The Alfa Romeo 1600GT Junior was introduced in 1972 to plug the gap between the GT1300 Junior and the larger-engined 2000 GTV. In the UK righthand drive market, the 1300GT Junior was dropped but in many other markets, the two models were available as a range. The engine was substantially the same as that of the Giulia Sprint GTV discontinued four years previously and had the same engine type number. The final drive ratio was again 9.4;1 as standard on all 105 Series coupés with the 1290cc and 1570cc engine. From 1974 on, the 1300GT Junior and 1600GT Junior were rationalised into a common range of models with the 2000 GTV and were rebadged as 1.3 GT Junior and 1.6 GT Junior, sharing most of the interior and exterior features with the larger-engined car. The only exterior differences were no bumper overriders, lack of C-pillar green serpent badges, small rear light clusters same as pre-1974 Juniors and GT1300 Junior or GT1600 Junior badge on the boot. Originally registered in South Africa on 15th January 1975 this Alfa Romeo is in right hand drive format and as such has plenty of appeal for the UK Market. It was imported into the UK in July 2016 and registered with the DVLA the same month. Since its arrival over £6,500 has been spent on this 1600GT Junior keeping it up to standard. There are some age-related marks on the body (it is nearly 50 years old) so it will require attention to the paint and body at some point in the future. However, the car is imminently useable, the vendor is a member of the AROC and has enjoyed the car throughout his stewardship. Offered for sale at a very realistic estimate this Alfa Romeo 1600GT Junior is a car with a huge fun factor and is an essential part of any Italian classic car collection. Consigned by Stewart Banks. IMPORTED FROM SOUTH AFRICA AND AS SUCH IS A RIGHT HAND DRIVE EXAMPLE.
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Two pairs of Lucas electric lamps,(suitable for spares or restoration), comprising a pair of chrome pillar mounted P100s, (one plastic coated, the other dismantled with loose reflector and lens), 10 1/4 inch diameter lens; and a pair of R76 lamps, one complete, the other damaged and lacking headlamp shell. (Qty)Lot to be sold without reserve.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com
A pair of DB100 'bulls-eye' electric headlamps, British,each chromed case, pillar mounted with badge to top of rim, polished and mirrored reflector, tri-bar bulb holder, 10 inch diameter lens, each in used condition, with some wear and denting to rims. (2)Lot to be sold without reserve.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com
Early 19th century inlaid mahogany-cased 8-day painted dial longcase clock, anonymous, circa 1830, the 14-inch break-arched Roman dial with subsidiary seconds and terrestrial calendar dials, the spandrels painted with the Four Evangelists, the arch with lunar calendar scale over rolling moon phase painted with a ship and thatched cottage, the knopped four-pillar movement striking on a bell, the case with brass ball and spire finials over swan-neck pediment and turned columns, triple-arched flame-veneered trunk door between inlaid flowering plants, and conforming ebony and boxwood-strung base raised on ogee bracket feet, 256cm high (sold with two weights, pendulum, key and winder)
George IV brass inlaid mahogany-cased twin fusee bracket clock, Joseph Wilson, Stamford, with signed 8-inch convex Roman dial, the wire-driven five-pillar twin-fusee movement striking on a bell, the case with fan-reeded stepped pediment over cut brass line inlay, stars and scrollwork on brass ball feet, the side with ring handles over brass lancet tracery, 42cm high, sold with pendulum and keyJoseph Wilson, circa 1820, is listed in Wilbourn & Ellis, 'Lincolnshire Clock, Watch & Barometer Makers',p.114. White's Directory of Lincolnshire 1842 also records a Joseph Wilson working in All Saints Street, Stamford.
A QUEEN ANNE WALNUT EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCKJAMES STEVENS, LONDON, EARLY 18th CENTURYThe five pillar inside countwheel bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch square brass dial with subsidiary seconds dial, ringed winding holes and scroll-border engraved calendar aperture to the matted centre, within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised sword-hilt half hour markers, Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and signed Jam's Stevens, London to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hands and twin-cherub-and-crown cast spandrels to angles within a herringbone engraved outer border, the case with stepped caddy superstructure over architectural ogee cornice and geometric blind fretwork frieze above hinged glazed dial aperture applied with three quarter columns incorporating brass caps and bases to front angles, the sides with rectangular glazed apertures and conforming quarter columns to the rear edge, the trunk with concave throat moulding over 41.5 inch rectangular door faced with feather-banded quartered veneers and centred with a brass-edged lenticle within half-round cross-grain edge mouldings, the sides crossbanded, the base with ogee top mouldings over book-matched crossbanded fascia and cavetto moulded shallow skirt.232cm (91.5ins) high, 52cm (20.5ins) wide, 26cm (10.25ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection, purchased from Aubrey Brocklehurst, London, 16th February 1967 for £250. James Stevens is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in London circa 1710. Condition Report: Condition overview.Movement is in relatively clean working condition with no visible evidence of alteration; a gentle service is probably advisable if intending to put into long-term service. The dial is clean condition with minimal oxidation to the silvering only. The seatboard appears original but has small slips applied to the underside at each end hence we can offer no assurances that the movement and dial are original to the case. The case is in good original condition. There is no back panel to the hood superstructure (may have probably been just backed with paper/card). The fretwork to the frieze of the hood is not original and the hood columns have evidence of larger capitals being fitted in the past. Case is generally very original and in good presentable condition with faults limited to minor shrinkage, bumps, scuffs, and other age-related blemishes.Clock has two weights, pendulum, case key and winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A RARE QUEEN ANNE GILT BRASS MOUNTED TORTOISESHELL QUARTER REPEATING TABLE/BRACKET CLOCK WITH ALARMROBERT HODGKIN, LONDON, EARLY 18th CENTURYThe substantial six finned pillar bell striking movement with plates measuring 7.75 by 5.5 inches and verge escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum incorporating pivoted beam rise/fall regulation to suspension, with pull-repeat peeling the quarters on a graduated nest of six bells and sounding the hour on a further larger bell, and with pull-wind alarm mechanism sounding on the hour bell via a vertically pivoted T-shaped hammer, the backplate finely engraved with symmetrical foliate scrollwork issuing from a central leafy cartouche engraved signed Hodgkin, London and with herringbone banded outer border, the 7 inch wide brass break-arch dial with shaped false bob and calendar apertures to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with cruciform half hour markers and Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with scroll pierced blued steel hands and unusual applied grotesque mask and phoenix cast gilt brass spandrels to lower angles, the upper angles interrupted by twin rosette-centred subsidiary dials each with Roman numeral chapter ring, the left a second hour dial with central silvered alarm setting disk opposing rise/fall regulation top the right, the centre with engraved signature Robert Hodgkin, London and n/s strike/silent selection switch, beneath arch applied with a demi-lune cast gilt brass mount decorated with a sunburst beneath leafy scroll infill flanking a male mask, within herringbone engraved upper border, the case of French Regence design with large gilt brass grotesque mask and acanthus cast flambeau urn finial to the cushion-capped cavetto upstand incorporating gilt draped leaf cast mounts to angles, above egg-and-dart moulded arched cavetto cornice centred with a mask and terminating with opposing acanthus scrolls issuing leafy pendant angle mounts, over hinged glazed gilt brass framed egg-and-dart cast break-arch door incorporating concave lower angles enclosing a repeating leafy spray cast apron mount beneath the dial behind, the sides with egg-and-dart moulding over rectangular glazed panels within ribbon-weave cast gilt brass frames and swollen lower section, the rear with hinged rectangular brass framed glazed aperture, on acanthus cast scroll feet with conforming palmette-centred pendant mount to the shaped front apron between.58.5cm (23ins) high, 31cm (12.25ins) wide, 14cm (5.5ins) deep. Very little of Robert Hodgkin is known; he is noted in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as working circa 1705-20 with reference to a single longcase clock signed by him. From the apparent lack of records, it would be reasonable to suggest that Robert Hodgkin most likely worked within one of the larger workshops. Indeed the style of the present lot would suggest a Huguenot workshop such as that of Claude DuChesne. Provenance:Purchased by the vendor at Bonhams, London sale of FINE CLOCKS, 10th December 2014 (lot 111) for £7,500. Previously exhibited by Algeron Asprey and Meyrick Nielson in An Exhibition of Fine and Decorative Clocks held at Bruton Street, London, 10-20th June 1975 (exhibit No. 6). The engraving to the backplate of the current lot is unusual in that there is noticeable 'space' within the composition - most noticeably towards the herringbone border and to the upper third. This does not conform to the usual practice of entirely filling the plate hence demonstrates an individual approach by Hodgkin's chosen engraver. Stylistically the rendering of the foliate scrollwork can be closely compared to that seen on a backplate of a clock by Daniel Quare illustrated in Dzik, Sunny ENGRAVING ON ENGLISH TABLE CLOCKS, Art on a Canvas of Brass page 233 (Figure 13.19) which would suggest that both were executed by the same hand. The design and layout of the pull quarter repeat mechanism in the current lot can also be compared to that of a clock by John Wady described and illustrated in Dzik, Sunny ENGRAVING ON ENGLISH TABLE CLOCKS, Art on a Canvas of Brass pages 440-41. Condition Report: Movement is in fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements however it is likely that a relatively complex clock of this age will have some service replacements within the mechanism. There is no evidence to indicate that the escapement is a re-conversion (ie. no evidence of the clock ever having and anchor escapement. Although in working condition the alarm mechanism is a little feeble. The brass of the movement has a slightly mellow hue. The dial plate also has slightly mellow colouring however is in fine condition with minimal oxidation to the chapter ring; the spandrels are of unusual pattern and are gilded as are the other mounts. The case is generally in very good condition. The mounts are of very even colour suggesting that have been regilded (electro-gilded). The convex section of the superstructure has some cracking to the tortoiseshell veneers towards the left-hand rear corner and the right-hand section following the arch profile has a join within the veneer across the rear upper corner. There is a small chip next to the front door keyhole otherwise veneers appear to be in fine condition with minimal movement or surface blemishes. The rear door upper pin hinge is currently not connected due to the tab drilled with a hole fitted to the door frame now being loose (requires screw drilling-out and re-tapping). Otherwise faults to the case are very much limited to slight age related wear and other very minor surface blemishes. Clock is complete with pendulum, case key and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A FINE AND RARE ORMOLU MOUNTED BLACK MARBLE MANTEL TIMEPIECE OF IMPRESSIVE PROPORTIONSBENJAMIN LOUIS VULLIAMY, LONDON, NUMBER 1921, 19th CENTURYThe circular eight-day four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with plates measuring 5.25 inches in diameter and Vulliamy type half deadbeat escapement regulated by heavy disc bob half-seconds pendulum stamped with serial number 1921 and with transverse pivoted beam rise/fall regulation to the suspension, the backplate signed VULLIAMY, LONDON over No. 1921 to centre, the 5 inch circular silvered dial with fine engine-turned centre within narrow Roman numeral chapter ring incorporating engraved signature VULLIAMY, LONDON flanking the XVII numeral centred with the regulation adjustment square, with dot minute markers to outer track and blued steel Breguet type moon hands set within parcel frosted and burnished complex moulded bezel surround, the substantial ormolu mounted black marble case of 'drumhead' design centred with a large cast ormolu surmount modelled as an eagle opening its wings and looking to the left whilst grasping a baton issuing flames from each end draped over the drum housing the movement and dial, the rear of the drum with brass circular brass cover secured by blued steel turn screws, raised via a stepped block-shaped cradle over a wide plinth base applied with finely cast and chiselled fire-gilt bronze figures of recumbent lions modelled after Canova flanking the dial, the front applied with generous apron mount centred with a bearded male mask issuing scrolling acanthus over a stepped skirt.42.5cm (16.75ins) high, 61.5cm (24.25ins) wide, 15cm (16ins) deep. Provenance:Previously sold at Bonhams, Sydney, sale of The Owston Collection, 25th June 2010 (lot 464) for $30,000 AUD where it was noted that the timepiece was acquired from Algy Rothman, Winchester, in 1986. Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as born 1780 to Benjamin Vulliamy and gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1809. He worked from 52 Pall Mall, served as Warden 1821-5 and was appointed Master five times. He was the last of the celebrated dynasty of Royal clockmakers which started with his grandfather, Justin, forming a partnership with George II's clockmaker, Benjamin Gray (see previous lot). Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy was perhaps one of the most influential horologists of his time publishing many works and undertaking numerous high profile public commissions as well as holding the Royal Warrant. He supplied many clocks to the Royal family including the turret clock for Windsor Castle in 1829 (replacing an earlier movement by Joseph Knibb); however his horological legacy is perhaps somewhat slightly blighted by his tendency to undertake controversial alterations to earlier important clocks by makers such as Tompion. The Vulliamys started numbering most of their clocks from 1788 until 1854. Two of the original Vulliamy workbooks still survive in the library of the British Horological Institute at Upton Hall, these often can provide valuable information regarding the manufacture and provenance of many clocks made by the workshop. Unfortunately the records are incomplete hence only note clocks with serial numbers 296-469 and 746-1067. There is also a third surviving Vulliamy workbook, relating only to repairs and servicing dating to the period 1846-53. Interestingly this volume records at least sixty-five clocks being in the possession of the government 'Office of Works' and another forty being in the possession of Queen Victoria at Buckingham Palace. Roger Smith in his article entitled Vulliamy Clock Numbering, A Postscript, published in Antiquarian Horology Vol. 21 No. 5 (September 1994), used surviving data in the records of the British Horological Institute at Upton Hall and known documented examples to compile a graph from which unrecorded clocks can be dated. According to this chart number 1921 would appear to date to the end of the second quarter of the 19th century. The general design of the present timepiece follows the 'lion' form made popular by Vulliamy during the early years of the 19th century. Vulliamy's earliest models utilised lions with balls either between or under one of the front paws no doubt inspired by the ancient Roman 'Medici Lion' in Florence. Later models also incorporated eagle surmounts modelled alongside those applied to the smaller pedestal drumhead timepieces also made popular by Vulliamy. The current timepiece is unique in both its unusual large scale and the provision of fine recumbent lions modelled after those sculpted by Antonia Canova for the tomb of Pope Clement XIII at St. Peters Basilica in 1792. From this it would be appropriate to speculate that it was most likely a one-off commission no doubt for a mantelpiece of an important mansion house or palace interior.
