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Live
Venue address
Dreweatts
Donnington Priory
Newbury, Berkshire
RG14 2JE
United Kingdom
Fine Clocks, Barometers and Scientific Instruments
This is a live online auction with auctioneer. For details on registration, bidding, viewing & condition reports, click “Important information” link.
Auction dates
Mar 25, 2025 10:30 AM GMT
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Mar 21, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM GMT
Mar 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM GMT
Mar 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM GMT
Mar 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM GMT
Mar 25, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM GMT
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Featured lots
We found 155 items matching your search
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Ɵ WHITE, GEORGE
ENGLISH LANTERN CLOCKS
Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1989, dj.
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Ɵ RADAGE, DENNIS; MEINEN, WARNER AND RADAGE, LAILA
THROUGH THE GOLDEN AGE, CHARLES GRETTON...
CLOCK & WATCH MAKERS Limited edition from a run 900, Three O'clock Publishing, Vancouver 2016, dj, (sealed in cellophane wrapping).
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Ɵ HOROLOGICAL PUBLICATIONS MOSTLY RELATING TO EARLY ENGLISH HOROLOGY
SIX VOLUMES:
Robinson, Tom THE LONGCASE CLOCK Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1981, later quarter bound with gilt titled brown Morocco spine; Dawson, P.G., Drover, C.B. and Parkes, D.W. Early English Clocks Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1982, later quarter bound with gilt titled brown Morocco spine (matching the previous volume); White, George English Lantern Clocks Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1989, dj; Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 Mayfield Books, Ashbourne 2014, dj; Lloyd, H. Alan THE ENGLISH DOMESTIC CLOCK ITS EVOLUTION AND HISTORY published by the author, signed and inscribed by the author, Birmingham 1938; and Hurcomb, W.E. The Wetherfield Collection OF 222 CLOCKS SOLD BY W.E. HURCOMB ON 1 st May, 1928 FOR £30,000 published by the author, London 1929, gilt titled red cloth, (6).
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Ɵ HOROLOGICAL REFERENCE BOOKS MAINLY ON ENGLISH CLOCKS
THIRTEEN PUBLICATIONS:
Symonds, R.W, THOMAS TOMPION HIS LIFE AND WORK The Hamlyn Publishing Group Limited, London 1969, dj; Cescinsky, Herbert and Webster, Malcolm R. ENGLISH DOMESTIC CLOCKS The Hamlyn Publishing Group Limited, London 1969, dj; Cescinsky, Herbert OLD ENGLISH MASTER CLOCKMAKERS AND THEIR CLOCKS George Routledge and Sons Limited, London 1938; Dawson, P.G., Drover, C.B. and Parkes D.W. Early English Clocks Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1982, binding incomplete; Royer-Collard, F.B. SKELETON CLOCKS N.A.G. Press Limited, London 1969, dj; Roberts, Derek BRITISH SKELETON CLOCKS Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1987, dj; Hawkins, J.B. THOMAS COLE & VICTORIAN CLOCKMAKING Published by the author, Sydney 1975; Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their History and development Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1974, dj; Beeson, C.F.C. ENGLISH CHURCH CLOCKS 1280-1850 Brant Wright Associates Limited, limited first edition numbered 207 , Ashford 1977; Edwards, Ernest L. The Grandfather Clock John Sherratt and Son Limited, Altrincham 1974, dj; Clutton, Cecil; Baillie, G.H. and Ilbert, C.A. BRITTEN'S OLD CLOCKS & WATCHES AND THEIR MAKERS ninth edition, Bonanza Books, New York 1956; Howse, Derek THE TOMPION CLOCKS AT GREENWICH AND THE DEAD-BEAT ESCAPEMENT reprint from December 1970 and March 1971 issues of 'Antiquarian Horology', The Antiquarian Horological Society, London undated, staple bound, and Roberts, Derek An Exhibition of:- PRECISION PENDULUM CLOCKS, JUNE 1986 Derek Roberts Antiques, Tonbridge 1986, softbound, (13).
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Ɵ HOROLOGICAL REFERENCE BOOKS MAINLY ON LONGCASE CLOCKS
NINE VOLUMES:
Robey, John THE LONGCASE CLOCK REFERENCE BOOK, VOLUME 1 and VOLUME 2 1st edition, Mayfield Books, Ashbourne 2001, both with dj and in titled marbled card slipcase, Loomes, Brian GRANDFATHER CLOCKS and their cases signed by the author, David and Charles, Newton Abbot 1985, dj; Robinson, Tom THE LONGCASE CLOCK Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1981, dj; Edwardes, Ernest L. The Grandfather Clock John Sherratt and Son Limited, Altrincham 1980, dj: Loomes, Brian PAINTED DIAL CLOCKS Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1997, dj; Barder, Richard C.R. ENGLISH COUNTRY GRANDFATHER CLOCKS, The Brass dial Longcase Bracken Books Limited, London 1983, dj; Cescinsky, Herbert and Webster, Malcom R, ENGLISH DOMESTIC CLOCKS facsimile reprint of the 1913 edition, Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1976; Rose, Ronal E. ENGLISH DIAL CLOCKS Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1978, dj, and Britten, F.J. OLD ENGLISH CLOCKS, THE WETHERFIELD COLLECTION limited edition numbered 723 out of 1,000 copies, Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1980, gilt tooled faux hide, (9).
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Ɵ HOROLOGICAL REFERENCE BOOKS
TEN VOLUMES:
White, George English Lantern Clocks Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1989, dj; Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1974, dj; Robinson, Tom THE LONGCASE CLOCK Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1985, dj; Rose, Ronald E. ENGLISH DIAL CLOCKS Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1978, dj; Distin, William H. and Bishop, Robert THE AMERICAN CLOCK, A Comprehensive Pictorial Survey 1723-1900 With a Listing of 6153 Clockmakers E.P. Dutton and Company Incorporated, New York NY 1976, dj; Baillie, G.H., Clutton, C. and Ilbert, C.A. BRITTEN'S Old Clocks and Watches and their Makers E. and F.N. Spon Limited, London 1969, dj; Joy, Edward The Country Life Book of CLOCKS Country Life Limited, London 1967, dj; Baillie, G.H. WATCHMAKERS & CLOCKMAKERS OF THE WORLD N.A.G. Press Limited, London 1969, dj; Bassermann-Jordan, Ernst Von and Bertele, Hans Von THE BOOK OF OLD CLOCKS AND WATCHES translated by H. Alan Lloyd, George Allen and Unwin Limited, London 1964 (ex. Public library), and Kos, Wolgang and others HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE VIENNA MUSEUM OF CLOCKS AND WATCHES Wien Museum, Vienna 2010, softbound, (10).
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Ɵ WHITE, GEORGE
ENGLISH LANTERN CLOCKS
Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1989, 1st and only edition, gilt titled blue cloth, dj; together with copies of Loomes, Brian LANTERN CLOCKS & Their Makers Mayfield Books, Ashbourne 2008, gilt titled maroon cloth with dj; Darken, Jeff and Hooper, John English 30 Hour Clocks, Origin & Development 1600-1800 limited edition signed by both authors and numbered 38/ 50, Penita Books, Woking 1997, gilt titled blue cloth with slipcase; Bruce, Bill EARLY ENGLISH LANTERN CLOCKS 1615-1700 exhibition catalogue published by the author, with price list and signed by John Hooper, Lewes 2003, silver titled blue card soft binding; Bruce, Bill EARLY ENGLISH LANTERN CLOCKS 1600-1700 exhibition catalogue published by the author, with price list, Lewes 2013, silver titled maroon card soft binding, (5).
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Ɵ HOROLOGICAL BOOKS RELATING TO CARRIAGE CLOCKS
THREE PUBLICATIONS:
Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1974, dj; Roberts, Derek CARRIAGE and Other Travelling CLOCKS Schiffer Publishing Limited, Atglen PA 1993, dj, and Christies, South Kensington The Dr. Eugene and Rose Antelis Collection of Important French Carriage Clocks auction catalogue, London, Thursday 26 th November 1998, dj, (3).
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Y A GROUP OF CLOCKMAKER'S HAND TOOLS
VARIOUS MAKERS, MOSTLY MID TO LATE 19 th CENTURY
Comprising a jeweller's piercing hand saw with adjustable steel frame and turned wooden handle; a Lancashire pattern small hacksaw; three small hammers; two steel pliers including a small pair stamped ANGLAIS ; three screwdrivers including one with ebony handle stamped J. HOWARTH, CAST STEEL and another stamped H. STIMPSON, LONDON , and a pivot broach, (10).
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A SWISS LARGE BRASS CLOCKMAKER'S DEPTHING TOOL
UNSIGNED, LATE 19 th CENTURY
The 10.25 inch spring-loaded hinged two-piece frame with two pairs of steel sliders and adjusted via a screw mounted to one side, contained together with an associated small brass perpendicular pivot accessory in original tooled red leather box inscribed COMPAS 8 POUCES to lid.
The box 33cm (13ins) wide, 13cm (5ins) high, 13cm (5ins) deep.
Provenance:
Acquired by the vendor from the workshop of Charles Hobson. Previously with the watchmaking firm Le Cheminant who, in turn, had acquired the workshop of the celebrated Jump family of clockmakers.
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A SMALL DRAWER CABINET CONTAINING A LARGE COLLECTION OF SCREWS FOR USE IN CLOCK RESTORATION
THE SCREWS MOSTLY ENGLISH, LATE 17 th CENTURY AND LATER, THE CABINET LATE 19 th CENTURY
The stained pine cabinet with hinged lid over three banks of small drawers containing a mixture of salvaged and recently cut screws for securing fitments such as backcocks, bell stands etc., together with smaller steel screws, a group of brass square-headed lantern clock type screws, a selection of longer threaded lengths and a quantity of brass collets, washers etc., (qty).
The cabinet 25.5cm (10ins) wide, 11cm (4.25ins) deep, 9cm (3.5ins) high.
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A SMALL DRAWER CABINET CONTAINING A COLLECTION OF LONGCASE CLOCK HANDS
MOSTLY LATE 18 th CENTURY AND LATER
Including a selection of 19 th century brass 'bright cut' hands, and a group of cut steel blanks of mostly early 18 th century pattern, (qty)
The cabinet 34cm (13.5ins) high, 24cm (9,5ins) wide, 16cm (6.25ins) deep.
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69
A COLLECTION OF FUSEES, SPRING BARRELS AND YELLOW BRASS WHEEL BAR-STOCK FOR USE IN CLOCK RESTORATION
18th CENTURY AND LATER
Comprising eighteen salvaged fusees, sixteen salvaged barrels (all but one without caps), ten short lengths of cast yellow brass wheel stock, a large quantity of discs cut from bar stock contained in a small pine five-drawer cabinet, three new clock mainsprings and a small quantity of other sundry items, (qty).
The cabinet 31cm (12.25ins) high, 26.5cm (10.5ins) wide, 31cm (12.25ins) high.
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A COLLECTION OF SIXTEEN LONGCASE AND LANTERN CLOCK BELLS
LATE 17 th CENTURY AND LATER
The largest measuring 15cm (6ins) in diameter.
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A SELECTION OF LONGCASE CLOCK PENDULUM COMPONENTS
EARLY 18 th CENTURY AND LATER
Comprising nine brass-faced lenticular pendulum bobs, another tin-faced, a bundle of eight pre-used pendulum rods/shafts (including six fitted with suspension springs) and a stock of approximately forty unthreaded pendulum rods, (qty).
The largest pendulum bob 14cm (5ins) diameter.
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A PAIR OF DARK BROWN PATINATED BRASS-CASED EIGHT-DAY CLOCK WEIGHTS
ANONYMOUS, PROBABLY LONDON, EARLY 18th CENTURY
Both with rounded bases, flat caps and drilled posts for suspension.
Each 6cm (2.375ins) diameter, the first 20.5cm (8ins) approx. long excluding suspension post, the second 21cm (8.25ins).
