Clock movement servicing for a Sawin banjo encountered complications, emerging with two subsequent problems.
In the realm of antique clock collecting, identifying and authenticating John Sawin's eight-driven banjo clocks from the 1840s is a captivating pursuit. John Sawin, a renowned American clockmaker, was known for his exceptional craftsmanship during the early 19th century.
To authenticate a John Sawin-made eight-driven banjo clock, several key points should be considered:
1. **Maker's Mark and Signature:** Authentic Sawin banjo clocks may bear his name or initials, usually "John Sawin" or "J. Sawin," often painted or engraved on the dial or movement.
2. **Eight-Driven Movement:** The term "eight-driven" refers to a clock movement designed to run for eight days on a single wind, a key feature in higher-quality banjo clocks of the period.
3. **Banjo Clock Style:** Sawin’s banjo clocks typically conform to the classic banjo shape—an elongated case with a circular dial at the top, a long throat, and a rectangular or rounded pendulum box at the bottom. The style and proportions can help confirm period authenticity.
4. **Materials and Craftsmanship:** Authentic Sawin clocks from the 1840s often feature mahogany or other fine hardwood cases with original reverse-painted glass tablets (eglomise), brass finials, and quality brass movements.
5. **Movement Characteristics:** The eight-day movement usually has a brass gear train and may be marked with patent dates or maker’s marks. Look for hand-crafted components rather than later machine-made parts.
6. **Provenance and Documentation:** Provenance such as sales receipts, previous ownership records, or expert appraisals add to authentication.
7. **Condition and Patina:** Original finishes, appropriate aging, and patina on wood and metal parts help confirm authenticity; suspiciously new or inconsistent parts might indicate restoration or forgery.
While researching a particular banjo clock, it was found to have a 3mm bushing installed to tighten the movement in the main wheel arbour, a bent suspension spring that rubs against the dial face and the large wheel of the motion works, a broken dial glass, and a short weight cable causing it to stop running before the usual eight days. The cost of the suspension spring, leader, and stake was approximately $55.00 from a Canadian supplier. The seller had limited knowledge about the clock's value, and the search results did not include any direct information regarding the identification or authentication of John Sawin-made eight-driven banjo clocks from the 1840s.
To properly authenticate, it is recommended to consult a specialist in early American clocks or an accredited horological expert who can physically inspect the clock’s movement, case, and markings. A thorough examination of these key points will help ensure the authenticity of a potential John Sawin-made eight-driven banjo clock from the 1840s.
In the context of antique clock collecting, it might be beneficial to consider smart-home-devices or gadgets for a more modern approach to timekeeping, as the intricacies of vintage clocks like John Sawin's eight-driven banjo clocks require specialized knowledge for identification and authentication. A smart home device would not need repair like a vintage clock, but instead would rely on the latest technology for its functioning.