A FINE GEORGE III BRASS MOUNTED EBONISED FOUR-TUNE MUSICAL TABLE/BRACKET CLOCK WITH AUTOMATONSAMUEL TOULMIN, LONDON, CIRCA 1775The substantial five pillar trip fusee movement now with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, the music train playing a choice of four tunes via a 3.5 inch transverse cylinder and fifteen hammers on a graduated nest of ten bells on the hour followed by the strike train counting the hours on a further larger bell, the backplate finely engraved with an extensive asymmetric rococo cartouche signed Samuel Toulmin, Strand, London to centre beneath an offset standing Ho-Ho bird, the 8.75 inch brass break arch dial with applied silvered curved signature plate engraved Samuel Toulmin, Strand, London to the matted centre within silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with scroll pierced steel hands, the spandrel areas decorated with unusual relief polychrome floral spray infill and the lower right-hand margin with tune selection slide labelled 1-4, the arch with recessed polychrome painted scene of a hunt passing before a windmill with vanes turning and figures on horseback parading from left to right across the lower margin whilst the music plays, three of the background figures with unusual speech bubbles exclamating 'Hark forward' and two other indistinct phrases, the ebonised bell-top case applied with generous rococo scroll cast mount to the concave section of the upstand and five gilt brass flambeau urn finials, over double cavetto top mouldings and hinged front incorporating brass fillet-edged glazed dial aperture and rococo scroll cast upper quadrant frets flanked by gilt moulded inserts to angles, the sides with rectangular scroll pierced sound frets interrupted by generous hinged gilt brass carrying handles, the rear with break-arch glazed rectangular door applied with raised mouldings around the aperture and with upper quadrant frets, flanked by conforming inset brass mouldings to the rear angles, on cavetto moulded skirt base with moulded gilt brass squab feet.63cm (24.75ins) high including top finial, 32.5cm (12.75ins) wide, 20cm (8ins) deep. Provenance:From a Private Collection. Samuel Toulmin is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working from Strand, London circa 1757-83. He was a fine maker who seemed to specialise in musical and automaton clocks with several examples known including a clock with scene of couple paying tennis to the arch. A longcase clock with rare Battersea enamel dial signed for him was sold at Christies, London IMPORTANT CLOCKS, MARINE CHRONOMETERS & BAROMETERS 12th December 2001 (lot 167) for £7,990. The raised polychrome floral decoration to the spandrel areas of the dial of the present clock is very unusual, and engraving to the backplate is beautifully executed in a highly individual style. These details, coupled with the very rare (if not unique) inclusion of 'speech bubbles' within the hunting scene to the arch, result in a clock full of character and individuality befitting of the work of a fine and innovative clockmaker. Condition Report: Movement is in clean fully working condition, The escapement has been converted from verge to anchor escapement however the original backcock and apron have been retained (just moved downwards by around 2.5cm). Otherwise movement appears to be in original condition with no other visible evidence of alteration or notable replacements. The music train runs well providing fairly strong even pace to the melodies although some of the hammers may benefit from slight adjustment. The automaton appears original and is operational. One of the figures (probably a pair of hounds) is missing from the procession otherwise figures are intact with minor to moderate wear losses to the original finishes. The sails of the windmill have been repainted otherwise the scene is in very good original condition with only very minor wear/losses. The rest of the dial is in good original condition with overall light oxidation to the brass and silvered surfaces giving resulting in a fairly pleasing mellow patina. The unusual relief decoration to the spandrels appears to be composed from gesso heightened with oil paints - and is in good original unrestored condition but with rubbing to high spots and the only notable loss being a flowerhead within the upper right-hand decoration. The tune selection lever is operational.The case is in generally in very good original condition. The mask bordering the dial (behind the front door) has some patch slip repairs to the veneer overlap and the front door lock is inoperative. Otherwise faults are overall very much limited to minor are related shrinkage, bumps, scuffs and other blemishes commensurate with use. The mounts are somewhat muted/tarnished and the ebonised finish has rubbing to the edges. The frets are generally in very good condition with only one or two very small losses; the silk backing for each is however heavily degraded.Clock is complete with pendulum, winder and two case keys. Condition Report Disclaimer
A FINE GEORGE II POCKET WATCH MOVEMENT WITH CYLINDER ESCAPEMENTGEORGE GRAHAM, LONDON, NUMBER 6077, CIRCA 1742The gilt full plate single fusee movement with four square baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, scroll-pierced stop-iron block and cylinder escapement regulated by sprung three-arm steel balance with Tompion type regulation, the backplate with fine symmetric foliate scroll pierced and engraved balance cock with faceted diamond endstone, herringbone bordered canted rim and with wedge-shaped scroll engraved foot flanked by silvered regulation disc set within adjacent applied scroll engraved panel infill opposing signature Geo. Graham, London and numbered 6077, with gilt brass dust cover similarly signed Geo. Graham, London.The pillar plate 3.5cm (1.375ins) diameter. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection. Purchased from Gerald E. Marsh, Winchester, 11th December 2004 as part of a package deal comprising the oval pre-haispring watch by Vallier and two other watch movements by John Knibb and Thomas Tompion for a total of £14,000. George Graham was born in around 1673 in Kirklinton, Cumberland, but by 1688 he had moved to London and entered into an apprenticeship with Henry Aske. Graham gained his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1695 and went to work for Thomas Tompion, whose niece, Elizabeth, he married at St. Mary le Bow in September 1704. After the Tompion's failed partnership with Edard Banger Graham was trusted to become his successor with the two makers entering into a formal a partnership in 1711. On Tompion's death in 1713 George Graham inherited the business 'on the corner of Water Lane in Fleet Street' and continued there until 1720 when he relocated to 'the Dial and One Crown' further up Fleet Street, nearer Fleet Bridge.George Graham maintained the same exacting standards as his former master and also continued the serial numbering system established in around 1680/81. In 1722 he served as Master of the Clockmakers' Company and went on to establish himself as one of the most important clockmakers of his generation. Amongst his achievements was the further development of the deadbeat escapement, invention of the mercury compensated pendulum and the cylinder watch escapement. As well as clocks and watches George Graham was also a highly accomplished maker of scientific instruments with perhaps his most famous creation being the planetarium made for Charles Boyle, Earl of Orrery. He also produced the great mural quadrant for Edmund Halley at Greenwich observatory, also a fine transit instrument and the zenith sector used by James Bradley in his discoveries. Through his observations in testing his very highly regarded compasses Graham also discovered the diurnal variation in the terrestrial magnetic field in 1722/23.George Graham also became an ardent supporter of John Harrison in the development of his marine chronometers to the extent that he forwarded an interest free private loan of £200 to Harrison to facilitate the building of H1. George Graham died in 1751 and was buried next to his former master in Westminster Abbey, leaving the business in the hands of a former apprentices, Samuel Barclay and Thomas Colley. George Graham's legacy is perhaps best reflected by the subsequent work of another former apprentice, Thomas Mudge, who went on to continue in the development of the marine chronometer after Harrison, and to invent the lever watch escapement. The cylinder escapement was developed in around 1695 by Thomas Tompion and further refined by George Graham in 1726. This new escapement was perhaps the first developed exclusively for watch work and, as well as being a better rate keeper, the cylinder escapement also allowed movements to be made more compact (due to the escapement operating in one plane only). However, being a form of frictional rest escapement, the cylinder escapement was prone to relatively heavy rates of wear hence was less reliable than the verge (until hardened steel escape wheels and ruby cylinders were developed later in the 18th century). George Graham's faith in this new design of escapement was such that he incorporated it into all of his watches from around 1725/6 (between serial numbers 5175 and 5182). Condition Report: The movement is complete and in working condition. The train appears all-original with the probable exception of the escape wheel which is probably a 'service replacement'. Some of the steelwork (most notably the minute hand post and winding squares) is oxidised and the silvered regulation disc is discoloured. The backcock securing screw is a little chewed. The movement retains gilt finish to wheelwork (except escape wheel) and to the plates with minimal wear/scratching. The dust cover is missing its steel slide latch and is generally discoloured/oxidised but would no doubt clean very well. The dial mounting plate is present but with solder residue from a previous alternative mounting (although there appears to be no additional modifications/holes etc). The hour wheel/tube is present. Movement has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
AN INLAID MAHOGANY SMALL LONGCASE REGULATOR TIMEPIECEWILLIAM CROFT, LONDON, 19th CENTURYThe substantial eight-day four columnar pillar movement with thick plates measuring 10 by 8 inches constructed with thumbscrews for the securing the movement pillars, backcock and dial feet, the train with high pinion counts, six-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison's maintaining power and deadbeat escapement regulated by lenticular bob wood-rod seconds pendulum, the 11.25 inch circular silvered dial with subsidiary seconds over signature W'm Croft, London and Arabic hour dial to centre, within outer minute ring incorporating Arabic five minute annotations beyond the track, with blued steel hands, in a case with architectural chevron dentil edged cavetto cornice and plain frieze, over opening front with glazed dial aperture within banded surround, fan inlaid quadrants to spandrel areas and crossbanded outer border, the trunk with concave throat moulding over rectangular caddy moulded door triple-strung with a concave-cornered panel, the base with concave top moulding over conforming panel inlaid fascia and bracket feet.190cm (74.5ins) high, 44cm (17.25ins) wide, 23.5cm (9.25ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection, purchased from G.H. Bell, Winchester, 26th October 1965 for £150. A William Croft is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in London 1805-08. An almost identical movement to that of the present lot, but signed for Neilson, Temple Bar, London, is illustrated in Roberts, Derek ENGLISH PRECISION PENDULUM CLOCKS on page 248 (Figure 22-24). Roberts notes that it was the only movement that he'd seen which could be dismantled without any tools by simply unscrewing the finely finished extended brass bolts which hold it together. He also notes that Two makers with the surname Neilson are recorded, Alexander and Thomas, who were both working in around 1860-80.
A GERMAN BLACK FOREST CARVED WALNUT 'TRUMPETER' MANTEL CLOCKGORDIAN HETTICH SOHN, FURTWANGEN, LATE 19th CENTURYThe twin going barrel four pillar movement with skeletonised plates and anchor escapement regulated by a shaped-bob pendulum, with external countwheel for announcing every hour on two trumpets via two crank driven bellows fitted above the plates, whilst repeatedly revealing a polychrome figure of a trumpet player from behind the pair of doors beneath the dial as well as sounding on a coiled gong, the backplate stamped G.H.S. beneath number 42, the case with three spire-turned finials to the cavetto moulded break-arch superstructure inset with strapwork motif to tympanum flanked by applied blocks, over ogee cornice, corbel frieze and concentric turned wooden dial applied with ivorine Gothic Roman numerals and with scroll-pierced bone hands, the front also with drapery swag decoration and arched aperture applied with two doors revealing the trumpeter figure to apron within scroll pierced infill beneath the dial, flanked by full-height split pilasters with knopped shafts, the sides with silk-panelled doors and the rear with lift out panel applied with the hour gong to inside surface, the base with arched recesses beneath stepped ogee mouldings applied with silvered plaque engraved Carlisle Working Mens Club. BILLIARD HANDICAP 1898, FIRST PRIZE, WON BY, ROBERT STUBBS to front; together with a rare original trade catalogue CATALOG DER, UHRENFABRIK, von, GORDIAN HETTICH SOHN, FURTWANGEN... circa 1900, fully illustrated and with price list, softbound, (2). The clock 72cm (28.25ins) high, 32cm (12.5ins) wide, 19cm (7.5ins) wide. Provenance:From the private collection of a professional sportsman and commentator. Gordian Hettich was born in Furtwangen, Germany, in 1825 and set-up business as a clock and watchmaker in 1836. Gordian's son, Hermann, subsequently joined the business and is believed to have succeeded him prior to 1881, when the firm was exhibited in the Melbourne International Exhibition as 'Gordian Hettich Sohn'. They were awarded third class for cuckoo and trumpeter clocks and music boxes in that exhibition. In 1909 the firm was acquired by a Max Roder and continued trading until 1920. Condition Report: Condition overviewMovement is complete and in full working condition however a precautional gentle clean/service is probably advisable if intending to put into long-term service. The pipes sound and the automaton functions; the figure has been restored. The case is in very good original condition with only very minor age-related blemishes.Clock is complete with a pendulum and a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A FINE AND QUEEN ANNE VERGE HOUR STRIKING CLOCK-WATCH WITH CHAMPLEVE DIALCHARLES GRETTON, LONDON, CIRCA 1707The front-winding gilt full plate movement with three pierced Egyptian and two baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, the fusee going train with tulip-shaped stop-iron block and verge escapement regulated by sprung three-arm steel balance with Tompion type regulation, the locking plate controlled strike train with foliate band engraved standing barrel, foliate sculpted steel detent gates and sounding the hours and once again at the half hour via a hammer positioned beneath the spring barrel on a bell fitted to the interior of the case, the backplate with fine symmetrical foliate strapwork scroll pierced and chased cock inhabited by eagles and decorated with a male mask at the junction with the conforming pierced foot, flanked by silvered regulation disk set within further applied engraved fretwork opposing silvered countwheel with numbered divisions, next to signature Char. Gretton, London partially obscured by the strike stopwork spring with indistinct number 1718 beneath, the champleve dial with matted centre within Roman numeral chapter ring incorporating relief diamond lozenge half hour markers and cartouche Arabic five minute numerals to outer track, with fine sculpted blued steel hands with the minute cranked to clear the winding holes, the silver consular case with fine foliate strapwork scroll pierced and engraved bands to both the internal and external bezels and to the circumference of the main body of the case incorporating mask and scallop shell motifs, with moulded rim and short suspension post with bow at twelve o'clock, unmarked; with a later silver fancy-link albert with T-bar marked for London 1866 terminating with a rock crystal fob seal intaglio cut with Masonic symbols. The pillar plate 3.8cm (1.5ins) diameter, the case 5.3cm (2.125ins) diameter. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection. Purchased form Evans and Evans, Arlesford, 12th August 1970 for £330. Literature:The present lot is extensively illustrated and described in Radage, Dennis; Warner, Meinen and Radage, Laila CHARLES GRETTON, THROUGH THE GOLDEN AGE as 'GW22' pages 696-99. Charles Gretton is documented by Radage, Meinen and Radage as born in Clayplole, Lincolnshire in 1648. By 1662 he had moved to London entering into an eight-year apprenticeship under Humphrey Downing on the 30th June of that year (turned over from Lionell Wythe); Downing died in 1666 but it is thought that Gretton continued his apprenticeship under his widow, Cordelia, gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers Company in 1672 and se-up business in Fleet Street. In 1677 Charles Gretton married Mary Phillips and established himself at the sign of the 'The Ship' in Fleet Street (either number 174 or 175 next to Fetter Lane). Gretton was appointed an Assistant of the Clockmaker's Company in 1889 and then Warden in 1697; the same year he signed the 'oath of allegiance'. In 1700 Charles Gretton served as Master as well marrying his second wife Lucy Uffman (his first wife Mary died in 1694). In 1701 he put £50 forward to the Clockmakers' Company in order to establish a trust to assist the orphans of deceased members and was nominated to serve again as Master in 1705/06. Lucy, his second wife died before 1711 as this is the year that Charles Gretton married his third wife, Dorethea Wilson shortly after which he moved to his newly acquired second premises at two Chancery Lane. At this time his premises at 'The Ship', Fleet Street was passed onto the management of his nephew, Thomas Moore who paid taxes on the building until 1723. In 1716 Charles and Dorothea moved again to Chancery Lane where they remained until Dorothea's death in 1727. By this time Charles Gretton had retired from active clockmaking and went to go and live with his daughter, Ann, in Milk Street where he remained until his death in 1731.During his career Charles Gretton He took on many apprentices including Henry Sully (Freed April 1705) and Joseph Antram (Freed October 1706) both of whom went on to become famous clockmakers in their own right. By the time of his death and internment at St. Dunstan's in the West Gretton had become a wealthy and highly respected figure within the City of London as well as the clockmaking community. His Will mentions no less than nine properties as well as £1,300 deposited in the Bank of England contributing the £2,600 monetary component of his legacy. The present lot sounds both the hours and a single blow for the half hour. This form of striking is traditionally termed 'French striking' hence it is possible that this watch was made either for export to France or for a French client. Clockwatches are a notably rare. For example, when considering Thomas Tompion's output, the highest serial number for his sequence of clockwatches is 130 versus circa 4500 for his timepiece watches and 990 for his repeating watches (excluding continuation numbering by George Graham). This would suggest that less than two percent of Tompion's watch output were clockwatches. The present lot, as well as being particularly rare, has also survived in fine original condition throughout. Condition Report: Movement is in fine original fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements except possibly for the strike gate detent spring. The wheelwork retains gilding with minimal wear/oxidation as does the backplate and fittings with only very minor scratching and wear. The edge of the backcock table has possibly been but back slightly (for around half of its diameter) to allow banking pins to be fitted to protect the amplitude of the balance (this feature may be original). The dial is in fine original condition with possibly some slight distortion near the right hand winding hole and overall minor rubbing only. The case is in very fine original condition with no apparent dents (except for some very slight undulation near the clasp spring rivet) or breaks to the fretwork, and minimal wear.Watch has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN CARVED MAHOGANY TWIN FUSEE DIAL WALL CLOCKBENNETT, LONDON, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 19th CENTURYThe five columnar pillar twin chain fusee bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by heavy lenticular bob pendulum incorporating transverse pivoted beam rise/fall regulation to suspension, the 12.5 inch circular silvered brass Roman numeral dial with curved SLOW/FAST regulation adjustment scale over signature BENNETT, 65 Cheapside, LONDON., MAKER TO THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY to centre, with blued steel trefoil hands set behind hinged glazed cast brass bezel incorporating canted insert to inner edge, the case with dial surround carved with stylised palm leaves issuing from a shield cartouche to envelop the bezel, applied to the drum-shaped rear incorporating curved door to right hand side and pendulum access flap to base, the back panel with rectangular brass grille sound fret.42cm (16.5ins) wide, 40.5cm (16ins) high, 17.5cm (6.5ins) deep. John Bennett was first educated to become a pastor but after the death of his father he joined the clock and watchmaking business established in Greenwich by his grandfather. He subsequently established himself at 65 Cheapside, London in 1846 and became particularly interested in the 'modernisation' of the English watchmaking industry which brought him into conflict with many of his peers. John Bennett was a colourful character who subsequently became involved in machinations of the City of London Corporation serving as 'Sheriff of London and Middlesex' in 1871. He was knighted and served as 'Lord Lieutenant of London' the following year. Sir John Bennett died in 1897 leaving the business in the hands of his successors trading as 'Sir John Bennett Limited', which continued well into the 20th century.
