J. E. Caldwell 15 Bell, 18 Hammer, 5 Gong, Musical Grandfather Clock
Magnificent in every detail! The 101” tall, mahogany case is signed by the famous Philadelphia firm – Lejambre. The Lejambres were well known for creating some of the finest custom furniture made in Philadelphia from about 1870 to 1907. The depth and detail of the carving, the choice of grain in the mahogany, the details of the style and the fine finish of the clock are all typical of Lejambre's work. The March 1978 issue of The Magazine Antiques has an article by Peter Strickland, entitled “Furniture by the Lejambre Family of Philadelphia” which details the history of the Lejambres and shows many examples of their work. The dial is signed J. E. Caldwell & Co., Philadelphia. Beneath the chapter ring the dial is marked - J. C. Jennens & Sons, the movement maker. The clock plays Westminster chimes on the quarters followed by full hour striking at each quarter. The strike can also be set for hour strike on the hour only. One minute after every hour it plays one of six tunes. Each function can be silenced separately. The clock plays the following music: Jolly Young Waterman at 1 & 7 There Is No Luck in the House at 2 & 8 Blue Bells of Scotland at 3 & 9 The Harp That Once Through Tara's Halls at 4 & 10 Easter Hymn at 5 & 11 Auld Lang Syne at 6 and 12. This clock is one of only 2 known examples of Lejambre clock cases. The other example has a time and strike movement. The photos say much more than words. Please view them very carefully and call or email me if you have questions.