A Fine English Regency Derbyshire Black Marble Mantel Clock by Payne, 163 New Bond Street, London, Circa 1825 A refined and architecturally pure English Regency mantel clock in Derbyshire black marble and ormolu, signed by Payne, 163 New Bond Street, London, and dating to circa 1825. The design is a study in restrained English neo-classicism, clearly conceived in the sophisticated London taste associated with the great houses of the period and very much in the manner of Benjamin Vulliamy. The clock is formed as a simple cylindrical drum set upon a stepped rectangular plinth, the strong geometry and absence of superfluous ornament allowing the quality of materials and proportion to speak for themselves. The engine-turned ormolu dial is of exceptional refinement, with finely cut guilloché work radiating from the centre and framed by a delicately tooled outer chapter ring. The dial is signed beneath twelve o’clock, “Payne 163 New Bond Str.” It retains the elegant and distinctive blued steel heart-shaped hands associated with Payne’s work, their slender form providing a beautiful contrast against the warm gilded ground. The Roman numerals are crisply engraved and retain excellent definition. The eight-day single fusee movement is chain driven, of notably high quality, and fitted with a substantial pendulum. The backplate is fully engraved “Payne 163 New Bond Street”, confirming both authorship and retail address. The use of a fusee movement at this date reflects a commitment to precision and durability, distinguishing the clock from lesser spring-driven examples of the period. The case is executed in finely polished Derbyshire black marble (often referred to as “black marble” or “Ashford marble”), a material favoured in Regency England for its depth of colour and architectural severity. The ormolu bezel provides a subtle gilded accent, balancing the richness of the dial against the sobriety of the stone. Dimensions: Height: 10 inches (25.5 cm) Width: 11 inches (28 cm) Depth: 3 inches (7.5 cm)