19th-Century Banjo Clock Produced by John Sawin, California, 1840
In the realm of 19th-century Boston clockmakers, John Sawin stands out for his distinctive banjo clocks. These timepieces, with their unique features, continue to captivate horology enthusiasts to this day.
A key characteristic of Sawin's banjo clocks is their weight-driven mechanism. Compared to their lever escapement and spring-driven counterparts, these clocks are more expensive but boast reliable movements. The wider distance between the plates in the barrel allows the cord to run for an impressive eight days.
The movements of Sawin's banjo clocks are also distinguished by brass ears attached to the back plate in the upper right and lower left. This design feature is a hallmark of Sawin's craftsmanship, setting his clocks apart from others.
The case of a Sawin banjo clock is another area where uniqueness shines. The shape varies, and cases were sourced from several casemakers in the Boston area. One notable feature is the use of push-pin catches on the bezel and lower access doors.
Authenticity can be a challenge for weight-driven banjo clocks due to decorative additions. However, the Sawin timepiece in question, despite lacking identifying markings, is a nice-looking clock that looks great on any wall.
The method of mounting the movement to the case in the Sawin timepiece uses two "ears" (brass attachments) on the top right and bottom left backplate. This method shares many attributes with the Simon Willard Patented Timepiece.
One unusual problem that can arise with the Sawin banjo clock is a loose hour hand. In the banjo clock in question, the hour hand is supposed to friction fit on the hour pipe but it is loose. This issue, along with two others that surfaced during servicing, underscores the importance of regular maintenance for these historic timepieces.
Despite these challenges, many of Sawin's clocks have survived to this day, offering a glimpse into the past of Boston clockmaking. For those interested in learning more about John Sawin's banjo clock movements, specialized horology references or published antique clock research would be a valuable resource.
In conclusion, the Sawin timepiece, with its unique case design, weight-driven mechanism, and distinctive brass ears, offers a fascinating insight into the world of 19th-century Boston clockmaking. While the lack of identifying markings may leave some questions unanswered, the beauty and craftsmanship of the clock speak for themselves.
Given John Sawin's renowned vintage clocks and their unique characteristics, one might consider a clock repair service to fix issues like a loose hour hand on a banjo clock. In the quest for a more convenient home environment, smart-home-devices, gadgets, and technology have become common, but the timeless allure of a well-maintained, repaired vintage clock like Sawin's remains an appealing choice in today's technology-driven world.
