Moncton's Double Spring Time Examination - Examining Position before Maintenance - Part 1
The Arthur Pequegnat Moncton wall clock, named after the City of Moncton in New Brunswick, Canada, stands as a testament to the country's rich horological history. This double-spring time-only wall clock, produced by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, is a cherished collectible and a symbol of early 20th-century Canadian craftsmanship.
Founded by Canadian clockmaker Arthur Pequegnat, the company was renowned for its blend of craftsmanship and Canadian identity. Operating primarily in the first half of the 20th century, the company gained a reputation for producing durable and stylish wall and mantel clocks. The Moncton model, in particular, is a reflection of these design and technological standards.
The Moncton clock, with its pierced spade hands and fumed quarter-sawn oak case, is 35 inches high and features a hinged 16-inch oak bezel door. Its simple, bold Arabic dial with a 12-inch diameter is a striking feature. The clock's movement, a double-spring time-only mechanism with a Graham deadbeat escapement running at 80BPM, ensures its accuracy, making it a reliable timekeeper.
The Moncton clock was commonly found in offices and train stations across Canada, reflecting its robust construction and conservative design. It is also associated with nationalism, as it was often named after towns and cities within Canada.
In exceptional condition for an 80+-year-old clock, the Moncton clock discovered by the author was in good condition with minimal wear. The lantern pinions are in very good condition, but the verge arbours might require bushing work. The dial glass, although showing the "waviness" typical of old glass, remains original.
The author's collection of Arthur Pequegnat clocks, while modest compared to a dedicated collector, includes eight pieces. The author plans to inspect the Moncton clock's movement more closely in the next part of this series.
In sum, the Arthur Pequegnat Moncton wall clock is significant both as a piece of Canadian industrial history and as a collectible antique clock, emblematic of early 20th-century Canadian craftsmanship in horology.
Vintage clocks, such as the Moncton wall clock, are cherished collectibles from the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, showcasing the blend of gadgets and technology in the early 20th century. This company, known for producing durable and stylish wall and mantel clocks, was renowned for its Canadian identity.