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A PAIR OF BRASS-CASED EIGHT-DAY CLOCK WEIGHTS
ANONYMOUS, PROBABLY LONDON, MID TO LATE 18th CENTURY
Each with shallow-dome base opposing conforming cap unusually decorated with concentric ring-turned mouldings beneath drilled post for suspension.
Each 6cm (2.375ins) diameter, 20cm (7.75ins) approx. long excluding suspension post.
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TWO PAIRS OF CAST LEAD EIGHT-DAY CLOCK WEIGHTS
ANONYMOUS, LATE 18 th CENTURY AND LATER
The first pair with concentric ring-moulded tops, the second pair with shallow-dome tops and bases, (2).
Each pair 6cm (2.375ins) diameter, the first pair 18cm (7ins) and 16.5cm (6.5ins) long respectively excluding suspension loops, the second pair both 19cm (7ins long) excluding hooks.
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AN EDWARDIAN INLAID MAHOGANY CLOCK BRACKET
ATTRIBURED TO EDWARDS AND ROBERTS, LONDON, EARLY 20 th CENTURY
With complex moulded inverted breakfront platform over pair of concave-profile bellflower trial and satinwood crossbanded supports each terminating with acanthus scrollwork, set in front of an arched back panel further inlaid with a Classical mask flanked by delicate foliate scrolls.
The top recess 38cm (15ins) wide, 27.5cm (10.75ins) minimum depth; 31cm (12.25ins) high overall.
The present lot used to support a matching quarter chiming bracket clock signed for Edwards and Roberts of London which was stolen from the vendors property many years ago.
Condition Report:
Minor bumps, scuffs, scratches, slight shrinkage and other blemishes commensurate with age and use.
Condition Report Disclaimer
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A VICTORIAN GILT AND SILVERED BRASS DIAL FOR A QUARTER-CHIMING BRACKET CLOCK
DENT, LONDON, CIRCA 1870
The recessed 7.5 inch circular silvered Roman numeral centre engraved DENT, 61 Strand &, 34 Royal Exchange, London over 1739 to centre, set within foliate scroll engraved shallow-arch gilt brass mask incorporating conforming recessed silvered subsidiary STRIKE/SILENT selection dial over FAST/SLOW regulation lever slot to upper margin; together with a brass 4.375 inch shaped-arch single-sheet Roman numeral dial engraved J.W. BENSON, 25 OLD BOND STREET, LONDON to centre, and a further brass dial applied with 4.5 inch Roman numeral chapter disc with star-pierced centre, (3).
The Dent dial 28cm (11ins) high, 20.3cm (8ins) wide overall.
Edward John Dent was a talented horologist who at the age of 17 transferred his apprenticeship from the trade of tallow chandler to watchmaking under the charge of Edward Gaudin in 1807. By 1817 he had become well known as a watch and clockmaker receiving commissions from the Admiralty for a 'Standard Astronomical Clock' and pocket chronometers for the Colonial Office Africa Expedition. In 1830 Dent went into partnership with the renowned watch and chronometer maker John Roger Arnold which continued until 1840 when he left and set up business alone as E.J. Dent at 82 Strand, London, primarily making marine chronometers, watches and precision clocks. In 1843 the firm expanded taking on a second premises at 33 Cocksur Street, with the Strand premises moving down the road to number 61 by 1851.
In 1852 Edward Dent successfully tendered to make the 'great clock' to be housed in Stephen's tower at the New Palace of Westminster. The clock was completed by 1859, apparently at a financial loss to the firm, however it ensured that Dent became a household name synonymous with fine clockmaking. Unfortunately Edward John Dent did not live to see the installation of the 'great clock' as he died in 1853. He was succeeded by his stepson Frederick Rippon Dent, who, in partnership with his brother Richard, continued to expand the business. By 1862 the firm had added 34 Cockspur Street and 34 & 35 Royal Exchange to their list of addresses and, although having seen natural passage of ownership over the intervening years, the business still continues to trade today as Dent & Co.
Dent started a new sequence of numbering for their clocks, watches and chronometers in 1876, starting at number 38,000.
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A GEORGE I EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCK MOVEMENT AND DIAL
JOHN DRAPER, LONDON, CIRCA 1720
The five finned pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement for regulation by a seconds pendulum, the 11.75 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial and foliate scroll border engraved calendar aperture to the Ho-Ho bird decorated matted centre, within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and fleur-de-lys half hour markers, with scroll pierced steel hands and herringbone border engraved surround to the plate including the arch, centred with a silvered boss engraved JOHN, DRAPER, LONDON within leafy surround over Silent/Strike selection switch, (lacking spandrels, pendulum and weights).
41cm (16.375ins) high excluding later extension piece to the arch, 30cm (11.75ins) wide, 13cm (5ins) deep overall.
John Draper is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as apprenticed in 1695, gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1703 and working in London until 1726.
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A WILLIAM III MONTH DURATION LONGCASE CLOCK MOVEMENT AND DIAL
GEORGE ETHERINGTON, LONDON, CIRCA 1695-1700
The six finned and latched pillar bell striking movement with high-position external countwheel and anchor escapement for regulation by a seconds pendulum, the 12 inch square brass dial with subsidiary seconds dial, scroll decorated calendar aperture and ringed winding holes to the finely matted centre, within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with sword hilt half hour markers, small Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track and signed Geo. Etherington, London to lower margin, with elaborate scroll pierced steel hands, the angles applied with winged cherub and foliate scroll cast spandrels incorporating foliate scroll engraved infill to margins between, (no pendulum or weights).
31cm (12.125ins) square, 14cm (5.5ins) deep including seatboard.
George Etherington is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as being made a Free Brother of the Clockmakers' Company in 1684 having previously being apprenticed to Robert Rooksby possibly in Newcastle-on-Tyne or York. In 1689 he moved from the 'Dial in Fleet Street' to 'against the New Church in the Strand', London. In 1697 he signed the Oath of Allegiance and became an Assistant of the Clockmakers' Company in 1701, Warden in 1706 and finally Master in 1709. He attended until at least 1720 and is thought to have died in 1729.
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A QUEEN ANNE EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCK MOVEMENT WITH TEN-INCH DIAL
SAMUEL WORLEY, STARTON, CIRCA 1710
The five pillar inside countwheel bell striking movement with anchor escapement for regulation by a seconds pendulum, the 10 inch square brass dial with ringed winding holes to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with fleur-de-lys half hour markers, Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and signed Simon, Worley, Starton, Fecit to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hands and unusual winged cherub, Lambrequin and foliate scroll cast spandrels to angles, (no seatboard pendulum, weights or pulleys).
28cm (11ins) high including the bell, 15cm (6ins) deep.
Samuel Worley is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as working in Starton (believed to be Staverton, Wiltshire), circa 1700-1720.
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A GILT BRASS ANNULAR ARMILLARY SPHERE ORRERY TIMEPIECE
DEVON CLOCKS, EXMOUTH, CIRCA 1991
The horizontal eight-day movement with tandem barrel drive and inverted platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance applied to the underside of the top plate, set beneath silvered annular Roman numeral hour and subsidiary minutes ring reading against a single blued steel arrow-shaped hand, the superstructure modelled with an armillary sphere enclosing a heliocentric orrery simulating the relative orbits of six planets around the sun against a meridian scale calibrated in degrees to interior and with the months of the year to exterior, the orrery motionwork contained between circular plates incorporating a shaped subplate and driven by an external pinion arbor engaging with one of the barrel greatwheels of the timepiece movement beneath, The top plate engraved Devon Clocks, ENGLAND, No. 1056/1500 , the whole raised on a concave lacquered brass pedestal foot with turned wooden plinth incorporating integral winding key to underside; with original glass dome cover set on a separate turned mahogany base; with Certificate of Authenticity dated 23rd September 1991 and instruction papers.
The timepiece 44cm (17.25ins) high, 19cm (7.5ins) diameter; the dome and stand 47cm (18.5ins) high, 23cm (9ins) diameter at the base.
Devon Clocks is the trade name for timepieces produced by Devon Instruments Ltd which was initially formed in 1946 as a commercial outlet for products and services emanating from the horological workshop at St. Loye's College, Exeter. Comprising mostly of individuals with a disability, over 85 people were employed in their heyday. In 1976 Devon Instruments acquired the business of Charles Frodsham Limited and continued in their tradition of producing mechanical clocks made to traditional designs. The present timepiece was designed by John Mercer of Exeter and was produced in a limited run of 1500 examples from around 1980.
Condition Report:
Timepiece is in fine, clean fully working condition having been recently serviced. Dome is undamaged and the wooden plinth is in good original condition.
Timepiece is complete with integral winding key.
Condition Report Disclaimer
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A LACQUERED BRASS MINIATURE CONGREVE-TYPE ROLLING BALL TIMEPIECE
DEVON CLOCKS, EXMOUTH, No. 273 CIRCA 1985
The five columnar-pillar movement with pediment-shaped pierced plates enclosing going barrel wheel train incorporating platform lever escapement regulated by sprung balance planted on the inside of the frontplate, and further twin going barrel train for driving the rolling ball platform tilt mechanism, the backplate stamped Devon Clocks, ENGLAND, No 273/500 , the pierced dial panel matching the outline of the movement and applied with central white enamel Roman numeral chapter ring annotated with cruciform half hour markers and with blued steel hands, flanked by conforming smaller day-of-the week ring to the left opposing Arabic seconds to the right, the plates applied with lugs projecting forward and each end capped with turned spire finials aligned over four cast brass column uprights, supporting the movement above a shaped aluminium table balance set between central pivots and with zig-zag track for the rolling ball, with trip-release levers to enable the table to be tipped via motive power applied by crank drive from the movement at the end of each run of the ball down the track, on stepped brass plate set on original wooden plinth with three screw feet for level adjustment and with five-glass wooden-framed cover.
24cm (9.5ins) high, 23cm (9ins) wide, 14.5cm (5.75ins) deep.
Devon Clocks is the trade name for timepieces produced by Devon Instruments Ltd which was initially formed in 1946 as a commercial outlet for products and services emanating from the horological workshop at St. Loye's College, Exeter. Comprising mostly of individuals with a disability, over 85 people were employed in their heyday. In 1976 Devon Instruments acquired the business of Charles Frodsham Limited and continued in their tradition of producing mechanical clocks made to traditional designs.
The present timepiece is inspired by the deign patented by William Congreve in 1808.
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Estimate
1,200 - 1,800 GBP
AN ARCHITECTURAL LACQUERED BRASS CONGREVE-TYPE ROLLING BALL TIMEPIECE
THWAITES AND REED, LONDON, No. 38 CIRCA 1972
The four columnar-pillar single fusee movement with pediment-shaped plates incorporating sub-plate for the under-dial motionwork, and bevel-gear arrangement applied to the backplate to facilitate transverse winding via a square positioned to the rear left of the movement, the dial panel applied with central silvered minutes ring annotated with Arabic ten minutes, flanked by conforming Arabic numeral hour ring to the left and seconds to the right, set within an elevated tympanum enclosing the movement, adorned with fluted corner panels and capped with anthemion cast acroteria finials over ogee top mouldings, the entablature with projecting cornice and architrave forming the rectangular frame top panel, raised on four cast brass Corinthian inspired columns enclosing a table balance set via pivots on a central post and with zig-zag track for the rolling ball, with trip-release levers to enable the table to be tipped via motive power applied by crank drive from the movement at the end of each run of the ball down the track, on substantial stepped cast brass skirt base applied with silvered maker's plate inscribed Thwaites. & Reed to front, set on original ogee edge moulded wooden plinth with brass screw feet for level adjustment, and with rectangular Perspex cover; with folder containing instructions and correspondence with the original owner.
48cm (19ins) high, 48cm (19ins) wide, 32cm (12.5ins) deep overall.
Provenance:
Ordered direct from Thwaites and Reed Limited of 15 Bowling Green Lane, London, by a Mr. T.B. Whiting of Newark, Nottinghamshire, in May 1971.
