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Lot 270
An 18 carat yellow gold and diamond floral cluster ring, the diamonds of approx. 0.40 carats combined, together with an 18 carat yellow gold and diamond cluster ring of quatrefoil form, a 9 carat yellow gold and diamond raised cluster ring, and a 9 carat yellow gold and diamond half eternity ring. (4)
Lot 51
A Platinum Set Fine Single Stone Diamond Ring. The Central Round Brilliant Cut Diamond, Flanked by 24 Baguette Cut Diamonds to Shoulders, The Single Stone Round Brilliant Cut Diamond of Est Gold Colour. Est Weight 1.20 ct. The Baguette Cut Diamond Also Est G.H. Colour and Est Weight 1.20 cts. Marked Pt 950.
Lot 50
Three similar Continental gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Bearing... Three similar Continental gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Bearing various signatures, mid to late 18th century Each gilt full plate single fusee verge movement with scroll-pierced stop-iron block and sprung three arm balance, the backplate with foliate scroll pierced and engraved balance bridge and conforming applied infill around the silvered regulation disc continuing to form a shaped cartouche for the signature, two examples with faceted section baluster pillars pinned through the backplate bearing signatures Martineau, LONDON, 2550 and Wilter, LONDON, 7877 to backplates, the third with square section baluster pillars and bearing signature Alleoud, London to backplate, each fitted with convex white enamel Roman numeral dial with arcaded minutes ring, the pillar plates measuring approximately 35mm (1.375ins) diameter, (3). Provenance: The beneficiaries of the Estate of an Italian connoisseur collector of horological artefacts and works of art. The three watch movements in the current lot are almost certainly of Dutch manufacture produced during the mid to late 18th century signed with 'spurious' London signatures. One diagnostic feature is that on such examples the layout of the regulation tends to vary slightly from typical English practice resulting in the silvered regulation disc being positioned on the opposite side of the movement (to the left rather than the right when viewed with balance bridge uppermost). The applied decoration to each backplate forming a decorative cartouche border for the signature is an unusual and attractive detail.
Lot 140
A fine Queen Anne walnut eight-day longcase clock John Knibb, Oxford A fine Queen Anne walnut eight-day longcase clock John Knibb, Oxford, early 18th century The five fully latched and crisply turned finned pillar inside countwheel bell-striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 11.875 inch square brass dial with delicate border engraved calendar aperture and subsidiary seconds ring to the finely matted centre within an applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers and Arabic five minutes to outer track, with fine pierced steel hands and gilt winged cherub mask spandrels to angles within deep herringbone engraved outer border incorporating signature IOHN * KNIBB * OXON to lower margin, the walnut case with three cast brass flambeau urn finials to the domed caddy surmounted foliate fretwork fronted box upstand above moulded cornice and further conforming foliate pierced fret to frieze, generous three-quarter columns with gilt caps and bases to glazed hood door, the sides with rectangular windows and rear quarter columns set against bargeboards, the trunk with convex throat above 41 inch rectangular door fronted with book-matched burr veneers laid in quarters, the sides divided into pairs of panels within crossbanded borders, on ogee moulded plinth base with book-matched veneers within herringbone bordered crossbanded surround to front over applied moulded double skirt, 240cm (94.5ins) high excluding top finial, 253cm (99.5ins) high overall. John Knibb was born in 1650 and was apprenticed to his older brother, Joseph, in around 1664. When Joseph moved to London in 1670 to set up business (presumably in the workshop inherited from his uncle, Samuel) John, his younger brother, took on the Oxford workshop gaining the Freedom of the city on payment of a fine in 1673. Joseph Knibb retired in 1697 selling up most of his workshop before moving to Hanslop, Buckinghamshire where he made a few clocks prior to his death in 1711. John Knibb became a high profile figure within the City of Oxford twice becoming Mayor, he continued in business until his death in 1722. Due to the comparative rarity of clocks signed by John Knibb it has been suggested that his workshop may have generally served to supply Joseph's larger concern in London. The strong similarities between John's best work and those signed by Joseph would certainly support this view. However it is also clear that John was a high profile tradesman in the City of Oxford who trained no less than ten apprentices, therefore it is perhaps more likely that, although the two workshops were closely connected, they generally worked separately to supply clocks to differing groups of clients. The movement of the current lot is fully latched with the usual delicate wheelwork and typical Knibb feature of having no bridge for the hour wheel to the frontplate. The dial plate is unusual in having a broad herringbone border interrupted by the bold signature at the base which echoes that of an earlier (circa 1680) clock by John Knibb in Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. The half hour markers and engraved decoration to the calendar aperture however are 'typical' of John Knibbs later work; the case echoes London work of the period despite being provincially made (probably Oxford) and is veneered in well chosen figured walnut.
