Hanging Frisian Short-Tail Clock with Ships, circa 1820

A short-tail clock featuring movement, double striking mechanism, and alarm mechanism. The oak case with its short tail is a compact version of Frisian long-tail clocks, commonly referred to as "dikkop" (fat head). The painted iron dial has Roman numbers, brass hands indicate the time. At the top of the dial are two moving ships (two cutters) on moving waves. Painted shells flank the numeral ring. The striking mechanism has dual strikes: once on quarters and fully on hours and half-hours using two different bells. The alarm mechanism is powered by two small weights at the front. The movement has a runtime of 24 hours. Three decorative finials adorn the top of the case. The sliding panel has a round pendulum window without a lead ornament, indicating an early version of this short-tail clock.