The clockmaking firm Thwaites and Reed can be traced back to Ainsworth Thwaites who was apprenticed in 1735 and worked from Rosoman Row, Clerkenwell, London 1751-80. He was an accomplished maker who supplied the clock for the tower at the Horse Guards Parade. His son, John, was born in 1757 and took over the business presumably on the death of Ainsworth in 1780 before moving to Bowling Green Lane. He entered into partnership with Jeremiah Reed in 1808 and the firm subsequently became well known for supplying all forms of clocks and movements either wholesale for others to retail or signed by themselves. The partnership continued under John Thwaite's leadership from several addresses in London until his death in 1842. The business has subsequently passed through a series of successors and is still trading today from Rottingdean near Brighton.
The present timepiece is from a limited run of 100 examples and is based on the design patented by William Congreve in 1808.
Condition Report:
Timepiece is complete and in clean condition with no visible evidence of alteration or notable replacements. The movement is currently wound and the table will tip/oscillate but will require some fettling/adjustment to the trip and crank mechanism before it will run reliably. The dials retain original silvering in good condition with the centre exhibiting some slight oxidation/mellowing only. The frame retains original finishes in very good condition having only a few light spots of discolouration. The Perspex cover has a slight scratch to the inside near the lower edge to the rear which could no doubt be polished-out otherwise is in fine condition. The wooden plinth/stand is in fine original condition with only minor wear and slight mellowing to the brass fittings.
Timepiece is complete with winding key, ball bearing and paperwork.
Condition Report Disclaimer
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A WALNUT CASED COMMEMORATIVE 'DANIEL QUARE' MODEL MONTH GOING QUARTER-CHIMING TABLE/BRACKET CLOCK
F.W. ELLIOTT FOR GARRARD, LONDON, CIRCA 1970
The nine pillar triple fusee movement with graduated split frontplate and chiming a choice of three tunes on a graduated nest of eight bells for the quarters before sounding the hour on a further larger bell, the going train with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance set within an aperture to the backplate inscribed Elliott, London to centre, with scroll inscribed decoration to three corners and numbered 17/250 to lower margin, the 7 inch wide rectangular gilt brass dial with oval plate engraved Garrard to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with cruciform half hour markers, Arabic five minutes to outer track and inscribed MADE IN, ENGLAND to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hands and winged cherub mask and scroll cast gilt spandrels to angles with the upper two interrupted by subsidiary FAST/SLOW regulation and CHIME/SILENT selection dials, beneath arch centred with WESTMINSTER/WHITTINGTON/WINCHESTER chime selection dial flanked by conforming mounts, the case with hinged gilt brass carrying handled pierced with DQ monogram to the uprights applied to cavetto over convex caddy superstructure and with double cavetto top mouldings, the hinged front with 6.5 inch break-arch glazed dial aperture with cockbeaded surround and with conforming bordered fretwork panels to upper quadrants, the sides with further shaped sound frets over break-arch windows, the rear flush with rectangular glazed door set within the frame of the case, on moulded skirt base with full depth moulded pad feet.
40cm (15.75ins) high with handle down, 25.5cm (10ins) wide, 16cm (6.25ins) deep.
The present lot was made in a limited edition of 250 examples by F.W. Elliott for Garrard, the Crown Jewellers, to commemorate the anniversary of Daniel Quare who was gained his Freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1671.
Condition Report:
Movement is complete, appears free from alteration or noticeable replacements but is in fairly neglected condition hence a clean/service is required. The timepiece is running and the quarter and strike trains are operational albeit a little lazily and prone to sometimes not tripping. The minute hand around 1 minute out of sync (ie. sounds around 1 minute after the hour/quarter). There also appears to be an automatic silencing function that prevents the clocks striking between 11pm and around 9am. The dial appears to be in very good original condition with minimal oxidation to the silvering only. The case is also in very good original condition with faults very much limited to a few very slight bumps, scuffs and scratches only.
Clock does not have a winder present; no case key or pendulum are required.
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A SWISS PIERCED GILT BRASS HORIZONTAL ALARM TIMEPIECE
JAEGER 'RECITAL', MODEL No. 106 THIRD QUARTER OF THE 20 th CENTURY
The circular eight-day back-wound movement with hand and alarm setting discs, regulation screw, and alarm STOP switch to rear cover, stamped with serial number B, 1269 over model number 106 to lower margin, the 1.75 inch circular cream Roman numeral dial with alarm setting sector over JAEGER, RECITAL and 8 within a circle to centre, with scroll-pierced hands set behind convex plexi-glazed cavetto moulded bezel, the circular gilt case with hinged convex cover cast and pierced to resemble filigree within a moulded rim, over conforming band to waist set within cavetto top and bottom mouldings.
7cm (2.75ins) diameter, 4cm (1.5ins) high.
Condition Report:
Timepiece is running, we have not been able to test over a long period of time so cannot vouch for the accuracy of its timekeeping. The alarm is also in working order and the setting/winding functions all seem to operate as they should. The dial is free from any visible defects. The case is in very good original condition with only very slight wear/rubbing evident to the underside of the base rim and where the lid contacts with the case on closing. Otherwise blemishes are very much limited to minor build-up of grime in areas.
Timepiece is complete with integral winding key.
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS AND CLOISONNE ENAMEL CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
UNSIGNED, CIRCA 1900
The eight-day single train movement with replaced platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance, the backplate numbered 117 to inside lower edge, the circular slightly convex cream enamel dial with vertically aligned Arabic numerals and blued steel spade hands set within a rectangular polychrome enamel mask decorated with floral sprays within a powder blue ground and cobalt border interrupted by cream spandrels at the angles, the frosted gilt brass bevel-glazed case with chain-link decorated hinged square baton handle over small top glass, cavetto cornice and chain-link frieze, the angles with channelled uprights and the rear with hinged glazed door, on outswept skirt base further decorated with a chain-link band; with an English cast gilt brass carriage timepiece, Fema, London, late 20 th century , the eight-day movement with platform lever escapement regulated by monometallic balance and stamped FEMA, MADE IN ENGLAND to backplate, the white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel hands, the bevel-glazed case with hinged leaf cast carrying handle over top glass set within convex superstructure decorated with cherub inhabited foliate scrolls, with architectural uprights to angles over rococo scroll cast base; and a gilt brass and faux lapis lazuli desk timepiece, Jaeger-LeCoultre, mid to late 20 th century, with single train movement set behind rectangular dial applied with stylised gilt Roman numeral chapter ring onto a faux lapis ground signed JAEGER-LECOULTRE to centre, in a simple rectangular glazed frame case with stepped platform base, (3).
The first timepiece 11.5cm (4.5ins) high with handle down, 7.5cm (3ins) wide, 5.5cm (2.5ins) deep; the second 14cm (5.5ins) high with handle down, 10cm (4ins) wide, 9cm (3.5ins) deep; the third 14cm (5.5ins) high, 11.5cm (4.5ins) wide, 3.5cm (1.375ins) deep.
Provenance :
The Estate of a deceased Gentleman.
Condition Report:
The first timepiece - movement is reasonably clean and in working condition; a precautionary gentle clean service is probably advisable. As catalogued the escapement has been replaced. The dial appears free from visible damage. The case is in good condition with only very small chipping to the upper left hand corner of the left glass visible with the naked eye; the frosted gilt finish has some localised tarnishing/discolouration and the front uprights were probably inset with chain link decoration to the leading edges which are no longer present.
Timepiece has a winding key.
The second - Mainspring is 'slipping' hence requires replacement; the winding click spring is also broken, otherwise movement appears to be in sound reasonably clean condition but would probably require a gentle clean/service at the time of repair. The dial appears free from visible faults and the case is in fine condition with faults limited to slight rubbing/localised discolouration to the gilt finish.
Timepiece does not have a winding key.
The third - the winder turns without resistance indicating that the mainspring is broken. Movement otherwise appears sound but will probably require a gentle clean/service at the time of repair. Dial is in fine original condition. Case has patchy oxidation to the finish otherwise is in good original condition.
Timepiece has an integral (attached) winding key.
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A FRENCH/SWISS LAQUERED BRASS GORGE CASED CALENDAR CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH PUSH-BUTTON REPEAT AND ALARM
L'EPEE, SAINTE-SUZANNE, FRANCE, LATE 20th CENTURY
The eight-day two train gong striking movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance, the inside of the frontplate stamped with serial number 00001466 , the backplate with alarm to upper left and stamped with circular L'Epee, 1889 crossed swords trademark to centre over MADE IN FRANCE, 11 ELEVEN JEWELS UNADJ. to lower margin, the rectangular white enamel Roman numeral dial inscribed L'Epee, Fondie en 1839, Sainte-Suzanne, France to centre and with Arabic five minutes to outer track, over subsidiary alarm setting dial flanked by further day-of-the-week and date-of-the-month dials, the bevel-glazed gorge case with hinged carrying handle over full-width top glass, trip-repeat button to front rail, channel-moulded uprights, and pin-hinged door to rear, on ogee-outline base.
15cm (6ins) high with handle down, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide, 8.5cm (3.375ins) deep.
Condition Report:
Movement is in clean working condition. The alarm is out-of-sync with the hands (approx. 2 hours out) and the strike train often only strikes once at the hour (but repeats fine) suggesting that the rack is sticking - hence the movement requires a gentle clean/service. The subsidiary calendar dials are advancing correctly shortly after midnight. The dial appears free form any visible faults and the case is also in fine original condition with no visible chips or other damage to the glasses and light oxidation to the brass (mostly to the mounding bordering the top glass) only.
Clock is complete with a winding key.
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TWO FRENCH MINIATURE CARRIAGE TIMEPIECES
ONE STAMPED WITH INITIALS L.D., CIRCA 1900 AND LATER
Each with eight-day single train movement incorporating platform lever escapement regulated by sprung balance, the oval example stamped L.D. within an oval to the top left-hand corner of the backplate, both with rectangular white enamel dials, the first of Mignonette No. 1 size in rectangular bevel-glazed case with hinged carrying handle over double-cavetto top mouldings, channelled corner uprights and moulded skirt base, the second of slightly larger oval form with thick curved glasses and moulded base, (2).
The oval example 8.5cm (3.375ins) high with handle down, 6.5cm (2.5ins) wide, 6.8cm (2.25ins) deep.
Such Miniature timepieces are called Mignonettes or 'little darlings' and mostly come in three graded sizes with No. 1 being the smallest.
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AN UNUSUAL FRENCH BRASS CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE WITH TWIN CALENDAR INDICATION
UNSIGNED, CIRCA 1900
The eight-day single train movement with replaced platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance, the rectangular white enamel dial with blued steel moon hands over twin subsidiary dials for day-of-the-week in French and date-of-the-month to lower margin, the bevel glazed obis case with hinged carrying handle and caddy-moulded uprights; with a French gilt brass carriage timepiece with alarm , unsigned, with replaced platform lever escapement and white enamel Arabic numeral hour disc set within gilt mask with alarm setting dial to lower margin, in an obis case and with leather-covered travelling case; and a French gilt brass carriage clock, probably by Emile Gay and Georges Lamaille, Paris, circa 1900, with eight-day gong-striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and stamped with E.G.L. oval trademark and PARIS to centre over serial number 3054 to lower left hand corner, with white enamel Arabic numeral chapter ring within a rectangular gilt mask to dial, the gilt corniche case with hinged carrying handle and caddy moulded uprights to angles, (3).
The calendar timepiece 11.5cm (4.5ins) high with handle down, 8.5cm (3.125ins) wide, 7cm (2.75ins) deep.
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THREE FRENCH GILT BRASS CARRIAGE TIMEPIECES
ALL UNSIGNED, CIRCA 1900
Each with eight-day single train movement, one with platform cylinder escapement the other two with replaced lever platforms, the dials with circular cream enamel chapter rings incorporating vertically orientated Arabic hour numerals and blued steel spade hands, set within gilt masks with the largest applied with foliate scroll-pierced fretwork overlay, in bevel glazed cases of varying design but incorporating 'filigree' fretwork overlay to frieze and apron, the largest also with turned finials over reeded columns to angles; the smaller two with leather covered protective travelling cases, (3).
