WILLIAM LEE of LEICESTER c1740

(1715-1744)

William Lee was a clockmaker who worked in Leicester between 1715 and 1745. A number of high quality clocks are known by him, including a superb 3 train walnut cased clock dating from around 1740, illustrated and described in Tom Robinson’s Book, “The Longcase Clock” (p263-265). 

This fine example of his work is very similar in many respects to the one Robinson describes, being in the London style of the 1720’s and having the same slender proportions, fine sound frets, relatively long side windows, and double skirting to the plinth. The oak case is decorated in the chinoiserie style in red lacquer and this has been restored, probably in the early 20th century.

The high quality 5 pillar movement has inside countwheel striking, and is unusual in having the fifth pillar located in the upper half of the movement, to the right of the escape wheel. The dial is boldly engraved, with wheatear decoration to the edge, and has a rather unusual brass crown fitted to the bottom of the arch.

Height; 89” (226cm)

SOLD

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