The case with formerly rising hood, moulded cornice above a blind fret and three-quarter turned columns flanking the glazed panel, with quarter columns at the back (wrought-iron spoon mechanism present), above the trunk with inset panel door, centred by a glazed roundel and inlaid with three foliate marquetry panels, above a moulded edge and base also with a foliate marquetry panel, on a later plinth, the 10in square brass dial signed to the plate Rooker, London, with pierced winged cherub and foliate spandrels, enclosing the silvered chapter ring, the matted centre with seconds ring above two apertures, to the left ’to strike’ and to the right ‘winde up’, above harboured winding holes and calendar aperture, the silvered chapter ring inscribed Richard Rooker, the six-pillar movement with bolt and shutter maintaining power, internal countwheel strike on a bell and anchor escapement
209cm high
Richard Rooker born 1671 and apprenticed to John Clowes in 1685. He gained his Freedom in 1694. Some authorities list him in error as 'Booker'.
CONDITION REPORT
With two period brass-cased weights. With steel rod brass bob pendulum.The clock is in good original condition, bar the hood now pulling forward rather than rising. The runners are still extant at the back of the hood, so it could be re-instated. The case has had some sympathetic restoration, mainly with repair to the base panel and the inclusion of the plinth. Some veneers possibly repaired and replaced. The panel door has old cracks to the upper and lower section, where the cleats have moved over time. The lower cleat may be a replacement? The gilding to the top and base of the pillars has been refreshed. Original seat board. A high quality movement with a number of unusual and rare features.
