A brass lantern clock, Ahasuerus Fromanteel, London, circa 1650

5¾-inch chapter ring, the dial plate engraved with tulips and signed in a drapery cartouche A Fromanteel, Londini Fecit, central alarm disc, the conventional posted movement with verge escapement and top-mounted balance, outside locking plate striking on the top-mounted bell, replaced alarm train, the posted frame with boldly-cast finials, strap and shield fret, the front fret engraved, the rear with hoop and spurs, on ball feet

Dial in good condition, alarm disc and hand probably replaced. Movement is complete and does not appear to have been converted, it is very dirty and needs cleaning and service, crown wheel looks replaced and there is not much wear on the other wheels, alarm train replaced. Case doors replaced. With 3 weights and 3 counter weights.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Ahasuerus Fromanteel, an important maker, was born in Norwich in 1607. Apprenticed as a blacksmith and engaged in the making of tower clocks, he was in London by 1629 and in 1630 became Free of the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths. As a clockmaker, he was one of the first to join the newly formed Company of Clockmakers in 1631 as a Brother but not a Freeman. Fromanteel is perhaps best remembered for his association with Christian Huygens and contributions in the development and early use of the pendulum in clocks. Of Flemish ancestry, he was able to communicate in both Dutch and English and spent time working in the Netherlands. He died in Whitechapel, London in 1693 at the great age of 85. This pre-pendulum lantern clock with verge and balance is typical of mid-17th century London domestic clock making.