Lot 126
A fine Charles II ebonised eight-day longcase clock Lawrence Debnam, Frome A fine Charles II ebonised eight-day longcase clock Lawrence Debnam, Frome, dated 1675 The two-handed posted countwheel bell striking movement with column-turned corner uprights and resting on integral spikes fitted to the underside of the baseplate, the trains both with offset greatwheels each pivoted between a post attached to the baseplate opposing lug fitted to the one of the frame uprights, the going with anchor escapement incorporating solid ºttery brass' escape wheel and regulated by seconds pendulum, the strike sounding on a bell mounted above, the 10 inch square brass dial with iron hands and fine symmetrical scrolling tulip engraved centre issuing from a stylised urn to lower centre and incorporating flamboyant signature Lawrence Debnam, in Froome Fecit to upper margin, within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers and Arabic five minutes within the outer minute track, the dial plate engraved with the names Jam: Delanc and John Sentance along with the date 1675 beneath the chapter ring at two o'clock, the angles applied with winged cherub mask cast and pierced spandrels, the ebonised pine case with triangular pediment and architectural frieze over fixed glazed dial aperture and conforming rectangular side windows to the formerly rising hood, the trunk with convex throat moulding and 43 inch rectangular door, the plinth base with ogee mouldings to upper edges and on moulded skirt, 221cm (87ins) high. Literature: The current lot is documented in Darken, Jeff (editor) TIME & PLACE, English Country Clocks 1600-1840 as exhibit 5 pages 30-33 (where the movement and dial is extensively illustrated). Lawrence Debnam is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born in Frome, Somerset in 1643 and was working from Cheap Street in the town from at least 1667 and is thought to have died in 1682/3. The presence of James Delance's signature beneath the chapter ring suggests that he was also involved in the making of the current lot. James Delance is recorded by Loomes as born in Downton, Wiltshire in 1655, he is believed to have learnt the clockmaking trade from Lawrence Debnam prior to moving to London in 1677 where he was admitted as a Free Brother to the Clockmakers' Company the following year. Delance remained in London until 1685 when he left the city and returned to Frome where he set up business in Cheap Street - probably succeeding Debnam who died in 1683 at the age of 40. By 1721 Delance had moved to Downton, Wiltshire and was still working in 1736. John Sentance appears to be unrecorded as a clockmaker although it could be considered possible that he was responsible for the remarkable engraved decoration to the centre of the dial. The current lot employs and escape wheel made from work-hardened ºttery brass' formed by hammering a cast solid disc prior to cutting of the teeth. This creates a wheel much more resilient to wear however this process makes it difficult to cross it out hence why it is left as a solid disc when fitted. It is perhaps appropriate to speculate that the current lot is probably one of the earliest West Country clocks to be fitted with anchor escapement with seconds pendulum; as such the maker(s) may have sought to experiment with the metallurgy of the escape wheel in order to ensure longevity of this new technology. This very rare feature appears to have been subsequently used by James Delance (see following lot) and it is testament to both makers that these wheels are still serviceable after over three hundred years of use. The layout of the trains suggests that when originally conceived the current lot was intended to have a duration of thirty-hours, however the maker chose to complete the clock with eight-day continuance and facilitated this by incorporating offset greatwheels each pivoted between a post attached to the baseplate opposing lug fitted to the one of the frame uprights. The frame uses typical 'Bristol' one-piece lantern castings but dispenses with the finials and feet substituting the latter for steel spikes - a feature typical of the early Somerset clocks. Another 'West Country' detail present in the current lot is the keyhole shaped aperture cut into the lower edge of each of the movement pivot plates. The reason for these is unknown however they may be have been intended to allow slight adjustment/tight fitting of the integral locating lugs into the baseplate. The remarkable dial of the current lot is perhaps one of the finest examples of the fully developed Bristol and West Country style made fashionable by makers such as John London of Bristol during the kid 1670's. Indeed the engraving can be compared to a dial by London illustrated in Darken, Jeff (editor) TIME & PLACE, English Country Clocks 1600-1840 on page 38 (exhibit 7 in the exhibition). The exuberant signature is extraordinary in its confidence and execution as such is extremely effective in expressing the pride and individuality of the maker. It is also highly likely that the current lot is the earliest surviving dated provincial clock to have an anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum. Indeed the early incorporation of this refinement may be one of the principal reasons why the dial is apparently inscribed by all those involved in its making.