A GEORGE IV FIGURED MAHOGANY 'NORWICH-TYPE' TAVERN WALL CLOCKUNSIGNED, CIRCA 1825The four pillar weight-driven bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 15 inch cream painted Roman numeral dial with pierced steel hands set behind hinged glazed ogee moulded bezel, the drop-trunk case with side doors behind the dial and cavetto throat moulding, over plain frieze and rectangular caddy moulded door fronted with flame-figured veneer and flanked by reeded angles over applied lozenge motifs, the quarter-round base applied with reeded mouldings forming a rectangular panel.119cm (47ins) high, 47cm (18.5ins) wide, 20cm (8ins) deep. Condition Report: Movement appears complete and original with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The movement is relatively clean and there is no reason to suggest that it will not run and strike however we have not been able to test it hence no assurances can be given and would suggest that a gentle clean/service is probably required. The dial is in good original unrestored condition with traces of a signature to the centre and possibly some historic 'strengthening' to the numerals; the surface has some minor scuffs and other marks as well as overall light crazing. The hands are a little bent. The movement rests on what appears to be a replacement seatboard - with this in mind we cannot make any firm assurances that the movement and dial are original to the case however the compatibility, fit etc. would suggest that the movement and case did start out life together. The case is generally intact but in tired condition. The backboard has a loose section and the bezel hinge is somewhat slack. The bezel mouldings are made from crossgrain segments - some are a little loose and there are some small historic repairs. The sides are generally in sound condition although the right=hand side is missing a slip of reeded mounding to the lower edge of the throat. The front has two small veneer losses beneath the dial and the left-hand upper corner of the throat mounding has a loss to the tip. The trunk door has shrinkage cracking down the centre and the curved underside has lifting, cracking filling and losses to the veneers hance will require attention form a cabinet maker. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to historic bumps, scugs, shrinkage and wear.Clock has pendulum, two weights but no winder or case key (trunk door is locked). Condition Report Disclaimer
A REGENCY BRASS MOUNTED FIGURED MAHOGANY QUARTER-CHIMING TABLE/BRACKET CLOCKJOHN JACKSON, LONDON, CIRCA 1815The substantial six pillar triple chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by disc bob pendulum incorporating stirrup-type regulation adjustment, chiming the quarters on a nest of eight graduated bells and sounding the hour on a further larger bell, the backplate signed John Jackson, LONDON within a geometric bordered oval cartouche to centre within conforming decorated outer border interrupted with leafy sprays to angles, the 8 inch cream painted arched Roman numeral dial also signed John Jackson, LONDON to centre, with Arabic fifteen-minutes to outer track and pierced gilt brass hands beneath subsidiary regulation and STRIKE/SILENT selection dials to arch, the arched case with complex break-arch upper mouldings over hinged arched-glazed front inset bordered with inset brass fillet mouldings to the aperture and with rounded brass stringing to edges, the sides with hinged brass carrying handles over arched bras fish scale sound frets and the rear with arch-glazed door set within the frame of the case, on cavetto moulded skirt base with bras ogee bracket feet; with a modern mahogany wall bracket incorporating scroll carved support beneath reeded-edge platformthe clock 45cm (17.75ins) high, 31.5cm (12.5ins) wide, 21cm (8.25ins) deep; the clock on wall bracket 79cm (31.25ins) high overall. John Jackson senior was a notable maker who was apprenticed to Nathaniel Style before setting-up his own business at Bridgewater Square by 1760. He was Master of the Clockmaker's Company in 1796 and went into partnership with his son of the same name from 1781-94. The business continued trading under the name John Jackson until around 1825. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean fully working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. A gentle clean/service is advised in intending to put the clock into long-term service. The dial retains old, probably original surface but with some noticeable rubbing to the chapter ring. There is also some very slight wear to the winding holes, The right-hand part of the dial has some crazing/lifting to the surface as well as a few flakes/losses so may benefit from some stabilisation/retouching. The hands appear original and are in good condition. The case is generally in good original condition. The arch top has three noticeable front-to-back shrinkage cracks (it is possible that the top veneer has been replaced) and the upper mouldings have a small section missing bordering the left-hand side of the arch. The rear door is slightly warped with a couple of cracks to the frame veneers otherwise faults to the case are very much limited to very minor age related blemishes. The wall bracket is in very good overall condition.Clock is complete with original pendulum, crank winder and a case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A RARE REGENCY WOODEN-DIALLED FUSEE WALL DIAL TIMEPIECE WITH TEN-INCH DIALINDISTINCTLY SIGNED, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 19th CENTURYThe four columnar pillar single fusee movement with bottle-shaped plates and anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, the 10 inch circular cream painted wooden Roman numeral dial with rubbed signature to centre and with blued steel spade hands, set behind hinged cast brass caddy moulded glazed bezel, within conforming caddy moulded wooden surround fitted via pegs onto rear box case with door to the right hand side, another to the rear, and pendulum access flap to the curved base.29cm (11.5ins) diameter, 14.5cm (5.75ins) deep. Although the signature to the centre of the dial is almost entirely erased the rear of the panel is scratch engraved RICHARD and is also inscribed Read in pencil. This would suggest that the dial was originally signed for a Richard Read. Condition Report: Movement is complete (except for a pendulum holdfast originally fitted to the backplate) and appears all-original. Although in running condition the mechanism is very dirty/neglected hence a gentle clean/service will be required. The dial retains old surface with overall crazing and rubbing to the numerals; the signature has been rubbed-off and there is some chipping/wear around the winding hole, otherwise dial generally has pleasing patination. The bezel is unusual being left-handed and is in good original condition albeit with a recently installed glass. The securing lock mechanism that would have originally been fitted within the wooden surround is no longer present and there are some losses and chipping around this point. The box case unusually has a rear door - this now has had its original hinges replaced by a fabric strap-type hinge. The door panel has also been split and re-glued and there is a scarf repair at the level of the original lower hinge. Internally a slip of timber which formed a shut-face for the door is loose and there is splitting and other damage (including numerous holes form pinning the board secure) to the rear panel surrounding the door. The right-hand side door is a replacement; there is some cracking and holes (from previous turn-latches which are no longer present) to the surround as well a spare holes from earlier positioning of the door hinge. The curved base has a glued repair to the rear edge behind the flap as well as some shrinkage cracking to the veneers and a spare hole for a turn-latch which is no longer present. The flap has a section of cockbeading missing from the leading edge and the hinge is a replacement. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to shrinkage, bumps, scuffs and other age-related blemishes.Timepiece has non-original pendulum (repaired) but no case key or winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERCHARLES FRODSHAM, LONDON, CIRCA 1880The circular four pillar single chain reversed fusee movement with six-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel, Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by split bimetallic balance with keystone-shaped compensation weights, helical balance spring and faceted endstone, the spotted backplate with spring set-up ratchet, blued steel movement pillar and backcock securing screws, and signed Charles Frodsham, London to outer margin, the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial beneath signature CHARLES FRODSHAM, 84 STRAND, LONDON, No., 3479 across the centre and Up/Down, 0-56 power reserve dial flanked by BY APPOINTMENT TO THE QUEEN and GOLD MEDAL OF HONOUR, PARIS EX'N, 1855 medallions set beneath the X and II numerals respectively, with gold spade hands and secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to underside, mounted via gimbals along with a typsy winding key into a brass reinforced mahogany box with the middle tier applied with a vacant ivory roundel to front, the inside of the upper tier with pasted paper trade label for W. BROCKING, CHRONOMETER & UHRMACHER, MAMBURG..., the top surface of the second tier with vacant shaped brass cartouche and capped corners, over conforming inset strap reinforced angles and carrying handles to sides; with a baize lined wooden guard box.The chronometer box 18.5cm (7.25ins) high, 18cm (7ins) square; the guard box 24.5cm (9.75ins) high, 33cm (13ins) wide, 25.5cm (10ins) deep. Charles Frodsham was born in 1810 into a family of clockmakers with his grandfather, William originating from Cheshire before moving to London prior to 1781 where he was admitted to the Clockmaker's Company. His son, William James, had six sons, four of whom joined the firm of Parkinson and Frodsham in London; whilst Charles, the third born son set-up on his own at Barnes Place, Islington in 1834. He moved to 12 Finsbury Pavement in 1836 then to number 7 in 1838. On the death of the renowned chronometer maker John Roger Arnold in 1843 Charles Frodsham acquired the business and began trading as 'Arnold, Charles Frodsham' from 84 Strand, London. Unusually Frodsham was not admitted to the Clockmaker's Company until 1845 but went on to serve as master twice in 1855 and 1862; he was also a founder member of the British horological Institute in 1858.Charles Frodsham became one of the most eminent chronometer makers of his generation who served as a juror in the 1852 International Exhibition held at South Kensington where he also showed a month duration marine chronometer with experimental 'Duo-in-uno' balance springs and three different forms of compound balance. In 1854 he purchased the 'goodwill' of the late Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy's business which led to his appointment as Superintendent and Keeper of Her Majesty's clocks at Buckingham Palace. Charles Frodsham died of liver disease in January 1871 and was succeeded by his son, Harrison Mill Frodsham. The business became Charles Frodsham and Company and in 1884 and then was incorporated as a limited Company in 1893 before relocating to 115 New Bond Street, London two years later where they remained well into the Twentieth Century. The firm is still trading today (from 32 Bury Street, London) as specialist in chronometer, watch and clock makers. Condition Report: IVORY LICENCE ZZB8KYDZCondition Report Disclaimer
Y A LATE VICTORIAN BRASS INLAID ROSEWOOD BRACKET CLOCK ON PEDESTALSHARMAN D. NEILL, BELFAST, CIRCA 1893The substantial four pillar triple chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum with pivoted rise/fall beam regulation to suspension, chiming a choice of two tunes for the quarters either on a graduated nest of eight bells or four gongs and sounding the hour on a further larger coiled gong, the 8 inch arched gilt brass dial with matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised trident half hour markers, Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and signed SHARMAN D. NEILL, BELFAST to lower margin, with scroll pierced blued steel hands and applied gilt scroll cast spandrels to angles, the arch with central FAST/SLOW subsidiary regulation dial flanked by further CHIME/SILENT and CHIME ON EIGHT BELLS/WESTMINSTER selection dials set within conforming mounts, the shallow break-arch top case with stepped surmount and stylised urn flanked by foliate scroll inlay to tympanum over silvered brass angled fillet inset dial aperture to the arch-glazed front door with line inlaid border and further foliate scroll infill to upper angles flanked by recesses to take columns at the angles, the sides with arched cherub mask and sunburst centred cast scroll-pierced sound frets, and the rear with rectangular brass grille inset door, the inverted breakfront base with fluted vertical band infill over cushion moulded skirt inlaid with a stylised foliate motif flanked by lines to front, on gilt brass lobed bun feet; the pedestal with complex double ogee edge mouldings to top over cavetto throat and rosette-centred fluted frieze, the trunk with raised demi-lune panel applied with engraved brass presentation plaque Presented to, Robert Garrett Campbell, AND, Alicia Anna Ferguson, ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR MARRIAGE, BY THE EMPLOYE'S OF, Mess'rs Henry Campbell & Co., Mossley, Belfast, DEC'R 1893, over further rectangular panel and fluted apron frieze, the plinth base with stepped ogee top mouldings and conforming ogee capped skirt.The clock 68.5cm (27ins) high, 45cm (17.75ins) wide, 30cm (11.75ins) deep; the clock on pedestal 204cm (80.25ins) high overall. Provenance:Consigned by a direct descendant of Robert Garrett Campbell. Henry Campbell and Company were a firm of flax and tow spinners who bought Mossley Mill, Co. Antrim in 1859 (built in 1839). On his retirement Henry Campbell built a mansion, 'Lorne', at Craigavad, Co. Down. A benefactor during his life to the Belfast Royal Hospital and the Presbyterian Orphanage Society, he bequeathed approximately £200,000 for the founding of a hospital bearing his name, or a college (or both) in or near Belfast, which would provide a 'superior liberal protestant education'. Although a presbyterian, he chose trustees from differing protestant churches to administer his will, which led to the opening (3 September 1894) of Campbell College at Belmont, Belfast. A clockmaker with the name Sharman D. Neill does not appear to be specifically recorded in the usual sources however he is recorded in the 1902 Directory of Belfast and Province of Ulster as a 'watch and clock manufacturer' working by appointment to 'His Majesty the King Res: Martello Terrace' from 12 Donegall place, Belfast. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean and essentially in working condition and there is no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The mechanism is a little dusty/sticky with lazy quarter-chiming and hour striking; adjustment will also be required with regards to the quarter hammers striking the bells cleanly - hence a gentle clean/check-over is required. Two (out of the four) quarter gong hammers are also currently detached from the pivot block - there is no damage evident so will be just a case of re-attaching with a new pivot pin. The dial is in good relatively clean original condition with faults essentially limited to patchy discolouration/tarnishing to the chapter ring. The clock case is generally in good original condition. The curvature to the top has a front-to-back shrinkage crack (not disfiguring and probably easily addressed by a skilled restorer) otherwise the veneers etch appear free form damage or significant and age-related blemishes. The surface colour is uneven due to some sun-fading. The superstructure shows evidence of having finials (five) and the front angles may have originally had columns applied within the angles - these may have been removed to 'tone down' the appearance of the clock in order to satisfy the principals of Protestant owners. The plinth is in very similar condition to the clock. The top has some slight movement (not visible when clock is in place) and there is a slip of moulding detached from the frieze to the right-hand side. The skirting at the base has a couple of small veneer corner chips and rubbing/staining along the lower edge. Otherwise faults to the plinth are limited to minor shrinkage, a few bumps, scuffs etc. and some fading to the veneers. It is also probable that the front angles were also originally fitted with columns (flanking the panel).Clock has pendulum and a winder but no case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A REGENCY BRASS INLAID MAHOGANY BRACKET CLOCK WITH AND FIRED ENAMEL DIALWIGHTMAN, LONDON, CIRCA 1815The five pillar twin chain fusee movement previously ting-tang striking the quarters on a graduated pair of bells and sounding the hours on the larger of the two, with shouldered plates and anchor escapement regulated by heavy lenticular bob pendulum with an effective length of 12.5 inches, the backplate signed Wightman, St. Martin's Lane, the 9.5 inch circular fired white enamel Roman numeral dial with Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track and wavy steel moon hands, with a strike/silent selection lever to upper margin set behind hinged convex glazed cast brass bezel, the arched case with geometric brass strung decoration incorporating rectangular motifs and a horizontal double-headed trident across the centre, the sides with gilt brass lion's mask ring handles over arched brass fish scale sound frets, the rear with arch glazed door set within the frame of the case, on cavetto moulded skirt base incorporating conforming brass inlay to fascia over block feet (quarter striking mechanism deactivated and smaller bell no longer present); with a later mahogany wall bracket with rectangular table over a single shaped panel support,The clock 51cm (20ins) high, 35cm (13.75ins) wide, 20.5cm (8ins) deep; the clock on wall bracket 77.5cm (30.5ins) high overall. Online sources record a Thomas Wightman working from 95 St. Martin's Lane, London 1798-1818.
