Introduction
This article summarizes the conditions and repair steps as presented. The project involved rescuing an Empire‑style clock that collapsed after years of improper storage, identifying its maker, rebuilding the case, repairing the movement, and determining the correct top design.
Initial Condition and Storage Damage
Collapse due to heat and hide‑glue failure
The clock was stored on its back in an Arizona storage unit for ten years, causing the hide glue to perish and the case to fall apart.
Movement transported with weights attached
The clock was moved cross‑country without removing the weights or pendulum, contributing to structural stress.
Dial and tablet condition
The dial survived in near‑pristine condition, while the lower tablet appeared to be a later replacement.
Sentimental value
The clock had been in the family since new, motivating a full restoration despite the extensive damage.
Acclimating the wood
All wooden components were stickered and allowed to rehydrate and stabilize in a controlled shop environment.
Identifying the Maker
Label fragment clues
Remaining label letters “Dy…” suggested a Dyer & Wadsworth retailer attribution.
Movement characteristics
The movement resembled an Ives strap movement with lead great‑wheel centers.
Birge & Gilbert features
Column design, dial style, and movement details aligned with Birge & Gilbert manufacturing (1835–1837).
Birge, Mallory comparison
Birge, Mallory movements were typically stamped BM&Co, which this clock lacked.
Conclusion
The clock was likely manufactured by Birge & Gilbert and retailed by Dyer & Wadsworth.
Case Disassembly and Restoration
Complete breakdown
The case was fully disassembled due to failed hide glue.
Finish removal
The bleached and lifted finish was removed by sanding rather than chemical stripping.
Veneer repairs
Damaged veneer was replaced using salvaged veneer from an old OG case.
Escutcheon decisions
Non‑original brass escutcheons were retained temporarily, with plans to fabricate new ones from fossilized ivory.
Replacement tablets
Reproduction tablets were installed until period‑correct originals can be sourced.
Understanding the Sliding Mirror
Original feature
The sliding mirror behind the dial was original to the clock.
Purpose
It allowed viewing of the movement or hiding it, possibly to protect it from children or to assist with beat adjustments.
Not a moon dial
The mirror replaced no moon dial; the reveal was designed for the mirror itself.
Rod mechanism
The mirror moved vertically on a rod fitted behind the dial.
Survival
The mirror assembly remained intact despite the case collapse.
Reconstructing the Missing Top
Evidence on the top board
Glue remnants indicated two different historical tops: a later scroll top and an earlier original design.
Original step‑outs
The left column step‑out was original; the right had been replaced with a crude pine block.
Possible original design
Glue patterns suggested bullseye chimneys and a carved splat rather than a cornice.
Reference examples
Similar Birge & Gilbert and Birge, Mallory clocks showed splats flanked by bullseye blocks.
New components
Replacement bullseye chimneys were turned using an early Forestville brass chimney as a pattern.
Movement Repair
Deteriorated winding drum
The strike‑side winding drum, likely pewter, had deteriorated.
Recasting method
The damaged area was machined clean, a steel mold was fitted, and fresh white metal was poured to rebuild the drum.
Lathe finishing
The drum was resurfaced and trued in the lathe after casting.
Groove considerations
The original cord grooves were left intact on the upper surface; the new surface was left smooth.
Professional repair option
Specialized repair shops can rebuild winding drums if future issues arise.
FAQs
Why did the case fall apart?
Extreme heat destroyed the hide glue, causing structural failure.
Is the sliding mirror original?
Yes, it was designed to reveal or hide the movement.
Who made the clock?
Likely Birge & Gilbert, retailed by Dyer & Wadsworth.
How should the case be reglued?
Use hot hide glue or epoxy, not modern wood glue.
What top design is correct?
Evidence suggests bullseye chimneys and a carved splat.
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