Tallcase Clock with Strike, Moon Phase and Calendar

This fine late Federal tallcase clock is fully American-made, containing smooth winding drums, thinner brass plates and cutouts on the plates – all features of American-made clocks of the Federal period. The narrow trunk door is indicative of the Pennsylvania style. The cherrywood was locally grown and the mahogany was imported from Central America. The beautifully painted dial was the work of Spencer Nolen and Samuel Curtis, Jr., who were American dial makers of renown during this period.

Spencer Nolen and Samuel Curtis, Jr., were American dial makers of renown during the first quarter of the 19th century. Both men were sons-in-law of the famed Aaron Willard. They operated in Boston under the name Nolen & Curtis from 1806 to 1818. They are known for their finely executed iron painted dials. When Nolen moved to Philadelphia in 1815, they maintained their partnership, doing business in both cities until 1822. Samuel Curtis later financed Edward Howard and Aaron Dennison’s venture to produce the first machine-made precision watches circa 1850. He was also the brother of Lemuel Curtis, who produced exquisite banjo clocks in the girandole style.