Rare 1847 Elisha Manross tower clock featuring exceptional brass mainsprings
In the world of American clockmaking, the name Elisha Manross may not be as commonly known as other notable figures such as Seth Thomas, New Haven, or Waterbury. However, Manross was a significant pioneer in the development of Connecticut clockmaking, having started his career at the age of 20 in 1812.
Recently, a 30-hour time and strike Gothic Steeple clock by Elisha Manross (Ca. 1847) with original brass mainsprings has come to light. This clock, being the only one with rare brass mainsprings, will not be a daily runner and will instead be preserved for its historical value.
The history of brass mainsprings in American clocks is tied closely to the development of durable and mass-produced clock movements in the 19th century. Brass mainsprings became significant as an improvement over earlier wood movements and iron components, offering enhanced durability and enabling the widespread production of affordable clocks.
American clocks from roughly 1880 to 1930 typically used thick brass plates and powerful, overbuilt mainsprings, which contributed to their durability and long service life. These brass mainsprings were robust and often reusable even after years of service, making them a hallmark of rugged, long-lasting American clock design during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
However, the use of brass mainsprings began to decline with the introduction of tempered steel mainsprings for everyday clocks in 1847. Brass mainsprings were used in clocks from 1836 to 1850 due to the high cost of steel. The presence of original brass mainsprings in the Manross clock suggests a gentle life for the clock, as it was likely not used extensively due to the cost of the materials.
The clock has been carefully assembled, tested, and returned to its case. Four bushings were installed on the strike side of the movement due to significant wear, but a tooth repair was made on the movement, which looks sturdy and functions well. The clock's mainsprings, despite their age, still hold the energy needed to drive the clock and keep accurate time.
The preservation of this rare Elisha Manross clock is an important step in maintaining the history of American clockmaking. The clock's brass mainsprings, while no longer common in modern clocks, played a key role in the evolution of American clockmaking, reflecting advances in materials and manufacturing that helped transform clocks from luxury items into common household goods. The clock serves as a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of Elisha Manross and the American clockmakers of his time.
- The recently discovered rare Elisha Manross clock, dating from around 1847, is a prime example of vintage wall clocks that showcase the evolution of American clockmaking, featuring original brass mainsprings, a characteristic of home-and-garden lifestyle gadgets from the 19th century.
- The Manross clock's use of brass mainsprings, which were common in American clocks from approximately 1880 to 1930, highlights the role of technology and clock history in shaping American lifestyles, especially in home-and-garden setting, during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- As elite collectors appreciate the unique charm of vintage clocks such as the Manross clock, these historical home-and-garden pieces not only reflect the evolution of clock technology but also remind us of the role of remarkable clockmakers like Elisha Manross in the development of the widespread use of wall clocks in American households, marking an essential part of our technology and lifestyle history.
