Tallcase Clock with Banjo Clock Movement

This unusual American tallcase clock is in a provincial case of distinctive shape and contains a banjo clock movement. With less access to the urban centers, regional makers were more likely to veer from the traditional. This case may have been fitted with a banjo clock movement for cost savings and simplicity of transport and repair. We cannot know for certain: it is a one-of-a-kind piece.

Caleb Wheaton (1757–1827) was a Rhode Island maker of high repute. He was born in Providence and may have apprenticed with his father Comfort Wheaton. He was a noted silversmith and a fine watch and clockmaker who also acted as an agent for Simon Willard. In 1807, he went into partnership with his son George.