Skip to main content
Thomas Mercer Classis Clock
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Thomas Mercer Classis Clock
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Thomas Mercer Classis Clock

Artifact SeriesHead of State Gifts
Artifact IDFO.108903
Object Type Chronometer
Manufacturer (Founded 1858)
Designer (Founded 1986)
Gifter
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Maker (British)
Medium metal (brass, gold, stainless steel), wood (ebony, satinwood), glass (crystal), gemstone
DimensionsOverall H 15 in x Diam 16 1/2 in (38.1 cm x 41.9 cm )
Physical DescriptionChronometer in the shape of a large sailboat winch, with a round base, concave satinwood panels supporting a smaller circular timepiece. Gold plated casing, brass dial, crystal glass dome, and gold inlaid names of ships that made significant voyages. The clock has two map face complications with historic (1569) map engravings in silver. The facades of the timepiece memorializes historical ships that embarked upon significant voyages of discovery.
Historical NoteThis item was received by President Barack Obama from the King of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud, during a diplomatic exchange at the White House in September 2015.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a foreign official to President Barack Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts of State (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view
    Related Links