A Miniature Rosewood Library Clock, C. 1830, by Thwaites & Reed, London, 9\" High For Sale

A Fine Miniature Rosewood Library Timepiece, Circa 1830, by Thwaites & Reed, London.

The front plate stamped “T&R 9589.”

The case is of elegant proportion, having a chamfered top above a projecting cornice, the long sides inlaid with brass stringing and quatrefoil motifs. The glazed front door is fitted with a silvered sight ring, the rear incorporating internal brass framing. The whole is raised on a plinth base with further inlaid stringing and stands upon turned bun feet.

The 3-inch silvered arched dial is engraved with Roman numerals within a minute track and fitted with blued steel hands, centred on an engraved cartouche signed “Thwaites and Reed, London.”

The movement comprises arched plates united by tapering cannon-barrel pillars, incorporating a chain fusee and anchor escapement. The timepiece is in running order and is offered together with a case key.

Height: 21.5 cm (8.5 inches). And the highest point on the mid chamfered top is 23 cm (9 inches).

Wide: 12.5 cm

Depth: 10 cm

Thwaites & Reed traces its origins to the early 17th century. Although records prior to 1780 are no longer extant, substantial archival material survives thereafter in the London Metropolitan Archives and within the firm’s own records. By 1878, the company claimed to have produced in excess of 4,000 turret clocks and, in 1899, absorbed the business of John Moore. The firm was also responsible for maintaining the Great Clock at the Palace of Westminster for a period of approximately thirty years. In addition, it supplied movements to distinguished makers including Dutton, Dwerrihouse, and Vulliamy, and traded under various associated names such as Aynsworth Thwaites, Aynsworth & John Thwaites, and John Thwaites & Co.