The largest 14cm (5.5ins) high with handle down, 8cm (3.125ins) wide, 6.7cm (2.625ins) deep.
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A GROUP OF FIVE VARIOUS FRENCH TOOLED MOROCCO LEATHER-COVERED CARRIAGE CLOCK CARRYING CASES
ANONYMOUS, LATE 19 th CENTURY
Including one for a Mignonette carriage timepiece, (5).
The largest 16.5cm (6.5ins) high, 12cm (4.75ins) square; the smallest 10cm (4ins) high, 7.2cm (2.875ins) square.
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AN UNUSUAL FRENCH RENAISSANCE STYLE CAST AND PATINATED BRASS REPEATING CARRIAGE/MANTEL CLOCK
UNSIGNED, LATE 19 th CENTURY
The rectangular eight-day two train gong striking movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance, the backplate stamped with serial number 37540 to lower left hand corner, the circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with blued steel fleur-de-lys hands and set within rectangular cast and pierced brass bezel decorated in the 16 th century manner with stylised dolphins flanking a vacant enamel roundel to apron and strapwork scrolls to upper quadrants, the case with pierced dome surmount incorporating push-repeat button to the top of the vase-shaped finial, over four curved sections forming the cupola each decorated with an urn planted with flowering foliage, set on a platform enclosed by a baluster gallery with paired spire finials to angles, over architectural entablature decorated with grotesque masks and foliate scrolls to frieze incorporating projections positioned beneath each of the finials at the angles, the corner uprights cast with paired stylised Baroque female terms flanking glazed dial aperture panel to the front, the sides and rear each with copper-oxide patinated panels cast in relief with Renaissance style armoured warriors on horseback, the rear panel hinged with opening enabled via a push-button clasp to the underside of the case, on moulded skirt base with lions paw feet.
23.5cm (9.25ins) high, 13cm (5ins) square at the base.
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS AND CHAMPLEVE ENAMELLED SMALL MANTEL TIMEPIECE IN THE LOUIS XV TASTE
UNSIGNED, PROBABLY PARIS, CIRCA 1900
The circular eight-day single train movement with replaced platform lever escapement vertically planted on the backplate adjacent to stamped initials L.R opposing serial number 488 , the 2 inch circular slightly convex white enamel dial with concentric polychrome floral swag painted garlands bordering the vertically orientated Arabic hour numerals, with scroll pierced and engraved pierced brass hands set behind a hinged engine milled cast convex bevel-glazed bezel, the case with rococo scroll pierced surmount to the ogee-shaped superstructure decorated in cobalt and sky blue with acanthus designs over conforming scroll crest and shouldered mounts bordering the fascia incorporating further blue foliate enamel infill beneath the dial, the sides with conforming serpentine-shaped enamel panels and the rear with circular glazed movement aperture within scroll relief cast surround, on integral scroll cast bracket feet with conforming shaped apron to front between.
22cm (8.75ins) high, 11cm (4.25ins) wide, 6.5cm (2.5ins) deep.
Condition Report:
Movement is in relatively clean working condition although a precautionary gentle clean/service is probably advisable if intending to put into long term service. As catalogued the escapement is a replacement. Dial is vert presentable but has some very light hairline cracks near 2 o'clock numeral, slight shipping at the centre and some very light surface scratches; all these faults are only visible on very close examination. Case is in very good condition with no noticeable losses or significant cracks/chips to the enamel, indeed damage is limited to only a couple of very slight surface defects and age-related blemishes only visible on close examination. The gilding is mostly worn away probably from historic cleaning and the rear cover does not 'snap' secure when it is closed.
Timepiece has a winding key.
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS AND CHAMPLEVE ENAMEL FOUR-GLASS MANTEL CLOCK
JAPY FRERES, PARIS, CIRCA 1895
The circular eight-day two train gong striking movement with Brocot type anchor escapement regulated by polychrome enamel rosette decorated disc bob pendulum incorporating Brocot type regulation to suspension, the backplate stamped with JAPY FRERES & CIE, G'DE MED. D'HONNEUR roundel over MADE IN FRANCE and numbers 6691, 4 8 to lower margin, the circular dial with conforming enamel polychrome rosette decorated centre within gilt chapter ring incorporating vertically orientated Arabic cartouche numerals, with blued steel stylised trident hands within a polychrome scroll enamelled bezel surround, the rectangular bevel-glazed case with twin handled urn surmount incorporating cream, blue and pink enamelled foliate decorated cap and gadrooned waist to the geometric band decorated stepped upstand flanked by four part-enamelled ball finials to the projecting rounded angles and a pair of large conforming finials for the side columns, over geometric panel centred polychrome enamelled frieze incorporating engine-milled rounded angles and filigree bands to sides, free-standing part enamelled reeded columns to corners flanked larger foliate enamel cylinder shafted columns to sides incorporating engine-milled caps and bases, on skirt base matching the frieze flanked by plinths for the side columns and with disc feet; with original moulded giltwood stand.
The clock 37.5cm (14.75ins) high, 22cm (8.75ins) wide, 15cm (6ins) deep; the clock on stand 42cm (16.5ins) high, 27cm (10.7ins) wide, 18.5cm (7.25ins) deep.
The firm of Japy Freres et Cie was founded by Frederick Japy in 1774 who set-up a modest workshop in Montbeliard as a watch and machine tool maker. Japy expanded his business rapidly and by 1804, the year he was awarded the Legion d Honneur by Napoleon (in recognition for his Brevets in horological machinery), he employed 300 people at his manufactory in Beaucourt. From 1806, he took five of his sons into partnership and the firm expanded adding buildings at Badevel and La Feschotte amongst others to become one of the largest makers of clocks in Europe. The business continued into the Twentieth century but during the inter-war period went into decline and is thought to have finally wound-up in around 1940. A detailed history of Japy Freres et Cie is provided in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development chapter VI pages 133-48. Japy personally examined his best clocks and graded them accordingly, the current lot was inspected and set at 'A1' the best possible.
Condition Report:
Movement is in relatively clean full working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements; a precautionary gentle clean/service is advised. Dial has some light rubbing near the winding holes and two small areas of touching-in to the gilt finish adjacent to the 11 and 12 numerals otherwise is in fine original condition. The case is generally in good original condition retaining original gilding albeit muted and with some edge wear evident. The enamel is generally in very good condition with the only notable defect being a small losses to the band bordering the edge of the upstand at the left hand corner. The front door glass has a slight shallow chip to lower right-hand corner and the right hand panel has a small chip/loss to the front lower corner otherwise glasses appear free from visible damage. The giltwood stand has edge wear to the velvet lining of the top surface as well as touching-in with gilt paint around the top edge otherwise faults are limited to rubbing/wear to finish.
Clock is complete with pendulum and a winding key.
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A FRENCH SMALL MALACHITE INSET BELGE NOIR MARBLE MANTEL CLOCK WITH ANEROID BAROMETER AND THERMOMETER
THE MOVEMENT BY JAPY FRERES, PARIS, LATE 19 th CENTURY
The circular two train eight-day bell striking movement with platform cylinder escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance vertically planted on the backplate next to stamped diamond lozenge mark H.P. & Co. 2650 and serial number 9844 to left-hand margin, over stamped roundel JAPY FRERES & CIE, G'DE MED. D'HONNEUR to lower margin, the 3 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel moon hands within key pattern cast surround set behind a hinged bevel-glazed cast brass bezel, the break-arch case with cavetto cornice over aneroid barometer set beneath the clock dial incorporating circular white enamel register annotated in barometric inches and with the usual observations to the upper half, and applied with curved mercury tube FAHRENHEITS THERMOMETER to thelower half, set behind bevel glass with brass recording pointer to centre, with malachite quadrant infill and inscribed scrolling gilt lines to fascia flanked by recessed stylised scroll outline side sections, the rear with hinged brass portal for the clock movement over further fixed disc behind the barometer, on canted moulded breakfronted skirt base inset with further malachite diamond lozenge within inscribed stylised gilt scroll decorated panel infill.
25.5cm (10ins) high, 21cm (8.25ins) wide, 11.5cm (4.5ins) deep.
The firm of Japy Freres et Cie was founded by Frederick Japy in 1774 who set-up a modest workshop in Montbeliard as a watch and machine tool maker. Japy expanded his business rapidly and by 1804, the year he was awarded the Legion d Honneur by Napoleon (in recognition for his Brevets in horological machinery), he employed 300 people at his manufactory in Beaucourt. From 1806, he took five of his sons into partnership and the firm expanded adding buildings at Badevel and La Feschotte amongst others to become one of the largest makers of clocks in Europe. The business continued into the Twentieth century but during the inter-war period went into decline and is thought to have finally wound-up in around 1940. A detailed history of Japy Freres et Cie is provided in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development chapter VI pages 133-48.
Condition Report:
Movement is in relatively clean working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements; a service may be advisable at some point in the relatively near future. The dial is free form visible damage. The barometer responds to increase in pressure when bag tested hence appears to be in working condition; the thermometer tube is filled and also appears to be in working order. The case has a small loss to the malachite lozenge inset into the fascia of the skirt as well as two vertical cracks to the adjacent panel. There is also a small corner chip to the fillet moulding to the upper right of the same panel; otherwise faults to the case are very much limited t a few very small edge chips and some discolouration/tarnishing to the brasswork of the bezels.
Clock does not have a winding key.
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1,500 - 2,000 GBP
A FRENCH GILT BRASS MANTEL CLOCK INSET WITH FINE PORCELAIN PANELS
UNSIGNED, PARIS, CIRCA 1880
The rectangular two train eight-day gong striking movement with Brocot type anchor escapement regulated by disc bob pendulum incorporating Brocot type regulation to suspension, the backplate with stamped serial number 5256 over 6.4 , the rectangular gilt painted porcelain dial panel with polychrome armorial crest painted centre within cobalt blue shaped line edged Roman numeral chapter ring and with steel fleur-de-lys hands, over a painted outdoors scene of two gentlemen in seventeenth century style dress seated on benches and playing a game on a trestle, beneath gilt sky infill decorated with repeating raised cruciform motifs, the rectangular satin gilt case with ogee over cavetto top mouldings above hinged bevel-glazed front door, plain gilt uprights and side panels polychrome painted with full length portraits of a bearded male opposing a female each in richly coloured seventeenth century style dress, the rear with frosted glazed door matching the front, on generous ogee moulded skirt base with pad feet.
35cm (13.75ins) high, 21cm (8.25ins) wide, 16cm (6.25ins) deep.
Condition Report:
Movement is in fine clean fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. Dial has some very slight rubbing/scratching to the chapter ring area otherwise appears free from visible defects. The case is in fine condition with both the side panels free form visible defects and damage limited to a small chip to the lower right hand corner of the front door glass. The gilding to the case is generally I fine condition.
Clock has a pendulum but no winding key.
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A FRENCH OXIDISED AND GILT BRASS NOVELTY AUTOMATON WINDMILL TIMEPIECE
ATTRIBUTED TO ANDRE ROMAIN GUILMET, LATE 19th CENTURY
The eight-day single train circular timepiece movement with platform cylinder escapement regulated by monometallic balance vertically planted on the backplate next to stamped serial number 1776 , the 2.25 inch circular silvered brass Roman numeral dial with recessed gilt centre and blued steel hands set behind hinged bevel-glazed bezel, positioned beneath an aneroid barometer with conforming gilt centre and silvered scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations set behind conforming bevelled glass incorporating a recording pointer, the case modelled as a windmill tower with conical roof over arrangement of four revolving sails powered by a spring-barrel driven movement positioned within the base of the structure, the slightly flared cylindrical upright rendered with bonded blocks and applied with mercury tube FAHRENHEIT opposing incomplete CENTIGRADE and REAUMUR scale thermometers to the sides, the circular plinth base with foliate pierced brass gallery over hinged miniature door enclosing the winding square for the windmill sail movement flanked by dummy windows, with moulded brass skirt set on a circular black marble plinth, (one thermometer tube lacking).
The tower 41cm (16.25ins) high, 47cm (18.5ins) high overall, 17cm (6.75ins) diameter at the base.