Lot 90
An unusual French satinwood small mantel timepiece with alarm and 'regulator An unusual French satinwood small mantel timepiece with alarm and 'regulator' style centre-seconds dial layout Unsigned, circa 1900 The eight-day back wound movement with silvered platform lever escapement mounted vertically on the backplate beneath alarm bell set within a cut-out to the upper margin, the circular white enamel dial with subsidiary Arabic alarm setting over Roman numeral hour and minute dials to the pale blue ground centre within outer seconds ring, with blued steel hands set within fixed moulded cast brass bezel fitted with convex bevel glass, the arched case with cavetto moulded leading edge following the outline of the front of the case decorated with ebony and box chevron stringing enclosing a shaped crossbanded and ebony strung flame figured panel beneath dial, the sides slightly flaring outwards at the base, the rear with circular pierced brass cover, on cavetto moulded skirt base with elaborate ogee bracket feet, 26.5cm (10.5ins) high.
Lot 138
An ebony small table timepiece with silent-pull quarter-repeat on two bells... An ebony small table timepiece with silent-pull quarter-repeat on two bells The movement and dial by Benjamin Wright, London, circa 1690, the case later The four finned and knopped pillar movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum and silent-pull quarter-repeat sounding the hours and quarters on two bells mounted above the plates, the single line-bordered symmetrical foliate scroll and tulip bud engraved backplate signed Benjamin Wright, Londini Fecit to a lambrequin cartouche to centre, the 6.125 inch square gilt brass dial with single winding hole and calendar aperture to the finely matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with squat stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers and Arabic five minutes within the narrow outer minute track, with pierced steel hands and winged cherub mask cast brass spandrels to angles with foliate scroll inlaid infill to margins between, now in an ebony veneered case with hinged tied floral bud, bird's head and dolphin cast handle to the domed caddy surmount over ogee cornice top moulding and glazed front door applied with gilt foliate scroll mounts to jambs, the sides with conforming rectangular windows beneath lozenge-shaped foliate scroll pierced sound frets, the rear with further rectangular glazed door set within the frame of the case, the base with shallow moulded skirt over ebonised disc feet, 31cm (12.25ins) high excluding handle. Benjamin Wright is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born circa 1664, apprenticed to Abraham Prime in April 1678 and gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in July 1685. He is believed to have worked from Bell Alley, Coleman Street, London and died before January 1709 when his widow, Mary, is recorded taking George Wright as an apprentice. 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 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 have to have been extremely wealthy to afford a timepiece reserved exclusively for use in the bed chamber. The design of the repeat mechanism used in the current lot is essentially based on the system used by Joseph Knibb as described and illustrated in Allix, Charles and Harvey, Laurence HOBSON'S CHOICE pages 36-7.
Lot 95
A Victorian malachite inset black marble drumhead mantel clock James McCabe A Victorian malachite inset black marble drumhead mantel clock James McCabe, London, mid to late 19th century The circular five pillar twin chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum and striking the hours on a bell fitted to the backplate measuring 6 inches in diameter and engraved James McCabe, London, 3242 to centre over pendulum holdfast bracket, the 5.5 inch circular gilt Roman numeral dial with fine engine-turned centre, blued steel fleur-de-lys hands and repeat signature JAMES Mc CABE, ROYAL EXCHANGE, LONDON, No. 3242 to the chapter ring at twelve o'clock beneath Strike/Silent selection switch to upper margin, within fine engine-turned surround set behind bevel-glazed hinged brass bezel, the case with fluted band decorated drum set onto a scroll-outline cradle fronted with shaped malachite panel insert over a cavetto moulded skirt base, 30.5cm (12ins) high. James McCabe senior is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as a 'very fine maker' who worked from Cheapside and Royal Exchange, London 1778-1811. The business was continued under his name by his sons including James junior who was apprenticed to Reid and Auld in Edinburgh, and Robert Jeremy who ran the business up until its closure in 1883.
