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RG14 2JE
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Fine Clocks, Barometers & Scientific Instruments: Including The Dr. John A. Robey Collection Part I
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The Dr. John A. Robey Collection Part I | Find out more
Tracking the Skies: Rare WWII RAF Operations Room Timepieces and Map Plotting Equipment | Find out more
An Important Charles I Rock Crystal Pendant Watch | Watch the video
Auction dates
Sep 10, 2026 10:30 AM BST
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Sep 04, 2026 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM BST
Sep 05, 2026 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM BST
Sep 06, 2026 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM BST
Sep 07, 2026 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM BST
Sep 08, 2026 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM BST
Sep 09, 2026 09:00 AM - 04:00 PM BST
Sep 10, 2026 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM BST
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A VICTORIAN 18 INCH TERRESTRIAL FLOOR-STANDING LIBRARY GLOBE CHARLES SMITH AND SON, LONDON, MID 19th CENTURYThe sphere applied with two sets of twelve hand-coloured engraved gores incorporating trade label inscribed SMITH’S TERRESTRIAL GLOBE, Containing the whole of, THE LATEST DISCOVERIES, AND, geographical Improvements, also the TRACKS of, The most celebrated Circumnavigators, LONDON, over indistinct SOLD BY… TYNE to the North Pacific, with fully graduated equatorial and ecliptic rings and TABLE OF, EQUATION scale off the coast of South America, the oceans with many explorer's tracks and islands annotated, the land masses with nation states faintly colour tinted and principal cities labelled, topographic features labelled and also pictured, Antarctica with no land showing and the most southerly point annotated Weddell’s farthest, 1823, the north coast of Canada comprehensively mapped as far as Banks Land, the sphere pivoted via the polar axis within a brass meridian circle divided for degrees and with brass hours circle to the North Pole, set within printed paper horizon ring annotated with compass points and degrees in both directions to each quadrant, Zodiac and calendar scales, standing on four ring-turned tapered supports incorporating cross stretcher centred with the a brass carrier post for the Meridian ring.102cm (40ins) high, 61cm (24ins) diameter overall.Charles Smith was principally a map publisher who worked from 1799. He was engraver to the Prince of Wales and started producing pocket globes during the Regency period. The business expanded (in competition with the Cary family then Malby) to become one of the leading publishers and retailers of globes during the latter half of the 19th century, mostly under the stewardship of his son who succeeded him in 1845.Condition Report Disclaimer
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A RARE GEORGE IV MAHOGANY HODOMETER OR WAYWISER J. NEWMAN, LONDON, CIRCA 1825-30 With 31.5 inch diameter wheel bound with an iron tyre and with six tapered spokes around a brass hub engaging with take-off gearing contained within the left hand fork of the handle assembly, the right hand fork incorporating a hinged section to assist with removal of the wheel on disassembly, the upper section with inverted 7 inch circular silvered register engraved J. Newman, 122 Regent St., London to centre within concentric inner scale calibrated in Roman numeral Miles (I to X) and divided into Furlongs (eight for each mile) to be read by the shorter of the two blued steel hands within outer scales calibrated in Poles (0 to 40) and Yards (0 to 220) to be read by the longer hand, set behind a hinged glazed circular moulded wooden bezel beneath elaborate heart-shaped yoke handle. 137cm (54ins) high overall, 30.5cm (12ins) wide at the handle.Provenance:Private CollectionJohn Frederick Newman is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as working at 11 Windmill Row, Camberwell, London from 1807, then Lisle Street, Leicester Square 1811-16; 7 Lisle Street in 1817; 8 Lisle Street in 1822, and finally 122 Regent Street 1827-56. The business then passed to his son before being taken over by Negretti and Zambra in 1862. He is best known for his weather instruments with his design of station barometer incorporating movable scales to allow calibration against the mercury level in the cistern which vary very slightly with changes in temperature. Newman supplied weather and other instruments for James Clark Ross's Antarctic expeditions (1839-1843) and exhibited at the Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace in 1851.The current lot would have been a particularly valuable instrument for estate surveyors charged with creating maps and plans during the late Georgian period. The importance of the instrument's role is reflected in the quality of its construction, with the dial in particular being finely engraved and finished.When reviewing comparable surviving instruments of this type it becomes clear that other different makers such as Dollond, Thomas Rubergall, William Frazer, and W. and S. Jones appear to have sold essentially identical instruments. This would suggest that they were probably made in one workshop who then supplied them to various makers for retail. Perhaps one possible candidate for the supplier would be the workshop established by George Adams, as several earlier variants of this design by him are known including an example in the King George III collection housed at The Science Museum, London. This suggests that Adams was used to making such instruments hence was best suited to supply them in reasonable numbers to other makers.Condition Report Disclaimer
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A LACQUERED BRASS PORTABLE FLOOR-STANDING 2.75 INCH REFRACTING TELESCOPETROUGHTON AND SIMMS, LONDON,MID 19th CENTURYThe 28 inch outer tube with rack-and-pinionfocus adjustment for the single draw, star-finder sight and objective lens dustcover, signed TROUGHTON & SIMMS LONDON next to the focus adjustment,mounted via an universal pivot joint onto a column upright incorporating finerack and screw azimuth adjustment and with telescopic tube for setting theangle of altitude, over hinged telescopic tripod supports incorporating twistlocking mechanism to the extensions and pointed feet, in original mahogany box withthree additional objectives.The box 84cm (33ins) wide, 33cm (13ins)deep, 14.5cm (5.75ins) high.The partnership between Edward Troughtonand William Simms is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of BritishScientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as formed in 1826 and operatingprimarily from addresses in Fleet Street, London. Edward died in 1835 followedby William in 1860; the business was subsequently continued by their successorsuntil 1922 when the name was changed to Cooke, Troughton and Simms.The design of the telescope in thepresent lot is described in William Simms’ 1852 publication The AchromaticTelescope stating ‘…it is especially adapted to the purpose of thetraveller by whom considerable optical power with portability… the legs areformed of tubes slipping within each other.’ A very closely related telescopewas sold at Bonhams, Knightsbridge, online sale of INSTRUMENTS OF SCIENCEAND TECHNOLOGY 2-12th September 2024 (lot 60) for £3,840. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A VICTORIAN SLATE GARDEN SUNDIAL SET FOR THE LATITUDE OF CEYLONH. WEST, LONDON, MID 19th CENTURYThe 6 inch square plate incised with a compass rose and fitted with an angled brass gnomon to centre within IV-XII-VI roman numeral chapter scale divided into five minute increments, the space between the IV and VI numerals engraved CEYLON, Latitude 15’’ 30’ South, H. WEST. Optician, 41 Strand, LONDON, within a double-line incised outer border.15cm (6ins) square, 7cm (2.75ins) high.Henry West is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as being apprenticed to his father, Francis, in 1840. Although Francis West is recorded as working from 41 Strand, London (1845-49), it is not clear whether Henry subsequently continued alone from that address.Condition Report: A large shallow chip to the face of the register corner at 10.00 o'clock.Condition Report Disclaimer
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A GROUP OF BRASS AVOIRDUPOIS SPHERICAL WEIGHTSW. AND T. AVERY LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM, 19th CENTURYComprising 7lb with loop handle, 4lb, 2lb and 1lb each engraved W & T AVERY LTD BIRMINGHAM; and a smaller incomplete boxed group enclosing 8oz, 4oz, 2oz, 8dr and 2dr with the larger two stamped with crowned GR monogram over number 513.The largest weight 12.5cm (5ins) high, 9cm (3.5ins) diameter; the small mahogany box 5.5cm (2.25ins) high, 13.5cm (5.25ins) wide, 7.5cm (3ins) deep.Provenance:Previously Monmouth County Council, subsequently acquired by the vendor after disposal.This group of weights was specially made to be used by the weights and measures department to calibrate any of the inspector's weights that were to be taken out on site. These weights are fitted with a screw cap with adjusting cavity below to the base. A feature only used on working standard weights. The four large weights were probably made shortly after 1891 when W. and T. Avery became a Limited Company. Whilst the smaller weights are marked with crowned GR monograms suggesting that they made during the Georgian period, probably around 1825.Condition Report Disclaimer
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Y A WILLIAM IV MAHOGANY BOWFRONTED MERCURY STICK BAROMETERTHOMPSON, YARMOUTH, CIRCA 1830With ivory urn centred swan neck pediment and cavetto cornice over rectangular bow-glazed silvered Vernier scale, calibrated in barometric inches and with slider to the right-hand side opposing the usual observations to the left, the upper margin engraved Thompson, Yarmouth, the ebonised-edged flame figured mahogany trunk of the same bowed profile incorporating Vernier setting square beneath the cavetto throat moulding, over inset bow-glazed mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer within a crisp cavetto moulded surround, the base with turned ebonised half vase cistern cover flanked by canted angles inlaid with lozenge motifs, over cavetto moulded underside incorporating level adjustment square, (in unrestored condition).101cm (39.75ins) high, 11cm (4.25ins) wide.A barometer maker with the surname Thompson is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working in Yarmouth circa 1820-45. Condition Report: IVORY LICENSE - L7LU2ZMW Condition Report Disclaimer
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A WILLIAM IV MAHOGANY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERDOLLOND, LONDON, CIRCA 1830Withswan neck pediment applied with turned bone roundels and cavetto moulded cornice over glazed rectangular silveredbrass Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches to the right-hand sideopposing the usual observations to the left, signed Dollond, London towardsthe upper margin, over flame figured mahogany veneered caddy moulded trunk withVernier adjustment square to throat above glazed arched silvered mercurythermometer, the rounded base with moulded cistern cover and incorporating leveladjustment square to underside.98cm(38.5ins) high, 13cm (5ins) widePeterDollond is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS1680-1860 as born 1730 and died 1820. He was the son of John Dollond, aHuguenot silk weaver and started business as an optician in 1750. He was joinedby his father in 1752 until his death in 1761, and then by his brother, John,until his death in 1804. The family business was continued by Peter Dollond'snephew, George Huggins, who changed his surname to Dollond. George Dollondbecame instrument maker to William IV and Queen Victoria, exhibited at theGreat Exhibition in 1851 and died 1856. The firm became one of the largestmakers and suppliers of scientific and optical instruments and continuedtrading under various guises throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Y A SWISS INLAID BURR MAPLE MUSIC BOXUNSIGNED BY PROBABLY BT M.J. PAILLARD AND COMPANY, ST. CROIX,CIRCA 1875Playinga choice of ten tunes via a 13 inch pinned cylinder on a comb with 76 teeth,set onto a gilt painted cast iron bed and stamped 68 3 over 3 2 tothe cylinder pivot foot at the crank-winding end, opposing wheel trainincorporating governor to the right, the mechanism set beneath a hinged glazeddust cover with adjacent operating levers for CHANGE/REPEAT and STOP/PLAYto the right-hand margin, the inside of the lid applied with appliedprinted tune sheet inscribed 10 Airs, No. 32683, 12 pces. to uppermargin, over list numbered 1-10 including 5. March of the men of Harlech,6. Auld Lang Syne and 10. Welcome Royal Charlie, the marginspolychrome printed with children playing instruments and dancing, theexterior decorated with a marquetry musical trophy incorporating a viola withindouble-line borders and rosewood banding to the ebonised ogee-edged top, over conformingfront applied with an ivorine escutcheon over marquetry trophy incorporating amandolin, the sides with matching line borders and the rear veneered withunadorned burr maple, on squab feet.58.5cm(23ins) wide, 15cm (6ins) high, 22cm (8.75ins) deep.Althoughunsigned the detail design of the mechanism, most notably the sub-assemblycontaining the motionwork for the fly governor directly conforms to the work ofM.V. Paillard and Company of St. Croix, Switzerland. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Y A FINE AND IMPRESSIVE INLAID ROSEWOOD 'TWO-TUNES-PER-TURN' MANDOLIN MUSIC BOXNICOLE FRERES, GENEVA, FOR WALES AND MCCULLOCH, LONDON, CIRCA 1876 Playing a choice of twelve tunes 'two-per-turn' via a 13.25 inch pinned cylinder measuring 3 inches in diameter on a comb with 140 teeth stamped NICOLE FRERES, set onto a gilt painted cast iron bed further stamped NICOLE FRERES, GENEVE to the left rear corner next to the going barrel and ratchet crank winder, opposing serial number 45419 and wheel train incorporating governor to the right, the mechanism set beneath a hinged glazed dust cover with an adjacent brass panel fitted with operating levers for start/stop, change/repeat and pause to the right-hand margin, and the inside of the lid applied with a foliate scroll decorated engraved silver tune panel inscribed Piece 12 airs-Mandoline Expression, Gamme 3052, No. 45419 to upper margin over list numbered 1-12 including 2. Di Pescatore ignobile, op, Lucrezia Borgia, DONIZETTI and 7. Oli nosti monti, op, Fovatore, VERDI, the lower margin engraved FABRIQUE DE NICOLE FRERES, Geneve, pour Wales & McCulloch, 22 Ludgate Hill, Londres., the exterior decorated with a marquetry strapwork panel incorporating monogram W.E.O. within triple-line borders to the rosewood veneered ogee-edge top, over front with conforming decoration except for the monogram, the sides with matching line borders and applied with hinged scroll cast brass handles, on ogee moulded base with pad feet to the rounded angles.22cm (8.5ins) high, 66cm (26ins) wide, 32cm (12.5ins) deep.Provenance:The property of a professional sportsman and commentator.The celebrated firm of music box makers, Nicole Freres, was established in Geneva 1815 by brothers Pierre-Moise and David-Elie Nicole. They were highly skilled businessmen who rapidly developed the company name into a brand synonymous with the production of fine quality music boxes. Rapid expansion and the potential seen in export markets led to the firm opening an outlet in the Hatton Garden area of London around the time of the Great Exhibition of 1851. Thirty years later in 1881 they opened up a substantial operation at 21 Ely Place, to where they transferred the focus of the business from Geneva.From this point the firm essentially evolved into retailers buying in mechanisms, mostly from Switzerland, and selling them on under the Nicol Freres brand. This also included selling Polyphon and Regina disc music boxes bought in from America and Germany respectively. Nicole Freres filed for bankruptcy in 1906 and was bought out by the New Polyphone Supply Company.The retail business of Wales and McCulloch was established Henry Charles Wales at 32 Ludgate Street, London in 1853. The following year they firm marketed themselves as a musical box repository and direct importers of Nicole Frere's celebrated musical boxes under the name of Wales and McCulloch. By 1860 they had taken additional premises at 56 Cheapside, London, and by 1897 they were listed as also trading from 20 Ludgate Hill.The 'two-tunes-per-turn' feature of the present instrument is achieved through the provision of a notably large diameter barrel. The benefit of this system is that more tunes can be incorporated into the cylinder without having to compromise on the tooth-count of the comb. Consequently the 140 teeth of the current lot produces a particularly rich sound, commensurate with its 'mandolin' specification Condition Report Disclaimer