A FINE AND RARE CHARLES II OLIVEWOOD OYSTER VENEERED SMALL LONGCASE CLOCK OF ONE MONTH DURATION THOMAS TOMPION, LONDON, NO. 136 CIRCA 1688/89The substantial six finned and latched pillar movement with five-wheel trains and plates measuring 8 by 5.5 inches, the going train with bolt-and-shutter maintaining power and anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum with long crutch, the strike train with external countwheel set on a pivot-post driven by a pinion-of-report applied to the second wheel arbor and sounding the hours on a bell mounted above the plates, the 'type 1' latched 10.25 inch square gilt brass dial with shuttered winding holes, subsidiary seconds dial and calendar aperture to the finely matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with cruciform half hour markers and small Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with sculpted scroll pierced steel hands and applied winged cherub mask spandrels to angles within a 'double herringbone' engraved outer interrupted by the engraved signature Tho: Tompion Londini Fecit to lower margin, in an oyster olive wood veneered case with rising hood incorporating architectural ogee moulded cornice and oyster veneered frieze over glazed dial aperture flanked opposing Solomonic twist columns, the sides with rectangular windows and conforming quarter columns set against bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with convex throat moulding over 40 inch rectangular door veneered with three linked boxwood outlined architectural break-arch panels populated by oyster cut veneers incorporating geometric radial design to the central panel, with half-round cross grain edge mouldings and crossbanded surround, the sides veneered with repeating oysters with a conforming crossbanded border, the base with stepped ogee top moulding over conforming architectural panel veneered crossbanded front and moulded skirt.186.5cm (73.5ins) high, 43cm (17ins) wide, 25cm (9.75ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection, purchased from G.H. Bell, Winchester, 6th September 1966 for £6,170. Purchased by G.H. Bell from Sotheby's, London, sale of FINE ENGLISH AND CONTINENTAL FURNITURE, RUGS AND CARPETS, TAPESTRIES AND CLOCKS 21st May 1965 (Lot 55) 'The Property of a Gentleman' for £1,600 hammer. Thomas Tompion has often been referred to as the 'father of English clock and watchmaking'. When considering the legacy of his work and influence on subsequent generations, such a compliment is justly deserved. Born in Ickwell, Suffolk in 1639 Thomas Tompion appears to have developed an affinity for metalworking from his father, also named Thomas, who worked as a blacksmith. By 1670 Tompion had moved to London and was working in the clock and watchmaking trade. Although there is no record of his apprenticeship or whether he received any formal training prior to moving to London, he quickly became established and obtained his freedom of the Clockmaker's Company in late 1671. His early clocks demonstrate a close working relationship with the Fromanteel, East and Knibb workshops. Around this time Tompion became friendly with eminent mathematicians and scientists such as Robert Hooke and Jonas Moore - perhaps the most progressive and inventive minds of the day. Such associations lead to Royal commissions, firstly from Charles II for whom Tompion is known to have made one of the earliest balance-spring watches in 1676 and later William III who ordered numerous clocks to furnish his various palaces throughout his reign. As well as being an extremely talented artisan Tompion was also commercially minded, cleverly introducing serial numbering for his watches and clocks from around 1681/2. This, as well as maintaining a high degree of refinement in both the design and construction of his clocks and watches, ensured the highest level of exclusivity for clients purchasing from him. In around 1701 Thomas Tompion took a former apprentice, Edward Banger, into partnership. Banger was originally apprenticed to Thomas Ashby in 1687 but was transferred over to Tompion and gained his freedom of the Clockmaker's Company in 1695. He was clearly a talented maker (when considering the few examples signed by Banger alone) however a serious problem between him and his former master caused the partnership to come to an abrupt end in 1707-8 for reasons unknown. On Banger's departure Tompion reverted to working alone until he found confidence in George Graham who had been engaged as a journeyman for Tompion since 1696. Graham's character had already been given the seal of approval by Tompion who allowed him to marry his niece, Elizabeth, in 1704; however it still would be a few years before Tompion would take Graham into partnership which he eventually did in 1711.Thomas Tompion died in November 1713 leaving the business to George Graham who maintained the same exacting standards and became famous in his own right with notable achievements including the development of the deadbeat escapement for pendulum clocks and the cylinder escapement for watches. Edward Banger outlived Tompion by six years, his abilities as a highly skilled watchmaker are demonstrated within a fine jewelled movement dating to around 1715 by him illustrated by him in Evans, Jeremy THOMAS TOMPION at the Dial and Three Crowns page 54, Fig. 97. The movement and dial of the present lot conform to the 'type 1' phase of Tompion longcase clock development as set-out in Evans, Jeremy; Carter, Jonathan and Wright, Ben THOMAS TOMPION, 300 YEARS pages 197-217. The dial is indeed a 'textbook' example of its type and can be directly compared to that of another month longcase (number 14) with double wheat-ear border by Tompion, illustrated in Symonds, R.W. THOMAS TOMPION on page 78 (Figure 54). The movement conforms to Tompion's standard layout for a month duration longcase clock with another of near identical design (number 223) illustrated by Evans, Carter and Wright on page 204. Indeed, the only real variances between these movements are that the present lot has taller plates and no pallet-shaped cut-out to the backplate; both of these features are due to current movement being an earlier example. Tompion's work is characterised by an exceptional approach to the finishing of his movements; the present lot does not disappoint with finely cut graded wheelwork and superb shaping to the steelwork most notably to the hammer spring tail, bell stand foot and barrel click springs.Although the case is not original to the movement and dial it is 'of the period' and a comfortable match benefitting from not having a lenticle (Tompion's preference) and pleasing detailing on the panelling of the veneers. Indeed, the case fulfils the list of criteria listed by Evans, Carter and Wright, with regards to features expected in a 'Type 1', case on page 197.
A GEORGE III MAHOGANY SEDAN TIMEPIECE INCORPORATING AN EARLIER WATCH MOVEMENT BY EDWARD EASTTHE MOVEMENT BY EDWARD EAST, LONDON, CIRCA 1695, THE DIAL AND CASE CIRCA 1800The gilt full plate single fusee verge movement with four square section baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, scroll-pierced stop-iron block and sprung three-arm steel balance with Tompion type regulation, the backplate with symmetric foliate scroll pierced and engraved balance cock with geometric bordered part-canted rim and grotesque mask at the junction with the leafy trail engraved and pierced broad foot, flanked by silvered regulation disc within conforming pierced and engraved infill opposing signature Edw. East, LONDON and serial number 1485, now fitted to a 4 inch slightly convex white enamel dial with vertically aligned Arabic numerals and steel spade hands, set behind cavetto moulded hinged convex-glazed cast brass bezel applied to a cavetto moulded wooden surround bound with brass to the circumference, the rear with circular hinged brass cover secured with a pivoted latch beneath shield-shaped hanging loop.The movement pillar plate 3.5cm (1.375ins) diameter, the case 16cm (6.25ins) diameter, 4cm (1.25ins) deep. Edward East was born in Southill Bedfordshire in 1602 and was apprenticed in 1618 to Richard Rogers until 1626, gaining his freedom of the Goldsmith's Company the following year. He was appointed as one of the first Assistants of the Clockmakers Company (a year after the charter was granted by Charles I in 1631) later becoming Master twice in 1645 and 1653. He worked first from Pall Mall, London subsequently moving to the Fleet Street/Temple Bar area by the 1640's, in November 1660 he was appointed chief clockmaker to King Charles II. Edward East certainly had the longest and perhaps one of the most distinguished careers in English clockmaking during the 'Golden Period' taking on eight apprentices between 1643 and 1676 (including Henry Jones from 1654 to 1663). East was the only original Assistant surviving when the Grant of Arms was awarded to the Clockmakers' Company in 1671. Edward East drafted his Will in 1688 and on his death in 1696 he was clearly a wealthy man leaving property to his four children including a residence in Hampton, Middlesex and a coaching Inn called 'The Swan with Two Necks' which was bequeathed to his daughter, Anne Saunders. Watches by Edward East are relatively rare. Although precise dating from hallmarks is not possible (due to the original case no longer being present) elements such as the style of the decoration to the balance cock would suggest a date in the mid 1690's for the present movement. With this in mind it would appear that the movement would have been made right at the end of East's career. Condition Report: The watch movement appears to be all-original with no obvious replacements or evidence of alteration to the mechanism which retains its original gilt finishes. The movement is in working condition however appears somewhat dirty/neglected hence a gentle clean/service is advised. The backplate has some slight scratching around the movement pillar pins and the backcock has shallow bruise to the mask at the junction with the foot otherwise rear of the mechanism is in fine condition. The front plate (pillar plate) has been soldered to a later larger brass disc that forms a 'falseplate' for the present enamel dial. The enamel dial has some light surface scratching and some tiny edge chips but otherwise appears undamaged, The hands are probably more recent replacements. The case is generally in very good original condition with no apparent faults and only minor age-related wear.Timepiece is complete with a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A RARE GEORGE II STAINED-PINE SMALL THIRTY-HOUR ALARM WALL TIMEPIECE IN A 'SALTBOX' TYPE CASETHE DIAL INITIALLED D.W., PROBABLY SOUTH CENTRAL ENGLAND, CIRCA 1740The four pillar single-handed movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, and external alarm mechanism planted on a brass plate secured to the left-hand side of the movement sounding via a vertically pivoted hammer on a bell set above the plates, the 6 inch square brass dial with silvered Arabic numeral alarm setting disc to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with starburst spike engraved half hour markers and initialled D W to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hand and winged cherub mask spandrels to angles, the rectangular 'saltbox' type case with raised back panel flanked by downcurved side panels, over forward-sliding horizontal top panel cut with slots for the bell stand and alarm hammer, and fronted with caddy moulding to form the upper margin of the dial surround, the conforming side and lower dial surround mouldings fronting channels to the interior to act as runners for the dial, the rear drilled with a hanging hole behind the bell.25cm (9.75ins) high, 18cm (8ins) wide, 14cm (5.5ins) deep. Elements of the case housing the present clock (namely the channelled moulding bordering the dial and the removable top panel) can be compared to an oak-cased wall clock by John Coates of Cirencester, dating to around 1760, illustrated in Darken, Jeff (editor) TIME & PLACE, English Country Clocks 1600-1840 on page 164 (Exhibit number 48). Condition Report: The timepiece appears to be in good clean original working condition. There is no visible evidence of alteration - although the collets to the first and second wheel differ suggesting that one may have been re-pinioned (most likely the first wheel). The alarm mechanism appears complete and all original. The dial is also in good original condition with faults limited to a few minor casting blemishes and some patchy oxidation. The case is in sound original condition however the backboard has a vertical split from top to bottom with staples inserted to the upper and lower edge. The sides have lesser splits and the vertical dial runners have had slips of timber inserted at to the rear of the slot to close the channel slightly. The slip-in top cover has slightly different profile to the front moulding and colour so may well be an older replacement. The underside has further slight splitting and chips from the surface of the timber from nails being driven-in from the sides. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs and other age-related blemishes.Timepiece has a pendulum (suspension spring broken) and two weights, Condition Report Disclaimer
A WIILLIAM IV/EARLY VICTORIAN MAHOGANY BRACKET TIMEPIECE WITH PASSING STRIKEBROCKBANK AND ATKINS, LONDON, CIRCA 1835-40The four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum and passing strike sounding a single blow on a bell on the hour, the backplate with pendulum holdfast and signed Brockbank & Atkins, London, No. 2204 towards the lower margin, the 6 inch circular white painted Roman numeral dial inscribed BROCKBANK & ATKINS to centre and with steel hands set behind a hinged convex-glazed brass bezel incorporating silvered fillet to inside edge, the 'chamfer top' case with shallow hipped upstand over slender cavetto cornice, fluted frieze and ogee outline tall waist moulding, the sides with rectangular glazed panels over conforming waist and the rear flush incorporating a glazed door, on moulded skirt base with compressed bun feet.35cm (13.75ins) high, 23.5cm (9.25ins) wide, 16cm (6.25ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection. The firm Brockbanks was established when the two brothers John and Myles Brockbank went into partnership in the early 1790`s. The business was continued by various members of the family until becoming Brockbanks & Grove when George Grove was taken into partnership in 1812, later becoming Brockbank and Atkins when George Atkins was taken into partnership after Grove`s death in 1814. George Atkins ran the company until 1835 when his son, Samuel Elliot Atkins, became a partner in the firm; from 1840 to 1842 the company was re-named Brockbank, Atkins and Son but after this date the title 'Son' was removed. From 1885-1898 the renowned watchmaker George John Moore became a partner in the firm hence watches were signed 'Brockbank, Atkins & Moore during this period. Sometime before the Moore's departure in 1898 Samuel Elliot Atkins' son, Charles Edward, joined the firm. The business subsequently continued trading under his stewardship until 1933. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean working condition however a precautionary gentle clean/lubrication is probably advisable if intending to put into long-term service. There is no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The dial has been refinished to a good standard but has some slight rubbing /wear as well as small patch of discolouration near the VIII numeral. The case is generally in very good condition with the only notable faults being let-in veneer slip patch repairs to the leading edge of each of the side glasses (no doubt to repair past chips/losses to the veneer overlaps) and some shrinkage cracking beneath the dial towards the left-hand margin. Faults are otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage, wear and other minor age-related blemishes.Clock is complete with pendulum, winder and a case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A GEORGE III MAHOGANY VERGE FUSEE DIAL WALL TIMEPIECEWARREN, CANTERBURY, CIRCA 1790The four pillar single fusee movement with tapered plates and verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum, the 12 inch circular single sheet silvered brass dial engraved with a scene of a windmill over inscription MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS, with scroll pierced blued steel hands and Arabic five minutes to outer track incorporating signature WARREN, CANTER'Y to lower edge, set behind a hinged convex glazed cast brass cavetto moulded bezel applied to a narrow cavetto moulded wooden surround secured via pegs to the rectangular 'saltbox' type rear case with door to right hand side and pendulum access flap over shaped rear pendant apron to base; together with a facsimile copper U.S. 'Fuglio' cent coin inscribed with the same motto, (2). 35.5cm (14ins) wide, 40cm (15.75ins) high, 15cm (6ins) deep. James Warren is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World, Volume 2 as working in Canterbury 1778-1832. The motto 'mind your business' can be deemed to essentially have two meanings (albeit connected). The first is based on the stoic principal that one is only in command of his own actions; whilst the second is a reflection the fleeting nature of time and its bearing on productivity. Condition Report: The movement has one noticeable filled hole to the frontplate (just above the upper rim of the contrate wheel) indicating a previous conversion to anchor escapement. The brass of the contrate, escape wheel, potances and back cock are a little darker in colour than the rest of the movement which further suggests that the present escapement is a reconversion. Nothwithstanding these two details there is no other visible evidence to indicate reconversion or any alteration has taken place. The mechanism is in working condition however it is generally dirty/oily hence a precautionary gentle clean/service is advised. The dial is in good original condition with nice overall slightly mellow appearance to the chapter ring. The hands are both a little short so may well be replacements. The bezel is in good original condition with secure hinge. The wooden surround was originally fitted with a lock for the bezel which is no longer present; an extended tab (cut with a slot) which passed through a small aperture in the surround for securing with a latch is now fitted to the bezel (the pivoted latch is not present). The wooden surround otherwise is in sound original condition with no problematic splits or cracks and only a few minor age-related bumps and chips. The 'saltbox' case has mismatched pegs and a replaced backboard; the lower flap also appears to be a replacement. The sides have scuffing behind the dial securing rails (indicative of the dial being drawn back and forth with something sharp in one or more of the peg holes?). The base panel (around the flap) has quite noticeable surface bumps/bruises - the cause of these is not obvious but appears to be from something repeatedly knocking the surface at some point. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to relatively minor age-related bumps and scuffs.Timepiece has a case key (not required!) but no winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN FIGURED MAHOGANY HOUR-STRIKING DOMESTIC LONGCASE REGULATORPARKINSON AND FRODSHAM, LONDON, MID 19th CENTURYThe substantial five knopped pillar eight-day gong striking movement with Harrison's maintaining power and Graham-type deadbeat escapement regulated by wood-rod seconds pendulum with heavy bob adjusted via a calibrated silvered rating screw, and fine beat adjustment to crutch, the 12 inch circular single sheet silvered brass Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial and signed Parkinson & Frodsham, CHANGE ALLEY, LONDON to centre, with blued steel spade hands and STRIKE/SILENT selection lever above twelve o'clock, the case with cavetto moulded compressed break-arch cornice over square front door fitted with a circular glazed dial aperture with canted silvered fillet insert to interior flanked by canted angles, the trunk with cavetto throat moulding over recessed panel trunk door fronted with fine flame-figured veneer and flanked by conforming canted angles, the plinth base with stepped ogee top moulding over panel outline front also with fine flame figured veneer continuing down to face the skirt base.199cm (78.5ins) high, 46.5cm (18.24ins) wide, 26cm (10.25ins) deep. William Parkinson and William James Frodsham founded the highly regarded firm of Parkinson & Frodsham in 1801 at 4 Change Alley, Cornhill, London. William Parkinson died in 1842 and William Frodsham in 1850. Initially the firm specialised in marine and pocket chronometers and established an extensive export business supplying the Admiralty and numerous shipping companies. After the founders' deaths the business was continued by Frodsham's elder sons and grandson until 1912, when it was sold to the foreman, William Harris. Harris and his son Geoffrey ran the business successfully until 1944 when the firm's premises in Budge Row were bombed. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean working condition with no visible evidence or noticeable replacements. Although the clock appears to have been maintained in good working condition a precautionary gentle clean/lubrication is probably advisable if intending to put into long-term service. The dial has some slight rubbing around the winding holes and some overall light patchy oxidation otherwise is in fine original condition. Movement retains its original seatboard secured into the case with no visible evidence of alteration or adjustment hence we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are original to the case. The case is generally in very good original condition with notable faults limited to very slight warping to the centre panel of the trunk door (no splits or evidence of 'coming away' from the frame/surround). The left side skirt has veneer patch repair running along the lower edge; the opposing right-hand side has some slight veneer chipping also along the lower edge. Faults are otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage and wear.Clock has pendulum, two brass-cased weights, case key but no winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
AN UNUSUAL VICTORIAN SPRING-DRIVEN 'REGULATOR' TIMEPIECEALEXANDER BAIN, LONDON, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 19th CENTURYThe substantial four columnar pillar single chain fusee movement with plates measuring 7 by 5.75 inches, Harrison's maintaining power and deadbeat escapement regulated by heavy lenticular bob half seconds pendulum incorporating fine beat adjustment to crutch and wide jaw suspension set on a separated A-frame, the 11 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with recessed subsidiary seconds over signature Alexander Bain, PATENTEE to centre and with scroll pierced steel hands, now mounted on a seatboard raised on blocks within a rectangular mahogany four-glass case with cushion moulded projecting top and cock-beading to the glazed apertures of the lift-off cover, on conforming moulded platform base.40cm (15.75ins) high, 36.5cm (14.5ins) wide, 24cm (9ins) deep. Alexander Bain was born in Caithness Scotland circa 1910 and trained as a clockmaker in Wick before moving to London where he set-up as a Journeyman in 1837. Bain rapidly became interested in the application of electromagnetic principles into precision horology developing designs for his 'earth-driven' pendulum timepieces by the mid 1840's. Lack of funding and disputes with Sir Charles Wheatstone stalled development until 1848 when Bain published his 'Patent' designs for electromagnetic pendulum timepieces. Examples of his work were subsequently exhibited at the 1851 Great Exhibition where he was awarded Medal Class X by the Exhibition Council; Alexander Bain then went on to publish A Short History of the Electric Clocks... the following year. Little is known about his movements during most of the 1850's however his wife, Matilda, died in 1856 which may have precipitated his departure to North America in 1860. Unfortunately, his attempts to establish himself there brought him into conflict with the Business of Samuel Morse; this drained Bain's resources to the extent that by 1872 he was back in Scotland working from an Optician's shop in Glasgow. In appreciation for his contribution to electrical horology and the telegraphony, William Dalglish and Lord Kelvin made an application to the Royal Society for a modest pension to be paid to Alexander Bain. However, throughout the second half of the 1870's his health deteriorated until he eventually became paralized and died in January 1877. Alexander Bain is considered to be an important pioneer in the field of electrical horology. This, coupled with the rarity and quality of his work means that his extant 'earth driven' timepieces are highly sought-after by collectors today. The backplate of the present lot has a short extension to the seconds arbor and two pairs of holes towards the right-hand margin. These details would suggest that the present movement was originally fitted with some form of electrical contacts possibly to drive electric slave dials. This possibility is further supported by the fact that the pairs of holes are of reasonably large diameter (4-5mm) indicating that insulating inserts were probably fitted to electrically isolate contact points from the movement itself.
