This rare antique clock form, which is typically referred to as a Lighthouse clock, was created by the renown clockmaker Simon Willard and patented in 1819 as an “Alarum Timepiece”. These sophisticated, high-style clocks were among the first American shelf clocks to offer the conveniences of an alarm. Simon Willard [born: Grafton Massachusetts April 3, 1753, died: Boston, Massachusetts August 30, 1848] was a highly prolific and innovative clockmaker for over sixty-five years and is responsible for a number of important refinements and patents which have forever impacted the form and function of American clocks. This example, which is signed on the porcelain dial “Simon Willard & Son’s / Patent”, was produced some time between 1823-26, during the partnership with his son Simon Willard Junior [1785-1874]. Antique lighthouse clocks are among the rarest clocks produced by Simon Willard; it is believed that less than one hundred examples survive.  A Simon Willard lighthouse clock in an elegant mahogany case with these fine ormolu mounts and medial collar is considered among the most highly prized forms by sophisticated collectors.