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2,500 - 3,500 GBP
Y A FINE AND PROBABLY UNIQUE SWISS INLAID ROSEWOOD 'PIECE-A-OISEAU' HUMMINGBIRD AUTOMATON MUSIC BOXATTRIBUTED TO AMI RIVENC AND COMPANY, GENEVA, CIRCA 1870Playing a choice of five tunes via a 6 inch pinned cylinder on 64 teeth spread over two combs, the centre of the cylinder applied with corresponding tracks of varying lifting bridges and pins to operate linkages for the opening beak and flapping wings of a humming bird automaton set within simulated flowering foliage behind the mechanism, the cylinder mounted into a gilt painted cast iron bed with going barrel and ratchet crank winder to the left, opposing wheel train incorporating governor stamped with winged lion trademark to the right and with CHANGE/REPEAT and START/STOP operating levers within the outer panel, the mechanism set beneath a hinged glazed dust cover and the inside of the lid applied with printed tune sheet inscribed in ink Colibri over vacant list titled Chant No. and numbered 1-5, within Swiss Lakeland scene lithograph borders incorporating ink blind stamp SWISS-GENEVA, MANUFACTURE to upper margin, opposing winged lion trademark over MARQUE DE FABRIQUE and ETABL. LITH. ART, C. KNUSLI, ZURICH, DEPOSE to the bottom edge, the exterior decorated with a musical trophy marquetry panel within triple-line borders to the rosewood veneered ogee-edge top, over scroll cast escutcheon to the double line inlaid simulated rosewood front, the sides with matching line borders and applied with generous scroll cast brass handles, on squab feet.22cm (8.75ins) high, 46cm (18ins) wide, 28cm (11ins) deep.Provenance:The property of a professional sportsman and commentator. Previously in the collection of brothers John and Alfred Miller and subsequently purchased by Jack Tempest at Sotheby's Belgravia sale of Mechanical Music, Scientific Instruments... 2nd December 1975 (lot 231).Literature:Described and discussed by Jack Tempest in an article titled COLIBRI published in the The Music Box Spring 1975 (pages 189-91).Ami Francois Rivenc was born in Geneva on 15th May 1837. He grew up an accomplished musician and became associated with the music box maker Bremond between 1858-63. Ami Rivenc subsequently took-on the music box manufactory of the late Theodore Jean Greiner in May 1869, and traded alongside Greiner's widow as 'Ami Rivenc & Cie' until 1874, after which he continued working on his own. The firm's workshops were initially located at 2 rue Sismondi, Geneva, later moving up the same street to occupy numbers 3 and 5. Ami Rivenc died in 1898.The present lot is equipped to play relatively high-pitched tunes with delicate short phrases to compliment the bird automaton. Although other 'piece-a-oiseau' music boxes by Ami Revenc are known these tend to be larger orchestral examples which feature the bird automaton within a porthole window to the front of the box; one such example was sold at Auctionhaus Stahl, 24th May 2024 (lot 300) for EUR 10,700. The Current instrument however is believed to be the only Known 'Colibri' model of its type. Condition Report: Mechanism is in fineclean working condition having been recently cleaned/serviced. The comb showsno visible evidence of repairs to the teeth, there are a few light spots ofhistoric pitting to the steel. The automaton is working as it should and is infine condition with good bright plumage. The leafy floral sprays surroundingthe automaton are also in fine condition. The tune sheet is in fine condition withonly very light foxing to the paper. The box has been repolished to a highstandard hence presents in near immaculate condition. The top has a very slightwarp hence the there is an approx. 2mm gap between the lid and the case towardsthe front left corner when the lid is closed and locked. The instrument is stampedwith serial number 41411 to the crank winder and cylinder drive wheel.Box is complete witha case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ HOROLOGICALREFERENCE BOOKS ON BLACK FOREST CLOCKSTHREEPUBLICATIONS:Ortenburger, Rick BlackForest Clocks Schiffer Publishing Limited, West Chester PA 1991, dj;Miller, Justin J. Rare and Unusual Black Forest Clocks SchifferPublishing Limited, West Chester PA 2012, signed by the author and withcovering letter, dj; Muhe, Prof Dr. Richard (editor) Kuckucksuhren von Joh.B. Beha & Sohne Gemeinde Eisenbach and Deutschen Uhrenmuseum,Furtwangen 1995, catalogue for an exhibition held at the Wolfwinklehalle inEisenbach May 13th to June 2nd 1995, softbound withstapled spine; and a copy of Orde-Hume, Arthur W.J.G. THE MUSICAL BOX, AGuide for Collectors Schiffer Publishing Limited, West Chester PA 1995, dj,(4). Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ GARNIER, RICHARD AND HOLLIS, LEOINNOVATION & COLLABORATION, THE DEVELOPMENTOF THE PENDULUM CLOCK IN LONDONFromanteel Limited, Isle of Man 2018,catalogue for an exhibition held at Bonhams, London 3-14th September2018, very rare limited edition numbered 31 out of 125 copies and signed by both authors, gilt line embossedred quarter calf boundwith gilt-edged pages, marbled end papers, gilt title to spine. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ GARNIER,RICHARD AND CARTER, JONATHANTHE GOLDEN AGE OF ENGLISHHOROLOGY, MASTERPIECES FROM THE TOM SCOTT COLLECTIONThe Square Press, Winchester 2015, very rarelimited edition leather bound copy numbered 75out of 85 copies and signedby all three authors, red quarter calf bound with marbled boards and gilt titleto spine. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ EVANS,JEREMY; CARTER, JONATHAN AND WRIGHT, BENTHOMAS TOMPION, 300 YEARSWater Lane Publishing, Stroud 2013, very rarelimited edition numbered 96 out of100 copies and signed by all three authors, gilt line embossed quarter calf boundwith gilt-edged pages, marbled end papers, gilt title to spine and a blue clothslipcase. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ LEE, RONALD A. THE KNIBB FAMILY * CLOCKMAKERS, OR AUTOMATOPAEI KNIBB FAMILIAEIManor House Press, Byfleet, Surrey 1964, 1st limited edition numbered 965/1,000, titled blue cloth, dj. Condition Report Disclaimer
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150 - 250 GBP
Ɵ DZIK, SUNNY ORNAMENTS ON ENGLISH TABLE CLOCKS 1660-1730Wild Boar Publications, Oxford 2026, dj; together with a copy of Dzik, Sunny BENEATH THE DIAL, ENGLISH CLOCK PULL REPEAT STRIKING 1673-1725 Wild Boar Publications, Oxford 2023, dj, (2)..A superb newly published work extensively covering case mounts and other fittings applied to English table clocks from the ‘Golden Period’ of English clockmaking. This publication, along with the author’s works on pull-repeat striking and engraving (see following lot), are ‘must haves’ for those interested in expanding their knowledge in early English clockmaking.Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ DZIK, SUNNYBENEATH THE DIAL, ENGLISH CLOCK PULL REPEAT STRIKING 1673-1725Wild Boar Publications, Oxford 2023, dj, together with Dzik, Sunny ENGRAVING ON ENGLISH TABLE CLOCKS, Art on a Canvas of Brass Wild Boar Publications, Oxford 2019, dj; Dawson, P.G., Drover, C.B. and Parkes D.W. Early English Clocks Antique Collectors’ Club, Woodbridge 1982, dj; Barder, Richard C.R. The GEORGIAN BRACKET CLOCK, 1714-1830 Antique Collectors’ Club, Woodbridge 1993, dj; Robinson, Tom THE LONGCASE CLOCK Antique Collectors’ Club, Woodbridge 1989, dj, and Dowler, Graham GLOUCESTERSHIRE CLOCK AND WATCH MAKERS Phillimore and Company Limited, Chichester 1984, dj, (6).Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ DIDEROT, DENIS AND D'ALEMBERT, JEAN LE ROND ENCYCLOPEDIA, THE COMPLETE ILUSTRATIONS Facsimile compilation of plates extracted from various editions spanning 1762-77, four-volume set plus index, Henry N. Abrams, New York 1978, quarter faux blue leather with grey boards gilt titles to spines, contained within a conforming card slipcase, (5). Provenance: The Dr. John A. Robey collection of early weight-driven clocks and related items. The present lot is a compilation of 3115 facsimile plates taken from the 'Encyclopedie, ou Dictionnaire des Sciences et des metiers' compiled by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d'Alembert from contributions by 140 authors over a span twenty years (1751-72). This monumental work consists of twenty-eight volumes containing over 70,000 articles and is considered a landmark publication with regards to collaborative intellectual endeavour within the context enlightenment literature. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ REES, ABRAHAM REES'S MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY (1819-20) Five-volume set, David and Charles, Newton Abbot 1970 reprint of extracts from the 1819-20 edition (edited by Neil Cossons), each with dj, with a copy of Woodcroft, Bennet ALPHABETICAL INDEX of PATENTEES OF INVENTIONS 1617-1852 Evelyn, Adams and Mackay Limited, London 1969, dj, (6). Provenance: The Dr. John A. Robey collection of early weight-driven clocks and related items. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Ɵ CROM, THEODORE R. FIVE VOLUMES RELATING TO HOROLOGICAL WORKSHOP TOOLS AND PRACTICES Horological Shop Tools 1700-1900 privately published by the author, signed and inscribed with a dedication to John Robey, Hawthorne FL 1980, gilt titled brown cloth; Early Lancashire Horological Tools and Their Makers privately published by the author, signed and inscribed with a dedication to John Robey, Hawthorne FL 1994, gilt titled brown cloth; An Eighteenth Century English Brass Hardware Catalogue privately published by the author, Hawthorne FL 1994, gilt titled brown cloth; Trade Catalogues 1542 to 1842 privately published by the author, Hawthorne FL 1989, gilt titled brown cloth, and a copy of HOROLOGICAL WHEEL CUTTING ENGINES 1700 to 1900 privately published by the author, Gainesville FL 1970, pictorial brown cloth, (5). Provenance: The Dr. John A. Robey collection of early weight-driven clocks and related items. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
1,000 - 1,500 GBP
A SWISS BRASS AND STEEL WHEEL CUTTING ENGINERETAILED BY L.H. KELLER AND COMPANY, NEW YORK, CIRCA 1900The cutter arbor frame set via a locking pivot to allow angled cutting of verge crown wheels onto to an up-down lever-operated slider with adjustable stop, mounted via screw-adjusting slide for depth adjustment and incorporating an optional additional lever override onto the box frame enclosing the 7.25 inch reversable index plate, one side with twenty dividing rings ranging from 51 to 366 and the other side with nineteen annotated 52 to 365, located by a modified arrangement of adjustable pivoted detent fixed to the centre of the index arbor with movement restricted between two adjustable stops set on a quadrant track issuing from the rear of the frame, the centre arbor passing through the frame to support the work for the cutter with steady bracket above, on three down curved iron feet pierced for fixing to the workbench and with post to support the index arm quadrant track, the frame stamped with oval LHK & c trademark.Length of frame 25.5cm (10ins); 38cm (15ins) long overall, 28cm (11ins) wide, 33cm (13ins) high. Provenance:The Dr. John A. Robey collection of early weight-driven clocks and related items. The business of L.H. Keller and Company Incorporated is recorded in Crom, Theodore, R. Horological Shop Tools 1700-1900 as a supplier of watch materials, tools etc. trading from 110 Fulton Street, New York, from 1853 until after 1915. A related wheel cutting engine is illustrated by Crom on page 653 (figure 1276), and another on page 663 (figure 1290). The present lot has been modified by John Robey to enable efficient advancing of the index plate between adjustable stops on a quadrant-shaped track. This allows the engine to be quickly used to cut counts less than that of a selected track by a divisible amount. Condition Report: The wheel-cutting engine was set-up and in use in John Robey’sworkshop until relatively recently hence is in working condition with no evidenceof wear or problematic play in any of the pivots etc. As catalogued the indexdetent arrangement is a modification/improvement. The index plate free form anynoticeable wear to the holes or evidence of repeating dragging of the detent.There is some light surface corrosion to some of the steelwork which wouldbenefit from being addressed otherwise tool is in very good condition. Theadditional cutter carriers are in good useable condition. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A RARE VICTORIAN MAHOGANY CABINETMAKER’SWALL-MOUNTED TOOL CABINETJ.H. EVANS, LONDON, MID TO LATE 19thCENTURYWith twin fielded panel doors opening to reveal andinterior with three tiers of batons drilled to allow hanging of chisels or similarhand tools to the back panel and both doors, the centre applied with a printedpaper label inscribed ESTABLISHED 1810…, J.H.EVANS, Engine, Lathe, & Tool Manufacturer, & GENERAL MACHINIST, 104Wardour St., Amateur’s Turning Lathes, also the various tools and apparatusfor, Turning & the Mechanical Arts, INSTRUCTION GIVEN TO AMATEURS IN PLAIN& ORNAMENTAL TURNING IN ALL ITS BRANCHES.78.5cm (31ins) high, 56cm (22ins) wide, 9cm (3.5ins)deep closed.The firm of W.J. Evans was established by John Evansin 1810. He had most likely been succeeded by his son by the 1860’s, and theyare believed to have operated from their 104 Wardour Street premises until 1913. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A PAIR OF BRASS-CASEDEIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCK WEIGHTSANONYMOUS, LATE17th OR EARLY 18th CENTURYBoth with domed bases, flatcaps and drilled posts for suspension.Each approximately 6cm (2.375ins)diameter, 21cm (8.25ins) long overall. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A PAIR OF BRASS-CASEDEIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCK WEIGHTSANONYMOUS, LATE17th OR EARLY 18th CENTURYBoth with domed bases, flatcaps and drilled posts for suspension, (probably matched).Each approximately 6cm (2.375ins)diameter, 20.5cm (8ins) long overall. Condition Report Disclaimer
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1
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Estimate
250 - 350 GBP
A PAIR OF BRASS-CASEDMONTH-DURATION LONGCASE CLOCK WEIGHTSANONYMOUS, 18thCENTURYBoth with flat caps andbases, and drilled posts for suspension, one with added lead to underside.Each approximately 7.5cm(3ins) diameter; 26cm (10.25ins) and 27cm (10.625ins) long overall. Condition Report Disclaimer
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THREE LONGCASE CLOCK SECONDS PENDULUMSANOMYNOUS, LATE 18th/EARLY 19thCENTURYComprising two with double-sided brass lenticularbobs and steel strip rods, and one with an elliptical section ebonised wood rodover a brass fronted bob, (the latter lacking suspension spring), (3).117cm (46ins) long and shorter, the bobs 14cm (5.5ins)diameter and smaller. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A COLLECTION OF MARINE CHRONOMETER SPARE PARTSMERCER, HAMILTON AND ELGIN, 20th CENTURYIncluding eleven Mercer escape wheels, eight helical balance springs, a quantity of balance staffs, assorted screws, hands, a Hamilton model 21 mainspring, fusee chain, escape pinions, a case of Elgin polished steel baluster movement posts, and other small parts, together with a Mercer cylindrical aluminium SHIPPING CONTAINER, FOR, SHIP CHRONOMETER, (qty).The shipping container 11cm (4.25ins) high, 15cm (6ins) diameter. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
400 - 600 GBP