A GEORGE II EBONISED SMALL TABLE/BRACKET TIMEPIECE WITH 'SILENT' PULL-QUARTER REPEATPETER CHAPEAU, LONDON, CIRCA 1735The five pillar single chain fusee movement with verge escapement incorporating sprung pallets regulated by short bob pendulum and 'silent' pull-quarter repeat sounding the hour and quarters on two bells on demand only, the backplate engraved with symmetrical entwined vine scrollwork around a central signature Peter Chapeau, LONDON over a basket of fruit, the 5 inch brass break arch dial with calendar and shaped false bob apertures to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with fleur-de-lys half hour markers and Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track, with scroll pierced blued steel hands and symmetrical scroll cast spandrels to angles, the arch signed Peter Chapeau, LONDON directly into the plate within applied moulded collar flanked by conforming scroll cast mounts, the bell-top case with hinged brass carrying handle over double cavetto top mouldings and hinged front applied with complex raised mouldings bordering the dial aperture and with scroll pierced brass upper quadrant frets, the sides with break-arch windows bordered with conforming raised mouldings, the rear with break-arch glazed door set within the frame of the case, on cavetto moulded shallow skirt base with brass ogee bracket feet.33cm (13ins) high with handle down, 20cm (8ins) wide, 14cm (5.5ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection. Purchased from Jan G. Hastie Antiques and Works of Art, Salisbury, 23rd April 1966 for £250. Peter Chapeau is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in London circa 1726-46. Very little appears to be known of Peter Chapeau, however it is likely that he was of French Huguenot heritage and thus may have been mostly employed as a journeyman for the likes of Claude DuChesne or Simon DeCharmes. The engraving to the backplate of the present timepiece can be compared to decoration discussed in Dzik, Sunny ENGRAVING ON ENGLISH TABLE CLOCKS, Art on a Canvas of Brass within the chapter titled VINE ENGRAVING, 1740-1770 pages 337-349. The current lot is designed to sound the hours and quarters on two bells only on demand. This form of quarter repeat mechanism is thought to have been devised for timepieces destined for night-time use in the bedroom; whilst striking clocks with quarter repeat facility were generally intended to be utilised downstairs during the day and upstairs at night. As a consequence silent-pull quarter repeating timepieces are rarer as the original owner would have to be very wealthy indeed to afford a timepiece reserved exclusively for use in the bed chamber. The present timepiece also has sprung pallets to the escapement which were designed to quieten the action, further rendering it more suitable for use during times of sleep.The design and layout of the quarter-repeat system employed in the current lot can be closely compared to an example by William Webster, described and illustrated in Dzik, Sunny BENEATH THE DIAL, English Clock Pull Repeat Striking 1675-1725 pages 109-12. Most notable, with regards to the similarities within the details, is the design of the wedge-shaped pumping piece, and the provision of a separate sleeved fitment incorporating the hour hammer pin and hammer tail applied to the hammer arbor to allow the pin-wheel to rotate uninhibited whilst pulling. Condition Report: Movement is in clean, fully working condition. There is no visible evidence of the clock ever being converted to anchor escapement however the collets to both the contrate and escape wheel differ to the rest of the movement suggesting that they have been off their respective arbors at some point most likely to receive attention for wear (or may even be 'service replacements'). The dial is a little oxidised/discoloured but exhibits a pleasing mellow hue; there is no visible evidence of and damage or other notable faults. Case is generally in very good original condition with minor faults including some slight cracking and small veneer losses to the veneers around the mask dial aperture, a section of replaced veneer to the surfaces/ledges above the top mouldings to both sides, a replacement to the raised moulding to the arch of the left-hand side window and a small veneer chip just beneath the rear door to the left-hand corner. Otherwise faults to the case are very much limited to minor shrinkage, bumps, scuffs and other minor age-related blemishes.Timepiece is complete with case key and winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A RARE AMERICAN WWII MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERROTH BROTHERS CHRONOMETER COMPANY, NEW YORK, CIRCA 1944The circular four pillar single chain fusee movement with five-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison`s maintaining power and Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by monometallic balance incorporating twelve timing screws, with palladium alloy helical balance spring and faceted diamond endstone, the spotted backplate with polished pillar screws and separate mainspring pivot plate applied with spring set-up ratchet, the outer margin inscribed Roth Bros. Chronometer Co., New York U.S.A. No. 7 and U.S. Maritime Commission 1944 the 4 inch circular silvered Arabic numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial inscribed M within a circle, beneath signature ROTH BROTHERS CHRONOMETER CO., NEW YORK U.S.A. to the centre and DOWN/UP 0-56 state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl and mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into a brass reinforced stained mahogany three tier box with glazed top to middle tier, brass capped top corners, inset strap reinforced angles, and hinged carrying handles to sides.19cm (7.5ins) high, 19cm (7.5ins) wide, 19.5cm (7.75ins) deep. Roth Brothers of New York were initially contracted (from circa 1942) by the U.S. Maritime Commission to source pre-owned chronometers, pocket chronometer movements and other accurate watch movements (such as rail watches and even automobile timepieces - mostly by makers such as Waltham) for re-casing and use on naval vessels. By 1944 Roth Brothers had started production of their own marine chronometers to satisfy demand from the war effort. However, mostly due to competition from Hamilton - who ramped-production of chronometers from around 1942 (most notably their model 21), Roth Brothers production run was very small hence very few Chronometers by them survive. Condition Report: Movement is in relatively clean working condition with no visible evidence of alteration of noticeable replacements. The dial has a couple of very slight spots of discolouration otherwise has good even silvering and strong bluing to the hands. The bowl and gimbals have overall mellowing and minor wear/oxidation to the lacquered finishes but are otherwise in fine condition. Case has overall light surface scratches, minor bumps and wear to the polish otherwise is in fine original condition.Chronometer has a typsy winding key, no case key is required. Condition Report Disclaimer
A GERMAN 'MULBERRY' VENEERED TABLE CLOCKJ.G. EICHLER, FRANKFURT, MID 18th CENTURYThe substantial five knopped pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with plates measuring 9 by 7.75 inches, pinned flanged steel walls to the barrels, five-wheel trains and anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, the 8.5inch inch square gilt brass dial with calendar and shaped false bob apertures over ringed winding holes to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with fleur-de-lys half hour markers, Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and signed J.S. Eichler, a Franckfurt to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hands and applied silvered repousse mask and scroll spandrels to angles, the case veneered in lamp black stained field burr maple or 'mulberry' wood with large gilt brass ring handle to the stepped ogee caddy superstructure, over ovolo capped cavetto top moulding and opening front applied with repeating C-scroll pierced lozenge-shaped fret to the upper rail enclosing a conforming fret to the dial mask behind, the sides with further gilt frets over break-arch lozenge shaped glazed apertures, the rear with door matching the front except for having a smaller glazed aperture and shorter fret, on ovolo moulded skirt base with block feet. 43cm (17ins) high with handle down, 30.5cm (12ins) wide, 16cm (6.5ins) deep. Joseph Georg Eichler is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as a 'Master' clockmaker working in Frankfurt up until his death in 1758. Condition Report: Movement is complete and will just about run and strike, however it is in oily/neglected condition so prone to stopping, hence a gentle clean and service is required. The escapement has probably been converted from verge to anchor (evidence in the plates is inconclusive) and the trains have largely been re-pinioned. The strike train is generally not counting fully/properly suggesting that the rack is sticking - further confirming that a service is required. Without undertaking a train count it is difficult to confirm the duration however as there is an intermediate wheel between the fusee and the centre wheel it would be safe to say that it will probably run between 5 and 8 days. The dial is in fine condition with good colouring and faults limited to very light oxidation only. The case is generally in very good condition and with very attractive veneers. The mask around the dial (behind the front door) has some veneer patch repairs and there is a loss to the veneer strip applied to the inside edge of the door. The skirting to the base has a couple of small well-matched veneer patch repairs otherwise faults to the case are very much limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage, a few historic fill/patch repairs, age related blemishes and wear.Clock has a pendulum but no winding key (no case keys required). Condition Report Disclaimer
A GEORGE III/REGENCY BRASS MOUNTED MAHOGANY TABLE/BRACKET CLOCK WITH FIRED ENAMEL DIALBARRAUD, LONDON, EARLY 19th CENTURYThe five pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum incorporating stirrup type regulation adjustment and trip-hour repeat, the geometric border engraved backplate with pendulum holdfast and signed Barraud, Cornhill LONDON within an oval cartouche to centre, the 6.75 inch slightly convex white enamel Roman numeral dial with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and pierced brass hands, the break-arch case with brass ball finial and foliate scroll pierced and engraved brass frets to the concave-sided pyramidal upstand over complex cast brass top mouldings, the opening front applied ogee moulded convex-glazed cast brass bezel over fine foliate scroll pierced and engraved lower quadrant frets flanked by inset brass mouldings to angles, the sides with hinged brass carrying handles over brass fish scale sound frets, the rear with full-width break-arch glazed door, on brass bound cavetto moulded skirt base with brass ogee bracket feet.46cm (18ins) high, 27.5cm (10.75ins) wide, 19cm (7.5ins) deep. Paul Phillip Barraud was born in 1752 and initially worked with his father at first until his death in 1795, after which he turned his attention more towards chronometers. Using the valuable experience gained whilst working on Mudge's timekeepers with W. Howells and G. Jamieson to good effect, he became very successful. After his death in 1820 the business was continued by his sons taking John Richard Lund, a former apprentice of John Pennington (who developed the auxiliary compensation balance weight to correct for middle temperature changes), into partnership in 1838.
A VICTORIAN MAHOGANY FUSEE DROP-DIAL WALL TIMEPIECEGEORGE LEWTON, WINTERBOURNE, CIRCA 1860The four pillar single chain fusee movement with shouldered plates and anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum suspended from a post applied to the case backboard, the 13 inch circular white painted Roman numeral dial signed Geo. Lewton, Winterbourne to centre and with steel spade hands set within a hinged glazed cast brass caddy moulded bezel incorporating canted silvered insert to interior, applied to a moulded wooden surround secured via pegs to a rectangular rear case with door to right hand side, over figured mahogany veneered drop-trunk applied with fan-shaped ears above curved pendulum access flap to the quarter-round base. 42.5cm (16.75ins) wide, 61cm (24ins) high, 17cm (6.75ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection. George Lewton is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World, Volume 2 as working in Winterbourne, Bristol 1856-79.
A VICTORIAN GILT BRASS CARRIAGE TIMEPIECEROSS, EXETER, MID 19th CENTURYThe rectangular single train four columnar pillar movement with frosted plates and platform lever escapement regulated by sprung monometallic balance with jewelled endstone set within a foliate scroll engraved cock, the backplate signed Ross, EXETER over hand setting disk and winding square incorporating visible ratchet and pawl retained by a foliate scroll engraved cock, the 1.75 inch wide rectangular white enamel Roman numeral dial with gilt spade hands, set within a gilt mast decorated with twin Gothic gabled towers over panelled apron, the gilt brass electrotype case with hinged rams head and leafy scroll cast handle over pierced tracery amber glazed rose-window top panel incorporating 'engine-turned' borders and relief floral sprays to spandrels, within fine geometric tracery surround applied with oval finials to angles, with cavetto moulded cornice over three-quarter columns to angles incorporating stylised rococo scroll decoration to shafts, the sides and relief decorated with 'Strawberry Hill Gothic' style facades of five bays with the central ogee-gabled and with rose window, the rear hinged revealing a relief modelled panel with the Royal coat of arms over PATENT, on skirt base decorated with a Gothic arcade incorporating floral swags over ball feet.15.5cm (6.125ins) high with handle down, 10cm (4ins) square. Daniel Ross is recorded in Ponsford, C.N. Time in Exeter as a chronometer, watch and clockmaker who commenced business at 31 High Street Exeter in 1831. He relocated to 230 High Street in 1855 and then to Bedford Street in 1859. He closed the business in 1864 due to poor eyesight selling his stock in trade to a clockmaker by the name of Ellis. Condition Report: Movement is in clean working condition. The dial has a hairline crack to the enamel across the upper right-hand corner otherwise appears free from visible faults. The case is in very good condition with only minor oxidation/discolouration to the gilding and a few very light surface scuffs. Timepiece has a winding key.Condition Report Disclaimer
A JAPANESE LACQUERED BRASS MAKURA DOKEI MINIATURE TABLE CLOCKUNSIGNED, 19th CENTURY The four crisply-turned finned and knopped pillar movement with verge escapement regulated by sprung balance set above the movement to the fusee-driven going train, the strike train with going barrel and outside countwheel advanced by an external pawl to the rear of the backplate for sounding via a vertically pivoted hammer the hours on a bell set above the balance, the front panel with concentric ring moulded rotating gilt brass chapter disc incorporating inset Japanese hours and baton minute markers reading against a fixed scroll pierced steel hand, set within stylised foliate spray infill, the rear with countwheel and visible detents over winding squares with ratchets within conforming engraved decoration, the angles with complex baluster and ring-turned multiknop posts joining the caddy moulded top and bottom plates, with the upper surface surmounted with the balance and bell assembly flanked by conforming turned finials, on later oak plinth.The clock 9.5cm (3.75ins) high, 9cm (3.5ins) wide, 5cm (2ins) deep. The term 'makura dokei' translates as 'pillow clock', with such timepiece be referred to by this name due to their visual similarities to a Japanese pillow or 'makura'. Condition Report: Clock is in fully working condition however the mechanism is a little dusty so a gentle clean/service is advised. The finish has pleasing slightly oxidised toning protected under lacquer with minimal spotting and only slight dust staining/build-up. The dial has very slight rubbing/discolouration only.There is no winding key present. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A FINE WILLIAM AND MARY EBONY 'BASKET TOP' TABLE TIMEPIECE WITH 'SILENT' PULL-QUARTER REPEAT NATHANIEL HODGES, LONDON, CIRCA 1690The six finned pillar single fusee movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum and 'silent' pull-quarter repeat on a graduated pair of bells, the backplate engraved with symmetrical scrolling foliage incorporating tulip blooms around a central shaped reserve signed Nathanael Hodges, Londini Fecit, the 6 inch square brass dial with calendar aperture to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with eared cruciform half hour markers and Arabic five minutes within the outer minute track, with scroll pierced steel hands and winged cherub cast spandrel mounts to angles, the ebony veneered case with eagle head and dolphin cast hinged brass carrying handle to the pierced gilt brass domed 'basket' caddy superstructure pierced and relief decorated with Ho-Ho birds over generous tied fruit festoon swags flanked by floral pendants and with acanthus scrolls to the angles, flanked by flambeau finials to the corners, over ogee edged projecting cushion top mouldings and rectangular glazed front door applied with fine mouldings around the glazed aperture and applied with scroll-pierced gilt escutcheon mounts to uprights, the sides with conforming rectangular windows and the rear with glazed door applied with matching mouldings to the aperture set within the frame of the case, on ogee moulded shallow skirt base with gilt brass disc feet; with a later ebonised wall bracket of inverted ogee form, (quarter repeat work restored).The timepiece 30cm (11.75ins) high with handle down, 21.5cm (8.5ins) wide, 14cm (5.5cm) deep; the timepiece on bracket 46.5cm (18.25ins) high with handle down.Nathaniel Hodges is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as becoming a Free Brother of the Clockmakers' Company in 1681. He was noted as a 'great clockmaker' (i.e. maker of turret clocks) and was last mentioned in the Company Records as being in arrears in 1687. Loomes cites the burial records of two individuals of the same name in 1688 but neither appear to have been clockmakers. He also notes that Hodges was living in the Parish of Blackfriars with his wife, Joan, when their daughter was baptised in 1673. By 1679 he had moved to Parish of St. Brides, Fleet Street (possibly to his premises on Wine Office Court) where three further children were baptised, the last being Mary in January 1687. Despite being noted as a 'great clockmaker' and generally very little else known of Nathaniel Hodges he was clearly a fine maker with many fine table clocks surviving including a rare marquetry-cased example and another extensively decorated with repousse mounts and with rare original glazed-front carrying case illustrated in Dawson, Percy G.; Drover, C.B. and Parkes, D.W. Early English Clocks on page 460 (Plates 677-78).The current lot is designed to sound the hours and quarters on two bells only on demand. This form of quarter repeat mechanism is thought to have been devised for timepieces destined for night-time use in the bedroom; whilst striking clocks with quarter repeat facility were generally intended to be utilised downstairs during the day and upstairs at night. As a consequence silent-pull quarter repeating timepieces are rarer as the original owner would have to be very wealthy indeed to afford a timepiece reserved exclusively for use in the bed chamber. The design of the repeat mechanism used in the current lot is based to the system devised by Joseph Knibb (as described and illustrated in Allix, Charles and Harvey, Laurence HOBSON'S CHOICE pages 36-7) with the principal differences being the shape and positioning of the pivoted gear-toothed sector, and the use of an unusual slide arrangement to engage with the hour-snail. Another noteworthy feature is the split hammer arbor enabling both the hour and quarter hammers to be set side-by-side by providing pivots for each within a bat positioned between them. This detail appears to have been favoured by Henry Jones and can been seen on a timepiece (dating to the mid-1670's) illustrated and described in Dzik, Sunny BENEATH THE DIAL, English Clock Pull Repeat Striking 1675-1725 pages 67-68.The engraving to the backplate of the present timepiece is a very good example of the of tulip engraving and can be closely compared to that on a table timepiece by Charles Gretton illustrated and described in Dzik, Sunny ENGRAVING ON ENLISH TABLE CLOCKS, Art on a Canvas of Brass 1660-1800 pages132-106 (Figure 7.7). Condition Report: The movement is complete and fully operational although a gentle clean/service is advised. The movement is in its original form with no visible evidence of any alteration however it is most probably that the repeat mechanism has seen significant well-executed restoration or has possibly been faithfully reinstated. There is no visible evidence (filled holes or alteration to pallet arbor slot cut to the top of the backplate) to indicate that the movement was ever converted to anchor escapement although the present escape wheel would appear to be a service replacement. The dial has been electro-gilded (including the rear of the plate) and two of the spandrel securing screws have been replaced. Both hands appear original and are nicely made/sculpted; the hour has had repairs to the scrolls forming the tip and is a little distorted. Dial otherwise is in good clean condition with fine matting showing some slight overall wear. The case is in sound original condition. All the brass mounts have been electro-gilded. The basket top has historic wear through the hight spots most notably to the swags otherwise appears undamaged and with vey little distortion. The finials are probably later additions; the moulding forming the lower edge of the basket has had the corners filed to allow room for the finials. The front door repousse right hand repousse mount is missing a small section from the lower edge and the left hand one is a cast replica which also replicates the same small loss to the lower edge. The leading edge of the top front right-hand corner of the top (adjacent to the finial) has a small veneer chip. The mask around the dial (behind the front door hence only visible when door is open) has overall chipping/wear and losses to the veneer overlap bordering the dial. The right-hand side above the aperture has a crack and slight movement in the carcass and veneer and the lower edge of the moulding bordering the upper edge of the panel has wear/loss. The rear upper moulding has some cracking towards the right-hand ed and the lower rear right-hand corner has a small scarf-type repair to the moulding. The interior of the case has some scooping-out to the carcass to allow room for bells, backcock etc which is to be expected in a clock where the movement is a snug fit in the case (ie. is not indicative of alteration or the clock being a marriage. The base of the case has two additional small holes drilled for a pair of later hooks to further secure the movement (by hooking over the two bottom pillars) in the case. This is in addition to the original system of two latches fitted to the rear of the dial plate engaging with slots cut in the uprights of the dial surround. Front and rear doors appear to retain original locks and hinges albeit with some later securing screws added. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to minor shrinkage and a few are-related bumps, scuffs etc. Condition Report Disclaimer
