Unearthed Treasure: 181-year-old Weight-Driven Banjo Clock Purchased at a Bargain Price
### A Rare Find: The Acquisition of a John Sawin Banjo Clock
In a recent acquisition, a collector has added a significant piece to their collection - a weight-driven Federal style mahogany banjo clock made by the renowned Boston clockmaker, John Sawin, in 1840. The clock, which has been in a family for over six decades, was picked up in late June 2021.
The clock, which spent most of its life in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, is a testament to the enduring charm of these iconic American wall clocks. Banjo clocks, invented by Simon Willard in 1802, are characterised by their elongated shape reminiscent of a banjo, a round dial, a slender throat, and a wider rectangular base often decorated with reverse-painted glass panels.
John Sawin, an apprentice of Simon Willard and a journeyman under Aaron Willard, is known for his exceptional craftsmanship that reflects the Federal style period. The clock, with its original banjo styled steel hands and painted face, is in good condition, showcasing the elegance of the Federal style.
The quest for an authentic banjo clock can be a challenge, but this piece is a rare find. Although the clock may be missing some decorative elements such as carved reverse scrolled side arms and the bottom base piece, the original top acorn finial remains intact. The broken glass bezel can be easily replaced, and the case requires only a small amount of veneer work.
The hour hand issue is an unusual problem, as it is supposed to friction fit on the hour pipe. However, this issue does not detract from the clock's overall value. The movement of the clock is intact, making it a functional timekeeper as well as a decorative art piece.
The price of the clock was negotiated at $100, with the buyer offering $75 and the seller accepting. While the price may seem modest, the historical significance of this piece makes it a significant addition to the collection. Securing an authentic Willard banjo clock would be a significant achievement for any collector, and this acquisition brings the collector one step closer to completing their collection.
John Sawin's banjo clocks represent a transitional period in American clockmaking, as the Federal style gave way to the later Empire and Victorian styles. They serve as a window into early American domestic life, where such timepieces were both practical and a status symbol. These clocks highlight early craftsmanship in American horology before the rise of mass production in clockmaking post-1850s.
The value of these clocks is influenced by several factors, including condition, provenance, rarity, functionality, and decorative quality. Authentic John Sawin weight-driven mahogany banjo clocks from circa 1840 typically range from $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the factors above. Clocks with exceptional condition, provenance, and decorative appeal have fetched prices at the higher end of this range or more at specialized antique auctions and dealers.
If you own or are considering purchasing one, ensuring authenticity and professional appraisal is key to fully understanding its worth and historical significance. Major antique clock auctions, reputable antique dealers specialising in early American clocks, online marketplaces, and consultation with certified horological appraisers are all avenues to explore when seeking out these rare and valuable pieces.
Shopping for a vintage clock might lead you to consider a John Sawin banjo clock, as its recent acquisition by a collector highlights. If you're interested in clock repair, this historical piece would be an excellent addition to your home-and-garden lifestyle, offering both a working timekeeper and a decorative art piece.