A RARE TWO-DAY SURVEY CHRONOMETERTHOMAS MERCER, ST. ALBANS, MODEL S.C. 2 CIRCA 1955The circular four pillar single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, five-spoke wheel crossings, jewelled pivots for the escape and seconds wheels, Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by split bimetallic balance with cylindrical compensating weights, helical palladium balance spring and jewelled endstone, the spotted backplate with spring set-up ratchet and blued-steel pillar and backcock securing screws, the 4 inch circular silvered Arabic numeral twenty-four hour 'sidereal' dial with subsidiary seconds dial incorporating open centre revealing ratchet-tooth wheel for opening and closing electrical contacts with the beat of the escapement at six o'clock, within annotation in red CAUTION: HANDS, FORWARD ONLY below signature THOMAS MERCER across the centre, and DOWN/UP, 0-56 power reserve dial numbered 20867 beneath twelve o'clock, with blued steel spade hands and red Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, the lower edge of the five-minute track further signed THOMAS MERCER LTD. ST. ALBANS ENG., set beneath a friction-fitted chrome-plated bevel-glazed bezel incorporating pivoted dust cap to the winding square aperture, mounted onto a disc collar incorporating START/STOP lever and insulated electrical contact screws engaging with sprung contact posts fitted to the exterior of the cylindrical aluminium case, complete with typsy winding key contained in a leather pouch and an outer green canvas covered field case fitted with brass capped corners, leather carrying strap and applied printed metal label inscribed MINISTRY OF DEFENCE, HYDROGRAPHIC DEPT., CHRONOMETER SURVEY, Stores Ref. H.S.527-3635, Serial No. 20867 to front.The box 17cm (6.75ins) high, 28cm (11ins) wide, 21cm (8.25ins) deep. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The chronometer making firm Thomas Mercer of St. Albans was established by Thomas Mercer (1822-60) at North Road, London in 1858 before moving to 45 Spencer Street, Clerkenwell in 1860. Mercer became an active member of the British Horological Institute (established in 1858) where he lectured on the need to modernise the industry and served as honorary treasurer from 1875-95. After occupying several addresses in Clerkenwell Mercer relocated the core of the business to St. Albans in 1874 setting up a factory behind his house at 14-15 Prospect Road. Although the bulk of the businesses work was undertaken in St. Albans Mercer personally made weekly trips to Clerkenwell to deliver/collect parts finished by specialist outworkers as well as visit the Horological Institute.In order to maintain a presence in London Thomas Mercer opened an outlet 18 Westmoreland Road, City Road in 1890. Succuss at the Greenwich trials was also always considered important to Mercer who entered instruments every year; he was placed second in 1881 and his son, Frank, came first in 1911. In 1900 Thomas Mercer accepted an invitation to judge at the Universal Exhibition in Paris but unfortunately caught a cold on the ferry crossing and died soon after his return. The business was subsequently continued by his successors becoming of the most prolific suppliers of chronometers and other timepiece for industrial, maritime and domestic purposes and continued trading in St Albans until 1984. The current chronometer was developed by Mercer for surveying purposes. Fitted with electrical contacts and rated to sidereal time the timepiece is designed to be used in conjunction with a ticker-tape chronograph and an Admiralty pattern 45 degree prismatic Astrolabe or theodolite (to allow accurate measurement of angular distance, or 'zenith distance' between a given star and the zenith). The very accurate timing of the zenith distance of a given star can provide precise 'local time', and, through comparison with Greenwich meantime, allow accurate longitude and latitude of the observer to be established. Condition Report: Movement is in working condition, although we have not had the chronometer on test to assess the accuracy of timekeeping we are of the understanding that it is keeping good time. We do not have any test certificates or any information regarding last certified service, we understand that the vendor ran it periodically. The mechanism has some slight discolouration/oxidation to the plates suggesting that a gentle service/lubrication is advisable. The silvering to the dial has some very slight mellowing/oxidation. The drum containing the movement and dial is in fine condition with only minimal scratching to the paint to the underside. The outer travelling case is fine condition with faults limited to scribbled-over single word inscription to a wooden frame member adjacent to the movement. The outer canvas surface has minor edge wear and a few minor marks/stains only and the leather strap is in good condition. Chronometer has case key and original numbered typsy winder housed in a leather pouch.Condition Report Disclaimer
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A MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER THOMAS MERCER, ST. ALBANS, CIRCA 1955The 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, 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 20360, the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial engraved 20360 at six o'clock, below signature Thomas Mercer across the centre and DOWN/UP, 0-56 power reserve dial beneath twelve o'clock, the lower margin of the chapter ring further inscribed THOMAS MERCER LTD., St. ALBANS ENG., secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to rear mounted via gimbals into a mahogany two tier box with typsy winding key beneath glazed lid, the front applied with a brass plaque inscribed SUPPLIED BY. HENRY BROWNE & SON LTD. BARKING, No. 20360; with a padded baize-lined wooden guard box.The chronometer box 17cm (6.75ins) high, 19cm (7.5ins) square. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The chronometer making firm Thomas Mercer of St. Albans was established by Thomas Mercer (1822-60) at North Road, London in 1858 before moving to 45 Spencer Street, Clerkenwell in 1860. Mercer became an active member of the British Horological Institute (established in 1858) where he lectured on the need to modernise the industry and served as honorary treasurer from 1875-95. After occupying several addresses in Clerkenwell Mercer relocated the core of the business to St. Albans in 1874 setting up a factory behind his house at 14-15 Prospect Road. Although the bulk of the businesses work was undertaken in St. Albans Mercer personally made weekly trips to Clerkenwell to deliver/collect parts finished by specialist outworkers as well as visit the Horological Institute.In order to maintain a presence in London Thomas Mercer opened an outlet 18 Westmoreland Road, City Road in 1890. Succuss at the Greenwich trials was also always considered important to Mercer who entered instruments every year; he was placed second in 1881 and his son, Frank, came first in 1911. In 1900 Thomas Mercer accepted an invitation to judge at the Universal Exhibition in Paris but unfortunately caught a cold on the ferry crossing and died soon after his return. The business was subsequently continued by his successors becoming of the most prolific suppliers of chronometers and other timepiece for industrial, maritime and domestic purposes and continued trading in St Albans until 1984. Condition Report: Movement is inworking condition, although we have not had the chronometer on test to assessthe accuracy of timekeeping we are of the understanding that it is keeping goodtime. We do not have any test certificates or any information regarding last certifiedservice, we understand that the vendor ran it periodically. The mechanism hassome very slight discolouration/oxidation to the plates suggesting that agentle service/lubrication is advisable. The silvering to the dial ring hassome very slight mellowing/oxidation towards the margins which is obscured bythe bezel once it is fitted. The bowl and gimbals are in fine original conditionretaining old lacquer finish albeit with some very light rubbing and wear. Thebox is in fine original condition. The outer guard box is in good original conditionwith faults limited to some scratching and wear to the polish finish; the baizelining and leather strap are in good condition.Chronometer has a typsywinder. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
1,500 - 2,000 GBP
A SCARCE GERMAN WWII PERIOD MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER A. LANGE AND SOHNE, GLASHUTTE, NO. 5397 1944 The circular three pillar single chain reverse fusee movement with five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by Guillaume type split bimetallic `integral` balance with cylindrical compensating weights, blued steel helical balance spring and jewelled endstone, the backplate with separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet, and stamped with A. LANGE & SOHNE, GLASHUTTE roundel over serial number 5397 adjacent to the balance wheel, the inside of the frontplate stamped 97 and the dial plate 397 , the 3.75 inch circular satin-white finish Arabic numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial inscribed with serial number 5397 beneath signature A. LANGE & SOHNE, GLASHUTTE, B/DRESDEN to the centre and 0-56 state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, with gilt spade hands, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl and mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into a mahogany two-tier glazed-top box stamped with serial number 5397 to the lower tier near the lock, the upper tier applied with plaque inscribed A. LANGE & SOHNE, 5397, GLASHUTTE I/Sa to front and with overlaid third-party rating labels including one from Piraeus, Greece, dated 27 th October (19)76 to interior, the sides with applied wooden carrying handles; with a certificate confirming the build record issued by the Deutches Uhrenmuseum together with a copy of the original supply invoice to the Bremen-based marine chronometer makers Enno Koopmann. 19cm (7.5ins) high, 20cm (8ins) wide, 18.5cm (7.25ins) deep. Provenance: Private Collection, Bristol. The watchmaking factory of A. Lange and Sohne was founded in Glashutte, Saxony by Ferdinand A. Lange in 1845. Lange trained under Johann Gutkaes of Dresden and became known for the quality and reliability of his watches and later enjoyed patronage from Emperor Willhelm II and Tsar Alexander amongst others. Ferdinand was succeeded by his sons, Richard and Emil, who continued developing the business with new innovations and patents including the 'Century Tourbillon' for which Emil was awarded the Knight's Cross in the French Legion of Honour. The 20 th century brought major challenges to the business, first with WWI and then with the economic downturn that followed. During WWII A. Lange and Sohne produced timepieces for the war effort including marine chronometers, however, their headquarters was eventually destroyed by a Soviet airstrike. During the Soviet occupation after the war intellectual property and workmen were relocated to assist with the setting-up of the 'First Moscow Watch Factory, Kirov' (see following lot). After the fall of the Berlin wall the firm of A. Lange and Son was revived in 1990 by Ferdinand Lange's great grandson, Walter, who released their first collection in 1994. The firm subsequently became part of the Richemont Group in 2000 and has become a much-respected brand within the modern luxury watch market. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A RUSSIAN SOVIET ERA MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERKIROV CLOCK FACTORY, MOSCOW, MODEL MX-6 1970-74The circular three pillar engine turned gilt single chain reverse fusee movement with five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by Guillaume type split bimetallic `integral` balance with cylindrical compensating weights, palladium alloy helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with polished pillar screws and separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet and stamped with a pentagon enclosing number M143 trademark over number 12070, the 3.75 inch circular silvered Arabic numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial inscribed with serial number 12070 in red beneath signature for Kirov and number M143 in Cyrillic to the centre and 0-56 state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, with gilt spade hands, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl and mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into a stained beech three tier box with brass strap reinforced edges and corner caps to the top tier, the front applied with rectangular black japanned trade plate inscribed in Cyrillic for marine chronometer over number 8916-70 flanked by brass strap reinforced edges and hinged carrying handles to sides; with original stained beech outer guard box fitted with a turn-catch and a leather strap enclosing a padded baize-lined interior and a test certificate dated 2010.The chronometer box 19cm (7ins) high, 19cm (7.5ins) wide, 19cm (7.5ins) deep. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The First State Watch Factory was founded in 1930 under the instructions of Stalin using machinery imported from the then defunct Ansonia Clock Company of Brooklyn and the Dueber-Hampden Watch Factory of Canton, Ohio, U.S.A. In 1935 the factory was named after the murdered Soviet official Sergei Kirov. After a short period of evacuation, due to the threat on Moscow by Germany, the factory was re-established in 1941 with the name revised to `First Moscow Watch Factory, Kirov`. From 1952 the factory produced marine chronometers (based on the A. Lange and Son, Glashutte M4568 chronometer in use during WWII) of which the current lot is a good example. In 1961 the many of the factory`s products were branded Poljot (flight) in honour of Yuri Gagarin succeeding as the first man in space on 2nd April of that year. The label to the middle tier of the box includes a date code '70' which denotes that the present lot was made between 1970 and the end of 1974. Condition Report: The movement is inrelatively clean working condition retaining its original gilt finish in good conditionwith only very light oxidation in places. Although we have not testedtimekeeping long enough to check its rate the movement is understood to be keepinggood time. The dial is in very good original condition with a few lightscratches only as well as some wear underneath the canted insert for the bezel whichare not visible when the bezel is in place. The bowl and gimbal assembly retainold lacquer finish but with patchy oxidation throughout. The box is in verygood original condition except for a scratch to the inside of the rear panel ofthe idle tier and some light discolouration to the exterior. The guard box isin sound original condition with faults limited to some fading, wear, and minorbumps and scuffs.Chronometer iscomplete with a typsy winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
800 - 1,200 GBP
AN AMERICAN WWII PERIOD MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER HAMILTON WATCH COMPANY, LANCASTER P.A., MODEL 21, NO. 374 CIRCA 1941The nickel-finish circular four pillar single chain fusee fourteen jewel movement with five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by monometallic 'ovalising' balance incorporating twelve timing screws and with an 'Ellinvar' alloy helical balance spring, the frontplate stamped 2E 374 adjacent to the escapement, the two-piece engine-finished backplate with crescent-shaped upper plate for the mainspring and fusee pivots applied with spring set-up ratchet and inscribed MODEL 21, 14 JEWELS, HAMILTON WATCH CO., LANCHESTER PENNA. MADE IN U.S.A., N. 374-1941, partially overlaying the pierced lower plate applied with a substantial curved balance backcock, the 4 inch circular silvered Arabic numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial inscribed N within a circle and 374 over 1941, beneath signature HAMILTON, LANCHESTER PA., U.S.A. to the centre and DOWN/UP 0-48 state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to rear inscribed H.S. (M.O.D. broad arrow mark) 1, mounted via gimbals into a mahogany three tier box applied with printed metal plaque inscribed MINISTRY OF DEFENCE, HYDROGRAPHIC DEPT., Stores Ref. H.S. 527-3634, Serial No. 374 to interior, the exterior with brass strap reinforced edges and corner caps to the top tier, the front applied with white celluloid trade plate inscribed HAMILTON WATCH CO., LANCASTER, PA., U.S.A. over black panel inscribed N 375, with hinged brass carrying handles to sides.19cm (7.5ins) high, 19.5cm (7.75ins) square. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The Hamilton Watch Company was founded in Lancaster PA. in 1892 on acquiring the assets of the defunct Keystone Standard Watch Factory; the firm was named after the Scottish Lawyer, Andrew Hamilton, who laid-out and founded Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The company focussed on producing accurate watches for use on the rapidly expanding U.S. railroad network and quickly managed to secure over 50% of the market. With the backbone of the business established they expanded their range into the domestic market including the production of their first wristwatch in 1917. In 1928 Hamilton acquired the Illinois Watch Company, however during WWII production of domestic timepieces was halted to allow production to switch to military timepieces.The business continued after WWII and managed to repel hostile take-over action by Benrus Watch Company in 1955. During the late 1950's Hamilton ventured into the development of electric watches culminating in a joint venture with the Japanese firm, Ricoh, in 1957. Unfortunately the enterprise failed to out-compete Seiko hence the partnership was wound-up in 1965. The following year Hamilton acquired the Swiss Buren Watch Manufactory, and in 1969 moved all operations to Switzerland; however the business failed in 1972 causing the Buren brand to be returned to Swiss Ownership. The Hamilton brand was subsequently sold to SSIH (which later became the Swatch group) in 1974. On the outbreak of WWII in Europe the U.S. Naval Observatory approached domestic watch manufactures to look into the production of marine chronometers in response to the anticipated shortage of imports from Europe due to the conflict. The Hamilton Model 21 marine chronometer was developed in 1940/41 with the design being very closely based on those produced by the Swiss maker Ulysse Nardin but with a revised 'ovalising' balance and 'Elinvar' alloy helical balance spring. By 1970 Hamilton had produced around 13,000 model 21 marine chronometers including 8,900 for the U.S. Navy. Wartime shortages in the Royal Navy required U.S. produced marine chronometers to be sourced. The present lot was therefore supplied to the Royal Navy, and from the very low serial number, was probably one the first to be so, most likely in 1941. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
