Expert: Michael Radi - 11/28/2011

Question
Good morning Mr. Radi,

I received a Bentima Floor Clock that Stand just a little over 48 inches.  I have been trying to learn more about it, and this site is the first site where I actually found info that really helps.

My question is whether you have seen a Bentima like the one I am sending by email.  I am trying to determine its age.  It is very similar to Art Deco style, but I don't see the word Perivale.  It has beautiful chimes that chime on the quarter hour and another sound on the hour.  On the front of the clock is the word "Bentima" and made in England.

I hope so much you can help me.  

Best Regards,
Rosey

Answer
I have one similar. It's called a granddaughter clock because it is shorter than a grandmother clock. You have already figured out much of what I know about these clocks. You are right about it being in the Art Deco style. It is probably from the late 1920s to somewhere in the 1930s.
I'm more of a clock parts and repair person than I am historian so I don't recognize the names you gave. I can tell you that the face is typical of the era. As soon as I saw the photo I knew what you had.
Here is one thing I have always noticed about these clocks: If yours is like mine it has a very short pendulum drop for a clock as tall as this. Based on my impression of the one I own and other English clocks of this era is that it is a typical mantle clock movement put it in a taller case. In fact, if you only look at the top section of the clock it looks exactly like an English mantle clock.
Also, because the clock case if very light and most of the weight is at the top in the movement these can tip over very easily. I put some bumpers on the front to tilt the clock back a bit. Mine fell over forward and smashed the glass a few years ago. Fortunately for me, that was the only damage to it.
I hope you enjoy yours as much as I do mine and that this information helps you.