Lot 149
A rare George II ebonised grande-sonnerie striking table clock The dial... A rare George II ebonised grande-sonnerie striking table clock The dial signed for John Wood, Grantham, mid 18th century The substantial seven knopped and ringed pillar triple chain fusee movement with plates measuring 8.75 by 7.25 inches and chiming the quarters on a nest of six graduated bells followed by full hour strike on a further larger bell every fifteen minutes, with trip quarter repeat, verge escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum and backplate engraved with symmetrical foliate scrolls around a vacant matted oval cartouche within herringbone decorated border, the 8 inch brass break-arch dial with shaped false bob and calendar apertures to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and female mask and scroll cast gilt brass spandrels to angles beneath arch centred with a circular silvered boss with engraved signature John Wood, GRANTHAM flanked by subsidiary Hours/Hours & Quarters/Silent all and Repeat/Silent strike selection dials with applied foliate cast infill mounts to upper margin between, the ebonised case with inverted bell-top superstructure and brass urn and spire finials to the foliate fretwork fronted box upstand over break-arch cornice, plain frieze and glazed dial aperture to the front door, the sides with hinged cast brass handles over slender break-arch windows, the rear with glazed door matching the front set within the frame of the case, on shallow cavetto moulded skirt base incorporating bracket feet, 53.5cm (21ins) high excluding finials. John wood is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Grantham 1753-97. Grande sonnerie striking table clocks are particularly rare mainly due to the technical challenges of making an hour striking train appropriately geared to sound the hours every fifteen minutes for eight days. Due to the technical skill required such clocks were generally the preserve of the leading London makers such as John Ellicott; with this in mind the movement of the current lot was probably 'bought-in' from one of the leading London workshops - this would certainly account for the matted-over cartouche to the backplate.
Lot 49
Three gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Various makers Three gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Various makers, mid to late 18th century Each gilt full plate single fusee verge movement with square section baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, scroll-pierced stop-iron block and silvered regulation disc, the first with foliate scroll pierced and chased balance bridge inscribed W'm Best, London, 1270 to a banner incorporated within the fretwork and with fine conforming overlaid decoration covering most of the backplate (lacking dial) the pillar plate 35mm (1.375ins) diameter; the second also with scroll pierced balance bridge and conforming applied fretwork decoration to backplate bearing signature Demelais, London to margin (lacking dial) the pillar plate 41mm (1.675ins) diameter; the third lacking balance, bridge and staff but with fine applied pierced and chased scrollwork around the regulation disc and signed WILLEM BRAMER IVNIOR ZWOL to margin, fitted with fine silver champleve dial (lacking hands) with calendar aperture to the recessed centre repeat signed W. BRAMER, IVNIOR, ZWOL and finely decorated in relief with two classical females holding aloft a crown over the letter G within Roman numeral chapter ring with lozenge half hour markers, arcaded minute track and Arabic five minute cartouches to outer track (lacking hands), the pillar plate 41mm (1.65ins) diameter, (3). Provenance: The beneficiaries of the Estate of an Italian connoisseur collector of horological artefacts and works of art. The first watch in this group resembles Dutch work however the position of the regulation disc (to the right of the winding square when viewed with bridge uppermost) may indicate that the movement may possibly be English but made in the Continental style. William Best appears not to be recorded in the usual sources however a Thomas Best is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as a fine maker working in London specialising in making watches for the Dutch market. The second watch is typical of Dutch copies made during the second half of the 18th century and can be compared to an example sold in these rooms Tuesday 15th September 2015 as part of lot 94. The third movement is a fine albeit incomplete Dutch example with particularly attractive champleve dial.
Lot 165
A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock James Wilson, London A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock James Wilson, London, late 18th century The five pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds and calendar dials and signed James Wilson, WESTMINSTER, London to the silvered centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and rococo scroll cast and pierced spandrels to angles beneath arch centred with subsidiary Strike/Silent selection dial flanked by conforming cast mounts, in a case with break-arch cavetto cornice over brass stop fluted columns flanking the glazed dial aperture, the sides with arched brass fishscale sound frets and quarter columns applied to bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with break-arch door flanked by brass stop fluted quarter columns over raised shaped panel fronted plinth base with moulded double skirt incorporating shaped apron, 225cm (88.5ins) high. James Wilson is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1781 and working in Westminster, London until 1824.
