Expert: William J Perkins - 5/2/2009

Question
I am trying to find some info on a dome that has etched flowers equally spaced around the entire dome with the flowers lower in front of the clock face. It came with a prewar Kundo 400 day clock. My clockmaker has stated he has never seen one in 40 years. Any info is greatly appreciated. thank you

Answer
You don't see many of these domes simply because they are the frailest part of the clock.  They were often times broken or misplaced.  Several times during my lifetime jewelers often acid etched various sentiments on anniversary clock domes.  This was similar to the anniversary plates you are probably more familiar with.  I did some myself.  I doubt very much if there are any examples left.  In summation this was an art form performed by jewelers all over the country and went out of popularity along with the anniversary clock itself.  Regards WJP