Chinoiserie Decorated Mantel Clock by Astral, Coventry

EDWARDIAN  MANTEL  CLOCK

Edwardian mantel clock housed in a chinoiserie decorated case with typical Chinese scenes on a red ground, standing on a raised plinth and resting on brass bun feet, surmounted by a bell top with brass carrying handle.

Engraved brass dial with raised, silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals and original ‘blued’ steels hands.

Eight day movement by ‘Astral, Coventry’ number 25943.  C.1910

In 1871 the firm of H.Williamson Ltd was founded by Henry Williamson in Coventry with offices and showrooms at 81, Farrington Road.  By 1903 Williamson had factories in Coventry, Salisbury and Buren (Switzerland).  In 1928 the firm began producing clocks under the name of ‘Astral’ with a clock key as the logo.  In the mid 1930’s mainly due to the world wide depression the company was forced into liquidation and became a part of the English clock and watch manufacturers which in turn later on was taken over by Smiths English Clocks.  Astral clocks were produced up until 1955.