Lot 30
A French lacquered brass carriage clock Unsigned A French lacquered brass carriage clock Unsigned, early 20th century The eight-day two train gong striking movement with silvered platform cylinder escapement, the rectangular frosted gilt dial applied with circular cream Arabic numeral chapter ring around a concentric ring decorated centre fitted with blued steel spade hands, the five-glass bevel glazed corniche case with hinged carrying handle, 14cm (5.5ins) high excluding handle.
Lot 147
A George II walnut quarter-chiming eight-day longcase clock John Richardson A George II walnut quarter-chiming eight-day longcase clock John Richardson, London, circa 1740 The five finned pillar triple train movement with anchor escapement, chiming the quarters on a graduated nest of six bells and striking the hour on a single larger bell, the 12 inch brass herringbone border engraved break-arch dial with rosette decorated recessed scallop-edged subsidiary seconds dial, calendar aperture and ringed winding holes to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and female mask and scroll cast spandrels to angles beneath subsidiary Strike/Silent selection dial flanked by conforming mounts to arch within generous applied silvered name plate inscribed John Richardson, London forming the upper margin of the arch and continuing down to contact with the chapter ring beneath, in a case with architectural cornice above break-arch frieze and generous three quarter columns applied to the glazed hood door, the sides with break-arch apertures and conforming quarter columns set against bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with break-arch door veneered with three pairs of book-matched panels within a herringbone bordered crossbanded surround, on conforming cavetto moulded plinth base with moulded skirt, 234cm (92ins) high. John Richardson is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as apprenticed in 1731 and gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1738. His workshop was based at Bell Yard, London and he is presumed to have worked until his death in 1774
Lot 163
A George III mahogany table clock with pull-quarter repeat on six bells... A George III mahogany table clock with pull-quarter repeat on six bells William Glover, Worcester, circa 1780 The five pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with pull-quarter repeat sounding on a graduated nest of six bells and verge escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum with pivoted rise/fall regulation to suspension, the backplate engraved with intense symmetrical foliate strapwork, the 7 inch brass break-arch dial with shaped false bob and calendar apertures to the Ho-Ho bird and oriental mask inhabited rococo scroll engraved centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced blued steel hands and applied rococo scroll cast spandrels to angles beneath twin subsidiary Strike/Silent selection and regulation dials set within a foliate scroll engraved field and incorporating a recessed shaped signature plate engraved William Glover, Worcester to arch, the bell top case with hinged brass carrying handle and four pineapple finials to superstructure over front door with brass fillet inset glazed dial aperture and scroll pierced upper quadrant frets, the sides with full-height arched glazed apertures and the rear with conforming break-arch glazed rectangular door incorporating further upper quadrant frets and set within the frame of the case, on cavetto moulded skirt base with brass bracket feet, 44.5 (17.5ins) high excluding handle. A William Glover is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Worcester from 1751 until his retirement in 1758. Another with the same name (believed to be a nephew) is also recorded as coming from London to Worcester in 1758; he opened a shop in Tewkesbury in 1764 and worked until at least 1767. Finally Baillie also notes a third record of a William Glover Working in Worcester 1764-71 who also opened a shop in Tetbury in 1764, it is possible that this is a record of the same nephew. The current lot is very much in the London style but with perhaps a little more engraved decoration than would normally be found on a London clock - this is perhaps to be expected for a clock made in the provinces by a maker trained in the capital.
Lot 173
A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock Samuel Atkins, London A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock Samuel Atkins, London, circa 1765 The five pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial, calendar aperture and oval signature plate engraved Sam'l Atkins, London to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and rococo scroll cast and pierced spandrels to angles beneath arch centred with subsidiary Strike/Silent selection dial flanked by dolphin cast mounts, the case of fine colour with concave sided 'pagoda' pediment fronted with fine rococo scroll cast brass fret over break-arch cavetto cornice and brass stop fluted columns flanking the glazed dial aperture, the sides with arched brass fishscale sound frets and quarter columns applied to bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with break-arch door over raised panel fronted plinth base with moulded double skirt and squab feet, 243cm (95.5ins) high. Provenance: Formerly the property of William Francis Clarke, Commanding Officer of Naval Intelligence during WWII, Hut 4, Bletchley Park; thence by direct descent to the vendor. Samuel Atkins is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as an 'eminent' maker born in 1697 and working from Temple Bar until his death in 1768. The current lot is a fine original unrestored 'textbook' example of a London mahogany pagoda-cased longcase clock which retains fine colour and surface to the case.