Andre Romain Guilmet was born on the 10th of December 1827 in La Ferte-Gaucher, France. He was a credited as a watchmaker and inventor who specialised in producing novelty and mystery clocks for which he applied for a number of patents for designs. Amongst his other Patents was that for a bicycle where the driving chain was set below the seat. He is best known for his 'mysterieuse' figural clock with glass pendulum, this takes the form of a woman holding pendulum in her outstretched hand and arm over a marble base containing the clock below. The pendulum is impulsed by the mechanism underneath her that moves the figure imperceptibly from side to side (see following lot). Guilmet's industrial series of clocks, which includes the current lot, features automated clocks in the form of windmills, lighthouses, automobiles, boats, steam hammers, boilers, etc.; another 'windmill' automaton timepiece from this series is illustrated in Roberts, Derek Mystery, Novelty and Fantasy Clocks figure 22-28.
Condition Report: The timepiece movement is in relatively clean working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or replacements. The windmill-sail motor is also in working condition however both this and the timepiece movement would probably benefit from a gentle clean/service. We have been unable to 'bag test' the barometer as one of the screws that hold it in place will not withdraw when turned hence cannot be easily removed form the case. However the reading appears not to have moved whilst it has been with us and reading is on the low side - hence we suspect that the aneroid chamber is compromised and will need calibration at the very least. The right-hand thermometer tube is intact and filled with mercury; the left hand is missing. The case is lacking its finial and there is some bending/delamination to the structure of the sails. The marble plinth has a few slight edge chips otherwise the case is in sound unrestored condition but with historic rubbing and heavy oxidation to the finish throughout.
Timepiece has two winding keys.
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AN INCOMPLETE FRENCH SILVERED AND GILT BRASS NOVELTY AUTOMATON WINDMILL TIMEPIECE
ATTRIBUTED TO ANDRE ROMAIN GUILMET, LATE 19th CENTURY
The eight-day single train circular timepiece movement with platform cylinder escapement regulated by monometallic balance vertically planted on the backplate next to stamped serial number 2693 , the 2.25 inch circular silvered brass Roman numeral dial with recessed gilt centre behind hinged bevel-glazed bezel, positioned beneath a BAROMETRE ANEROIDE with conforming gilt centre and silvered scale calibrated in millimetres of mercury and with the usual observations in French set behind conforming bevelled glass incorporating a recording pointer, the case modelled as a windmill tower with the slightly flared cylindrical upright rendered with bonded blocks and applied FAHRENHEIT opposing CENTIGRADE and REAUMUR thermometer scales to the sides, the circular plinth base with foliate pierced brass gallery over hinged miniature door enclosing the winding square for the spring-driven windmill sail automata movement contained within flanked by dummy windows, with moulded brass skirt set on a circular black marble plinth, (sail assembly and one thermometer tube lacking, automaton pully system incomplete).
The tower 41cm (16.25ins) high, 47cm (18.5ins) high overall, 17cm (6.75ins) diameter at the base.
Andre Romain Guilmet was born on the 10th of December 1827 in La Ferte-Gaucher, France. He was a credited as a watchmaker and inventor who specialised in producing novelty and mystery clocks for which he applied for a number of patents for designs. Amongst his other Patents was that for a bicycle where the driving chain was set below the seat. He is best known for his 'mysterieuse' figural clock with glass pendulum, this takes the form of a woman holding pendulum in her outstretched hand and arm over a marble base containing the clock below. The pendulum is impulsed by the mechanism underneath her that moves the figure imperceptibly from side to side (see following lot). Guilmet's industrial series of clocks, which includes the current lot, features automated clocks in the form of windmills, lighthouses, automobiles, boats, steam hammers, boilers, etc.; another 'windmill' automaton timepiece from this series is illustrated in Roberts, Derek Mystery, Novelty and Fantasy Clocks figure 22-28.
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A FRENCH GILT AND SILVERED BRASS NOVELTY 'QUARTERDECK' MANTEL CLOCK
GUILMET, PARIS, LATE 19th CENTURY
The eight-day gong striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by compound pendulum with upper crossed spring suspension for the figural bob and stamped GLT, BREVETTE, S.G.D.G. trademark over serial number 1742 to backplate, the circular gilt Roman numeral dial with steel spade hands and canted bezel set into the cabin elevation of the case modelled as the stern of a ship with upper poop deck applied with binnacle compass before a figure cast as a sailor at the helm rocking from side-to-side with the motion of the pendulum, with curved balustrading behind terminating with lantern posts to sides over lower deck accessed via a ladder to the left and with another figure of a mariner gathering rope from a coil to the right, on moulded gilt base applied onto stepped black marble plinth with gilt block feet.
30cm (11.5ins) high, 29cm (11.5ins) wide, 22cm (8.75ins) deep.
Andre Romain Guilmet was born on the 10th of December 1827 in La Ferte-Gaucher, France. He was a credited as a watchmaker and inventor who specialised in producing novelty and mystery clocks for which he applied for a number of patents for designs. Amongst his other Patents was that for a bicycle where the driving chain was set below the seat. He is best known for his 'mysterieuse' figural clock with glass pendulum, this takes the form of a woman holding pendulum in her outstretched hand and arm over a marble base containing the clock below. The pendulum is impulsed by the mechanism underneath her that moves the figure imperceptibly from side to side.
Guilmet's industrial series of clocks, which includes the current lot, features automated clocks in the form of windmills, lighthouses, automobiles, boats, steam hammers, boilers, etc. A Guilmet 'quarterdeck' clock is illustrated in Roberts, Derek Mystery Novelty and Fantasy Clocks on page 225 (figs. 22-2 a-d); and another (number 1653) was sold in these rooms on 6th September 2022 (lot 92) for £9,500 hammer.
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A VICTORIAN MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER
JOHN POOLE, LONDON, CIRCA 1860
The circular four pillar single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape and seconds wheels, Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by split bimetallic balance with cylindrical compensating weights and Poole-type auxiliary compensation, helical palladium balance spring and jewelled endstone, the spotted backplate with spring set-up ratchet and blued-steel pillar and backcock securing screws, the inside of the backplate and reverse of the dial mounting plate both stamped 3211 , the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial at six o'clock, below signature John, Poole, MAKER TO THE, ADMIRALTY, Fenchurch St., London. 3211 across the centre and DOWN/UP, 0-56 power reserve dial beneath twelve o'clock, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to rear and stamped with matching serial number 3211 to interior, mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into a brass reinforced mahogany three tier box with glazed top to middle tier, shaped-brass capped top corners, inset ivorine plaque inscribed JOHN POOLE, 57 Fenchurch Street, London, No. 3211 to the front, inset strap reinforced angles, and recessed brass carrying handles to sides.
19cm (7.5ins) high, 18.5cm (7.25ins) wide, 18.5cm (7.25ins) deep.
John Poole junior is recorded in Betts, Jonathan MARINE CHRONOMETERS AT GREENWICH... as born to his father of the same name, also a chronometer maker, in 1818 at Clerkenwell, London. He trained (alongside his brother, James) under his father competing his apprenticeship in around 1839. He worked in the family business making in chronometers whilst his brother, James, set-up alone predominantly making watches. Following the developments of James Eiffe and Robert Molyneux, with regards to 'affixes' to the balance to address the issue of middle temperature error compensation, John Poole invented his own mechanical addition, which proved much simpler in its design and most effective. In 1842 John Poole wrote to the Astronomer Royal outlining his wish that design of affixes were to be made available to all makers, hence from that point onwards his system became the most widely used.
John Poole senior died in 1844 leaving the family business in the hands of John junior who continued from their Brunswick Terrace address until he was forced to re-locate (to make way for railway expansion) moving several times up until finally settling at 57 Fenchurch Street in 1856. During the 1860's John Poole's business enjoyed great success at the Greenwich trials resulting in significant orders form the Royal Navy and, via his Boston agent Simon Willard junior, supplied no less than 22 chronometers destined for the U.S. Navy. In addition to this the firm also exhibited at the various international exhibitions where they awarded a bronze medal at the 1855 Paris Universal Exhibition, and another at the 1862 London International Exhibition. John Poole's greatest award however was a gold medal won at the Paris Exposition of 1867. Sadly later that year John Poole junior took his own life leaving the business under the management of his wife, Maria, who continued with the support of James Poole, and her apprenticed son Thomas, until around 1884. The 57 Fenchurch Street business was subsequently apparently taken-on by the chronometer Maker Duncan McGregor and Company by 1887.
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A VICTORIAN MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER
DENT, LONDON, CIRCA 1850-55
The circular four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel, Earnshaw-type spring detent escapement, unusual bimetallic balance incorporating angled affixes for middle temperature error compensation, brass timing screws to circumference and cylindrical weights, helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with spring set-up ratchet applied to the curved mainspring pivot plate, blued backcock and pillar securing screws, and signed DENT, LONDON, Chronometer Maker to the QUEEN, No. 2372 in a curve to the outer edge, the 3.625 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial beneath signature DENT, LONDON, Chronometer, Maker, to the QUEEN., No. 2372 across the centre and WIND/UP , 0-48 power reserve dial at twelve o'clock, with gold spade hands and secured by a convex-glazed screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with pivoted dust-cap covered winding hole to underside and stamped DENT over 2372 to interior, mounted via gimbals into a mahogany three tier box with typsy winding key, the inside of the top tier applied with an E. DENT & Co... trade label, the middle tier applied with fired enamel roundel inscribed DENT, 2372 to the front over lock with brass rectangular escutcheon plate and the sides with hinged with carrying handles.
15cm (6ins) high, 15cm (6ins) wide, 15cm (6ins) deep.
Edward John Dent was a talented horologist who at the age of 17 transferred his apprenticeship from the trade of tallow chandler to watchmaking under the charge of Edward Gaudin in 1807. By 1817 he had become well known as a watch and clockmaker receiving commissions from the Admiralty for a 'Standard Astronomical Clock' and pocket chronometers for the Colonial Office Africa Expedition. In 1830 Dent went into partnership with John Roger Arnold which continued until 1840 when he left and set up business alone as E.J. Dent at 82 Strand, London, primarily making marine chronometers, watches and precision clocks. Dent subsequently opened further shops at 33 Cockspur Street and 34 Royal Exchange, London by 1846. Edward John Dent is perhaps best remembered as being awarded the commission in 1852 to build the clock for the tower at the Palace of Westminster (more commonly termed Big Ben); but died in 1853 before the mechanism was completed and leaving his business to be divided between his two stepsons Richard Edward and Frederick Dent.
The design of the balance of the current lot does not appear to conform to known designs and variously discussed in the usual sources. The affixes to the balance take the form of bimetallic arms applied to each end of the balance segments pointing towards the centre and fitted with small screw weights beneath the balance spring. This clearly rare form of balance may warrant further investigation to ascertain whether it is experimental in nature, or a short-lived variant used by various makers at this time.
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A FINE AND RARE GEORGE III ONE-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER WITH TRANSITIONAL PART FIRED-ENAMEL DIAL
JOHN ROGER ARNOLD, LONDON, NO. 215 CIRCA 1804
The circular four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel, Arnold spring detent escapement with detent set within a tapered slot cut in the backplate and secured via a screwed foot, Arnold Z-type bimetallic balance with compensating nuts mounted on extensions to each rim segment and paired brass timing screws to circumference, helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with spring set-up ratchet applied to the curved mainspring pivot plate, blued backcock and pillar securing screws, and signed John R. Arnold. London, N. 215, Inv'et Fecit in a curve to the outer edge, the 3.625 inch circular silvered brass Roman numeral dial signed Arnold, London No. 215 over inset slightly convex circular white enamel subsidiary seconds dial inscribed 215 to the centre and with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with blued steel hands and secured by a convex-glazed screw-down bezel into a brass bowl with winding hole to underside, mounted via gimbals into a later purpose-made mahogany three tier box with a winding key, the exterior with square brass escutcheon plate and flush hinged brass carrying handles to sides; together with the original mainspring (now removed and replaced due to weakness) scratch engraved Robert Clark Nov 1 to inside edge.
