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Clocks, Watches/Pearl University of Michigan Grandfather Clock

Expert: William J Perkins - 4/3/2010

Question

I recieved a grandfather clock from my uncle when he passed away. It is a Pearl clock with the university of Michigan seal on the pendulum and a small plaque on the front with my uncles name and "Christmas 1985" on the front. It plays three different tunes, one is westminster but I dont recognize the other two.One is abbrevatied "Whitt" and the other "St. Mich". I was hoping you could tell me what they are and any info on this particular clock since i cannot find much at all. Thank you very much for any help you might be able to give.

Answer
Whitt = Whittington, chimes of the Bow church composed by Sir Charles Stanford in 1905. StMich = St Michaels, chimes most likely come from St Micheals Church, Hamburg. The composer is unknown.
I believe this is a stock Pearl clock transformed into a presentation clock by the addition of the special pendulum and award plaque. This would indeed be a very desirable family heirloom.
Regards WJP