After 1750 most common long case clocks were made by batch production methods. When large quantities of engraved or painted dials were required it became impractical to specify pillar positions individually, so shorter standard pillars, which were also less likely to work loose and ruin a painted dial, were provided by the dial maker, to mate with an intermediate or 'false' plate between the dial and movement. This false palte was originally made from sheet iron, later cast iron. It often carried its maker's name, and it could easily be provided with holes and pillars to unite the dial and movement.