A FINE AND RARE FRENCH QUARTER STRIKING MUSICAL PICTURE CLOCK WITH ANGELUSMAISON WURTEL, PARIS, CIRCA 1860With oil on canvas after David Teniers the younger (1610-90) 'two men playing cards in the kitchen of an Inn' with the composition adapted to incorporate a longcase clock, hinging upwards along with the floral relief moulded gilt composition frame to reveal the internal mechanism comprising four elements; the first a four pillar two train gong striking clock movement of duration of around two weeks with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum and outside countwheel strike on a gong, the frontplate stamped with oval M'ON WURTEL, HORLOGERIE... trademark beneath numbers 743, 9 2, fitted with 1.625 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial signed M'ON WURTEL, A PARIS to centre and with steel hands; the second mechanism comprising a separate conforming hour striking train to repeat the hour shortly after the principal movement released via a pivoted detent from the under dial motionwork; the third mechanism released in a similar manner shortly after six o'clock with single barrel and vertical fly driving a pinned wheel to operate the Angelus sequence on a graduated pair of gongs; the fourth a musical mechanism released on the hour and playing a choice of twelve tunes via a 16.5 inch pinned cylinder on a 74 tooth comb, the cylinder mounted on a steel bed stamped with serial number 43418 with indirect chain winding for the large spring barrel opposing fly and controls for tune change/repeat, start/stop and continuous play/hour activation only connected via steel rods to brass pulls positioned to the underside edge of the case, all mounted on the backboard of a shallow box case alongside tune sheet inscribed No. 43418, 12 AIRES to upper margin over manuscript tune list including La fille de Madame Angot, Souvenie de Cock and Mandolinata, the lower margin inscribed Maison WURTEL, Passage Vivienne, 38 et 40, PARIS, the back panel also applied with two additional labels for MAISON WURTEL, E. PIERFORT Suc'r..., and GATTOLLAIT along with a modern brass plaque explaining the function of the plungers for the music mechanism.The image 63.5cm (25ins) by 79.5cm (31.25ins); the case 83cm (32.75ins) high, 99cm (39ins) wide, 19cm (7.5ins) deep. Provenance:From the private collection of a professional sportsman and commentator. Maison Wurtel was founded by Guillaume-Ferdinand Wurtel in around 1837 when he advertised as working from 38-40 Passage Vivienne, Paris. Three years later he was listed in a trade directory as a horological maker and seller offering picture clocks as well as a supplier of concave glasses. In 1841 a magazine, 'La Presse', recommended 'La Maison Wurtel' to their readers informing them that they can buy watches, table clocks, picture clocks, music boxes, alarm clocks and 'objects of fantasy'. In 1856 they exhibited at the 'Exposition of Delepine of Paris' but unfortunately were positioned within the scientific instrument section to the bafflement of visitors. Maison Wurtel were known to have sourced their clock movements form Japy Freres and the musical mechanism within the present lot can be attributed to Auguste L'Epee of Saint-Suzanne, Doubs, France (who worked from 1839 until the end of the century). The Angelus mechanism is a particularly rare feature which traditionally served to accompany the recital of the Angelus prayer in Roman Catholicism. Condition Report: The clock, striking and angelus mechanisms are all in relatively clean original working condition with the various levers and detents present. The musical mechanism is also in relatively clean working condition with no visible losses to the teeth or noticeable corrosion issues. The clock was in use in the vendor's home when consigned however due to the nature of the item some adjustment may be required to ensure all the features operate as an when they should once the picture is hung securely on the wall. The canvas is in good condition with no visible tears or holes of noticeable repairs. The frame is in fine condition with good gilding throughout. The pine back box has some slight wear/bumps (most noticeable to the back corners) as well as other relatively minor age related faults - otherwise is in very good original condition.Clock is complete with pendulum and two winding keys. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A FINE VICTORIAN BRASS INLAID ROSEWOOD CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERCHARLES FRODSHAM, LONDON, CIRCA 1880The circular four pillar single chain reversed fusee movement with six-spoke wheel crossings, Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel, Earnshaw type spring detent escapement regulated by split bimetallic balance with keystone-shaped compensation weights, helical balance spring and faceted endstone, the spotted backplate with spring set-up ratchet, blued steel movement pillar and backcock securing screws, and signed Charles Frodsham, London to outer margin, the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial beneath signature CHARLES FRODSHAM, 84 STRAND, LONDON, No., 3521 across the centre and Up/Down, 0-56 power reserve dial flanked by BY APPOINTMENT TO THE QUEEN and GOLD MEDAL OF HONOUR, PARIS EX'N, 1855 medallions set beneath the X and II numerals respectively, with gold spade hands and secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to underside, mounted via gimbals into a brass strung and edged three tier box with typsy winding key beneath the hinged glazed middle tier applied with mother-of-pearl roundel engraved CHA'S FRODSHAM, 85 Strand, LONDON, No. 3521 to front, the top surface of the second tier with vacant brass shield cartouche within double line borders and brass capped edges, over conforming front and recessed carrying handles to sides.18.5cm (7.25ins) high, 18cm (7ins) wide, 18cm (7ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller collection. Purchased From Charles Frodsham, London, 14th November 1967 for £185. Charles Frodsham was born in 1810 into a family of clockmakers with his grandfather, William originating from Cheshire before moving to London prior to 1781 where he was admitted to the Clockmaker's Company. His son, William James, had six sons, four of whom joined the firm of Parkinson and Frodsham in London; whilst Charles, the third born son set-up on his own at Barnes Place, Islington in 1834. He moved to 12 Finsbury Pavement in 1836 then to number 7 in 1838. On the death of the renowned chronometer maker John Roger Arnold in 1843 Charles Frodsham acquired the business and began trading as 'Arnold, Charles Frodsham' from 84 Strand, London. Unusually Frodsham was not admitted to the Clockmaker's Company until 1845 but went on to serve as master twice in 1855 and 1862; he was also a founder member of the British horological Institute in 1858.Charles Frodsham became one of the most eminent chronometer makers of his generation who served as a juror in the 1852 International Exhibition held at South Kensington where he also showed a month duration marine chronometer with experimental 'Duo-in-uno' balance springs and three different forms of compound balance. In 1854 he purchased the 'goodwill' of the late Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy's business which led to his appointment as Superintendent and Keeper of Her Majesty's clocks at Buckingham Palace. Charles Frodsham died of liver disease in January 1871 and was succeeded by his son, Harrison Mill Frodsham. The business became Charles Frodsham and Company and in 1884 and then was incorporated as a limited Company in 1893 before relocating to 115 New Bond Street, London two years later where they remained well into the Twentieth Century. The firm is still trading today (from 32 Bury Street, London) as specialist in chronometer, watch and clock makers. Condition Report: Movement is in clean working condition with only a few very slight patches of light oxidation to the brasswork. The dial is in fine condition with barely noticeable mellowing and a couple of tiny pin-pricks of oxidation. The bowl and gimbals are in fine original condition but with some noticeable localised oxidation to the brass - mainly to the bezel. There is also some very slight patchy discolouration to the canted silvered bezel (inset behind the glass). The underside of the bowl is engraved with H.S. and government arrow device. The box is generally in very good original condition however the lock is a replacement and there is a small filled bruise just to the left of the escutcheon.Timepiece is complete with a typsy winder and a key for the box. Condition Report Disclaimer
A FINE BLACK FOREST CARVED LIMEWOOD SPRING-DRIVEN CUCKOO WALL CLOCKALEXANDER FLEIG, TRIBERG, LATE 19th CENTURYThe twin going barrel four pillar movement with skeletonised plates and anchor escapement regulated by a carved wood shaped-bob pendulum, the backplate with second overlaid pierced plate to take the rear pivots plus set-up ratchets for the spring barrels over stamped signature A. FLEIG to lower margin, with external countwheel for announcing the two-note call for every hour via a pair of crank-driven bellows fitted above the plates, whilst repeatedly revealing a polychrome automaton figure of a cuckoo from behind a pair of hinged doors positioned above the dial who opens his beak and flaps his wings as well as sounding on a coiled gong, the case of gabled form applied with finely executed oak-leaf carved crest centred with a stag's head with inlaid glass eyes hung with two crossed-over percussion lock hunting guns, over aperture for the cuckoo set amongst further oak leaves and circular bugle-type hunting horn centred with the rosette decorated concentric turned wooden dial, applied with ivorine Gothic Roman numerals and with scroll-pierced bone hands, flanked by impressive carved hung rabbit and pheasant game over further tied leafy branches incorporating a hunting pouch applied with a further small game bird to apron, the sides with small opening hatches and the rear with lift-out panel applied with a gong to the interior; together with a copy of Miller, Justin J. Rare and Unusual Black Forest Clocks Schiffer Limited, Atglen PA 2012, dj, (2).137cm (54ins) high, 77cm (30.5ins) wide, 48cm (19ins) deep. Provenance:From the private collection of a professional sportsman and commentator. Despite the high quality nature of his work, very little is known about Alexander Fleig of Triberg. Trade directories indicate that his workshop was established in 1869 and was still active in 1906. He exhibited at the Commercial Exhibition in Villingen in 1876, and it is generally believed that he probably collaborated with other makers. Condition Report: The movement is in clean working condition, both springs seem strong and will wind fully. The cuckoo automaton is complete with wire operating detents/levers all present however the action appears a little limited suggesting some adjustment is required in order to maximise the action. The bellows have been re-conditioned hence provide good strong notes to the call. The dial is in fine condition as is the case with the only notable observation being some very well executed restoration to the stag antlers. The rear has some scuffing around the original hanging hole (removable back panel has been re-polished) the present hanging eye is probably a later addition. The carving is generally in very fine condition with faults very much limited to a few very slight historic bumps to the extremities; there is no visible worm damage or noticeable splitting.Generally a fine example apparently having been relatively recently serviced/cosmetically restored and only really requiring slight adjustment to the automaton. A pendulum with conforming carved wood bob and a winding key are present with the clock. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A RARE BIEDERMEIER VIENNA ROSEWOOD MINIATURE 'DACHLUHR' WALL TIMEPIECE UNSIGNED, VIENNA, CIRCA 1840 The four pillar single-weight driven movement with slightly tapered plates enclosing four-wheel train and deadbeat escapement, with fine-beat adjustment to crutch and regulated by decorative brass and steel rod pendulum with large diameter brass-faced lenticular bob reading against a fired enamel beat-scale applied to the lower edge of the case backboard, the 4.5 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with blued steel moon hands within repeating cartouche and bead cast brass bezel, the movement and dial supported within the case via keyhole slots to the backplate engaging with corresponding posts fitted to a brass plate applied to the veneered backboard, the exterior with rococo scroll carved and pierced crest applied to a platform upstand, over box line-edged canted cornice with wavy lower edge moulding and full-height rectangular two-panel glazed front door applied with stylised scroll carved capitals and ripple-moulded bases to the slender pilaster strip uprights, the sides with narrow glazed apertures, the base of stepped ogee form with panel to front over anthemion carved pendant. 73.5cm (29ins) high, 22cm (8.75ins) wide, 12cm (4.75ins) deep. Condition Report: Movement appears in good original condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The mechanism is a little dirty/neglected hence a gentle clean/service is advised before putting to use. The dial appears free from visible damage or restoration. The centre arbor pin-hole (for securing the minute hand and collet) is broken hence a pin and collet cannot be fitted, however as minute hand is a good push-fit and both hands appear to hold position this would probably not adversely affect the timepieces ability to show the time. The case is generally in very good condition with faults very much limited to very slight veneer shrinkage and a few tiny surface blemishes.Timepiece has pendulum (in good condition with only minor patchy discoloration), a crank winder and a weight (undamaged but with patchy oxidation/discolouration) but it is lacking the pulley from which the weight is hung, Condition Report Disclaimer
AN ELIZABETH II COMMEMORATIVE SILVER CASED MINIATURE 'HUMP-BACK' CARRIAGE TIMEPIECECHARLES FRODSHAM, LONDON 1978The eight-day four pillar going barrel movement with Swiss gilt platform lever escapement regulated by spring monometallic balance, the 2.350 inch arched gilt brass dial with two banners inscribed Cha's Frodsham & Co., London, England to centre within applied silver Roman numeral chapter ring, with blued steel moon hands over inscription Elizabeth of Glamis flanked by a pair of rose blooms, the arched case with curb link carrying chain to the top over half-round mouldings bordering the glazed dial aperture and hinged rear door engraved with a banner inscribed SERIAL No. 212/800, on four conical feet, marks for London 1980 maker TC.8cm (3.125ins) high, 7cm (2.25ins) wide, 4.5cm (1.75ins) deep. Charles Frodsham was born in 1810 into a family of clockmakers with his grandfather, William originating from Cheshire before moving to London prior to 1781 where he was admitted to the Clockmaker's Company. His son, William James, had six sons, four of whom joined the firm of Parkinson and Frodsham in London; whilst Charles, the third born son set-up on his own at Barnes Place, Islington in 1834. He moved to 12 Finsbury Pavement in 1836 then to number 7 in 1838. On the death of the renowned chronometer maker John Roger Arnold in 1843 Charles Frodsham acquired the business and began trading as 'Arnold, Charles Frodsham' from 84 Strand, London. Unusually Frodsham was not admitted to the Clockmaker's Company until 1845 but went on to serve as master twice in 1855 and 1862; he was also a founder member of the British horological Institute in 1858.Charles Frodsham became one of the most eminent chronometer makers of his generation who served as a juror in the 1852 International Exhibition held at South Kensington where he also showed a month duration marine chronometer with experimental 'Duo-in-uno' balance springs and three different forms of compound balance. In 1854 he purchased the 'goodwill' of the late Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy's business which led to his appointment as Superintendent and Keeper of Her Majesty's clocks at Buckingham Palace. Charles Frodsham died of liver disease in January 1871 and was succeeded by his son, Harrison Mill Frodsham. The business became Charles Frodsham and Company and in 1884 and then was incorporated as a limited Company in 1893 before relocating to 115 New Bond Street, London two years later where they remained well into the Twentieth Century. The firm is still trading today (from 32 Bury Street, London) as specialist in chronometer, watch and clock makers. The present timepiece was produced as a part of a limited edition run of 800 examples to commemorate the life of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Condition Report: Movement is complete and in working condition however a gentle clean/service is advised. The dial appears free form visible faults other than some very light dust deposits (only visible on very close examination). Case is in fine original condition with no visible damage although it would benefit from a clean/polish. There is no winding key present. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A REGENCY MAHOGANY BRACKET CLOCKWIGHTMAN, LONDON, CIRCA 1815The five pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with geometric border engraved shallow-arch backplate and anchor escapement regulated by heavy lenticular bob pendulum with an effective length of 11.5 inches, the 8 inch circular single sheet silvered brass Roman numeral dial signed WIGHTMAN, ST. Martins Lane, London to centre and with delicate pierced steel hands, with a strike/silent selection lever to upper margin set behind hinged convex glazed engine-milled cast brass bezel, the arched case with geometric looped lozenge ebony line inlaid decoration beneath the dial and the sides with brass fish scale sound frets, the rear with arch glazed door set within the frame of the case, on ogee moulded skirt base fitted with brass ball feet.The clock 43.5cm (17ins) high, 28.5cm (11.25ins) wide, 18cm (7ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection, purchased from Liberty and Company, London, 15th April 1966 for £97-10-0. Online sources record a Thomas Wightman working from 95 St. Martin's Lane, London 1798-1818. Condition Report: Movement is complete and in working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or notable replacements. The mechanism however is a little dull/dirty hence a clean/service is advised. The dial has overall moderate oxidation/patination to the silvering otherwise is in good original condition. The case is generally presentable but has slight shrinkage cracking towards the rear edge at the apex of the top and above and below each of the side frets. The rear door has a slight warp and a small veneer patch repair adjacent to the escutcheon. The front has a horizontal shrinkage crack towards the lower edge just above the skirt as well as slight shrinkage just beneath the dial. Faults are otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage, wear and other minor faults commensurate with age.Clock is complete with pendulum, case key and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A VICTORIAN ROSEWOOD FIVE-GLASS MANTEL CLOCKUNSIGNED, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 19th CENTURYThe five columnar pillar twin chain fusee gong striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum with screw holdfast to the backplate, the 6.5 inch square silvered brass Roman numeral dial with blued steel hands and foliate scroll engraved decoration to spandrel areas, the case with thick bevel-glazed top panel to the tablet upstand over cavetto cornice and fluted frieze, the front door with angled silvered brass fillet to the glazed aperture, the sides with rectangular bevel-glazed panels and the rear with rectangular glazed door set within the frame of the case, the base with ogee-outline apron over cavetto moulded skirt with disc feet.33.5cm (13.25ins) high, 23cm (9ins) wide, 15cm (6ins) deep.