18cm (7ins) high, 17cm (6.75ins) wide, 17cm (6.75ins) deep.
Provenance:
The property of a private collector.
John Roger Arnold is recorded in Betts, Jonathan MARINE CHRONMETERS AT GREENWICH... as born in Greenwich in February 1769 and apprenticed to his father in 1783. In 1792 he was sent to Paris to work with A.L. Breguet who was known to/friendly with John Arnold senior. John Roger took-on the majority of the workings of the business at 102 Cornhill, London, from around 1796 and succeeded his father on his death in 1799; by the following year the workshops had been transferred to new premises at Dalston, east London. In 1805 John Roger Arnold presented the Board of Longitude with his Explanation of Time Keepers constructed by Mr Arnold , to qualify for the £3,000 longitude award which corresponded to an equal amount allocated to Thomas Earnshaw at that time. The business was moved to John Roger Arnold's house at Chigwell in 1816. The following year he was appointed Master of the Clockmakers' Company, and in 1821 he was credited with the invention of the 'U' shaped compensated chronometer balance. In 1830 Arnold took Edward John Dent into partnership (after the unfortunate demise of his adopted son and likely successor); the partnership lasted ten years before being dissolved leaving Arnold to work alone until his death in 1843. The business was subsequently acquired by Charles Frodsham.
The present chronometer was produced soon after the death of John Arnold in 1799 by his son John Roger Arnold. The dial is particularly notable in that it has a white enamel insert for the subsidiary seconds, and Arabic five-minute annotations to the outer track. It is known that John Arnold senior had a strong preference for enamel dials, a practice which was continued by John Roger, but by around chronometer number 220 he had adopted silvered dials. However, it would seem that just prior to this, John Roger Arnold produced a very small number with hybrid dials which were silvered but inset with an enamel subsidiary seconds disc. The present lot would appear to be one of only two known surviving examples of this type, with the other being number 217 which is now housed in the collection of the British Museum (number 1958, 1006. 1937). The Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track is also a feature that was also phased-out around the time of the introduction silvered brass for the dials.
Of additional interest is the engraved inscription to the mainspring of the present lot Robert Clark Nov 1 , which mirrors that of the mainspring of number 217 - which is inscribed Robert Clark May 12 1804 . This would suggest that the mainspring for the current lot was made in October/November 1803 by the specialist spring maker of that name who is known to have worked 1774-1815. From this it would be reasonable to date the present chronometer to early 1804.
The last chronometer to be made with the timepiece housed in a brass drum without gimbals (contained in typical Arnold-type octagonal wooden casing) is number 217. From this it would be reasonable to suggest that present instrument was also housed in a similar manner, but as then was subsequently upgraded to brass bowl and gimbals (of a type used by Morris Tobias) in the 1830's. When the present lot was discovered by the vendor the box was missing, hence the present box was commissioned using solid timber salvaged from a contemporary table leaf and executed to match the date and style of the present bowl and gimbals.
The present lot is a very rare survivor of documentary importance as it was made at a transitional period in John Roger Arnold's work. When he was evolving his dials from white enamel (with Arabic five minutes to outer track) to fully silvered; and the case from brass drum without gimbals (in a faceted wooden surround) to gimballed brass bowl suspended within a square box. Not only this, but it was also made during the height of the Napoleonic Wars and the build-up to the Battle of Trafalgar. At time when the Arnold workshop would have been busy producing chronometers for the Royal Navy so one can only imagine what this timepiece has witnessed.
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A FRENCH SILVER MOUNTED LEATHER COVERED SMALL HUMP-BACK CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
RETAILED BY COOPER, LONDON, CIRCA 1882
The rectangular eight-day single train movement with platform cylinder escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance, the 1.75 inch circular white enamel dial with vertically orientated Arabic hour numerals and blued steel moon hands, set behind shallow convex glazed fixed slender engine-turned bezel with canted insert to interior, the arched leather covered case with silver chain top handle secured by buttons engraved COOPER, 41 St. JAMES'S S'T. to each side, the front panel edged in silver and with applied silver date 1882 over panel securing screw buttons to beneath the dial, the rear with shuttered winding and hand setting holes, S/F regulation slide and four further panel securing screw buttons, on four disc feet, (the mounts mostly stamped with indistinct Continental diamond lozenge-shaped marks).
9cm (3.5ins) high, 6cm (2.375ins) wide, 4cm (1.5cm deep).
John Cooper is recorded in the 1874 edition of Grace's Guide as working as a Cutler from 41 St. James's Street, London SW.
Condition Report:
Movement is in relatively clean working condition and appears all original with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements; a precautionary gentle clean/service is probably advisable if intending to put into long term service. Dial appears free from any visible faults. Case is generally in very good condition with only very light scuffing/wear to leather covering. One of the securing screw buttons to the rear is possibly a replacement (is very slightly taller in profile than the others) and there are some marks/scratches to these buttons from previous attempts to unscrew them. The bezel has a couple of scuffs/areas of slight flattening to the milled band. Otherwise blemishes to case are very much limited to minor age-related wear.
Timepiece does not have a winding key.
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Y AN EDWARDIAN SILVER MOUNTED AND INLAID TORTOISESHELL DESK/CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
UNSIGNED, THE MOUNTS WITH MARKS FOR WILLIAM COMYNS AND SONS, LONDON 1909
The French rectangular eight-day back-winding movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung balance and stamped MADE IN FRANCE to the lower edge of the backplate, the 1.25 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel hands set behind convex glass with moulded bezel, the ogee top case with fine symmetrical foliate scroll engraved silver inlay executed in the style of Robert Adam beneath the dial and lion's mask cast ring handles to sides, the rear with full-height hinged door fitted with silver hinges and clasp, on four bell-shaped silver feet, the mounts Hallmarked for London 1909 makers W.C. for William Comyns and Sons.
8.2cm (3.25ins) high, 5.7cm (2.25ins) wide, 4cm (1.625ins) deep.
The celebrated firm of manufacturing silversmiths, William Comyns, was established in 1859 when Comyns purchased the business of Robert Tagg, 2 Carlise Street, Soho Square. He then moved to 1 Percy Mews, Rathbone Place, followed by 16 Silver Street, Golden Square, Soho, then finally to Beak Street, Regent Street. The Beak Street premises were later expanded to encompass numbers 41 to 47 and additional premises were acquired at 54 Marshall Street, Soho from circa 1903. The name of the firm was changed to William Comyns & Son in circa 1885 when William Comyn's two sons, Charles Harling Comyns and Richard Harling Comyns were admitted to their partnership. William Comyns died in January 1916, and C.H. Comyns while attending a sale at Christie's in 1925. The business was incorporated as Limited Company in October 1930 and continued under R.H. Comyns until his death in 1953, when was subsequently purchased by Bernard Copping.
Condition Report:
Movement is reasonably clean with no visible evidence of alteration of noticeable replacements; the escapement will beat but is prone to stopping after a few seconds so a gentle clean/service is required. The dial appears free form visible damage. The case is complete with no losses to the inlay etc., however there are two cracks in the lower part of the case. The first is to the front apron area and continues down around where the front left-hand foot is attached; the second is to the rear right hand side continuing down towards the rear foot. Case is otherwise structurally sound and in original condition.
Timepiece is complete with an integral winding key.
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Y A RARE GEORGE V SHIBAYAMA INSECT DECORATED SILVER CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
THE CASE BY A. AND J. ZIMMERMANN LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM 1911
The French rectangular eight-day single train movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance, with integral winder to backplate stamped with standing lion trademark for Duverdry and Bloquel, the 2 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel spade hour hand set behind a convex glass within moulded bezel, the rectangular case with hinged C-scroll carrying handle over front and sides inlaid in mother-of-pearl, amber, abalone and other materials with random crawling insects incorporating engraved legs and antennae and with very small Japanese character signature to lower right hand corner of the front panel, the front also with canted surround to the fascia and the rear with conforming hinged door, on disc feet, Hallmarks for London 1911 makers A. &. J. Z within a shield.
The clock 11.5cm (4.5ins) high with handle down, 7.5m (3ins) wide, 5.7cm (2.25ins) deep.
The firm of A. and J. Zimmermann Limited were a firm of silversmiths mostly specialising in small decorative items who worked from Regent Street, Birmingham from 1899 until 1929 when they were placed into voluntary liquidation.
The clockmaking factory of Duverdry and Bloquel is noted by Leigh Extence as originally founded by Albert Villon in the town of Saint-Nicolas-d'Aliermont in 1867. Paul Duverdry joined the firm as a director in 1887 followed by Joseph Bloquel in 1910.
The execution of Shibayama 'insect' decoration of the current lot would have been undertaken by a specialist Japanese craftsman resulting in a highly unusual luxury product. A similar but much smaller timepiece, with decoration apparently executed by the same Japanese craftsman into a silver case by Charles and Richard Comyns, London, was sold in these rooms FINE CLOCKS, BAROMETERS & SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2 nd March 2022 (lot 196) for £3,800 hammer.
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A GEORGE V SILVER AND CLOISONNE ENAMEL MINITURE CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
POSSIBLY DESIGNED BY ARCHIBALD KNOX, LIBERTY AND COMPANY, LONDON 1911
The French rectangular single train eight-day movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung balance and with integral winding and hand setting keys to backplate, the 1.25 inch circular white enamel Arabic numeral dial with blued steel moon hands set behind convex glass within a blue and green cloisonne enamel foliate wreath bezel and incorporating canted insert to interior, the rectangular case with stylised hinged arched carrying handle and full width door to rear, on bun feet, marks for Birmingham 1911 with triple diamond lozenge makers mark L. & Co. for Liberty and Company.
7.5cm (3ins) high with handle down, 5cm (2ins) wide, 4.1cm (1.625ins) deep.
The current lot can be directly compared to an apparently identical example with an attribution to Archibald Knox currently being offered by Royal House Antiques of Pulborough, West Sussex, with an asking price of £10,000. Archibald Knox was one of the principal designers for Liberty and Company, and was responsible for many of the designs marketed within their Cymric (silver) and Tudric (pewter) ranges from 1899 to around 1910. Being born on the Isle of Man, Knox was heavily influenced by the Celtic and Nordic heritage of his homeland and his designs have become iconic in their representation of the English Arts and Crafts style.
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A SWISS GILT MINIATURE MINUTE-REPEATING CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE WITH ALARM
LE PHARE, LE LOCLE, CIRCA 1900
The circular frosted eight-day keyless winding movement with five-wheel going train, straight-line lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and with push button repeat sounding on a graduated pair of gongs the hours on the larger followed by ting-tang quarters on both and finally the minutes on the smaller, the alarm with via a separate barrel and sounding on one of the gongs, the 1.25 inch circular white enamel dial signed Le Phare and with ALARM direction arrow to centre within vertically aligned gilt Arabic hour numerals, with scroll-pierced gilt spade hands and blued steel alarm setting pointer, set behind decorative scallop-edge cut circular glass with canted gilt bezel insert, the frosted gilt anglaise type case of Mignonette No. 1 size with hinged reeded baton carrying handle over repeat plunder to top, moulded frieze with fluted band insert and stylised fluted three-quarter Corinthian inspired column uprights to angles with satin-gilt panel infill between, the rear with winding squares, on stepped moulded skirt base bordered with a conforming fluted band and with sliding cover to the underside revealing setting crown, micrometer regulation adjustment disc and stamped serial number 37935 ; with original Morocco leather covered carrying case with circular dial aperture to the lift-out front and a green velvet lined interior.
The timepiece 8.5cm (3.375ins) high with handle down, 5.5cm (2.25ins) wide, 4.5cm (1.75ins) deep; the case 11cm (4.25ins) high, 8cm (3.25ins) wide, 7cm (2.75ins) deep.
The Swiss watchmaking brand 'Le Phare', which translates to 'lighthouse', was established by the talented and inventive watchmaker Charles Barbezat-Baillot in Le Locle, November 1888.
