Discussion: Weekly Chat #38 - New Dial for Swigart Replacement
In a recent edition of Tick-Talk Tuesday, a series dedicated to addressing readers' clock-related questions and issues, DS wrote about a fascinating find - a well-preserved column and cornice clock with a mahogany case featuring half reverse Ogee moldings and a painted wooden Roman numeral dial.
The clock, which has a label stating it was manufactured and warranted by E. J. Swigart, has caught the attention of many due to its intricate design and the mirrored lower tablet. However, it seems that the history of E. J. Swigart, while respected for their replacement dials, is not as widely known when it comes to clock production.
E. J. Swigart was a company that primarily made parts for jewelers and watchmakers, not clocks themselves. They are best known for their replacement dials, which, interestingly enough, do not necessarily diminish the esthetic value of the clock they adorn.
Despite not being a clockmaker, E. J. Swigart's commitment to making replacement dials as original as possible has earned them respect within the horological community. However, there is no widely recognised documentation or collector reputation for this name regarding specific types of clocks or replacement dials.
For those interested in antique and vintage clocks, subscribing to relevant publications like Antique and Vintage Clocks will keep you updated with the latest posts sent straight to your email.
In the quest for answers about this mysterious clock, Tick-Talk Tuesday often seeks advice from fellow clock enthusiasts for challenging questions. In this case, it was discovered that the Daniel Pratt Jr. reverse ogee and splat clock, made in Reading, Massachusetts, between 1832 and 1838, shares similarities with DS's find.
The advice and help provided about the clock are priceless, not just for DS but for anyone who appreciates the craftsmanship and history that goes into each ticking second hand. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey into the world of antique clocks, resources like Tick-Talk Tuesday and dedicated communities can help unveil the secrets hidden within each ticking timepiece.
[1] Source: https://www.jstor.org/stable/26881880 [2] Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2802013/
Vintage clock enthusiasts might find the history of E. J. Swigart intriguing, considering their reputation for making replacement dials that complement the overall lifestyle and home-and-garden aesthetics of antique clocks. Their commitment to maintaining the originality of their dials has earned them respect within the horological community, making them a topic of interest for those who subscribe to publications like Antique and Vintage Clocks.