600 - 800 GBP
AN AMERICAN WWII PERIOD MAHOGANY CASED GIMBALLED DECK WATCHHAMILTON WATCH COMPANY, LANCASTER P.A., MODEL 22 CIRCA 1943The engine-turned nickel finish split three-quarter plate twenty-one jewel keyless movement with club foot lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance with micrometer adjustment to the regulator, the backplate engraved HAMILTON WATCH CO., MODEL 22-21 JEWELS, ADJ. TO TEMP. & 6 POS., MADE IN U.S.A. to centre and numbered 2F7414, the 2.25 inch circular silvered dial with subsidiary seconds dial at six o'clock beneath signature HAMILTON, LANCASTER, PA., U.S.A. and 8-48 DOWN/UP regulation sector to centre, with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals and blued steel spade hands, set behind a screw-down bezel within a brass bowl with winding crown at twelve o'clock and weighted screw fitted rear cover inscribed MTD CHRONOMETER WATCH, PART 37125, SERIAL No. 90-143, HAMILTON WATCH CO., U.S.A, the circumference also signed and numbered 5088, mounted via gimbals into a mahogany three tier box fitted with nickel finish clasps, the interior applied with a white finish metal panel printed with setting instructions, and the exterior with printed plates inscribed HAMILTON WATCH CO., LANCASTER, PA., U.S.A. over N 90-1943 to front.15cm (6ins) cubed. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The Hamilton Watch Company was founded in Lancaster PA. in 1892 on acquiring the assets of the defunct Keystone Standard Watch Factory; the firm was named after the Scottish Lawyer, Andrew Hamilton, who laid-out and founded Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The company focussed on producing accurate watches for use on the rapidly expanding U.S. railroad network and quickly managed to secure over 50% of the market. With the backbone of the business established they expanded their range into the domestic market including the production of their first wristwatch in 1917. In 1928 Hamilton acquired the Illinois Watch Company, however during WWII production of domestic timepieces was halted to allow production to switch to military timepieces.The business continued after WWII and managed to repel hostile take-over action by Benrus Watch Company in 1955. During the late 1950's Hamilton ventured into the development of electric watches culminating in a joint venture with the Japanese firm, Ricoh, in 1957. Unfortunately the enterprise failed to out-compete Seiko hence the partnership was wound-up in 1965. The following year Hamilton acquired the Swiss Buren Watch Manufactory, and in 1969 moved all operations to Switzerland; however the business failed in 1972 causing the Buren brand to be returned to Swiss Ownership. The Hamilton brand was subsequently sold to SSIH (which later became the Swatch group) in 1974. On the outbreak of WWII in Europe the U.S. Naval Observatory approached domestic watch manufactures to look into the production of marine chronometers in response to the anticipated shortage of imports from Europe due to the conflict. The Hamilton Model 22 was subsequently developed and introduced in June 1942. By the end of the war had Hamilton had supplied 13,531 gimballed examples and 9780 non-gimballed. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
600 - 800 GBP
AN AMERICAN WWII PERIOD DECK WATCH HAMILTON WATCH COMPANY, LANCASTER P.A., MODEL 22 CIRCA 1942The engine-turned nickel finish split three-quarter plate twenty-one jewel keyless movement with club foot lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance with micrometer adjustment to the regulator, the backplate engraved HAMILTON WATCH CO., MODEL 22-21 JEWELS, ADJ. TO TEMP. & 6 POS., MADE IN U.S.A., U.S. NAVY BU. SHIPS-1942 to centre and numbered 2F9521, the 2.25 inch circular silvered dial with subsidiary seconds dial at six o'clock beneath signature HAMILTON, LANCASTER, PA., U.S.A. and 8-48 DOWN/UP regulation sector to centre, with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals and blued steel spade hands, set behind a screw-down bezel into a frosted nickel finish pocket-watch type case with shielded winding crown at twelve o'clock and conforming screw-fitted outer rear cover inscribed BUREAU OF SHIPS, U.S. NAVY, N 5368-1942, CHRONOMETER WATCH, contained within original padded green baize fitted mahogany box incorporating glazed porthole to the recessed panel lid applied with a rectangular celluloid plate printed with setting instructions, the front with nickel finish clasp; with further outer guard box also baize lined and with nickel finish clasp over printed metal label HAMILTON WATCH CO., LANCASTER, PA., U.S.A. to front.The watch 7cm (2.75ins) diameter, the guard box 10cm (4ins) high, 23cm (9ins) wide, 21cm (8.25ins) deep. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The Hamilton Watch Company was founded in Lancaster PA. in 1892 on acquiring the assets of the defunct Keystone Standard Watch Factory; the firm was named after the Scottish Lawyer, Andrew Hamilton, who laid-out and founded Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The company focussed on producing accurate watches for use on the rapidly expanding U.S. railroad network and quickly managed to secure over 50% of the market. With the backbone of the business established they expanded their range into the domestic market including the production of their first wristwatch in 1917. In 1928 Hamilton acquired the Illinois Watch Company, however during WWII production of domestic timepieces was halted to allow production to switch to military timepieces.The business continued after WWII and managed to repel hostile take-over action by Benrus Watch Company in 1955. During the late 1950's Hamilton ventured into the development of electric watches culminating in a joint venture with the Japanese firm, Ricoh, in 1957. Unfortunately the enterprise failed to out-compete Seiko hence the partnership was wound-up in 1965. The following year Hamilton acquired the Swiss Buren Watch Manufactory, and in 1969 moved all operations to Switzerland; however the business failed in 1972 causing the Buren brand to be returned to Swiss Ownership. The Hamilton brand was subsequently sold to SSIH (which later became the Swatch group) in 1974.On the outbreak of WWII in Europe the U.S. Naval Observatory approached domestic watch manufactures to look into the production of marine chronometers in response to the anticipated shortage of imports from Europe due to the conflict. The Hamilton Model 22 was subsequently developed and introduced in June 1942. By the end of the war had Hamilton had supplied 13,531 gimballed examples and 9780 non-gimballed. Condition Report Disclaimer
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AN AMERICAN WWII PERIOD MAHOGANY CASED GIMBALLED DECK WATCHWALTHAM WATCH COMPANY, WALTHAM MA, CIRCA 1944The nickel finish three-quarter plate fifteen-jewel keyless movement with lever escapement regulated by sprung split bimetallic balance with micrometer adjustment to the regulator, the backplate engraved WALTHAM WATCH CO, U.S.A., 8 DAYS to centre and numbered 30683353 opposing 15 JEWELS to circumference, the 2.25 inch circular silvered dial signed WALTHAM to centre, over subsidiary seconds at six o'clock beneath 8-0 DN/UP state if wind dial to the right opposing roundel inscribed 8 DAYS to the left, with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals and blued steel spade hands set behind a screw-down bezel within a brass bowl with winding crown at twelce o'clock and weighted screw fitted rear cover, mounted via gimbals into a mahogany three tier box fitted with nickel finish clasps; together with a printed rating card dated 4th January 1944 issued by Waltham.15cm (6ins) cubed. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. Condition Report Disclaimer
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500 - 800 GBP
AN AMERICAN WWII PERIOD AIR CREW NAVIGATORS WATCH WITH METAL 'SHOCK PROOF' OUTER CASEHAMILTON WATCH COMPANY, LANCASTER P.A., MODEL AN 5470 CIRCA 1942The engine-turned nickel finish 16 size split three-quarter plate twenty-two jewel keyless centre-seconds movement with lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance with stirrup micrometer adjustment to the regulator, the backplate engraved HAMILTON, WATCH CO., U.S.A., 4992B, 22 JEWELS, U.S. GOVT, ADJ. TEMP, AND 6, POSITIONS and the pillar plate numbered 4C2837, the 1.625 inch circular white-on-black dial initialled G.C.T. to centre within twenty-four hour vertically aligned Arabic hour numeral chapter ring and five minute annotations to the outer minutes ring, with white spade hands set behind a screw-down bezel into a nickel finish pocket-watch type case, with winding crown and bow at twelve o'clock and conforming screw-fitted rear cover inscribed AN-5740, STOCK NO. 8TAA-, 966000-42, MFR'S. PART NO. 33106, CONTRACT NUMBER, DA-36-038-ORD-19668, SERIAL NO. AF - 56 - 1279, HAMILTON WATCH COMPANY to exterior and STAR WATCH CASE CO., BASE METAL, R696660 to interior, the watch set in a baize lined cradle incorporating six chrome finish retaining tabs to circumference suspended from four copper-finish springs, within a cylindrical grey-japanned metal case with bayonet fitted cover incorporating porthole with a pivoted cover, the exterior with gilt printed metal label inscribed CASE CARRYING WATCH, NAVIGATION, U.S. ARMY A.C., TIME LABORATORY, TECUMSEH. MICHIGAN, U.S.A. The watch 5cm (2ins) diameter; the outer case 10cm (4ins) diameter 5cm (2ins) high. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The Hamilton Watch Company was founded in Lancaster PA. in 1892 on acquiring the assets of the defunct Keystone Standard Watch Factory; the firm was named after the Scottish Lawyer, Andrew Hamilton, who laid-out and founded Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The company focussed on producing accurate watches for use on the rapidly expanding U.S. railroad network and quickly managed to secure over 50% of the market. With the backbone of the business established they expanded their range into the domestic market including the production of their first wristwatch in 1917. In 1928 Hamilton acquired the Illinois Watch Company, however during WWII production of domestic timepieces was halted to allow production to switch to military timepieces.The business continued after WWII and managed to repel hostile take-over action by Benrus Watch Company in 1955. During the late 1950's Hamilton ventured into the development of electric watches culminating in a joint venture with the Japanese firm, Ricoh, in 1957. Unfortunately the enterprise failed to out-compete Seiko hence the partnership was wound-up in 1965. The following year Hamilton acquired the Swiss Buren Watch Manufactory, and in 1969 moved all operations to Switzerland; however the business failed in 1972 causing the Buren brand to be returned to Swiss Ownership. The Hamilton brand was subsequently sold to SSIH (which later became the Swatch group) in 1974. On the outbreak of WWII in Europe the U.S. Government approached domestic watch manufactures to look into the production of military timepieces in response to the anticipated shortage of imports from Europe due to the conflict. The model AN 5740 navigators watch was developed to be used by aircrew in bombers such as the B-17, B-24 and B-29 to assist with determining location by observing the stars. The 'shock proof' outer case was devised to protect the watch from disruption due to flack etc. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A RARE WWII RAF OPERATIONS ROOM TYPE I ‘SECTOR’ FUSEE WALL TIMEPIECE INSCRIBED FOR RAF BINBROOK, F.W. ELLIOTT LIMITED, CROYDON DATED 1939The rectangular four cylindrical pillar single chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, the backplate with pillar screws and collets and stamped 11464, MADE BY, F.W. ELLIOTT LTD, ENGLAND, 1939 to lower margin, the 14 inch circular cream silk screen printed dial with crowned RAF and laurel spray cypher to centre, within an inner track annotated with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals 13-24 followed by principal chapter ring annotated with conforming larger twelve-hour numerals divided by triangular panels spanning five-minute intervals coloured in a repeating sequence of yellow, blue and red, the circumference with further minute track incorporating Arabic five minutes, with blued steel moon hands set behind a hinged glazed cast oxidised brass bezel incorporating a canted silvered insert to interior, applied to a turned stained mahogany surround inscribed C. FLETCHER, BINBROOK, 1944 to verso and secured via pegs onto the rear box case with door to the right-hand side over pendulum access flap to the curved underside, the top board stamped with a crowned TM monogram and F 25 to the leading edge, and the rear stamped MADE BY F.W. ELLIOTT, 1938 beneath an A M crown monogram to upper left over large stencilled inscription incorporating the MOD arrow device above R, 20-4-1953, STORES No. 21B/713, CON. No. A187180/53/(…B).47cm (18.5ins) diameter, 19cm (7.5ins) deep.Provenance:Previously at RAF Binbrook (from the inscription to the rear of the dial).RAF Binbrook, Lincolnshire, was established as a Bomber Command station in June 1940. Between 1942-43 the station was closed to allow for the building of three concrete runways suitable for heavy bombers. RAF Binbrook subsequently served as a base for No. 460 Squadron, Royal Australian Airforce which took an active role in the bombing of Germany during the latter phases of WWII. After the war RAF Binbrook became home to some of the most distinguished bomber squadrons including numbers IX, 12, 101 and 617.During the Cold War RAF Binbrook became an important base of English Electric Lightening Interceptor Fighter squadrons, most notably numbers 5 and 11. The base was subsequently closed to active service in 1980 and mostly sold-off for development. However, the former base still houses English Electric Lightnings (including an F6 in ground-running condition) as part of the Binbrook Heritage Centre.The ‘sector’ or ‘colour change’ clock was developed after 1918 by Major General Ashmore to assist ground control operations in the tracking aircraft in real time. The system worked by logging the position of a sighting on a large grip map using a series of coded counters grouped within a metal block stand. The first counter would be matched to the corresponding colour of the triangle of the sector indicated by the timepiece at the time of sighting by the Royal Observer Corps. The other counters were a mixture of number and letter codes to designate the nature of the aircraft (aircraft type, height, number of aircraft, hostile or allied and designated track). As the additional sightings and/or radar detections came through the frames containing the counters were moved along the by operators using magnetic rakes.In addition to the counters within the ‘block’ stands other symbols would be placed on the map to indicate the direction (arrows for heading or discs in the event of the aircrafts circling) which again were colour-coded to the corresponding triangle of the sector clock at the time of sighting.This system allowed ‘Fighter Controllers’ to ascertain at a glance the progress and heading of each formation and thus undertake strategic decisions as to when to scramble intercepts if required. The colour coding was crucial as allowed a very complicated and rapidly evolving picture to be seen in timed groupings thus allowing RAF interceptor squadrons to remain on the ground until necessary. This saved significant amounts of time and fuel hence fighter aircraft could then stay in the air for longer periods when required. Due to the of the speed of incoming enemy raiders speed of response was critical, hence the RAF had to be prepared to scramble at a moment’s notice.The ‘type I’ sector clock was introduced circa 1935 and had been superseded by the ‘type II’ variant by 1943. Most examples were made by F.W. Elliott Limited although others by Stockall Marples and Company are known. The RAF laurel wreath bordered crest to the centre of the dial was introduced in 1938 (replacing a winged motif).The clockmaking firm J.W. Elliott of Croydon can trace their roots back to James Jones Elliott who set-up business in London in 1886. The workshop became known for producing high quality movements (including musical and chiming movements) for wholesale or sale under their own name before being amalgamated with Grimshaw Baxter in 1909. This partnership was dissolved in 1921 and Frank Elliott went on to join the Croydon-based clockmakers and Bellfounders Gillett and Johnson Limited. In 1923 Frank Elliott took-over from Gillett and Johnson forming his own company F.W. Elliott Limited. He was joined by his three sons and started producing clocks for the RAF in 1935.Frank Elliott died in 1944 and after WWII the business was continued by his sons and subsequent generations up until 1998. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A VERY RARE WWII ROC OPERATIONSROOM ELECTRIC SLAVE ‘SECTOR’ WALL TIMEPIECESMITHS ENGLISH CLOCK SYSTEMS GPO SYNCHRONOME, LONDON, DATED 1944The brass-framed slave mechanismincorporating a solenoid driving a pivoted arm fitted with a pawl to advance aratchet wheel set beneath an angled bridge by one increment every thirtyseconds, the frontplate stamped with serail number 032272 andthe bridge inscribed SYNCHRONOME PATENTED, the 18 inch circularcream silk screen printed dial with an inner track annotated withvertically aligned Arabic hour numerals 13-24 followed byprincipal chapter ring annotated with conforming larger twelve-hour numeralsdivided by doubled-up triangular panels spanning 2.5 minute intervals colouredin a repeating sequence of yellow, blue and red, the circumference with furtherminute track incorporating Arabic five minutes, with black painted steel moon handsset behind a hinged spun oxidised brass bezel incorporating a canted silveredinsert to interior, applied to a turned moulded mahogany surround stamped NO6 and EHR 44/1 to verso and applied with twohorizontal batons incorporating a metal hanging eye to the upper.56cm (22ins) diameter, 6.5cm(2.5ins) deep.Please note that the catalogue footnotes below were updated 29/08/2026 to include the provenance to Lt Col Bob Gardner and revisions to the last two paragraphs.Provenance:Theproperty of a professional sportsman and commentator. Previously in thecollection of Lt Col Bob Gardner author of A History of Clocks in the RAF.The ‘sector’ or ‘colour change’clock was developed after 1918 by MajorGeneral Ashmore to assist ground control operations in the trackingaircraft in real time. The system worked by logging the position of a sightingon a large grip map using a series of coded counters grouped within a metalblock stand. The first counter would be matched to the corresponding colour ofthe triangle of the sector indicated by the timepiece at the time of sightingby the Royal Observer Corps. The other counters were a mixture of number andletter codes to designate the nature of the aircraft (aircrafttype, height, number of aircraft, hostile or allied and designated track).As the additional sightings and/or radar detections came through the framescontaining the counters were moved along the by operators using magnetic rakes.In addition to the counterswithin the ‘block’ stands other symbols would be placed on the map to indicatethe direction (arrows for heading or discs in the event of the aircraftscircling) which again were colour-coded to the corresponding triangle of thesector clock at the time of sighting.This system allowed ‘FighterControllers’ to ascertain at a glance the progress and heading of eachformation and thus undertake strategic decisions as to when to scrambleintercepts if required. The colour coding was crucial as allowed a verycomplicated and rapidly evolving picture to be seen in timed groupings thusallowing RAF interceptor squadrons to remain on the ground until necessary.This saved significant amounts of time and fuel hence fighter aircraftcould then stay in the air for longer periods when required. Due to the ofthe speed of incoming enemy raiders speed of response was critical, hencethe RAF had to be prepared to scramble at a moment’s notice.The earlier sector clocksincorporated coloured segments spanning five-minute intervals. However, due tothe increased speed and increased volumes of raids it was deemed thatfive-minute periods were too long for effective tracking, hence the divisionswere halved to 2.5 minute intervals during the latter part of WWII. The GPO collaborated with theMagneta Clock Company to supply sector slave dials with bifurcatedinward-pointing sector markings (to facilitate the 2.5 minute colour change), howeverpresent lot belongs to another group fitted with movements supplied by Smiths EnglishClock Systems with smaller individually coloured sectors. These examples would have probablybeen used in tandem with a Synchronome electric master timepiece (a modifiedversion of a model 6A). The master timepiece would send a pulse everythirty-seconds causing the solenoid to advance the mechanism of the present lotby that amount twice a minute. The advantage of this system is that many slavedials can be connected to an accurately rated master timepiece. Another almost identical slave timepiece, also with a Synchronome movement, was sold at McTears, Glasgow sale of Air Land & Sea: Militaria & Ethnographica 19th July 2023 (lot 155) for £3,000 hammer.The lack of RAF crest to thecentre of the dial of the present lot indicates that it was destined for use bythe Royal Observer Corps (ROC). The 'FHR' initials to the rear of the wooden surround indicate that the timepiece was at the GPO Factory, Holloway, London. Condition Report: Please note the condition report was updated alongside the catalogue description 29/08/2026.The vendor advises that during Bob Gardner's ownership the Synchronome movement was temporarily removed and substituted for a quartz movement due to the slave mechanism being too noisy when in use. The original Synchronome movement was subsequently refitted and wired to a battery-driven pulse driver moduleincluded with the lot (which we have not tested but is believed to have recentlybeen in use by the vendor). The dial surface is in very good original conditionwith faults limited to very minor rusting, minimal flaking to some of thecoloured sectors, very slight scratches etc. The centre has two painted screwheads fitted (held by nuts to the rear). These screws were possibly intended to secure a 'tin can' type case to enclose the movement (as normally found on GPO slave dials) which was not fitted. Interestingly the example sold by McTears in 2023 shares the same detail. The present movement is secured by two screws adjacentto the centre hole. The hands are believed to be original. The oxidised brass bezel is in good condition with only a fewvery small dents; the canted insert is finished with silver paint. The woodensurround is in good original condition with faults limited to some shrinkagemovement and cracking at the joints between the various sections and minorage-related wear. The rear is now fitted with two horizontal wooden batons withthe upper applied with a pierced metal plate for wall hanging. There are twohistoric holes towards the inner edge of the top and bottom sections of thedial frame which suggests that some form of box case/cover was applied at somepoint. There are also a series of further smaller holes probably for hangingfitments towards the upper edge as well as a pair of small brass electricalconnectors. Condition Report Disclaimer
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1,000 - 2,000 GBP
A VERY RARE GROUP OF WWII OPERATIONS ROOM MAP PLOTTING COUNTERSANONYMOUS, MOSTLY CIRCA 1940-45Including various raid block counters signifying ‘hostile’, ‘strength’,‘height’ and ‘designation’, together with numerous colour-coded discs andarrows, and a nickel-plated steel block carrier frame, (41 separate items intotal); together with a modern photographic print of ‘No. 11 Fighter Group’sOperations Room, Uxbridge’ after the 1943 original oil on canvas by CharlesCundall, framed, (42).The block carrier frame 9.5cm (3.75ins) high, 5cm (2ins) wide, 5.5cm(2.25ins) deep; the print 32.5cm (12.75ins) high, 48cm (19ins) wide.Provenance:The property of aprofessional sportsman and commentator.The ‘sector’ or ‘colour change’ aircraft map plotting system wasdeveloped after 1918 by Major GeneralAshmore to assistground control operations in the tracking aircraft in real time. The systemworked by logging the position of a sighting on a large grip map using a seriesof coded counters grouped within a metal block stand. The first counter wouldbe matched to the corresponding colour of the triangle of the sector indicatedby the timepiece at the time of sighting by the Royal Observe Corps. The othercounters were a mixture of number and letter codes to designate the nature ofthe aircraft (aircraft type, height, number of aircraft, hostile or alliedand designated track). As the additional sightings and/or radar detections camethrough the frames containing the counters were moved along the by operatorsusing magnetic rakes.In addition to the counters within the ‘block’ stands other symbolswould be placed on the map to indicate the direction (arrows for heading or discsin the event of the aircrafts circling) which again were colour-coded to the correspondingtriangle of the sector clock at the time of sighting.This system allowed ‘Fighter Controllers’ to ascertain at a glancethe progress and heading of each formation and thus undertake strategicdecisions as to when to scramble intercepts if required. The colour coding wascrucial as allowed a very complicated and rapidly evolving picture to be seenin timed groupings thus allowing RAF interceptor squadrons to remain on theground until necessary. This saved significant amounts of time and fuelhence fighter aircraft could then stay in the air for longer periods whenrequired. Due to the of the speed of incoming enemy raiders speed ofresponse was critical, hence the RAF had to be prepared to scramble at amoment’s notice. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
A RARE WWII RAF OPERATIONS ROOM TYPE 1 ‘SECTOR’ FUSEE WALL TIMEPIECE EX RAF TUNHOUSE, SCOTLAND, F.W. ELLIOTT LIMITED, CROYDON DATED 1938The rectangular four cylindrical pillar single chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, the backplate with pillar screws and collets and stamped 5723, MADE BY, F.W. ELLIOTT LTD, ENGLAND, 1938 to lower margin, the 14 inch circular cream silk screen printed dial with crowned RAF and laurel spray cypher to centre, within an inner track annotated with vertically aligned Arabic hour numerals 13-24 followed by principal chapter ring annotated with conforming larger twelve-hour numerals divided by triangular panels spanning five-minute intervals coloured in a repeating sequence of yellow, blue and red, the circumference with further minute track incorporating Arabic five minutes, with blued steel moon hands set behind a hinged glazed cast brass bezel incorporating a canted silvered insert to interior, applied to a turned stained mahogany surround secured via pegs onto the rear box case with door to the right-hand side over pendulum access flap to the curved underside, the leading edge of the top board stamped 7 P, and the rear stamped MADE BY F.W. ELLIOTT, 1938 to upper left, (dial surface flaking); with a small file of provenance paperwork.47cm (18.5ins) diameter, 19cm (7.5ins) deep.Provenance:The property of a private collector. Purchased from Mallams, Cheltenham Country House Sale 24th September 2025 (lot 84) for £2,000 hammer. Previously purchased by a Mr. and Mrs. D. Palmer of Bicester from Dreweatt Neate sale of FINE ART 16th June 1999 (lot 230) for £2,352.50. Prior to that the property of a Mr. George Brodie of Monifieth who most likely acquired the timepiece before or around the time of the closure of RAF Turnhouse in 1996.RAF Turnhouse was a sector station located on the north-western side of Edinburgh on the site now used as Edinburgh Airport. Established as a simple landing ground in 1915 the facility was significantly enlarged with the laying of three concrete runways during the 1930’s. During WWII RAF Turnhouse played a significant strategic role in the defence of the Edinburgh from air attack, and is credited for bringing down the first enemy aircraft of the war. This occurred on the evening of 28th October 1939 when a Heinkel III reconnaissance aircraft succumbed to fire from Spitfires attached to 602 Squadron. Of the four crewman abord two were killed and one was wounded. The tracking of the Heinkel which lead to it being brought down may well have involved the use of the present lot.After the war it would appear that RAF Turnhouse was mostly used for communications operations and for training. The site was finally decommissioned in 1996 and subsequently integrated into Edinburgh International Airport.The ‘sector’ or ‘colour change’ clock was developed from 1918 by Major General Ashmore to assist ground control operations in the tracking aircraft in real time. The system worked by logging the position of a sighting on a large grip map using a series of coded counters grouped within a metal block stand. The first counter would be matched to the corresponding colour of the triangle of the sector indicated by the timepiece at the time of sighting by the Royal Observer Corps. The other counters were a mixture of number and letter codes to designate the nature of the aircraft (aircraft type, height, number of aircraft, hostile or allied and designated track). As the additional sightings and/or radar detections came through the frames containing the counters were moved along the by operators using magnetic rakes.In addition to the counters within the ‘block’ stands other symbols would be placed on the map to indicate the direction (arrows for heading or discs in the event of the aircrafts circling) which again were colour-coded to the corresponding triangle of the sector clock at the time of sighting.This system allowed ‘Fighter Controllers’ to ascertain at a glance the progress and heading of each formation and thus undertake strategic decisions as to when to scramble intercepts if required. The colour coding was crucial as allowed a very complicated and rapidly evolving picture to be seen in timed groupings, thus allowing RAF interceptor squadrons to remain on the ground until absolutely necessary. This saved significant amounts of time and fuel hence fighter aircraft could then stay in the air for longer periods when required. Due to the of the speed of incoming enemy raiders speed of response was critical, hence the RAF had to be prepared to scramble at a moment’s notice.The ‘type I’ sector clock was introduced circa 1935 and had been superseded by the ‘type II’ variant by 1943. Most examples were made by F.W. Elliott Limited although others by Stockall Marples and Company are known. The RAF laurel wreath bordered crest to the centre of the dial was introduced in 1938 (replacing a winged motif) hence the current lot is likely be one of the first with this crest.The clockmaking firm J.W. Elliott of Croydon can trace their roots back to James Jones Elliott who set-up business in London in 1886. The workshop became known for producing high quality movements (including musical and chiming movements) for wholesale or sale under their own name before being amalgamated with Grimshaw Baxter in 1909. This partnership was dissolved in 1921 and Frank Elliott went on to join the Croydon-based clockmakers and Bellfounders Gillett and Johnson Limited. In 1923 Frank Elliott took-over from Gillett and Johnson forming his own company F.W. Elliott Limited. He was joined by his three sons and started producing clocks for the RAF in 1935.Frank Elliott died in 1944 and after WWII the business was continued by his sons and subsequent generations up until 1998. Condition Report Disclaimer
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7,000 - 9,000 GBP
