Sperry and Shaw's four-column clock reinstated for further examination
In the heart of a clock enthusiast's workshop, a Sperry and Shaw clock stands, its four elegant columns reflecting the decorative period of the Empire style popular in the mid-1850s. This particular piece, made between 1844 and 1851, is a testament to the intricate relationship between Sperry and Shaw, who were not clock-makers, and the renowned American clockmakers of the period.
The movement of the Sperry and Shaw clock, stamped "Jerome-like" and bearing the name of the business partners, was not manufactured entirely in-house. Instead, the four-column clocks branded as Sperry and Shaw primarily distributed or assembled movements from key manufacturers.
Eli Terry Jr. and Terry & Andrews, based in Plymouth, Connecticut, were significant suppliers of brass movements consistent with those found in Sperry and Shaw clocks. Seth Thomas, another premier movement manufacturer, was another key player, renowned for their reliable eight-day brass movements used in various clock designs.
Although primarily known as a case designer, Elias Ingraham's operations sometimes supplied clock parts or collaborated with movement makers, whose movements ended up in Sperry and Shaw cases. Other Connecticut clock firms, such as Waterbury and New Haven, also provided clock movements during this period, sometimes serving distributors like Sperry and Shaw.
The movement plates of the clock in question were bent and twisted, a common issue in clocks that have been serviced multiple times, as evidenced by the punch marks around almost every pivot hole. The paddle, a crucial component, was radially aligned to the count wheel and was bent slightly to ensure it pointed directly at the wheel hub.
In January 2019, the movement of the clock was disassembled and cleaned, and after four days of testing, the dial and hands were reinstalled, and the clock was placed back on its shelf. However, the strike side of the clock had been running erratically, either striking the hour or running continuously until the weight hit the bottom of the case.
This erratic behaviour was due to the count and drop levers not being synchronized on the strike side. A careful adjustment of these levers rectified the issue, making the clock run smoothly once more.
The Sperry and Shaw 30-hour clock, due to its large gears, overall simplicity, and absence of mainsprings, is a great starting point for those beginning their journey into clock repair. The movement of these clocks is relatively easy to reassemble, making them an accessible choice for enthusiasts.
For those interested in identifying the original manufacturer behind the internal mechanism of their Sperry and Shaw clock, examining the movement for maker’s marks (e.g., “E. Terry,” “Seth Thomas,” or a trademark) is usually the best way to determine the clock's history. With this knowledge, we can appreciate these historic pieces not just as beautiful decorative items, but as testaments to the craftsmanship and collaboration of the American clock industry in the 19th century.
The workshop's resident clock enthusiast also maintains a collection of vintage clocks, which includes smart-home devices and gadgets in addition to traditional timepieces. To uncover the history of a Sperry and Shaw clock, one should research potential connections with movement manufacturers such as Jerome, Eli Terry Jr., Terry & Andrews, Seth Thomas, Waterbury, New Haven, or even Elias Ingraham.