A MAHOGANY QUARTER CHIMING LONGCASE CLOCK WITH MOONPHASEBENJAMIN PEERS, CHESTER, CIRCA 1780 AND LATERThe four-pillar rack striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum and now sounding the hours on a tubular gong suspended within the case, now fitted with a third separate quarter chiming train sounding on a graduated next of eight bells set to the right hand side, the 13 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial to foliate scroll engraved centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with concentric calendar inner track and Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with scroll pierced steel hands, a third brass hand for the concentric calendar and rococo scroll cast spandrels to angles, beneath arch with rolling moonphase incorporating lunettes engraved with longitude and latitude lines and disc calibrated with the lunar month to the circumference, below engraved silvered signature BENJAMIN PEEERS, CHESTER following the curvature of the arch, the case with swan beck pediment incorporating gilt scroll decorated simulated verre-eglomise frieze over hinged glazed dial flanked by fluted Doric columns, the sides applied with vertical bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with concave throat moulding and plain frieze over shaped-top caddy moulded door faced in book-matched flame-figured veneers flanked by quarter columns, the plinth base with stepped ogee top mouldings over shaped raised panel to front flanked by canted angles, on ogee bracket feet.236cm (93ins) high, 53cm (21ins) wide, 25.5cm (10ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller collection, purchased from G. Lord and W. Fisher (antique furniture dealers), Folkstone, 30th May 1965 for £95. Benjamin Peers is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Chester 1773-84. Condition Report: Condition overview:As catalogued the movement has a separate quarter chiming train (set between its own plates) added in the 19th century. The core eight-day movement is in sound original condition but the hour hammer has been converted to sound on a tubular gong. Clock is complete and will most likely run but a gentle clean service is advised. Movement retains original seatboard but with some damage/losses but rests at the correct level in the case with no visible adjustment to the cheek uprights of the trunk hence movement and dial are most likely original to the case. Case is in good condition with damage limited to a few minor historic veneer patch repairs, shrinkage, bumps, scuffs and other age-related blemishes.Clock has pendulum, weights, case key but no winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A WILLIAM III EBONISED 'BASKET TOP' QUARTER-REPEATING TABLE CLOCK HENRY ELLIOTT, LONDON, CIRCA 1695The six finned and latched pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum, with pull-repeat peeling the quarters on a graduated nest of three bells and sounding the hour on a further larger bell, the backplate engraved with symmetrical scrolling foliage including tulip blooms around a central scroll cartouche signed Henry Elliott, LONDINI, Fecit, the 7 inch square brass dial with ringed winding holes and scroll border engraved calendar aperture to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised sword hilt half hour markers and small Arabic five minutes within the outer minute ring, with fine sculpted scroll-pierced steel hands, applied gilt winged cherub mask spandrels to angles and vestigial S/N strike/silent selection switch at twelve o'clock, the case with Quare-type hinged foliate bud tied scroll-shaped carrying handle over pierced brass repousse 'basket' superstructure decorated with scrollwork inhabited by basket of flowers flanked by cornucopiae and cherubs to front and rear and pair of cherubs alone to each side, above rope twist and cast ogee moulded lower border, flanked by brass ball finials, with complex top mouldings over hinged glazed front applied with foliate repousse mounts to the frame of the door, rectangular side windows and further glazed door set within the frame of the case to the rear decorated with matching mounts, on conforming complex moulded skirt base with gilt brass disc feet.37cm (14.5ins) high with handle down, 26cm (10.25ins) wide, 16.5cm (16.5ins) deep. Henry Elliott is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as probably working in London from around 1676, and becoming a 'Free Brother' of the Clockmakers' Company in 1688. In 1694 he was in St. Giles Parish and he signed the oath of allegiance in 1697. Henry Elliott was still alive in 1704/5 when his son of the same (baptised in 1689) started his apprenticeship under George Tyler. Loomes notes only a watch and one bracket clock known to him at the time of writing, with the latter signed 'LONDINI Fecit'. This record could relate to the present clock due to the relatively rare inclusion of 'Fecit' within the signature. The engraving to the backplate of the present timepiece can be compared to decoration discussed in Dzik, Sunny ENGRAVING ON ENGLISH TABLE CLOCKS, Art on a Canvas of Brass within the chapter titled A CLOSER LOOK AT TULIP ENGRAVING pages 143-46. Indeed two backplates of near identical design (for clocks by Thomas Cattell and Thomas Tyler) to that of the present lot are illustrated on page 144 (Figure 8.15). The pull-repeat system on the present lot is somewhat unusual in that both the hour and quarters are powered directly by the fusee strike train rather than having a supplementary spring barrel (or blade spring) to drive the repeat system (either entirely, or for the quarters alone). In order to achieve this the quarter peel and hour hammer pins are applied to the same pin barrel with the hammers first positioned to engage the quarter hammers, before the whole hammer block assembly is automatically shunted along in order for the offset hour hammer pin to operate the hour hammer. In addition to this both the quarter and hour racks are neatly positioned one behind the other in order for the same gathering pallet to be used for both, with the hour rack hook lifted out of the way whilst the quarters are sounding. Two clocks (by Charles Gretton and John Adamson respectively) with closely related repeat systems to the present lot are described and illustrated in Dzik, Sunny BENEATH THE DIAL, English Clock Pull Repeat Striking 1675-1725 pages 486-89. Condition Report: Movement is in very original condition is essentially in working order. There are variances in the shape of the collets within the wheelwork suggesting service work has been undertaken in the past however wheelwork appears to be all-original. The escape wheel has a replaced tooth, the pallets may be replacements and are now fitted with a crutch for the pendulum to operate with silk suspension (attached to a later projection fitted to the original backcock). The repeat work will function but is prone to sticking hence needs adjustment/service. The strike silent switch is lacking and two of the movement pillars are pinned rather than latched. The backplate retains its original backcock apron but exhibits some noticeable brass pin-filling around the fusee holes (to tighten the pivots). The mechanism is generally a little dirty/discoloured hence a general gentle clean/service is advised. The dial is generally a little dirty/oxidised but otherwise is in good original condition. The hands are nicely made, the minute has been repaired. The movement rests on a replacement seatboard however we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are original to the case. The movement is retained by two bolts passing through the base and threading into the bottom movement pillars; the thread on one of these screws is stripped. The case has two additional holes outboard of the movement - these indicate that the case was once bolted to a wall bracket. The case generally is in very good unrestored condition. The repousse caddy is very good with no significant denting or problematic wear; the finish is dull/oxidised and residue in the crevices indicates that it has been cleaned with metal polish at some point in the past. The mask around the dial has losses to the veneer overlap and the front door lock appears not to work. The finish to the case shows historic rubbing/wear revealing much of the fruitwood to beneath however the surface is old and rather pleasing in its patination. The mounts are discoloured but free from notable damage. Faults to the case are otherwise limited to minor age related bumps, scuffs, and other blemishes.Clock has a case key but no winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A FINE GEORGE III BLACK CHINOISERIE JAPANNED TAVERN WALL TIMEPIECEPHILIP LLOYD, BRISTOL, CIRCA 1775The four pillar weight-driven movement with five-wheel train, anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum and tapered plates, the 24 inch wide gilt on black painted shield-shaped Roman numeral dial with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track and brass spade hands, the lower margin with foliate scroll painted spandrel decoration over signature P. Lloyd, BRISTOL, within gilt line and leaf painted break-arch cavetto moulded surround applied with gilt finials to upper corners and secured to the drop-trunk case with four steel pins, the case with lift-out panels to the side apertures over concave throat moulding and break-arch door decorated in polychrome and gilt with oriental figures within a garden trellis landscape, line borders and raised edge mouldings, the surround with diamond trellis infill to upper quadrants over chevron and leafy trail banded borders, the sides with oversize floral sprays and the base of stepped ogee profile decorated with further conforming foliate decorated panels; together with copies of Gatto, Martin THE TAVERN CLOCK Tavernicus Publishing Bath 2010, dj; Gatto, Martin THE TAVERNICUS TAVERN CLOCK ARCHIVE, Together with Random Jottings Bath 2017, softbound; Gatto, Martin THE TAVERNICUS TAVERN CLOCK ARCHIVE, EXTENDED EDITION Bath 2021, and Rose, Ronald E. English DIAL CLOCKS Antique Collectors' Club, Woodbridge 1994, dj, (5).155cm (61ins) high, 75cm (29.5ins) wide, 20cm (8ins) deep. Provenance:From the private collection of a professional sportsman and commentator. The life and work of Philip Lloyd is discussed by Brian Loomes in his article PHILIP LLOYD of Llawhaden and Bristol published in the July 2022 issue of 'CLOCKS' magazine. Loomes notes the Lloyd was a Quaker born in Llawhaden in around 1726 where he set-up business as a clockmaker. He is thought to have married Elizabeth Beverstock at St. Martin's in the Fields, London, 1758, and it is likely that he was already working in Bristol by this time. He was a fine maker producing longcase clocks in the high 'Bristol' style often incorporating lunar and tidal indications and at least one more tavern clock by him is known. He was recorded as a 'Watchmaker of Clifton Parish' on his death in 1783. His widow, Sarah, died at the age of 65 in 1789 and was buried at Love Street, Bristol. The present timepiece is recorded in Gatto, Martin THE TAVERNICUS TAVERN CLOCK ARCHIVE, EXTENDED EDITION page 178. Condition Report: Movement is in clean working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The movement has had some historic re-bushing and the steelwork has slightly aged appearance (evidence of minor historic corrosion) but has been well-conserved. The movement to seatboard securing bolts have been renewed (probably due to wear in the threads) but the original bolts are included. The seatboard is a well-made replacement however we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are original to the case. The hands appear most likely original. The dial panel is in very good original condition with fine surface and colour. There is some slight historic movement along the joints within the panel (to be expected) but all appears stable. There has been some very light restoration to address some corner bumps and scuffs to the outer edges and moulded surround but otherwise panel appears very well conserved with no visible re-touching to the dial and only relatively minor historic wear/rubbing. The trunk carcass has been given a light wash of linseed oil hence carcass elements are dark and have a slight sheen (rather than being dry/dusty). The panels for the side apertures appear to be very well made replacements. The surface to the sides and front of the trunk is in fine original condition with good surface. Noticeable re-touching appears to be essentially limited to the strengthening of the vase of fern foliage to the lower right-hand corner of the door panel and a coach line bordering the scene to the door. The door retains its original lock and hinges. The right-hand side of the ogee-shaped base section has a small historic loss/chip within the panel. The upper part of the trunk has some old flaking/losses to the japanned finish however this cannot really be seen as it is behind the dial. The hanging hole to the backboard has historic wear and there is also a minor split to the panel nearby, both of these are not problematic in any way. Faults to the case are generally otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkages and wear commensurate with age and use. Generally a fine example in very good original condition.Timepiece is complete with pendulum, oval section weight, case key and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A RARE TWO-DAY SURVEY CHRONOMETERTHOMAS MERCER, ST. ALBANS, MODEL S. C. 2, SECOND QUARTER OF THE 20th CENTURYThe 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 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, MAKER TO THE, ADMIRALTY, Eywood Rd., St. Albans across the centre, and DOWN/UP, 0-56 power reserve dial numbered 15420 beneath twelve o'clock, with blued steel spade hands and red Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, set beneath a screw-down 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 and contained within 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. 14240 to front; with a second spare field case and a canvas sheet.The box 17cm (6.75ins) high, 28cm (11ins) wide, 21cm (8.25ins) deep. 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 (see previous lot) 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.
