Antique Clocks
Charles Edwin Inc.

Samuel Marks of Cowbridge, Wales

Good 19th Century mahogany longcase regulator, circa 1840

This clock was most probably made and used by Marks in his own clock repair shop, to time clocks on which he did work for clients. The large and substantial movement is very well crafted and has several features for long-term accuracy that most regulators don’t have.

Case: Regulators are usually housed in simple cases, and are normally short enough so that the dial can be seen from eye level for the most accurate readings. Marks’ clock is of that type, and is additionally veneered with fine crotch mahogany, indicating that it was almost certainly out for public view in his shop. The case features canted corners on the hood and trunk and simple bracket feet. The rear feet are replaced. The finish is old and in fine condition, and the mahogany has faded to an appealing light brown color.

Dial: Regulator dials are designed for maximum visibility in order to accurately time other clocks. The seconds display is in the top half of the 12 inch silvered brass dial, with prominent engraved lines at each five second interval, a pattern sometimes known as “observatory” design. Hours, which are of less concern, are in the bottom half of the dial, and minutes are engraved around the outer perimeter. Hands are blued steel and are original.

Movement: Marks’ very large and sturdy eight day timepiece movement is beautifully executed, with tall shaped and stepped plates, six handsomely turned pillars, and wheel work with six crossings throughout the train. The motion work is also fully crossed out, with four spokes. Escapement is anchor deadbeat and Harrison’s design of maintaining power is employed.















The pendulum uses a wood rod to resist temperature variation and a very large brass-faced lead bob. The rating nut is engraved one through 60 and is silvered, and is locked in place by a large brass knob. Beat adjustment is accomplished with very fine adjustment screws flanking the crutch, and the pallets are further centered in the escape wheel by a screw adjustment at the top of the crutch assembly. The weight is brass-cased lead.

Maker: Loomes shows that Samuel Marks practiced in the city of Cardiff until 1835, then in the nearby village of Cowbridge from 1835 to 1844. Peate’s Clock and Watch Makers in Wales shows him as working further in Bridgend from 1848 to 1868. This clock is signed Cowbridge and is of early 19th century design in general.

Circa 1840
6’ 1 ½” high