Solomon Parke Philadelphia

Solomon Park was a watch and clock maker who was at work as early as 1782 in Bucks County PA. He advertised in the New Jersey Gazette in July of 1782. He moved to Philadelphia in 1797 and maintained an active shop on North Front St. This example is from the end of his career and has perhaps the unique feature of being the very first early brass striking movement configured for a cathedral gong strike. The bold figured Cherry case with Tulip Poplar secondary woods. The English painted iron dial is from the Osborne foundry and it is in a remarkable state of preservation with no in-painting. The signature is untouched and original. Only the calendar wheel has been re-touched. Another important detail is the fact that the feet and finials are original to this case and that both case locks are original, functional and come with keys ! Note the chamfered columns with line inlay and contrasting mahogany. The waist door has some shrinkage, minor cracks and slight warp but it closes and locks just fine. The eight day brass striking movement is in excellent running condition and has been professionally serviced. Overall dimensions of the clock are 101 1/2 X 21 1/2 X 10 3/4″ with an 13″ dial. The works have been serviced and the clock runs fine. The case has been professionally refinished and it retains its original color and contrasting inlay.

SOLD