Evaluating the motion before mechanical maintenance in Moncton during the double spring period - Part 1
Article Title: The Rare and Significant Arthur Pequegnat Moncton Wall Clock
The Arthur Pequegnat Moncton wall clock is a historically significant timepiece, hailing from the Canadian firm, the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company. Operating in Kitchener, Ontario, between 1904 and 1941, this company was a beacon of Canadian clockmaking during the early 20th century.
Founded by Canadian immigrant Arthur Pequegnat, the company became renowned for manufacturing high-quality mechanical clocks that are now considered rare and collectible artifacts of Canadian clockmaking heritage. One such example is the "Moncton" model, named after the city of Moncton in New Brunswick, Canada.
The Moncton clock, with its solid construction, robust movements, conservative designs, and nationalistic appeal, was often found in offices and train stations across Canada. It is associated with a time when Canadian clock manufacturing stood shoulder to shoulder with European and American counterparts.
The Moncton clock boasts a double spring time-only movement with a Graham deadbeat escapement, running at 80 beats per minute. It features a 12-inch Arabic dial with simple, bold numbers, pierced spade hands, and a fumed quarter-sawn oak case. The pendulum access door, 14 1/2 inches high by 10 3/4 inches wide, swings to the right. The clock stands 35 inches high, with a hinged 16-inch oak bezel door that also swings to the right.
The Moncton clock, with its exceptional condition for an 80+-year-old clock, was discovered in an antique store located in Bloomfield, Ontario, in the fall of 2018. For a collector, the acquisition of the Moncton clock was a rare find, marking the addition of another precious piece to their collection of Arthur Pequegnat clocks.
The collector's collection, totalling 8 clocks, is modest compared to a dedicated collector's collection. However, for a beginner, the collector's collection provides a good starting point, offering a glimpse into the intricate world of Arthur Pequegnat clocks.
The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Co. produced various clocks, but the Moncton model is not commonly found. This rarity adds to the allure of the Moncton clock, making it a cherished piece for any collector of Canadian-made antique clocks.
[1] Source: Canadian Clock & Watch Museum, www.canadianclockmuseum.com
Vintage clocks, such as the Moncton model from the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, are often sought after by collectors, adding gadgets like the Moncton clock to their collections. Despite the company producing multiple timepieces, wall clocks like the Moncton are not frequently found, making technology advancements seem less appealing when compared to the timeless appeal of these rare pieces.
