Refurbished Waterbury Wren Clock Shelf Case
In a quaint antique store not too far from home, a unique find has caught the eye of a passionate horologist - a Waterbury Wren clock, a marriage of two notable American clock brands, Waterbury and Seth Thomas.
The clock, standing at 13 1/8 inches tall, 12 5/8 inches wide, and 5 1/2 inches deep, is a testament to the sturdy construction and decorative appeal that Waterbury clocks are renowned for. Its case, a Waterbury model called the "Wren," has undergone a meticulous cleaning process, including the application of Murphy's soap, and a fresh coat of traditional shellac.
However, the clock is not entirely complete. The dial, an embossed dial pan for a Waterbury Wren shelf clock C.1895, has been revived using a paint roller, and the dial itself has been cleaned and repainted. Yet, it awaits a matching glass and bezel to complement its refurbished charm.
The most intriguing aspect of this find is its "marriage" configuration - a combination of different manufacturers' parts. In this case, the movement is a Seth Thomas one, contributing to the clock's unique composition. While these clocks can be interesting for collectors, they may be viewed as less valuable than clocks with entirely original parts.
The movement is currently undergoing testing, and once it passes, the case and the movement will be "married" again, ready to keep accurate time once more. The left side of the crown has a different finish due to the shellac application, and the top finial on the right is not correctly aligned with the bottom column. A past repairer has glued the misaligned finial back into place, and the option exists to leave the finish as-is or age it by "dulling" it with 4X0 steel wool.
Despite these minor imperfections, the author is pleased with the improvements being made to the clock. The restoration process is a labour of love, transforming an antique find into a piece that will continue to keep time for generations to come. The Waterbury Wren clock, with its unique "marriage" of two notable brands, is a testament to the enduring charm and craftsmanship of antique clockmaking.
This restored Waterbury Wren clock, a vintage treasure, is poised to become a cherished addition to one's lifestyle, blending seamlessly into a home-and-garden setting due to its refurbished charm and meticulous craftsmanship. The intriguing "marriage" of Waterbury and Seth Thomas parts gives this clock a unique character, making it a stunning collectible for passionate horologists eager to own a piece of history.
