A South German miniature ‘Sorg’ wall clock with alarm, circa 1840

Description

Joseph Sorg

Cute, small and collectable. A clockmaker named Joseph Sorg started making these small clocks around 1830 in the Black Forest. His ‘unique selling points’ must have been small size and something hard to describe that come close to ‘endearing’. Although more makers started making this these small clocks, his name stuck to the type. The amusing thing is that many people still react very enthusiastically when they see this kind of clock, which proves that these selling points still apply. Small clocks are rare by definition, because a first clock in a house would be large enough to be looked at by the inhabitants. Since clocks were expensive, not many could afford a second, which explains why they are so rare. This small clock which has an alarm but lacks striking work probably was made for the sleeping quarters. But of course, you can hang it anywhere you like.

Roman numerals

The 4.7-cm enamel dial has Roman numerals. The engraved brass alarm disc is at the centre of the blued steel hands. The dial is fitted in a pressed brass surround with leaves in the corners and two eagles on quivers in the arch.

Alarm

The clock is driven by a weight and has a duration of a day. It is regulated by anchor escapement in combination with a pendulum. The alarm is located on the side of the movement.

Wooden case

The wooden case has doors on both sides that provide access to the movement. The clock hangs on the wall by means of a suspension hoop in combination with spurs. The back of the case is marked with the monogram R.I.F.