, 1787, in St. George's as a clock and watchmaker, silversmith and engraver, from England. On his death, his business was taken over by the French-born Silversmith Peter Pallais (for Pallais' details see under 'Pallais' in the Silver Collection section of this inventory).
The clock was restored in 1990/91 at considerable expense and is wound weekly by Timeless Antiques at some cost to the Bermuda Historical Society. Timeless Antiques value the clock as being worth approximately 15,000 pounds sterling today, making this clock the single most valuable asset in the entire inventory.
A cedar base, measuring 1.25 x 10.5 x 16, was made for the clock in 1991. The clock is fitted to the cedar mantle in the Living Room and displayed prominently over the fireplace. [Somers Room]Note Type
2023 Inventory Notes