An identical quarter striking clock numbered 14880 is illustrated in Charles Allix & Peter Bonnert, Carriage Clocks, Antique Collectors' Club, 1974, p. 258, IX/26. That example is dated 1849/50 was made in the same limited batch as the present clock.

Judging by their scarcity, Dent made very few carriage clocks to this design; almost certainly because their movements with high-grade chronometer escapement and quarter strike would have been very expensive to produce. The case has a very comtemporary style; with its rounded mouldings, the use of clinical nickel-metal and Dent's highly individual split folding handle.

Edward John Dent (1790-1850) was one of the most celebrated Victorian clockmakers. Having served his apprenticeship under Richard Rippon he worked for Vulliamy and then for Arnold before joining the latter in partnership under the name of Arnold & Dent between 1820-30. In 1840 he set up on his own at 33 Cockspur Street, London and ran a business that went from strength to strength. His work included highly complicated watches, fine chronometers and best quality carriage clocks. However, he is still perhaps best known for winning the order for the construction of the Westminster Palace Clock, commonly known as Big Ben, which was completed by his step-son Frederick who inherited the business.