A FINE AND VERY RARE GEORGE IIIEIGHT-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERGEORGE MARGETTS, LONDON, NO. 101CIRCA 1798The circular single chain fuseemovement with four distinctive baluster turned steel pillars secured by screwsthrough the three-quarter backplate enclosing the wheel train up to the fourthwheel, with five/six-spoke crossings, Harrison's maintaining power, and cocksmounted on the pillar plate for both the third and fourth wheel pivots with thelatter set on the dial side beyond a circular aperture, the fusee with afurther set of teeth to allow side-winding via a perpendicular wheel fittedwith clicks and a square pivoted between a tab applied to the pillar plate anda bridge spanning both plates, the escapement and balance assembly set on asunken sub-frame platform constructed with three small pinned pillars, withEarnshaw type spring detent and escapewheel pivoted beneath a jewelled cockvisible next to the blued steel helical sprung bimetallic balance, fitted withcylindrical timing weights and screws to the pierced rim below a faceteddiamond endstone, now fitted with a 4.5 inch circular silvered brass Romannumeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial at six o'clock enclosing serialengraved number 101 beneath inscription Margetts,London, Corrected, by, Morris Tobias. New balance and spring by, JOHN HUTTON,10 Mark Lane, LONDON. AD 1858 to centre, with blued steel hands setbehind a friction-fit moulded cast brass convex glazed bezel secured by screwsinto a plain cylindrical bowl, now mounted via gimbals alongsidethe brass typsy winding key into a mahogany three tier box, inset with a turnedcircular ivory plaque inscribed 101 to the middle tier overscallop-edged circular brass escutcheon to front, the sides with hinged brasscarrying handles.22cm(8.75ins) cubed.Provenance:The property of a privatecollector. GeorgeMargetts is recorded in Betts, Jonathan MARINE CHRONOMETERS ATGREENWICH, A Catalogue of Marine Chronometers at the National Maritime Museum,Greenwich as born in Old Woodstock, Oxfordshire in 1748. His familywere wheelwrights however his talents were recognised at the age of eighteenafter he devised and constructed a form of tellurium followed by anastronomical clock. This brought him to the attention of the Duke ofMarlborough who went on to finance Margett's move to London and development ofhis skills and a clock and watchmaker.GeorgeMargetts married Mary Bellamy on 22nd March1776 and gained his Freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1779 (byredemption). Working from 12 Ludgate Street he specialised in the production offine astronomical watches and also devised and published his own charts andtables to allow Longitude to be calculated by the lunar distance method. He wasalso awarded fifty guineas by the Board of Longitude for correctingnavigational tables. In addition to this Margetts produced timepieces for theAsian markets facilitated through connections with the East India Company.Unfortunately, a downturn in the Indian trade (precipitated by politicalaffairs in Hindostan) led to Margetts becoming bankrupt in 1788.Through doggeddetermination George Margetts re-established himself and turned his attentionto the production of marine chronometers. In 1790 he took in James Hatton as anapprentice and sought to obtain support from the Board of Longitude to developa new form of detached escapement. This was not forthcoming however they didsubsequently fund printing of navigational tables amounting to £370 by the endof 1794.In 1796George Margetts again approached the Board in an attempt to obtain financialsupport for the production of marine chronometers. Whether he succeeded in hisrequest is not clear however he went on to produce around 220 marinetimekeepers by 1804. In order for his chronometers to stand-out from hiscompetitors, he tended to produce timepieces longer duration oftenincorporating high pinion and wheel counts. Very few of his chronometers wentinto service with the Royal Navy with most apparently being personally acquiredby Officers of the East India Company, perhaps assisted by connectionsestablished prior to his bankruptcy in 1788.In 1798Margetts took-in James Hatton into partnership hence the firm became known asMargetts and Hatton. From 1802 the business traded from 3 Cheapside howeverMargetts health declined resulting in his death in 1804. James Hatton continuedtrading under his own name until 1816 when he took another former Margettsapprentice, Clement Harris, into partnership. Harris continued after Hatton'sdeath in 1824 until 1842 when the business was taken-on by Richard Webster ofCornhill.GeorgeMargetts chronometers are characterised through their relatively long duration,provision of side winding and use of distinctive baluster-turned polished steelpillars within their construction. They were originally supplied with whiteenamel dials and without gimbal mounts being designed to simply rest on apillow. Almost all surviving examples have been subsequently converted to besupported within gimbal mounts and converted to rear winding.The presentchronometer is a rare survivor in that it still retains its original sidewinding mechanism. The cylindrical brass bowl and bezel are also originalhowever the gimbal mounts and box most probably date from relatively soon afterMargett's death in 1804. The conversion to a three-quarter back plate (with theescapement set on a recessed sub plate) mirrors that seen on Margetts number163 illustrated by Betts on page 246 (Figure 4.12.10). In the text Bettsindicates that the conversion was done by James Hatton in around 1811 hence itis likely he performed the same modification to the present lot around the sametime, as well as adding gimbal mounts and a box.Thechronometer was subsequently re-dialled by the Morris Tobias circa 1825 whilstundertaking further 'corrections'. Interestingly, rather than just sign thedial with his name (which would have been common practice at this time), Tobiaschose to also include 'Margetts' most likely as a mark of high esteem for theoriginal maker. Finally, a further inscription denoting the fitting of a 'NewBalance and spring' by John Hutton (worked from 9 Lucas Place, Commercial Road,London 1830-68) was added in 1858.The presentchronometer is a very rare and interesting example retaining Margetts originalside-winding mechanism to the bowl and with later updates clearly recorded onthe dial. As such it provides an interesting window into re-use and updatingemployed within the chronometer trade during the first half of the 19th century,as well as an indication as to the high regard given to the original maker,George Margetts, by subsequent chronometer makers over a span of at least fiftyyears. Condition Report: Please note Dreweatts have an ivory exemption certificate licence for this lot N13PYBGM.CONDITION REPORT AVAILABLE FROM THE DEPARTMENT ON REQUEST. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A RARE WILLIAM IV MAHOGANY ONE-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER WITH ARNOLD'S PATENT BALANCEARNOLD AND DENT, LONDON, CIRCA 1830The circular four pillar single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by a variation of J.R. Arnold's patent 'O-U' helical under-sprung balance, incorporating horizontal bimetallic strip fitted with pendant steel posts to each end applied with compensation weights over timing nuts, and with perpendicular poising bar fitted with mean-time nuts to each end, the backplate with tall balance cock centred with a faceted diamond endstone, applied next to a separate plate for the mainspring pivot fitted with a set-up ratchet, the backplate with pinned movement pillars blued steel mainspring plate and backcock securing screws and signed Jn'o R. Arnold, London, Inv't et Fecit, No. 612 to circumference, the 3.125 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial beneath signature ARNOLD & DENT, 84. Strand, London, and number 612 across the centre beneath blind power reserve at twelve o'clock, with blued steel spade hands and secured by a slender convex-glazed bayonet-fitted bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with pivoted dust-cap covered winding hole to underside, mounted via gimbals into a later purpose-made mahogany three tier box alongside a typsy winding key, with brass strap reinforced edges and corner caps to the top tier, the front applied with ivory roundel inscribed 612 over decorative scallop-edged escutcheon plate, the sides with hinged with carrying handles.16cm (6.25ins) high, 15cm (6ins) wide, 16cm (6.25ins) deep. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. 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.John Roger Arnold was born in 1769, the son of the famous watch and chronometer maker John Arnold. He initially trained under his father and then Abraham Louis Breguet before, in 1787, going into partnership with his father. The firm of Arnold and Son subsequently became principal suppliers of early marine chronometers to the Royal Navy and lasted until the death of John Arnold senior in 1799. John Roger Arnold continued the business, in 1817 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 design of the balance used in the present chronometer was patented by John Roger Arnold in 1821 and works on the same basic principal as Hardy's 1804 patent. As the temperature rises the bimetallic spring expands in length and bends into a slight arc causing the arms to angle inwards thus allowing the weights to remain in their correct relative position. The under-slung configuration is the earlier variant of this design and follows that of the 'O-U' design fitted to J.R. Arnold No. 569 illustrated in Betts, Jonathan MARINE CHRONOMETERS AT GREENWICH, A Catalogue of marine Chronometers at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich on page 304 (Figure 4.18.7). The balance of the present lot differs a little from that of J.R. Arnold No. 569 by having the mean-time weights applied to a separate perpendicular arm, rather than on extensions to the bimetallic strip. Condition Report: Please note Dreweatts have an ivory exemption certificate licence for this lot 71Z3T7MKAs catalogued thecurrent escapewheel is not original hence and incorrect in its design hence escapementis not operational. When wound the movement will run through. The detent ispresent however it appears to have been altered hence will probably requirework or another made. Otherwise the movement appears to be in good origibalcondition including the balance although the knurled screw terminals beneaththe timing weights may be replacements. The dial is in fine condition with onlyslight patchy mellowing to the silvering only. The bowl is in good conditionwith only light wear/rubbing to the lacquered finish, the gimbal ring assemblyhas been cleaned of its lacquered finish otherwise is in good condition. Ascatalogued the box is of relatively recent construction but has been executedto a very high standard and is in fine condition.Chronometer iscomplete with typsy winding key and a case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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AN INTERESTING VICTORIAN TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERSIGNED FOR JOSEPH SEWILL BUT INCORPORATING AN EARLIER MOVEMENT BY JOHN POOLE, LONDON, CIRCA 1840/70The circular four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with, spotted plates, five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by split bimetallic balance with wedge-shaped weights, blued helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet and blued pillar securing screws, and signed Poole, London, No. 707 to circumference, the circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial numbered 3712 beneath signature JOSEPH SEWILL, 61 SO. CASTLE ST., LIVERPOOL., Maker to the Admiralty across the centre, below 0-54, Down/Up state of wind dial inscribed Wind UP/Two Day flanked by red PRIZE MEDAL AWARDED 1867 and INTERNATIONAL EXHIB. 1862 medallions beneath the X and II numerals respectively, with gold moon hands, secured by a slender moulded convex-glazed screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with pivoted dust-cap covered winding hole to underside, mounted via later gimbals into a later mahogany three tier box with typsy winding key, with brass strap reinforced edges and corner caps to the top tier, the front with shield-shaped escutcheon plate and the sides with recessed hinged with carrying handles; with a padded baize-lined mahogany guard box.18cm (7ins) cubed. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. The present lot is an interesting example of a chronometer maker re-using an earlier movement by a different maker. The movement by Poole was most likely made on the cusp of the transfer of the business between John Poole senior and his son of the same name, and was redialled etc. by Sewill probably fairly shortly after being awarded the 'Prize Medal' in 1867. John Poole junior is recorded in Betts, Jonathan MARINE CHRONOMETERS AT GREENWICH, A Catalogue of Marine Chronometers at the National Maritime Museum, 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. Joseph Sewill was born in Liverpool in 1816 and started up as a watchmaker, chronometer maker, and nautical instrument maker at 61 South Castle St, Liverpool in about 1848. Latterly Joseph went into partnership with two of his sons and is thought to have retired to London in 1862. His son, John Joshua Sewill (d. 1891) succeeded him and headed the business until his death in 1891, The firm was well regarded and opened branches in London (at 30 Cornhill prior to 1882), Glasgow and Locle (Switzerland). In 1867 a chronometer by Sewill won the Greenwich Trials and they became makers to the Admiralty. In the 1874 Greenwich Trials their chronometers came first and third. They also entered pieces into Kew trials, where a karrusel watch was awarded 81.8 marks in 1900. They won an award for 'services to horology' at the Paris Exhibition of 1862, and later became 'Maker to the Queen of Spain'. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Y A VERY RARE VICTORIAN ROSEWOOD CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER WITH HARTNUP BALANCE WILLIAM BAKER CRISP, LONDON, CIRCA 1861 The circular four columnar pillar engine single chain reverse fusee movement with spotted plates, five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by a Hartnup split bimetallic balance incorporating laminated bimetallic z-shaped cross bars and conical rim applied with wedge-shaped weights and a series of timing screws, with blued steel helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with blued steel pillar screws and separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet, the 3.75 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial beneath signature Will'm B. Crisp, MAKER TO THE, ADMIRALTY, 81 St. John Street R'd, London, No. 381 to the centre and 0-56 , DOWN/UP state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, with gilt spade hands, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl and mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key, the rosewood three tier case applied with a paper trade label for THOMAS PETLEY of SYDNEY, N.S.W. to interior, the exterior with brass strap reinforced edges and corner caps to the top tier, the front applied with a circular ivory plate inscribed HARTNUP BALANCE, WILL'M B. CRISP to the middle tier over shaped brass escutcheon and a further vacant roundel, the sides with flush hinged brass carrying handles. 