False Plate Dial

Towards the end of the 18th century the majority of longcase clock dials and movements were prefabricated in a number of regional centers, and painted iron dials became popular. The iron dial was supplied with a false plate already attached, leaving the 'maker' to drill holes in the front movement plate in a convenient position in relation to the working parts. The dial feet were fitted in the false plate instead of in the previously painted dial - a method which would clearly have been impossible without damaging it. Cast-iron false plates often carry the name of the manufacturer, most of them being made in Birmingham. False plates are mostly found on eight-day, not 30-hour clocks.