Stock Code: 2177

Description: A fine and rare George II ebonised fruitwood, hour striking, quarter repeating on 6 bells, bracket clock by renowned royal maker Benjamin Grey of London.

The ring turned, finned six pillar, twin fusee, bell striking movement with verge escapement and pull quarter repeat on six bells. The back plate profusely engraved with a central figure holding a harp and a quiver of arrows, surrounded by symmetrical foliate scrolls, and with winged female dragon nymphs to each lower corner. The brass break-arch dial with twin winding holes, false pendulum bob profusely engraved with foliate scrolls and In the arch a central makers cartouche inscribed "Ben Gray, London" surmounted by an elaborate engraved crown and bordered by strike/silent and a regulation selectors The silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track and apparently original blued steel hands.

The case with inverted bell top with brass carry handle, bordered by 4 gilt brass vase shaped finials. Below the front and rear doors of broken arch form bordered by fretwork sounding apertures, the sides with a broken arch shaped glass panel. The clock stands on brass pad feet.

Further Information: Benjamin Gray (1676-1764) was watch and clock maker to George II, he was one of the most prominent clock makers of the period. His work was held in extremely high regard by both his clients and contemporary?s. He worked in St James Street and when his daughter married Swiss emigre Justin Vulliamy in 1743, Vulliamy was asked to join Gray in partnership, the company later becoming known as Gray and Vulliamy. They moved their premises to Pall Mall in 1752 where the partnership continued a great reputation as innovative makers of fine clocks and watches. The Royal association was maintained by the Vulliamy family until the mid-nineteenth century. This example has particularly fine engraving to both front and rear plates and was possibly made for a French client.

Condition: Excellent. The movement has been fully overhauled and serviced. Minor restorations to case, waxing of case.

Country of Origin: England

Origin/Age: English, George II, circa 1740. Benjamin Gray (1676-1764) is a Royal maker to George II. After 1743 he went into partnership with Justin Vulliamy, moving to Pall Mall in 1752.

Provenance: Private collection of the Marwick Family, Bristol.

Maker: Benjamin Gray, London

Dimensions: Height 18.50 inches (46.99cm) Width 11.00 inches (27.94cm) Depth 7.00 inches (17.78cm)