Lot 116
A French Louis XV style brass mounted Boulle bracket clock Retailed by Black A French Louis XV style brass mounted Boulle bracket clock Retailed by Black, Starr and Frost, New York, late 19th century The rectangular eight-day movement with Brocot type pendulum regulation, outside countwheel hour and half-hour strike on a coiled gong and stamped with serial number 2535, 77 to backplate, the 5.5 inch circular twelve-piece cartouche numeral dial with symmetrical strapwork scroll cast centre within chapter ring with blue-on-white Roman hour numerals within rococo borders and Arabic five minutes to outer track, the lower margin of the dial backing plate engraved with retailer's signature BLACK. STARR & FROST. NEW YORK., the engraved cut brass and brown shell marquetry decorated case with cast trumpeting cupid surmount to the concave-sided superstructure veneered with leafy scroll decoration and applied with foliate pendant mounts to angles over leaf cast arched cornice centred with a Satyr mask and terminating with scrolls, the front with brass-framed arched glazed door enclosing marquetry decorated floor and back panel to interior and incorporating cast panel featuring a pair of putti in allegorical dress to apron, the surround decorated with leafy scrolls within panel borders, the sides with rectangular windows within leaf cast surrounds over swollen base sections, on scroll cast feet with leafy apron between, 60cm (23.5ins) high. The New York jewellers Black, Starr and Frost can trace their routes back to the firm of Marquand and Paulding established in Savannah, Georgia in 1801. Isaac Marquand moved to New York in 1810 and the business developed throughout the 19th century with evolution of owners changing the name to Ball, Black and Company. The incorporation of new partners Courtland Starr and Aaron Frost in 1876 resulted in the firm becoming Black, Starr and Frost. This partnership continued until around 1929 when Gorham and Company were incorporated into the firm changing the name to Black, Starr an Frost-Gorham Incorporated.
Lot 96
A fine Regency cast iron, steel and brass turret clock movement Thwaites and... A fine Regency cast iron, steel and brass turret clock movement Thwaites and Reed, London, dated 1827 The posted iron frame with one-piece castings for the columnar corner posts, ball finials and feet, the front and rear rails applied with vertical bars fitted with brass bushes for the side-by side wheel trains, the going side with reversed four wheel train incorporating winding square for the large wooden barrel engraved THWAITES & REED, CLERKENWELL, LONDON to the brass end cap, maintaining power and anchor escapement regulated by 68 inch pendulum with 9 inch lenticular bob, the second wheel driving the separate movement centre wheel with motionwork within the frame for the 5.75 inch silvered Roman numeral chapter ring incorporating repeat signature THWAITES & REED, Clerkenwell, LONDON, 1827 to centre and with arrow-shaped steel hands opposing take-off yoke to the other side of the frame, the strike side with conforming wooden barrel and internal rack released via cam fitted to the centre wheel counting against a stepped snail behind the dial and with warning enabled via detent engaging with a tongue fitted to the fly arbor, the frame measuring 47.5cm (18.75ins) high, 57cm (22.5ins) wide and 32cm (12.5ins) deep; the movement including the pendulum suspension 53.5cm (21ins) high overall; with a gilt painted hour hand, steel stub arbor and driving weight rope lines (no weights). The partnership between John Thwaites and George Jeremiah Reed is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as being formed in 1808. John Thwaites was the son of Ainsworth Thwaites who was apprenticed in 1735 and worked from Rosoman Row, Clerkenwell, London 1751-80. He was an accomplished maker who supplied the clock for the tower at the Horse Guards Parade. John Thwaites was born in 1757 and took over the business presumably on the death of his father in 1780 before moving to Bowling Green Lane. The firm became well known for supplying all forms of clocks and movements either wholesale for others to retail, or signed by themselves. The partnership continued under John Thwaite's leadership from several addresses in London until his death in 1842. The business has subsequently passed through a series of successors and is still trading today from Rottingdean near Brighton. The current lot appears to be of a pattern devised and supplied by Thwaites and Reed from around 1810-1860 with similar examples housed in the Royal Small Arms clock tower, Enfield; St. Mary Magdeline, Twyning; Uppark House, West Sussex and Holy Trinity, Fareham. The current lot bears repairer's marks suggesting that it was located in or around Moreton-in-Marsh during the 1890's.
