Catering to a different market than the purchasers of tall case clocks, shelf clocks cost substantially less due to the reduced amount of brass needed, and were made by most New England clockmakers by 1800. While many clockmakers chose simple pine boxes to house the less expensive clock, David Wood, working in Newburyport between 1792 and 1824, chose beautifully designed and well crafted cases. These clocks were elegant in form thus disguising their economy and continue to be highly desirable pieces. Due to construction and design, it is thougth that these cases originated from an as yet to be determined cabinetshop. For a related David Wood clock with a nearly identical crest see Albert Sack American Antiques from Israel Sack Collection (New York, 1979) Vol. VI, p. 1484, fig. P4533.