John Birge (1785 -1862) and Thomas Fuller (1798 – 1848) were at work in Bristol Connecticut from 1844 through 1848. Their shelf clocks reduced to practice the ingenious designs and concepts patented by Joseph Ives. John Birge was at work alone in Bristol CT after the death of Thomas Fuller Circa 1848. The original paper label clearlyl states: Improved Steel Spring, Eight Day Brass Clocks, Made and Sold, Wholesale and Retail by John Birge, Bristol. The eight day brass works are die stamped "Birge & Fuller Bristol CT USA" and are in excellent condition having been recently serviced along with fresh cords connecting the fusee's. Birge was a partner and associate of Joseph Ives and played a key role in the develiopment of the American Spring Driven Shelf Clock. This is a choice example with an untouched original painted zinc dial, original William Fenn, Bristol tablets. The overall dimensions of the clock are 26 1/2 X 13 1/2 X 4 1/8 inches. The condition of the veneer is outstanding having superb color and patination. The clock runs and strikes perfectly, retains its original pendulum bob and winding key. The only restoration I can detect is the minute hand is an old replacement while the hour hand is original.All three glasses are original and untouched and the... reverse painted "Eglomise" tablets reprent the outstanding stencil and paint decorated designs by William Fenn. The works are signed and readily identifiable to Birge & Fuller. Mechanical power is transferred from the detached wooden fusee/spring block to the eight day brass striking clockwork. This clock is MINT and just the way you want to find an Early American Clock.
1848 John Birge Bristol CT 8-D Steeple on Steeple Fusee Shelf Clock