Miniature minute-repeating carriage timepieces were developed by Swiss makers during the last decade of the 19th century, who utilised their skills as watchmakers to produce high-quality movements such as that used in the present lot. Such Miniature timepieces are called Mignonettes or 'little darlings' and mostly come in three graded sizes with No. 1 being the smallest.
Condition Report:
The timepiece is currently not running hence we cannot vouch for the integrity of the escapement (is fully would) however the mechanism is in somewhat neglected condition hence a gentle clean/service may be all that required to bring it into working order. The minute repeating mechanism is operating correctly and the alarm will sound when hands are advanced past the alarm setting hand however the setting crown to the base does not appear to operate the alarm setting hand in any position. The dial is free from visible cracks, chips or any other notable defects; the minute hand has been repaired and there is what appears to be a very small gilt tap poking-out from behind the canted bezel at 9 o'clock (the reason for this is unknown but is possibly an internal fixing being misaligned). The case is generally oxidised with most of the original gilding rubbed/faded however otherwise is in very good original condition with nice faceted scallop border to the front glass. The travelling case has overall colour fading (was originally dark green!) and edge wear/rubbing as well as a more noticeable but slight tear to the lower right-hand corner of the rectangular front aperture. The insert (with circular dial aperture) has been secured with glue; there is a sliding shutter panel with the case which although slightly warped can be fitted. The velvet lining to the interior has some slight edge damage and general wear, The strap handle is intact but may be a replacement.
Timepiece is complete with original typsy key.
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A SWISS GILT BRASS MINIATURE MINUTE-REPEATING CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
UNSIGNED, PROBABLY GENEVA, CIRCA 1900
The circular frosted eight-day keyless winding movement with five-wheel going train, straight-line lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and with push button repeat sounding on a graduated pair of gongs the hours on the larger followed by ting-tang quarters on both and finally the minutes on the smaller, the 1.25 inch circular silvered brass dial applied with vertically aligned gilt Arabic numerals and with gilt spade hands set behind circular glass with canted gilt bezel insert, the frosted gilt Anglaise type case of Mignonette No. 1 size with hinged reeded baton carrying handle over repeat plunder to top, moulded frieze with fluted band insert and stylised fluted three-quarter Corinthian inspired column uprights to angles with satin-gilt panel infill between, on stepped moulded skirt base bordered with a conforming fluted band and with sliding cover to the underside revealing winding/setting crown, micrometer regulation adjustment disc and stamped serial number 257099 ; with original Morocco leather covered carrying case with two-part hinged front revealing a green silk and velvet lined interior.
The timepiece 8.5cm (3.375ins) high with handle down, 5.5cm (2.25ins) wide, 4.5cm (1.75ins) deep; the case 11cm (4.25ins) high, 7.5cm (3ins) wide, 6cm (2.375ins) deep.
Miniature minute-repeating carriage timepieces were developed by Swiss makers during the last decade of the 19th century, who utilised their skills as watchmakers to produce high-quality movements such as that used in the present lot. Such Miniature timepieces are called Mignonettes or 'little darlings' and mostly come in three graded sizes with No. 1 being the smallest.
Condition Report:
Movement is in fairly clean working condition and the minute-repeat function is operating correctly, there is no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. Although in working in order a precautionary gentle clean/service is advised. The dial has some very light rubbing and mellowing to the silvering and the minute hand may be a replacement (colour differs slightly from the hour hand) but otherwise is in good original condition. The case is also in good original condition with only very light edge rubbing to the gilding and overall very light mellowing. The travelling case is in very good original condition with minimal wear to the silk and velvet linings.
Timepiece is complete with integral winder.
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A RARE FRENCH GILT BRASS CARIATIDES CASED MINIATURE CARRIAGE CLOCK
G. BACQUEVILLE, PARIS, DATED 1893
The rectangular eight-day movement with large single barrel incorporating tandem drive for both the going and strike trains, the former with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and the latter with external hour hammer pivoted on the backplate for sounding on a gong set within the base of the case, the backplate stamped with serial number 3552 to lower margin, the 1 inch circular convex white enamel dial with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals, five minute annotations to the outer minute track and fine scroll pierced gilt brass hands, set within a rectangular silvered mask signed G. Bacqueville, PARIS - 1895 to lower margin, the heavy cast gilt brass bevel-glazed cariatides case of Mignonette No. 2 size with rosette-centred acanthus scroll cast hinged carrying handle over thick glass set within generous repeating acanthus cast surround to top, above ogee-shaped lappet leaf cast cornice and canted corner uprights cast as Classical female terms, the rear with pin-hinged door and on conforming lappet-leaf ogee skirt base with pad feet.
8.3cm (3.25ins) high with handle down, 6cm (2.625ins) wide, 5cm (2ins) deep.
G. Bacqueville of Paris does not appear to be recorded in the usual sources however other decorative clocks (dating to the end of the 19 th century) signed by him are known. The use of tandem barrel to drive both the going and strike trains, together with the provision of a silvered high-quality silvered platform jewelled escapement, suggests that the movement of the present clock may well be of Swiss manufacture. Hence would have most likely been supplied to Bacqueville for casing and retail in Paris.
Miniature carriage clocks are called Mignonettes or 'little darlings' and come in three graded sizes with No. 1 being the smallest.
Condition Report:
The movement is in relatively clean fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The hour hand is a little out of position (reading around one minute division ahead) hence would benefit from adjustment. Dial is free from any visible defects although the silvering to the mask is has slight overall oxidation giving a nice mellow colour to the silvered finish. The case is in very good original condition with no visible crack/chips or other defects to the glass and light to moderated wear to the gilding (most noticeable to the frame of the rear door).
Clock is complete with a winding key.
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111
AN IMPRESSIVE FRENCH GIANT BRASS ANGLAISE RICHE CASED ALARM CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH PUSH-BUTTON REPEAT
E. MAURICE AND COMPANY, PARIS, CIRCA 1900
The substantial two train gong striking movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung split bimetallic balance and alarm mechanism positioned at one o'clock incorporating a second hammer sounding on the hour gong, the backplate stamped with oval E.M & Co. trademark over FRENCH MAKE to centre and with serial number 531 to lower left hand corner, the rectangular satin-silvered dial incorporating recessed Roman numeral chapter disc with steel spade hands over conforming subsidiary Arabic numeral alarm setting dial to lower margin, the brass bevel-glazed anglaise riche case with reeded baton to the hinged carrying handle over thick top glass and repeat button to front rail, complex architectural moulded cornice and fluted frieze, the angles with reeded three-quarter columns incorporating copper-finish Corinthian capitals and bases, and the rear with pin-hinged glazed door, on generous cavetto moulded skirt base with turned feet; with original morocco covered protective outer travelling case.
The clock 24cm (9.5ins) high with handle down, 13.5cm (5.25ins) wide, 11.5cm (4.5ins) deep; the travelling case 27cm (10.75ins) high, 17cm (6.75ins) wide, 15cm (6ins) deep.
E. Maurice and Company are recorded in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS Their history and development as working from Rue Charlot 75, Paris and showed carriage clocks in the Paris Exhibition of 1889. They were fine makers who specialised in cloisonne enamel clocks with unusual dials. Their sole agents in Britain were E. Pitcher and Company of 3 Clerkenwell Road, London and they were succeeded by Blanpain.
Condition Report:
Movement is in full working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements; however, the mechanism is somewhat dirty/discoloured hence a gentle clean service is required if intending to put into long term service. The dial has overall tarnishing/discolouration to the finish otherwise is in very good original condition. The case has some slight streaky oxidation to the finish otherwise is in fine condition although the front glass has a slight chipping to the lower right-hand corner and the left-hand side some barely noticeable chipping to the upper left (glasses otherwise appear free from visible defects). The travelling case is missing its strap handle and has overall rubbing to the exterior surfaces otherwise is in very original condition with minimal wear/degradation to the interior velvet linings.
Clock is complete with a winding key.
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A FRENCH GILT ANGLAISE CASED REPEATING CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH FINE FIGURAL PAINTED PORCELAIN PANELS
PROBABLY BY GAY LAMAILLE AND COMPANY FOR RETAIL BY JOHN HALL, PARIS, CIRCA 1890
The eight-day two train gong striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung split bimetallic balance, the backplate with stamped oval panel inscribed PATENT SURETY ROLLER to centre over serial number 1881 to lower left-hand corner, the circular white enamel Roman numeral dial inscribed JOHN HALL, PARIS to centre and with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with blued steel moon hands set within a fine symmetrical foliate scroll engraved gilt brass mask, the bevel glazed satin gilt brass anglaise case with hinged reeded baton carrying handle over cavetto cornice, fluted frieze and turned three-quarter Doric columns to angles, the sides inset with porcelain panels finely painted in the manner of Alma Tadema with young girls within garden courtyard settings, the rear with pin-hinged gilt brass door, on generous cavetto moulded skirt base with conforming fluted band to upper margin and shallow block feet.
17cm (6.5ins) high with handle down, 10cm (4ins) wide, 9cm (3.5ins) deep.
The firm of Gay, Lamaille and Company and their patent for the 'surety roller' is discussed by Thomas R. Wotruba in his article The story behind 'PATENT SURETY ROLLER' stamped on carriage clocks published in 'ANTIQUARIAN HOROLOGY' June 2019 (pages 239-47). Wotruba describes how the Patent Surety Roller (a mechanism which prevents the strike star wheel from accidentally jumping out-of-sync whilst the clock is being transported) was invented by Moritz Immisch for which he received a brevet in 1879. The patent was subsequently secured by Messrs Gay, Lamaille and Company of Paris and London. One of the firm's founders, Emile Gay(e), is recorded as working at 20 Red Lion Square, London in 1861 before going into partnership with a clockmaker named Vicarino and setting up operations at 5 rue Beranger, Paris. In around 1877-78 George Lamaille replaced Vicarino forming Gay, Lamaille and Company who through their strong connections with London supplied many of the leading English retailers such as Dent, Frodsham and Lund & Blockley during the latter years of the 19th century.
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH PUSH-BUTTON REPEAT
THE MOVEMENT ATTRIBUTED TO THE COUAILLET FAMILY, SAINT-NICHOLAS-D' ALIERMONT, LATE 19th CENTURY
The eight-day two train gong striking movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance, the frontplate stamped with number 8200 towards the lower margin and backplate stamped with a direction of wind arrow to centre over further number 8200 to bottom right, the circular cream enamel dial with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals set within a frosted gilt mask, the gilt brass bevel-glazed anglaise variant case with decorative 'filigree' band decorated hinged carrying handle, over repeat button towards the front edge of the top and cornice incorporating scooped ogee moulding, with fluted three-quarter columns to angles incorporating Egyptian influence caps and bases and the rear with pin hinged door, on ogee-moulded skirt base with shallow block feet; with original tooled Morocco leather covered protective carrying case.
The clock 16cm (6.25ins) high with handle down, 14cm (10ins) wide, 9cm 3.5ins) deep; the case 19cm (7.5ins) high, 13cm (5.125ins) wide, 12.5cm (5ins) deep.
The hand-setting arrow stamp to the movement backplate of the current lot conforms to that used by the Couaillet family as illustrated in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS Their history and development on page 435. Couaillet Freres are discussed by Leigh Extence in his article The Carriage Clock Makers of Saint-Nicolas-d'Aliermont published in 'National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors Bulletin' 2020 - where they are described as being one of the most prolific of the carriage clock makers of carriage clocks operating from the horological town of Saint-Nicolas-d'Aliermont (near Dieppe) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1885 Armand Couaillet was employed by the prominent maker Albert Villon, but in 1892 he and his brothers Denis and Ernest set up their own workshops in the centre of the town as Couaillet freres. They increased the size of the concern when buying the house and workshops of Delépine-Barrois across the road in 1912.
