astronomical regulator
Date: circa 1685
Inventory Number: 0069
Classification: Clock
Subject:
Maker: Thomas Tompion (1639 - 1713)
User: John Winthrop (1714 - 1779)
User: Samuel Williams (1743 - 1817)
Dimensions:
208.3 cm (82 in.)
Bibliography:
The Apparatus of Science at Harvard, 1765-1800
Description:
The clock has a painted, wooden case that is crudely made and no doubt of colonial American workmanship. There are simple bracket feet, an undecorated plinth, a waist, a full-length door with three panels, two locks, and two decorated hinges. The bonnet has paneled ends and a door hung on two H-hinges. This was originally a rising hood clock without a bonnet door. The bonnet originally slid up channels nailed ot the back board and locked in place. Now access is through a hinged glazed door.
The clock movement has six turned pillars that separate and support two plates of the clock frame. There is a bolt and shutter device for a maintiaining power. The chapter ring is silvered, as are the seconds bit, alarm adjustment (decorated with a Tudor rose). The four cast brass spandrels are fire gilt and show winged cherub heads.
For more details about the clock movement and parts, see the captions to the photographs.
The clock movement has six turned pillars that separate and support two plates of the clock frame. There is a bolt and shutter device for a maintiaining power. The chapter ring is silvered, as are the seconds bit, alarm adjustment (decorated with a Tudor rose). The four cast brass spandrels are fire gilt and show winged cherub heads.
For more details about the clock movement and parts, see the captions to the photographs.
Signedon dial face: Tho. Tompion Londini fecit
Inscribedscratched on face beneath signature: 1511
Historical AttributesThis was Harvard College's most precise clock for nearly 100 years. In 1761, John Winthrop took this clock to St. John's, Newfoundland to observe the Transit of Venus. The clock case still has holes in the back where the clock was screwed to a tree trunk sunk in the ground for stability.
Curatorial RemarksTechnical description provided by Richard Ketchen, horologist, February 2008.
Published ReferencesDavid P. Wheatland, The Apparatus of Science at Harvard, 1765-1800 (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1968), 68-70.