Winterhalder & Hoffmeier Grandfather Clock 1890
Here is an extraordinary example from the workshops of the renowned German Victorian clockmaker Winterhalder & Hoffmeier. Experts at both Christies and Sothebys London are of the opinion that this is very probably a unique specimen. Either an exhibition show piece or made to a customers specific order. This clock has a Greek mythology theme. The fine bronze casting in the center panel shows Athena the goddess of war. The bronze cockerel at the top was a creature sacred to Athena, symbolizing punctuality and reliability. The two bronze faces on the movement access doors are Zeus, Athenas father. The top is designed as a temple. The cabinet is mahogany, and just look at the fine carving and cabinet work. Standing 8ft 2in, the clock is made in two seperate modules secured by wooden pegs. The bottom half doubles as a storage unit. This is the only Winterhalder longcase clock experts have seen with a spring driven fusee movement. One can choose the chimes. Either Westminster on five gongs, or a delightful tune on eight bells. The third dial above the face is for time-keeping adjustment. This type of movement was normally only used in Winterhalders bracket or mantle clocks, and as this clock has a longcase grid pendulum, it seems that the movement was specifically made for this clock. The clock is in as-found condition, without polishing of the ormalu fittings. One can only imagine how splendid it will look if a new owner wished to have this done. Everything is complete and in working condition.
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