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A FINE FRENCH CHAMPLEVE ENAMELLED GILT BAMBOO CASED CENTRE-SECONDS REPEATING ALARM CARRIAGE CLOCK
UNSIGNED, PARIS, LATE 19 th CENTURY
The two train eight-day gong striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance, the inside of the frontplate indistinctly stamped with number 559 to lower margin, the backplate with alarm mechanism with hammer sounding on the hour gong to upper left corner and stamped with number 11355 to lower left, the circular gilt Roman numeral dial with blued steel hands incorporating sweep centre seconds, set within rectangular champleve enamelled mask polychrome decorated in the Japonesque style with floral blooms and leafy trails into a turquoise blue ground and incorporating gilt Arabic alarm setting dial to lower margin, the bevel-gazed case with frame modelled to resemble sections of bamboo overlapping at the corners and with each segment champlevé enamelled with further polychrome floral sprays into a turquoise blue ground ground, with conforming hinged carrying handle to the gilt panel-glazed top, pin-hinged glazed door to rear and on angled bamboo feet.
16.5cm (6.5ins) high with handle down, 11cm (4.25ins) wide, 9.5cm (3.75ins) deep.
French carriage clocks in bamboo cases which feature enamelled decoration to the frame itself are particularly notable in their rarity. A centre-seconds clock (but with plain white enamel dial), with closely related enamel decoration to the frame of the current lot, is illustrated in Roberts, Derek CARRIAGE and Other Travelling Clocks on page 202 (Figure 12.9). Another very similar clock to the present example, but with cream ground to the enamel and no centre seconds, was sold in these rooms FINE CLOCKS, BAROMETERS & SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2 nd October 2019 (lot 129) for £2,400 hammer.
Condition Report:
The movement is fully operational and appears complete with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The strike train sounds correctly and the alarm mechanism will wind, set and release as it should. The movement is generally a little discoloured hence a gentle clean/service is advised. The dial is in good condition with no visible damage, the black of the numerals however have been re-touched. The case is in good original condition although there is a general degree of light bruising and some touching-in to the turquoise ground enamel of the frame most notably to the handle, front rail and left hand upright (as well as other areas to a lesser degree). There is a chip revealing the brass beneath to the front lower rail towards the left corner (images available on request). The front glass has a noticeable chip to the upper left corner and both the bottom corners have slight chips. The top glass also has a slight corner chip; otherwise the side and rear glasses appear free from visible chips (the left hand side glass may be a replacement). The gilding to the case is in fine condition and overall the clock presents well.
Clock does not have a winding key.
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A FINE FRENCH CLOISONNE ENAMELLED MINIATURE ANGLAISE RICHE CASED CARRIAGE TIMEPIECE
UNSIGNED, PARIS, LATE 19 th CENTURY
The eight-day single train movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance, the backplate stamped with Chinese characters to centre over number 156 to lower left hand corner, the circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track and blued steel spade hands set within rectangular engine-turned gilt brass mask, the bevel-glazed anglaise riche case of Mignonette No. 3 size with turquoise ground stylised polychrome floral trail champleve enamelled hinged carrying handle and conforming decoration bordering the thick top glass, over cavetto cornice, fluted band to frieze and cast Corinthian three-quarter columns to angles with enamelled shafts decorated with polychrome detailed salmon strapwork into a conforming turquoise ground, the rear with pin-hinged glazed door, on cavetto moulded skirt base with fluted band to upper margin over further cloisonne enamelled panels and shallow block feet.
9.5cm (3.75ins) high, 5cm (2ins) wide, 4.5cm (1.75ins) deep.
Miniature Anglaise riche cased carriage clocks with cloisonne decoration extending to the handles and column uprights are comparatively rare. The stamped Chinese character to the backplate would also suggest that the present clock was supplied for the Chinese market. This stamp is identical to that on the backplate of an engraved centre-seconds clock retailed by L. Vrard and Company, Shanghai and Hankow, which is also included in this sale (see the following lot). This would suggest that the present lot may have also been retailed by L. Vrard.
Miniature timepieces are called Mignonettes or 'little darlings' and mostly come in three graded sizes with No. 1 being the smallest.
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A FRENCH ENGRAVED GILT CENTRE-SECONDS REPEATING ALARM CARRIAGE CLOCK MADE FOR THE CHINESE MARKET
ATTRIBUTED TO CHARLES JOSEPH, PARIS, FOR RETAIL BY L. VRARD AND COMPANY, SHANGHAI, CIRCA 1890
The eight-day two train bell striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung balance, the inside of the frontplate stamped 688, 2478 to lower right-hand corner and the backplate applied with external visible strikework, the alarm mechanism set between the plates to the bottom left and sounding on a second bell mounted within the base of the case, the backplate also stamped with number 689 to the lower left opposing Chinese characters to the right, the rectangular white enamel Roman numeral dial signed L. VIRARD & Co., SHANGHAI, HANKOW to centre, with blued steel moon hands and sweep centre seconds over Arabic numeral alarm setting dial to lower margin, the gilt bevel-glazed gilt brass cannelee case with hinged faceted baton carrying handle over oval top glass set within floral spray spandrel engraved matted surround incorporating repeat button to front edge, with wavy floral trail engraved channel-moulded uprights and the rear with glazed pin-hinged door, on ogee moulded skirt base finely engraved with further symmetrical foliate trails into a matted ground; with original maroon velvet covered protective outer travelling case.
The clock 16cm (6.25ins) high with handle down, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide, 8,5cm (3.375ins) deep.
An essentially identical carriage clock to the present lot is listed by Leigh Extence (stock ref. 1014 for £3,500), with the description indicating that the movement carries the trademark for the roulant blanc maker 'C, Joseph'. Extence notes records of a Charles Joseph being born in 1738 and dying in 1804; who was also known to have been in Shaghai in 1784. This maker was probably a predecessor (father perhaps) of the maker of the movement of the clock listed by Extence (and most likely that of the present lot). A Charles P.H. Joseph is recorded in Tardy DICTIONNAIRE DES HORLOGERS FRANCAIS as subsequently working in Paris 1852-1935. Extence adds that he worked from Rue Amelot 114, Paris, and showed clocks at the 1889 and 1900 Paris Exhibitions.
The velvet covering for the travelling case if the present lot was apparently preferred for clocks destined for the Chinese market. The current case is notable in that it has survived in good condition with the original velvet intact.
Condition Report:
Movement is in relatively clean fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. A gentle clean and lubrication however is probably advisable if intending to put into daily service. The dial is in fine condition being free from visible cracks and chips and faults apparently limited to a couple of tiny surface scratches; the hands a appear original and undamaged. The dial is in very good condition with faults apparently limited to very small corner chips to two of the rear door glass; the gilding is near immaculate. The travelling case is in very good original condition with some scuffing/bruising to the upper edges red silk-lined interior from the clock being inserted over the years. The exterior has overall slight fading and edge wear but is generally very good considering the age and the nature of the covering. The strap handle is intact but some of the stitching to the velvet covering has degraded causing it to open out as well as having a short tear.
Clock is complete with a winding key.
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A FINE FRENCH ENGRAVED GILT BRASS GORGE CASED GRANDE-SONNERIE STRIKING ALARM CARRIAGE CLOCK
DROCOURT, PARIS, FOR GROHE, LONDON, CIRCA 1880
The eight-day two train movement ting-tang striking the quarters on a graduated pair of gongs and sounding the hour every quarter hour on the larger of the two, with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung split bimetallic balance and alarm mechanism positioned to the top left sounding on the smaller gong, the inside of the front plate stamped 9824 and the backplate with stamped oval D C trademark for Drocourt to centre left over repeat serial number 9824 to the lower left corner, the dial with circular white enamel Roman numeral disc inscribed GROHE, WIGMORE STREET, LONDON to centre, incorporating Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track and with blued steel moon hands, set within a fine foliate trail border engraved mask incorporating rectangular-outline panel interrupted by the subsidiary alarm setting dial flanked by leafy sprays to lower margin, the satin gilt bevel-glazed gorge case with leafy trail decorated hinged lobed carrying handle over oval top glass within floral spandrel engraved recessed panel and with repeat button to front rail, with repeating oval motif engraved complex upper mouldings over bright-cut decorated channelled corner uprights, the rear with pin-hinged glazed door, on generous ogee-shaped base further engraved with a stylised husk band of over leafy floral trails onto a matted ground, the underside with STRIKING/SILENT/FULL STRIKING selection lever.
14cm (5.5ins) high with handle down, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide, 8cm (3.125ins) deep.
Provenance:
The property of a deceased gentleman.
James Grohe is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World, Volume 2 as working in London 1832-81. Leigh Extence notes his address being 7 Wigmore Street and that he retailed clocks supplied by both Holingue and Drocourt.
Pierre Drocourt is recorded in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development with further additions and corrections from research undertaken by Leigh Extence (available online) as born in 1819 and setting up in business as a clockmaker in Paris in 1853. He initially worked from Rue Limoges (later called 28 Rue Debelleyme after the rationalisation and merger of Streets in 1865), Paris and was succeeded by his son, Alfred (born 1847), in 1872. The blancs roulants, rough movements, were made in Saint-Nicolas-d'Aliermont, a town outside Dieppe, where Drocourt had workshops until their sale in 1904, being premises purchased from Holingue frères in 1875 who had previously supplied Drocourt. The firm was awarded numerous international exhibition medals and mentions including Silver in Paris 1878 and Gold in 1889.
Condition Report:
Movement is complete, clean and appears all-original with no visible evidence of alteration or with noticeable replacements. The going train is running however the grande-sonnerie striking train is not currently operational as there appears to be a power issue. The mainspring will not currently wind on its ratchet but the train will run and strike when torque is applied to the train via the winding key (as though it is being wound). The alarm is in working condition. The dial appears free from visible damage or other faults although the retailers signature is a little rubbed. The case is in fine condition with minimal discernible wear to the gilding and only slight mellowing. The glasses appear free from visible damage/chips.
Clock has a winding/setting key.
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A FINE ENGRAVED GILT BRASS CANNELEE CASED REPEATING CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH CLOISONNE ENAMEL PANELS
UNSIGNED, PARIS, CIRCA 1880
The two train eight-day gong striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance, the backplate stamped with serial number 222 to lower left hand corner, the rectangular gilt brass and champleve enamelled dial with powder-blue ground polychrome rosette infill to centre within gilt Roman numeral chapter ring, with gilt spade hands over conforming symmetrical foliate scrolls to lower apron and further motifs to upper spandrel areas within a geometric panel-band outer border, the case with hinged faceted carrying handle over oval top glass within fine leafy scroll engraved surround, repeating scroll motif decorated cavetto moulding and leafy trail engraved channel-moulded uprights, the sides inset with further panels enamelled in the Hispano-Moresque style with symmetrical polychrome leafy scrolls into a powder blue ground within repeating panel border, the rear with glazed pin-hinged door, on ogee moulded skirt base finely engraved with further symmetrical leafy scrollwork.
15cm (6ins) high with handle down, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide, 8.5cm (3.375ins) deep.
A very closely related clock to the present example, stamped for Drocourt, Paris, was sold in these rooms FINE CLOCKS, BAROMETERS & SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS Thursday 2 nd March 2022 (lot 177) for £4,000 hammer. Indeed, the panels of this other example were of identical pattern to those of the current lot, but were executed with a with cobalt blue ground rather than turquoise.
Condition Report:
Movement appears complete with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The going train will wind however the escapement balance staff top pivot has play hence it is probably broken at that point therefore the clock will not presently run. The going train is in working order. The movement is generally a little dirty/neglected hence will require a gentle clean/service. The dial is in very good condition with faults limited to some very light scuffs/scratches to the centre (probably from past fitting of centre pin for the hands) and a tiny firing fault towards the lower margin; the chapter ring has also has very slight mellowing. The case is generally in fine condition. Both enamel panels are free from losses or notable chips/losses with faults very much limited to a couple of small surface bruises, light scratches and other very minor blemishes. The top glass has a slight edge chip and a scratch to the upper surface and the rear door glass has a very small chip to the upper right corner; the front glass appears free from visible damage. The gilding is in fine condition with only slight patch of discolouration/oxidation to the rear upper moulding evident.
Clock does not have a winding key.
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