This is a Victorian figural or novelty clock in the form of a shell, made by the British United Clock Company in Birmingham, & dating to around 1890.

The movement has almost certainly been overwound & is not running.

The 'case' is made from embossed metal, with a gilt finish, & is in the form of a large scallop type shell.

The face has a gilt metal surround with a twisted rope detail to it's edge, & has it's original bevelled glass.

The dial has a porcelain chapter ring with Arabic numerals & minute markers. The centre of the dial has a Gilt roundel with a raised design of a crescent moon & stars, with a makers mark lozenge at the bottom containing 'BU' over C Co'. The hands are original.

The rear of the clock has two scroll wire legs & an extended 'drum' which holds the movement. The base of the drum has a knob which turns the hands, & is impressed with 'WIND (& a right facing arrow)' & 'PATD IN GREAT BRITAIN & FRANCE - MADE BY THE BRITISH UNITED CLOCK Co LD - BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND'.

The base cap twists off to reveal a tightly wound spring (please see magnified photo). The case is attached to the drum via two screws, which (I think) would allow access to the face & movement.

Condition of the clock, other than it not running, is good. The dial, hands, & glass are Fine with no damage. The gilt finish to the body is rubbed in places & has faded over it's 110 years (either grubby or a nice patina - depending on your point of view!).

The clock measures approx 5 3/4" high & 6" wide (approx 14.7cm & 15.2cm), with a face diameter of approx 2 1/4" (5.7cm).