Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

First patented in 1802 by brothers Aaron , the banjo clock was one of the most popular clocks of its time. Despite the patent, it t take long for other  to jump on the bandwagon and copy the  design. Unfortunately for collectors of antique banjo clocks, many Willard banjo clocks do not carry their maker’s name, so it is often difficult to identify who made it.

Originally called an "Improved Timepiece," the c became known as a "banjo" because it looked similar to the musical instrument. Its white, circular face, painted with black numbers (mostly Roman numerals), flows into a long, tapered neck, which meets at a square base. The hinged door of the base is elaborately painted, often with a beautiful view, a naval scene, or an ornamental pattern. Thin pieces of curved brass often run down the necks of these clocks, and brass sculptures, most commonly of an eagle, routinely crown their tops.

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock

Banjo Clock