A Victorian walnut large dial clock made for the National Provincial Bank signed Sir John Bennett, Ltd., London,
c. 1885.
21 in. [53 cm] Diam.
6 ½ in [16.5 cm] Depth
Circular, with reeded walnut surround to the bronze bezel enclosing a silvered dial with roman chapters and arabic minute numerals in mid 18th century style; the 8-day timepiece movement with fusee and anchor escapement.
John Bennett was a major manufacturer and retailer of clocks and watches from 1846 to 1889. Well known in his day, he was active in local government and was one of the founders of the British Horological Institute. His shop was a familiar landmark adorned by a large chiming automaton clock which is now in the collection of the Henry Ford Museum. In 1889, the firm was sold to J. W. Benson.
Bennett advertised these dial clocks which ranged in price from 3 guineas for one12 inches in diameter to 15 guineas for one of 24 inches.
see: Good, Richard. Victorian Clocks. London: The British Museum (1996) pp 98-102.
The National Provincial Bank, founded in 1833, prospered well into the 20th century, ultimately merging to form the National Westminster Bank, now part of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group |