19cm (7.5ins) high, 18cm (7ins) square Provenance: Purchased by the vendor from Bonhams, London sale of FINE CLOCKS 3rd July 2024 (lot 118) for £3,200. Previously in the collection of the Time Museum, Rockford IL, and sold at Sotheby's, New York MASTERPIECES FROM THE TIME MUSEUM, PART FOUR, VOLUME II, CHRONOMETERS AND SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS (lot 662) for $10,200. Exhibited: Exhibition titled Your Time organised by the Northern Section of the Antiquarian Horological Society simultaneously held at Prescot Museum and The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum, Birkenhead, February to April 2008 (exhibit number 18). William Baker Crisp is recorded in Betts, Jonathan MARINE CHRONOMETERS AT GREENWICH, A Catalogue of Marine Chronometers at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich as born in Lavenham, Suffolk, in 1819 and apprenticed in London to John Bryer. In 1840 he married Lucy Holmes, daughter of watch spring maker John Holmes, and by 1846 he had set-up business as a watch, clock and chronometer maker at 20 Green Terrace, Clerkenwell, London. He subsequently moved to 81 St. John Road before finally relocating along the same street to number 174 in 1868. Between 1858 and 1881 Crisp frequently sent chronometers to the Greenwich trials with his best result being fourth in 1859. He is believed to have been a founder member of the British Horological Institute in 1858, and wrote many articles on horology including a critique on the mathematical methods employed to assess the performance of marine chronometers at the Greenwich trials. William Baker Crisp filed for bankruptcy in 1881 and died at the Clockmakers' Asylum, New Southgate, London in 1895. The description of the present lot within the exhibition catalogue for the 'Your Time' exhibition notes that the movement of the was made by the specialist workshops of Joseph Preston and Sons of Prescott Lancashire. Founded by Joseph Preston in 1829, with his sons joining the business in by 1840, the business was known for supplying high-grade movements for finishing to Chronometer makers in London and beyond including Victor Kullberg, Thomas Mercer and even Patek Phillippe. By 1900 the business was in the hands of the Preston's nephew, Harry Pybus, who single-handedly continued making chronometer movements in a workshop with no electricity until his death at the bench in 1952. The design of the balance for the current chronometer was devised by John Hartnup, astronomer and Assistant Secretary to the Royal Astronomical Society. In 1843 Hartnup founded the Sidereal Liverpool Observatory, and, amongst his achievements was the calculation of the longitude of Liverpool, which was important for navigation and the development of the port. He oversaw the relocation of the observatory to Bidson Hall in 1866 (due to the expansion of Waterloo Dock) and remained superintendent there until 1885. Hartnup's design of chronometer balance sought to allow correction for middle temperature error via miniscule bending of the laminated cross arms causing the weights to move upwards and inwards as the temperature rises. This system, working in tandem with a canted bimetallic rim, was believed to have the benefit of responding slowly in rising temperatures but quickly as it cooled (as well as allowing for the change in elasticity of the balance spring). Due to his academic status John Hartnup did not seek to patent his design thus allowing it to be available to whoever chose to use it. However, its relative complexity proved costly to manufacture hence, in practice, it was very rarely employed. The present lot is a very interesting and rare example demonstrating the collaboration between William Baker Crisp and John Hartnup in attempt to advance the performance of marine chronometers. With the movement also coming from the leading specialist workshop of John Preston and Sons it demonstrates it also provides a very interesting insight into English marine chronometer production during the Victorian period. Condition Report: Please note that Dreweatts have an ivory exemption licence for this lot 8XHCE2FC Condition Report Disclaimer
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Y A FINE VICTORIAN ROSEWOOD CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER RATED IN THE 1860 CHRONOMETER TRIALSJAMES MUIRHEAD AND SON, GLASGOW, CIRCA 1860The circular four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by Poole type auxiliary compensated split bimetallic balance with cylindrical weights, helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet, blued pillar securing screws and engraved with M.O.D. arrow device adjacent to the balance, the inside of the frontplate stamped 3116, the 3.5 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial engraved with M.O.D. arrow device beneath signature James Muirhead & Son, 90 Buchanan St., Glasgow. 3116 to the centre and 0-56, DOWN-UP state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, with blued steel spade hands, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl stamped 3116 to interior, mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into a rosewood three tier box, with brass strap reinforced edges and corner caps to the top tier, the front applied with ivory plaque inscribed J. MUIRHEAD & SON, TWO DAYS. above a further M.O.D. arrow device, over a diamond-lozenge escutcheon plate, the sides with hinged with carrying handles; with a bundle of paperwork including a copy of the Admiralty ledger of receipts and issues for the present chronometer for the period 1861-1920.18.5cm (7.25ins) high, 18cm (8ins) wide, 16cm (6.25ins) deep. Provenance:Private Collection, Bristol. Previously in the possession of Malcolm D. Stevens who purchased it at Christies, London Fine Clocks, Watches and Scientific Instruments 2nd May 1979 (lot 170) for £580 hammer. James Muirhead of Glasgow is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers and Clockmakers of The World as working from 1817. In 1848 he was appointed watchmaker to the Queen, and his son joined the business by 1860; it was from around this time that they marketed themselves as 'Makers to the Admiralty'. They are believed to have operated until 1874, but the business probably continued from their 90 Buchanan Street address as a firm of silversmiths and retail jewellers under successive owners after this date. The present chronometer was favourably rated at the 1860 Admiralty chronometer trials and was subsequently entered for service, including onboard H.M.S. Euryalus from 13th June 1878 until 6th July 1885. The Euryalus was a newly commissioned 16-gun iron screw corvette whose captain, John D'Arcy, was amongst a party of senior Navy officers received by Queen Victoria at Osborne House on 16th August 1878. The Euryalus then departed to the East Indies station to relieve H.M.S. Undaunted from where she operated until relieved on the 25th June 1885 (under Captain Hastings). Muirhead number 3116 was sold out of service on 13th August 1925 to Messrs J.W. Ray and company. Condition Report: Please note Dreweatts have an ivory exemption licence for this lot VREKBBGF Condition Report Disclaimer
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Y A LATE VICTORIAN/EDWARDIAN BRASS BOUND ROSEWOOD CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER ALEXANDER DOBBIE AND SON LIMITED, GLASGOW, CIRCA 1900 The circular four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with spotted plates, five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by Poole type auxiliary compensated split bimetallic balance with cylindrical weights, blued helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the backplate with separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet and blued pillar securing screws, the 3.75 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial inscribed in red LONDON HOUSE, DOBBIE, SON & HUTTON, 113 Fenchurch St., E.C., AUXILIARY COMPENSATION and numbered 2242 beneath signature ALEX'R. DOBBIE & SON LTD, MAKERS TO THE ADMIRALTY, 45 CLYDE PLACE, GLASGOW to the centre and 0-56, DOWN-UP state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, with gilt spade hands, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl interior, mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into brass rosewood three tier box edged in brass and with twin-line inlaid borders to front and top, the middle tier applied with a rectangular mother-of-pearl plaque inscribed ALEX. DOBBIE & SON LTD., GLASGOW, 45 CLYDE PLACE, GLASGOW to front over a shaped brass inset escutcheon plate, the sides with recessed brass carrying handles; with a padded baize-lined mahogany guard box. The chronometer box (7.5ins) high, 18cm (7ins) square. Provenance: Private Collection, Bristol. The firm of Alexander Dobbie was established in Glasgow 1841 as a maker and supplier of Nautical instruments. They worked from 57 Bothwell Street and became an agent for Barraud of London from 1850. In 1881 the business became Alexander Dobbie and Son, and after Alexander' death in 1887, the firm was continued by his son, John C. Dobbie. By the 1890's they had expanded to open a branch at 45 Clyde Place. In 1902, the engineer T.S. McInnes was taken into partnership hence the business became Dobbie McInnes Limited. They subsequently diversified into supplied speed indicators, surveying instruments etc. Sadly their 57 Bothwell Street premises was bombed during the night of 10/11 th May 1941, and the business was subsequently wound-up in 1958. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A LATE VICTORIAN BRASS FUSEE BULKHEAD TIMEPIECE ALMOST CERTAINLY SUPPLIED TO THE SS. MONA'S QUEENUNSIGNED, LATE 19th CENTURYThe circular four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power and large platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance planted vertically towards the top of the frontplate, the 8 inch circular white painted Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial to centre and S/F regulation adjustment lever above twelve o'clock, with blued steel spade hands set behind a heavy hinged thick bevel-glazed caddy-moulded bezel incorporating a canted silvered fillet insert to interior, the cylindrical case designed to be fitted within an aperture but now with eyes for bulkhead mounting, the rear scratch engraved in two different hands MONA, queen in large text and Mona's Queen, Saloon in smaller neater script to the rear panel.23cm (9ins) diameter, 11.5cm (4.5ins) deep. The inscriptions to the rear almost certainly relate to the SS. Mona's Queen which was an iron-built paddle-steamer which served with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company 1885-1929. Built by the Barrow Shipbuilding Company, Barrow-in-Furness, the SS. Mona's Queen was launched on the 18th April 1885 and immediately departed for Douglas, Isle of Man. Her saloons were described as 'very commodious,' being panelled in satin wood and walnut, heightened with gilding. The Main Saloon, together with the Captain's Room, were upholstered in 'peacock blue velvet'. The Ladies Saloon was decorated with bronze green velvet, with furnishings in gilt mounted sycamore and walnut, with upholstery by Townson, Ward and Barrow. During WWI the SS. Mona's Queen was chartered as a troop carrier and during the night of 16th February 1917 after leaving Southampton with 1,000 troops onboard she encountered a German U-Boat. After a failed attempt by the submarine to Torpedo her, the vessels collided causing the U-Boat to founder and sink. The Mona's Queen limped onto Le Havre where she safely disembarked the troops. After the war She returned to the Isle of Man where she remained in service until being sold-off for breaking in 1929/30. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A WALNUT FIVE-GLASS CASED BRASS ELECTROMAGNETIC BALANCE MANTEL TIMEPIECE EUREKA CLOCK COMPANY LIMITED, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe movement with large diameter sprung split bimetallic balance applied with timing weights to circumference and with transverse electromagnetic impulse coil to centre, oscillating against a sprung detent contact breaker and cam operating a lever and ratchet shunt for the motionwork, the rear with spotted inverted T-shaped back plate set with a visible ball bearing pivot over inscription PATENT, No. 14614, 1906, No. 2713 and a SLOW/FAST adjustment scale, the 4.25 inch circular cream enamel Roman numeral dial inscribed EUREKA CLOCK Co. LTD., LONDON, '1000 DAY ELECTRIC CLOCK' to centre and with steel spade hands within a spun brass bezel, the whole raised on two cylindrical supports onto a walnut platform to locate the bevel-glazed five-glass cover incorporating cavetto cornice and base mouldings, set on a plinth base incorporating integral bracket supports and enclosing a battery compartment to underside.27cm (10.5ins) high, 21cm (8.25ins) wide, 17cm (6.75ins) deep. The Eureka mantel timepiece was invented by Timothy Bernard Powers of New York shortly after 1900 and patented in 1906. It is thought that around 10,000 were made by the Eureka Clock Company, London before their demise in 1914. The design of the balance is such that a constant voltage (of 1.5 volts) is required to ensure consistency in the amplitude of oscillation. Unfortunately early 20th century battery technology struggled to deliver a suitably stable output hence such timepieces acquired a reputation for poor timekeeping. Nowadays, once correctly set-up, good timekeeping can be achieved through use of modern cells which provide a much more consistent voltage output. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A VICTORIAN STYLE BRASS 'GREAT WHEEL' SKELETON TIMEPIECE WITH MOONPHASEUNSIGNED, LATE 20th CENTURYThe single fusee movement with crucifix over arch shaped plates united by five knopped pillars, enclosing a five wheel train with the first being a six-inch diameter great wheel with six-spoke crossings, the remainder of the train with four-spoke crossings terminating with a deadbeat escapement regulated by a disc bob pendulum swinging to the rear, the recess beneath the arch with remote spring barrel mounted within a cradle incorporating arched plates with the chain passing upwards to the fusee above, the 8 inch diameter skeletonised silvered brass regulator-type dial incorporating crossed-out centre to the subsidiary seconds ring over rolling moonphase with terrestrial globe decorated lunettes within an Arabic numeral hour ring, the outer circumference with Arabic five minute ring within an engine-milled bezel, mounted on a stepped D-ended double cavetto moulded wooden base and with glass dome cover (dome with some damage).The timepiece 42cm (16.25ins) high; including stand and dome 55cm (21.5ins) high, 40cm (15.75ins) wide, 28cm (11ins) deep. Provenance: From a Private Collection, Kent. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A BRASS 'GREAT WHEEL' SKELETON CALENDAR TIMEPIECE WITH MOONPHASETHE DIAL INSCRIBED FOR FRANZ DENK, VIENNA, LATE 20th CENTURYThe single chain fusee movement with pierced inverted Y-shaped plates united by three double baluster turned pillars decorated with cast rosettes around the blued securing screws, enclosing a four-wheel train with decorative crossings to the large great and centre wheels, and terminating with a pin-wheel deadbeat escapement regulated by disc-bob pendulum swinging to the rear, the space below the plates occupied by remote spring barrel mounted within a cradle incorporating pierced plates with the chain passing upwards to the fusee above, the 3.75 inch white enamel chapter ring with vertically orientated Arabic hour numerals and inscribed Franz Denk, in Wien to lower edge, with scroll-pierced hands, set above a pair of subsidiary enamel dials for day-of-the-week and date-of-the-month and with further subsidiary for rolling moonphase above, the frame surmounted by a ball and spire finial and mounted via bell-shaped feet onto a stepped D-ended ogee moulded marble base and with glass dome cover.The timepiece 42cm (16.25ins) high; including stand and dome 49cm (19.25ins) high, 33.5cm (13.25ins) wide, 23cm (9ins) deep. Provenance: From a Private Collection, Kent. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS FOUR-GLASS MANTEL CLOCKDAVAU, PARIS, LATE 19th CENTURYThe circular eight-day two train gong striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by gilt disc bob pendulum incorporating Brocot type regulation to suspension, the backplate stamped DAVAU, PARIS beneath serial number 106 to upper left margin and 5 8 at the base, the 4 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial inscribed DAVAU, 32 BOUL'd Poissonniere 32, PARIS to centre and with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with gilt brass moon hands within an ogee moulded gilt surround, the bevel-glazed frosted gilt brass case with cushion top moulding incorporating channelled detail at the angles over cavetto cornice, pin-hinged front and rear doors and moulded rounded angles, on generous cavetto moulded skirt base with conforming channelled detail to the rounded angles.30.5cm (12ins) high, 20cm (8ins) wide, 15cm (6ins) deep. Provenance:The Estate of the Late Dr. Gwyneth Flower. Purchased from Bonhams London sale of CLOCKS, WATCHES & BAROMETERS 28th June 2005 (lot 367) for £528. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS OVAL FOUR-GLASS MANTEL CLOCKUNSIGNED, LATE 19th CENTURYThe circular eight-day two train bell striking movement regulated by twin glass mercury capsule compensated pendulum incorporating Brocot type regulation to suspension, the backplate stamped with serial number 1274 to upper left margin and 5 8 at the base, the 3.75 inch circular two-piece white enamel dial with visible Brocot type anchor escapement to the recessed centre within Roman numeral chapter ring, with blued steel spade hands within a moulded surround, the oval section bevel-glazed frosted gilt brass case with stepped-ogee top moulding and cavetto cornice over pin-hinged bow-glazed front and rear doors, cockbead cast gilt uprights and conforming bowed glass side panels, on generous cavetto and stepped ogee moulded skirt base with integral bracket type feet.30.5cm (12ins) high, 21cm (8.25ins) wide, 16.5cm (6.26ins) deep. Provenance:The Estate of the Late Dr. Gwyneth Flower. Condition Report: Movement is in clean workingcondition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. Althoughit has been kept in good working order a precautionary light service isprobably advisable at some point within the next year or two. The dial is invery good condition with faults limited to very slight chipping to the centreadjacent to the winding hole collets (only visible on very close examination).The case is in very good condition. The glasses are free fro visible damagehowever a very small internal corner chip can just be seen to the front upper cornerof the right-hand side glass on very close examination. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to somepatchy oxidation to the finish.Clock is completewith pendulum (with some discolouration to the sealed mercury capsules) and awinding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
