Harben, Polhill & Newman – 1780
£2,850.00
A fascinating and historically important Sussex longcase clock, this rare example bears the names of Harben, Polhill and Newman — three figures connected with the thriving commercial life of Lewes at the turn of the 19th century. The dial inscription is particularly intriguing, as both Newman and Polhill are also known from other signed clocks, raising the possibility that they may have had some involvement in clockmaking alongside their wider business interests.
By this period, the “Harben” named on the dial was most likely Henry Harben, son of Thomas Harben, who had already departed Lewes. The existence of other finely made clocks signed “Newman” and “Polhill & Newman” suggests a notable local association as retailers, or business partners.
What seems certain is that this clock was produced to commemorate or promote the partnership between the three men and would have stood proudly within their premises on Cliffe High Street, formerly known as Herseys.
The beautifully proportioned oak case displays the distinctive hood mouldings associated with Lewes makers of the period, echoed very unusually in reverse at the base to create an elegant visual balance. Its slim trunk and refined silhouette give the clock a particularly graceful presence.
Discovered in a dilapidated condition in a barn near Alfriston, the clock has since been carefully rescued and sympathetically conserved, preserving a unique and evocative piece of Lewes and Sussex horological history.
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