Moncton's Arthur Pequegnat Brand Wall Clock
In the realm of Canadian horology, the Arthur Pequegnat Moncton wall clock stands as a notable piece of history, cherished by collectors for its craftsmanship, design, and cultural significance. This iconic timepiece, named after a city in New Brunswick, Canada, was produced by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, a prominent Canadian clock and watch manufacturer established in 1903 in Kitchener, Ontario.
History and Production Timeline
The Moncton model of wall clock was primarily manufactured during the 1920s and 1930s, a period when the company was expanding its line of quality, domestically made clocks. The Moncton was designed to be a reliable and visually appealing choice for middle-class Canadian homes and offices.
Design Features
The Moncton clock typically features a classic wooden case, often made from oak or walnut, with a rich, polished finish. It boasts an octagonal bezel, with a clear glass face that reveals a simple yet elegant dial adorned with Arabic numerals in an early 20th-century font. The clock movement is mechanical, featuring an 8-day wind mechanism, prized for its accuracy and durability. Some versions include additional design flourishes such as carved details or decorative inlays, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
Significance and Popularity Among Canadian Collectors
The Arthur Pequegnat Moncton wall clock is significant as a symbol of Canadian manufacturing heritage, representing a time when Canada had a thriving domestic clock-making industry. It is one of the few Canadian-made clocks still widely recognized and collected today, distinguishing it from many European or American brands.
Collectors prize the Moncton for its historical value, quality mechanics, and classic design, making it a desirable item for vintage clock enthusiasts and Canadian cultural historians. Its relatively limited production compared to mass-produced American clocks helps maintain its rarity and collectability. The clock often serves as a centerpiece in collections focused on Canadian antiques or early 20th-century timepieces, serving as a tangible link to Canada’s industrial and artisanal past.
Interestingly, the Moncton clock closely resembles the Seth Thomas #2 in size and shape but is spring-driven, making it an alternative to the #2. A video showcasing a collection of 11 Arthur Pequegnat clocks, including three beautiful wall clocks, is available on YouTube for those wishing to delve deeper into the world of these iconic timepieces.
Vintage clock enthusiasts often include the Arthur Pequegnat Moncton wall clock in their collections due to its historical significance and unique design. These wall clocks, cherished for their craftsmanship, are a testament to the bountiful Canadian horology tradition in the early 20th century. Additionally, the Moncton clock, with its classic wooden case and mechanical 8-day wind mechanism, aligns well with the lifestyle and fashion-and-beauty preferences of those who appreciate home-and-garden antiques, symbolizing a sense of nostalgia and rootedness.