1,000 - 1,500 GBP
A FRENCH ENGRAVED GILT CENTRE-SECONDS REPEATING ALARM CARRIAGE CLOCK MADE FOR THE CHINESE MARKETATTRIBUTED TO CHARLES JOSEPH, PARIS, FOR RETAIL BY L. VRARD AND COMPANY, SHANGHAI, CIRCA 1890The 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. VRARD & 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. L. Vrard and Company were a prominent firm of Swiss watchmakers who specialised in watches and small clocks for the Chinese market. They established an outlet in Tientsin and later Shanghai where they marketed their timepieces under the Chinese name Hengdeli. The velvet covering for the travelling case of 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 clean fully workingcondition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. Theclock has been recently serviced (within the last 12 months) hence is ready tobe put into service. The dial is in fine condition being free from visiblecracks and chips and faults apparently limited to a couple of tiny surfacescratches; the hands a appear original and undamaged. The dial is in very goodcondition with faults apparently limited to very small corner chips to two ofthe rear door glass; the gilding is near immaculate. The travelling case is invery good original condition with some scuffing/bruising to the upper edges redsilk-lined interior from the clock being inserted over the years. The exteriorhas overall slight fading and edge wear but is generally very good consideringthe age and the nature of the covering. The strap handle is intact but some ofthe stitching to the velvet covering has degraded causing it to open out aswell as having a short tear.Clock is complete with a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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Estimate
1,200 - 1,800 GBP
A FINE FRENCH GILT BRASS EXTREME ROCOCO CASED CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH PUSH-BUTTON REPEATJULES, PARIS, CIRCA 1840The rectangular eight-day two train bell striking movement with typical 'Jules' type platform lever escapement regulated by helical sprung bimetallic balance incorporating screws, wedge-shaped timing weights and pivoting within a circular sub-carriage, the backplate signed JULES A PARIS across the lower margin, the rectangular white Roman numeral enamel dial with pierced blued steel trefoil hands and signed Jules, Paris to lower margin, the elaborate case with hinged triple C-scroll handle above bevelled top glass to the ogee outline upstand applied with crest modelled as a pair of reclining putti flanking a globe with plunger for the repeat function between, above generous scrolling angles applied with further putti and terminating in an elaborate scallop shell centred scroll panel to apron flanked by supports finely modelled as a mermaid and her companion, the sides with conforming scrolls bordering cartouche-shaped glazed insert, the rear matching the front but with elaborated scroll cast door with hinged clasp.20cm high with handle down, 14cm (5.5ins) wide, 12cm (4.75ins) deep. An almost identical escapement to the one fitted to the current lot is illustrated in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS Their History and Development on page 73 (plate II/47). Allix/Bonnert do not list working dates for Jules however similarities between this escapement and those used by Bolvillier are noted suggesting a working date of around 1840. The extreme rococo case can be directly compared to that for a clock by Lucien, Paris illustrated in Roberts, Derek CARRIAGE and Other Travelling CLOCKS on page 101 (Figure 6-33).A very similar clock to the current example by Jules was sold in these rooms 4th September 2013 (lot 12) for £3,200 hammer. Condition Report: Movement is in full working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. Then mechanism would however benefit from a gentle clean/service. The dial appears free form visible faults. The case is generally in fine condition with minimal wear or discolouration to the gilding however would benefit from a gentle wash. The front glass is missing (would have not been bevelled hence straightforward to reinstate) and the repeat plunger requires some adjustment to ensure consistent positive engagement with the mechanism within. Some of the applied castings are a little loose hence would benefit from tightening. The baseplate is missing three (of eight) small screws however all appears secure, otherwise case is in fine condition.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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AN ENGRAVED AND CHAMPLEVE ENAMELLED ANGLAISE RICHE CASED REPEATING CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH ALARMPROBABLY BY JULES BRUNELOT, PARIS, LATE 19th CENTURYThe eight-day two movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and striking the hours on a gong mounted on the backplate, the upper left with alarm mechanism sounding on the same gong, the inside of the frontplate stamped 230 and the rear with trademark B within a circle, the dial decorated with polychrome champleve enamel leafy rosette to centre within gilt Roman numeral chapter ring, with steel fleur-de-lys hands, set within conforming rectangular turquoise-ground champleve enamelled infill incorporating a gilt alarm setting dial to lower margin flanked by polychrome scrollwork continuing upwards to envelope the chapter ring and occupy the upper spandrel areas, the engraved gilt brass bevel-glazed Anglaise Riche case with hinged reeded baton and foliate panel decorated carrying handle over acanthus strapwork engraved top incorporating repeat button to leading edge and conforming decoration to the cavetto cornice bordered with a dentil band to frieze, the angles with Corinthian three-quarter columns engraved with leafy scrollwork to shafts and the rear with pin-hinged gilt panel door, on engraved ogee moulded base bordered with conforming dentil band over a stepped skirt.17.5cm (79ins) high with handle down, 11.5cm (4.5ins) wide, 9.5cm (3.75ins) deep. The trademark stamped to the lower left-hand corner of the backplate of the current lot (letter B within a circle) is noted in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGE CLOCKS, Their history and development as possibly being for Jules Brunelot although no evidence has been found to confirm this. Condition Report: Movement appears complete and in original condition with novisible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The movement willjust about strike (rather lazily) and the escapement will beat for a second ortwo when encouraged - suggesting that the movement is in serviceable conditionbut currently not working due to being ‘gummed-up’ or dry. Hence movement needsa service before it can be put into use; the alarm mechanism is in workingcondition. The dial appears free of visible faults. The case is in good originalcondition although the lacquer finish has broken down and is rubbed hence clocknow has a patchy oxidised finish. The front leading edge of the top plate has asmall bruise towards the right-hand corner. The front glass has a smallinternal chip to the lower left corner, and the right-hand side glass has largerchips to both the leading upper and lower corners, otherwise glasses appearfree from visible damage.Clock does not have a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A RARE FRENCHGILT BRASS FIVE-MINUTE REPEATING CARRIAGE CLOCK PROBABLY BYGAY LAMAILLE AND COMPANY, PARIS, FOR RETAIL BY LUND AND BLOCKLEY, LONDON, CIRCA1880The eight-day two traingong striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated bysprung split bimetallic balance, repeating the hours on the gong via a plungerto the front of the case, as well as counting the number of five minuteintervals after the hour on the same gong via a second plunger positioned atthe rear, the inside of both the front and rear movement plates stamped 50towards the lower margins, the backplate with visible hour snail and jumperover stamped oval panel inscribed PATENT SURETY ROLLER to centre andserial number 2949 to lower left-hand corner, the rectangular frostedsilvered dial with recessed Roman numeral hour disc with blued steel spade andinscribed EXAM’D BY, LUND & BLOCKLEY, TO THE QUEEN, 42 PALL MALL, LONDONto lower margin, with blued steel spade hands set within a canted silveredframe surround, the gilt brass bevel-glazed corniche case with hinged facetedcarrying handle above oval top glass set between push-repeat plungers positionedto both the front and rear edges, over cavetto cornice and caddy mouldeduprights, the rear with pin-hinged door, on cavetto moulded skirt base withrounded angles; with original velvet-lined red Morocco covered protectivetravelling case applied with a silver coloured metal plate engraved Presentedto, D.W. MOLLINS ESQ., on the occasion, of his race-horse, FIRE RED, winningthe, YELLOW PAGERS SUMMER CUP, at Newbury, on Saturday 12th August1972 to top.The clock 14.5cm (5.75ins)high with handle down, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide, 8.3cm (3.25ins) deep. The partnership of Lundand Blockley are recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers ofthe World, Volume 2 as working in London 1875-81. They were perhaps bestknown for supplying explorer's watches and other timepieces to the RoyalGeographical Society and The Admiralty.The firm of Gay, Lamailleand Company and their patent for the 'surety roller' is discussed by Thomas R.Wotruba in his article The story behind 'PATENT SURETY ROLLER' stamped oncarriage clocks published in ANTIQUARIAN HOROLOGY June 2019 (pages239-47). Wotruba describes how the Patent Surety Roller (a mechanism whichprevents the strike star wheel from accidentally jumping out-of-sync whilst theclock is being transported) was invented by Moritz Immisch for which hereceived a brevet in 1879. The patent was subsequently secured by Messrs Gay,Lamaille and Company of Paris and London. One of the firm'sfounders, Emile Gay(e), is recorded as working at 20 Red Lion Square, London in1861 before going into partnership with a clockmaker named Vicarino and settingup operations at 5 rue Beranger, Paris. In around 1877-78 George Lamaille replacedVicarino forming Gay, Lamaille and Company who through their strong connectionswith London supplied many of the leading English retailers such as Dent,Frodsham and Lund & Blockley during the latter years of the 19th century.The five minute repeating system employed in the currentlot is illustrated and described in Allix, Charles and Bonnert, Peter CARRIAGECLOCKS, Their history and development pages 197-98 (Plates VIII/6-7). Condition Report Disclaimer
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH PUSH-BUTTON REPEAT AND ALARMUNSIGNED, PARIS, LATE 19th CENTURYThe eight-day two train bell striking movement with silvered platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and alarm mechanism positioned between the plates at two-o'clock, the backplate stamped with serial number 8323 to lower left-hand corner, the rectangular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel spade hands over alarm setting dial, the gilt brass bevel-glazed corniche case with hinged carrying handle over oval top glass, cavetto cornice moulding and caddy moulded uprights to the angles, the rear with pin-hinged door, on cavetto moulded skirt base with rounded angles; with a tooled maroon Morocco leather covered protective travelling case.The clock 14cm (5.5ins) high with handle down, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide, 8cm (3.125ins) deep. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The alarm is working but the setting hand is out-of-sync; the movement would benefit from a gentle clean service if intending to put into long-term service. The dial panel has a slight chip to the upper left-hand corner which can only be seen on very close examination looking into the corner from an angle, otherwise dial appears to be in fine condition. The case retains frosted gilt finish albeit with wear/rubbing to the handle and extremities, as well as some spotting and general dirt/grime deposits mostly to the top surface. The left-hand side glass has very slight chipping to both rear corners otherwise glasses appear free from noticeable faults. The travelling case is not original to the clock (although fit is essentially perfect) and has no provision for the repeat button. The interior lining is in sound condition, the exterior has losses and wear to the leather covering, the clasp button and carrying strap are also missing.Clock has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS GORGE CASED CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH PUSH-BUTTON REPEAT AND ALARMUNSIGNED, PARIS, CIRCA 1880The eight-day two train gong striking movement with platform lever escapement regulated by sprung bimetallic balance and alarm mechanism positioned between the plates at two-o'clock, the inside of the frontplate stamped with numbers 642 and 48 to lower margin, the gong block stamped with initials FD within an oval panel, the rectangular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel moon hands and Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track over alarm setting dial, the gilt brass bevel-glazed gorge case with replaced hinged reeded carrying handle over full-width top glass and trip-repeat button to the front rail, channel-moulded uprights, and pin-hinged door to rear, on ogee-outline base.13cm (5.125ins) high with handle down, 9cm (3.5ins) wide, 7.5cm (3ins) deep. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The balance staff top pivot appears to be broken hence the going train is not currently running however the rest of the train appears free from noticeable faults and spring is wound. The strike train is in working condition however the repeat button is not engaging as it should hence requires adjustment. The alarm is working but the setting hand is out-of-sync. The dial panel has slight hairlines to the left-hand margin and small enamel losses towards the upper left-hand corner. The case has overall rubbing and oxidation however appears free from damage. As catalogued the handle is a replacement. The glasses are free from noticeable damages/chips except to the extremities of some of the corners which have very slight wear which can only be seen on very close examination.Clock is complete with a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A FRENCH GILT BRASS MID-SIZED GORGE CASED CARRIAGE CLOCK WITHPUSH-BUTTON REPEAT RETAILED BY GROHE, LONDON, CIRCA 1850Theeight-day two train bell striking movement with gilt platform lever escapement regulated by sprungbimetallic balance, the inside of the frontplate stamped with numbers 7871and 826 to lower margin, the backplate signed GROHE, LONDON tothe lower margin and numbered 1826 to the bottom edge, the dial withwhite enamel Roman numeral chapter disc inscribed GROHE, WIGMORE STREET,LONDON to centre and with blued steel moon hands, set within a rectangulargilt brass mask finely engraved with foliate strapwork into a matted ground, thegilt brass bevel-glazed gorge case with hinged faceted carrying handleover full-width top glass and trip-repeat button to the front rail,channel-moulded uprights, and pin-hinged door to rear, on ogee-outline base.12cm(4.75ins) high with handle down, 7.5cm (3ins) wide, 6.5cm (2.5ins) deep.JamesGrohe is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of theWorld, Volume 2 as working in London 1832-81. Leigh Extence notes hisaddress being 7 Wigmore Street and that he retailed clocks supplied by bothHolingue and Drocourt. Condition Report Disclaimer
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