AN EDWARDIAN/GEORGE V MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERVICTOR KULLBERG, LONDON, CIRCA 1910The circular four pillar single chain reversed fusee movement with Harrison's maintaining power, jewelled pivots for the escape wheel, Earnshaw type spring detent escapement and split bimetallic balance incorporating Kullberg's early form of middle-error temperature compensation with cylindrical weights and helical invar or palladium balance spring, the spotted backplate with spring set-up ratchet, jewelled endstone, blued steel movement pillar and backcock securing screws, and the frontplate stamped 8327 to inside edge, the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial incorporating concentric engraved text 11 GOLD MEDALS AWARDED * DIPLOMA OF HONOUR SOLE & HIGHEST AWARD VIENNA 1873 around the centre inscribed with serial number 8327, beneath signature VICTOR KULLBERG, Maker to the Admiralty, THE INDIAN & ITALIAN GOVERNMENTS, 105 Liverpool Rd., London N. and WIND DOWN/UP, 0-56 power reserve dial flanked by To H.M. KING, SWEDEN and GRAND PRIX, PARIS, 1900 medallions set beneath the X and II numerals respectively, with blued steel spade hands and secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl with shuttered winding hole to underside, mounted via gimbals into a mahogany two-tier box, with ivory plate engraved VICTOR KULLBERG, TWO DAYS, 8327 to front and with recessed lacquered brass carrying handles to sides, the inside of the second tier applied with printed paper repairers label for J. SEWILL..., LIVERPOOL inscribed in ink Cleaned..., Jan 1941, (the box originally fitted with a third top tier); with a later baize lined wooden guard box.The box 17cm (6.75ins) high, 18.5cm (7.25ins) square; the guard box 21.5cm (8.5ins) high, 29cm (11.5ins) wide, 24.5cm (10.25ins) deep. Provenance:The personal collection of the former owners of Marine Instruments Limited, Falmouth, Cornwall. Victor Kullberg is recorded in Mercer, Tony Chronometer Makers of the World as born in Sweden 1824, he was apparently drawn to London by the Great Exhibition of 1851 and subsequently set up business at 105 Liverpool N1 (by 1870). Kullberg developed several balances with middle error temperature compensation and became one of the finest makers of marine chronometers of the period; he died in 1890 leaving the business to be continued by George and Peter Wannerstrom. A closely related chronometer by Kullberg (number 8074 dated 1910) which was supplied to the India Office for use at Colaba Observatory, Bombay, was sold in these rooms on 6th September 2022 (lot 62) for £1,900 hammer. Condition Report: Timepiece is in good original condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements other than the spring set-up ratchet wheel on the backplate; it is running but a gentle service is required. The plates retain original spotted finish with some patchy discolouration/oxidation in areas. The dial has some very slight patchy degradation to the protective lacquer otherwise is in very good original condition. The bowl and gimbals are in good original condition retaining old lacquer finish albeit showing slight moderate oxidation/wear. The box is in good original relatively clean condition with faults limited to relatively minor surface scratches, wear and a few light bumps and scuffs; as catalogued the top tier is no longer present. The lining to the guard box is in good condition, the exterior has a few light surface scratches and the leather strap handle is broken; there are also some old pasted paper labels to the surface.Instrument has a typsy winding key but no box key.IVORY LICENCE 5XELQ5LWCondition Report Disclaimer
A RARE GEORGE II PROVINCIAL SILVER PAIR-CASED VERGE POCKET WATCH WITH CHAMPLEVE DIALJONATHAN JOHNSTON, BERWICK, 1740The gilt full plate fusee movement with four square section baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, scroll-pierced stop-iron block and verge escapement regulated by sprung three-arm steel balance with Tompion type regulation, the backplate with fine symmetrical foliate scroll pierced and engraved balance cock with grotesque mask at the junction with the conforming pierced and engraved foot, flanked by silvered regulation disc set within adjacent applied scroll engraved panel infill opposing signature Jn'o, Johnstone, BERWICK, and numbered 147, the silver champleve dial with a relief chased curved over strait panels engraved JOHNSTONE, BERWICK to the finely matted centre, within Roman numeral chapter ring and cartouche Arabic five minute numerals to outer track, with sculpted blued steel beetle and poker hands, the inner case applied with suspension post and bow at twelve o'clock and the outer case with moulded rim to circumference and engraved with an indistinct monogram within delicate floral trails incorporating date 1788 to rear cover, the inner case marked for London 1740, the outer London 1758 makers I.W. possibly for Thomas Whipham (1746-65).The pillar plate 3.5cm (1.375ins) diameter, the inner case 4.2cm (1.675ins) diameter; the outer case 4.8cm (1.875ins) diameter. Jonathan Johnstone of Berwick does not appear to be recorded in the usual sources. Condition Report: Watch is complete and in working condition and appears all-original. The gilding to the train, backplate and fittings is in good condition with minimal wear/rubbing and scratching to the latter. The dial is in very good original condition and the hands appear free form visible faults or repairs. The inner case is in good original condition but with overall slight to moderate wear/rubbing and some shallow denting; the suspension post has also probably been re-attached; marks are rubbed with maker's no longer legible. The outer case is generally very good with only minor rubbing and wear with good clear hallmarks. It is most probable that the slightly later outer case was purpose made for the present watch.Watch has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
A MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETER INSCRIBED FOR THE CORONATION OF QUEEN ELIZABETH IITHOMAS MERCER, ST. ALBANS, 1953The 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 20350, the 4 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial engraved 20350 over monogram 19 ER 53 at six o'clock, below signature THOMAS MERCER LTD, ST. ALBANS, ENGLAND 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 and stamped with matching serial number 20350 to interior, mounted via gimbals into a mahogany two tier box with typsy winding key beneath glazed lid and applied with brass plate inscribed SUPPLIED BY, ETABLISSEMENTS VIALLET, 8 RUE BEAUVAU 8, MARSEILLE FRANCE, No. 20350 to front; with original padded baize-lined wooden guard box.The chronometer box 17cm (6.25ins) high, 19cm (7.5ins) square; the guard box 21.5cm (8.5ins) high, 29cm (11.5ins) wide, 24.5cm (10.25ins) deep. Provenance:The personal collection of the former owners of Marine Instruments Limited, Falmouth, Cornwall. 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: Timepiece is in fine original working condition with no visible evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The movement retains its original finish albeit with two noticeable areas of oxidation/tarnishing to the backplate as well as lesser discolouration to other areas. The dial has some patchy degradation to the protective lacquer coat otherwise is in fine original condition. The bowl and gimbals are in good original condition retaining old surface with some patchy oxidation/rubbing etc. The box is undamaged but also has overall rubbing and scratching to the original polish finish. Tye lining to the guard box has two small moth holes otherwise is in good condition. The exterior has a few light surface scratches and scuffs and is now lacking its strap carrying handle.Instrument is complete with its typsy winding key.Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN BRASS INLAID DROP-DIAL FUSEE WALL TIMEPIECE WITH TEN-INCH DIALTHE DIAL INSCRIBED FOR W.H. INGHAM, EAST DULWICH, SECOND HALF OF THE 19th CENTURYThe four columnar pillar single fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by half-seconds lenticular bob pendulum, the 10 inch cream painted Roman numeral dial inscribed W.H. INGHAM, EAST DULWICH to centre, with steel spade hands behind hinged glazed moulded cast brass bezel, the conforming moulded wooden surround secured via pegs to the rear box case with door to right hand side and the lower section visible beneath the dial fronted with a brass fillet edged shaped glazed aperture for the pendulum within a brass rosette and brass line inlaid fascia flanked by scroll-carved ears over curved base incorporating pendulum access flap to underside.43cm (17ins) high, 31cm (12.25ins) wide, 14.5cm (5.75ins) deep.
A GEORGE III MAHOGANY FUSEE DIAL TIMEPIECE WITH SIXTEEN-INCH WOODEN DIALTHE DIAL INSCRIBED FOR J. AND T. FARR, BRISTOL, LATE 18th CENTURYThe four knopped pillar single fusee movement with tapered cavetto-shouldered bottle-shaped plates and anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, the backplate engraved with a letter B, the 16 inch slightly convex circular wooden cream painted Roman numeral dial inscribed J & T FARR, BRISTOL to centre, with generous brass spade hands set behind heavy hinged convex-glazed cavetto moulded bezel, with narrow caddy moulded dial surround secured via pegs to the rear box case incorporating door to right hand side and pendulum access flap over decorative shaped pendant back panel to base, (dial finish retouched).53.5cm (21ins) high, 46cm (18ins) wide, 20cm (8ins) deep. Provenance:The inside of the backboard has an indistinct ink stamp for STRIKE ONE, ...Camden Walk London N1. J. and T. Farr are recorded in Moore, A.J. THE CLOCKMAKERS OF BRISTOL 1650-1900 as working in Bristol in 1822. It is most likely that this records a working arrangement between John Farr, who worked as a goldsmith and watchmaker from Claire Street, Bristol, 1771 until at least 1801; and Thomas Farr who was apprenticed to John in 1784. Condition Report: Movement is fine clean working condition with no evidence of alteration or noticeable replacements. The dial has been refinished to a high standard most probably replicating the original text. There is a slight shrinkage crack towards the upper margin, the hands appear original. The bezel lock is either a replacement or has been of and re-attached. The glass has been relatively recently re-set in fresh plaster. The rear of the dial panel has had a slip of additional timber applied to the rear to facilitate stronger anchoring of the bezel hinge screws. The box case is in sound original condition although the side flap is a replacement. The interior has had quarter-round mouldings applied to the rear edges to brace the joint between the backboard and the sides. The drop apron has a filled hole (from where a nail was driven through in the past), and a small well executed veneer path repair to the lower edge. The lower flap has replacements to the applied edging slips. Faults are otherwise limited to moderate age-related bumps, scuffs and shrinkage. Overall timepiece is essentially a good original example in ready to use condition and has a pendulum key and winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A GEORGE III MAHOGANY EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCK WITH ROLLING MOONPHASEJAMES WILLIAMS, BATH, LATE 18th CENTURYThe four pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch single-sheet silvered brass Roman numeral break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds and arched calendar dial to the scroll engraved centre signed James, Williams, BATH, with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, scroll pierced steel hands and engraved with figural representations of the four seasons to the spandrel areas, beneath arch with rolling moonphase incorporating landscape decorated lunettes and calibrated for the age of the moon together with HIGH WATER AT BRISTOL KEY to outer margin, the break-arch case with ogee and key-cut cornice mouldings and triple oval fan lozenge inlaid frieze over hinged glazed dial aperture with 'wavy edged' border to the glass, flanked by fluted Corinthian columns with brass caps and bases and the sides with bargeboards positioned at the rear edge, the trunk with cavetto throat moulding over shaped-top caddy-moulded door faced with flame-figured veneer flanked by conforming Corinthian quarter columns to the angles, the plinth base applied with serpentine-outline raised caddy moulded panel to fascia over ogee bracket feet.224cm, (88ins) high, 53.5cm (21ins) wide, 28.5cm (11.25ins) deep Provenance:The Leonard Fuller collection. James Williams is recorded in Moore, A.J. The Clockmakers of Bristol 1650-1900 as working in Bath 1799-1805. Condition Report: Movement is complete and is in working condition however as the mechanism is a little dirty/neglected a gentle clean/service is advised. There is no visible evidence of any alteration and the drive mechanisms for the moonphase and calendar are present. The dial is in good original condition with apparently untouched decoration to the lunar disc; the silvering has overall streaky oxidation and there is some slight rubbing to the plate towards the lower edge. The movement retains what appears to be its original seatboard resting directly onto the cheek uprights of the case. Although there is some evidence suggesting levelling/adjustment we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are most likely original to the case. The case is generally in very good original condition. The vertical slips dressing the rear edges of the backboard behind the hood are replacements and the left-hand throat moulding is currently detached (just needs re-gluing back into position). The centre of the trunk door has a localised fault within the veneer (lifting and filing). The feet are replacements. Otherwise case is in very good original condition with other faults very much limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage, wear and other age related blemishes.Clock is complete with pendulum, weights, case key and a winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
A RUSSIAN SOVIET ERA MAHOGANY CASED TWO-DAY MARINE CHRONOMETERKIROV CLOCK FACTORY, MOSCOW, MODEL MX-6 THIRD QUARTER OF THE 20th CENTURYThe circular four 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 crown trademark over number 01782, the 3.75 inch circular silvered Arabic numeral dial with subsidiary seconds dial inscribed with serial number 01782 in red and inscription in Cyrillic followed by CCCP, beneath signature also in Cyrillic to the centre and 0-56 state of wind dial at twelve o'clock, secured by a screw-down bezel into a lacquered brass bowl and mounted via gimbals alongside the brass typsy winding key into a stained mahogany two tier box with glazed top, the front applied with rectangular brass trade plate with number 8916-77 flanked by brass strap reinforced edges and hinged carrying handles to sides, (box top tier lacking).17cm (6.75ins) high, 19cm (7.5ins) wide, 19cm (7.5ins) deep. Provenance:The personal collection of the former owners of Marine Instruments Limited, Falmouth, Cornwall. 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 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 manufacturing of watches still continues on the same site today - mainly producing watches for the Volmax brand. Condition Report: The movement is in relatively clean working condition however there is some light oxidation to the rear of the dial plate. The plates have additional holes to allow for electrical contacts to be fitted (to drive/operate slave dials or other instruments) but these accessories appear never to have been fitted. The dial is in fine, clean condition. The bowl and gimbals retain old/original lacquer but with noticeable oxidation/light Verdigris mainly to the walls of the bowl. As catalogued the case does not have its top tier otherwise is in good original condition with faults limited to only very minor bumps and scuffs.Timepiece has a typsy winding key. No case key is required. Condition Report Disclaimer
A GEORGE III OAK EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCKGEORGE MAYNARD, MELFORD, CIRCA 1775The five pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch square brass dial with calendar aperture, engraved subsidiary seconds dial and signed George Maynard, MELFORD to centre, within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes beyond the outer minute track, with scroll pierced steel hands and applied with rococo scroll cast spandrels to angles, the case with domed caddy superstructure, architectural cornice and blind frieze over hinged glazed dial aperture applied with Corinthian three-quarter columns with brass caps and bases to the front angles, the sides with rectangular windows and conforming quarter columns set against bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with concave throat moulding over rectangular door with applied ogee edge mouldings, on plinth base with conforming top moulding over a cavetto-topped skirt.219cm (86ins) high, 49.5cm (19.5ins) wide, 24.5cm (9.75ins) deep. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection, purchased from John Wells Antiques and Victoriana, Woodstock, 22nd June 1966 for £47-10-0. George Maynard is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Melford, Suffolk, during the second half of the 18th century.
A QUEEN ANNE EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCK MOVEMENT AND DIALWILLIAM STEPHENS, GODALMING, CIRCA 1705The five finned pillar inside countwheel bell-striking movement with anchor escapement for regulation by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch square brass dial with ringed winding holes, basket-of-flowers inhabited foliate scroll engraved decoration around the calendar aperture and subsidiary seconds to the matted centre, within applied Roman numeral ring with stylised Fleur-de-lys half hour markers, Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track and signed W'm Stephens, Godalming to lower edge, with scroll pierced steel hands and twin cherub and crown cast spandrels to angles within a herringbone engraved outer border, (no pendulum, weights or seatboard)7cm (2.75ins) from bottom of dial to base of the movement, 14cm (5.5cm) deep including crutch. William Stephens of Godalming is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as probably born in 1637 and married to Mary Gad in 1656. The marriage bore six children between 1661 and 1676; William Stevens is thought to have died in 1735.
A FINE GEORGE I GOLD VERGE POCKET WATCH WITH CHAMPLEVE DIALRICHARD VICK, LONDON, CIRCA 1721The gilt full plate fusee movement with four unusual turned baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, scroll-pierced stop-iron block and verge escapement regulated by sprung three-arm brass balance with Tompion type regulation, the backplate with fine silver symmetrical foliate strapwork scroll pierced and engraved balance cock with faceted diamond endstone and incorporating grotesque mask at the junction with the scroll engraved foot, flanked by silvered regulation disc set within adjacent applied scroll engraved brass panel infill opposing signature Rich'd Vick, LONDON, and indistinct number ...71, with gilt brass dust cover similarly signed Rich'd Vick, LONDON, the gold champleve dial with pair of relief chased curved panels engraved VICK, LONDON to the finely matted centre within Roman numeral chapter ring incorporating relief diamond lozenge half hour markers and cartouche Arabic five minute numerals to outer track, with fine sculpted blued steel beetle and poker hands, the gold consular case with suspension post and bow at twelve o'clock and slender moulded collar to circumference, indistinct marks for London 1721 makers IB.The pillar plate 3.5cm (1.375ins) diameter, the case 4.5cm (1.75ins) diameter. Provenance:The Leonard Fuller Collection. Purchased from G.H. Bell, Winchester, 23rd June 1966 for £90. Richard Vick is recorded on the Royal Collection Trust website as being bound to Richard Speakman on 31st January 1692 but was 'turned over' to Francis Asseline, a Freeman of the Haberdashers' Company until 1699. He was later turned over to Daniel Quare and admitted to the Clockmakers Company in April 1702. He received the Royal Warrant on 8th December 1722, in which he is described as 'Watchmaker and Clockmaker in Ordinary, in the room of Joseph Antram'. In 1729 he became the Master of the Clockmakers Company and had business premises in The Strand. Condition Report: Movement appears to be all original and is in working condition. The wheelwork, plates etc retain their original finish with very light wear/scratching only however the mechanism is overall very slightly dull/dirty hence a clean/service is advised. Dust cover has minor edge wear and is a little dirty. Dial is in fine original condition, some of the black infill (presumably wax) to the numerals has small losses; hands appear undamaged. The case has some denting to the rear cover and a noticeable rivet mark where the internal spring for the clasp is fixed to the case; the clasp button is also dented. Case otherwise is in sound original condition.Gross weight 94g. Watch has a winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
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