Lot 114
A French Louis XIV gilt brass mounted Boulle bracket clock Ducoroy, Paris A French Louis XIV gilt brass mounted Boulle bracket clock Ducoroy, Paris, circa 1700 The rectangular twin barrel movement with four shouldered baluster turned pillars pinned through the backplate signed Ducoroy AParis to lower margin, the strike train with scroll pierced detent gates and high position countwheel for sounding the hours and half hour on a bell mounted within the superstructure of the case, the 8.75 inch circular twelve-piece cartouche numeral dial with centre incorporating cast decoration of seated musicians within chapter ring with enamel Roman hour numerals and rococo scroll cast borders and every minute numbered to outer track, the engraved cut brass and red stained shell marquetry veneered case with cast Roman Emperor bust surmount and gilt urn finials applied to the ogee shaped upstand veneered with foliate strapwork and with acanthus corner mounts over foliate cast frieze emerging from the sides of the gilt cavetto moulded arcade inlaid cornice, the front with heavy cast break-arch glazed bezel enclosing lyre and laurel infill beneath dial within floral trail and panel inlaid surround, the canted front angles applied with fine scroll-cast allegorical male terms and the angled sides with brass bordered rectangular windows over swollen marquetry decorated lower sections, the base with generous gilt brass scrolls flanking shaped apron centred with a lions masked adorned with palmette headpiece, on knopped feet, 71cm (28ins) high. A clockmaker with the name Ducoroy appears not to be recorded in the ususal sources however an 18th century French clockmaker with the name Mynuel Duccoroy is mentioned in Wilson, Cohen, Ronfort, Augarde and Friess EUROPEAN CLOCKS IN THE J. P. GETTY MUSEUM on page 176.
Lot 161
A George III mahogany longcase regulator William Hewlett, Bristol A George III mahogany longcase regulator William Hewlett, Bristol, circa 1785 The four pillar eight-day single train movement with bolt-and-shutter maintaining power and deadbeat escapement regulated by seconds pendulum with heavy lenticular bob, the 12 inch square silvered brass dial with shuttered winding hole and signed William Hewlett, Bristol to centre beneath brass ring bordered panel incorporating sector with Roman numerals for the hours within outer sweep Arabic five minute track, the case with swan neck pediment superstructure over moulded cornice, plain frieze and glazed hinged dial aperture flanked by columns with brass caps and bases, the trunk with concave throat moulding over caddy moulded rectangular door, on plain plinth base with bracket feet, (movement with possible alteration), 209cm (82.25ins) high excluding later finial. William Hewlett is recorded in Moore, A.J. The Clockmakers of Bristol 1650-1900 as working in Bristol circa 1775-97. Evidence in the movement plates would suggest that the current lot was originally made with a subsidiary seconds dial positioned within the area now occupied by the brass ring enclosing the hour sector. This possibility is further supported by the fact that the hour sector is cut into a separate circular plate inserted into an aperture in the dial with the brass ring serving to conceal the join. Interestingly the hour disc (fitted behind the sector aperture) is made form a piece of recycled brass as the rear is engraved with a lantern clock dial centre signed for John Culliford of Bristol. The fact that the current lot was originally made to display minutes and seconds only would suggest that it served to test the timekeeping of watches, hence was probably made as the 'shop regulator' for Hewlett's own use. The conversion to show hours was probably done early in its life to make it more appropriate for subsequent usage.
Lot 164
A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock Samuel Bradley, Worcester A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock Samuel Bradley, Worcester, circa 1770 The five pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial, calendar aperture and signed SAM'L BRADLEY, WORCESTER to a shaped silver plaque to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and twin bird and urn foliate cast spandrels to angles beneath arch centred with subsidiary STRIKE/SILENT selection dial flanked by dolphin cast mounts, in a case with open centred break-arch cavetto cornice incorporating scroll cartouche to apex and foliate scroll pierced blind fret frieze over fluted columns flanking the glazed dial aperture, the plain sides with half columns applied to the rear, the trunk with break-arch caddy moulded crossbanded door flanked by fluted quarter columns over raised shaped panel fronted plinth base with fluted canted angles and moulded shallow skirt incorporating reduced ogee bracket feet, 223.5cm (88ins) high. Samuel Bradley is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Worcester from 1744 until his death in 1783.
Lot 137
A fine William III ebonised eight-day longcase clock with one-and-a-quarter... A fine William III ebonised eight-day longcase clock with one-and-a-quarter seconds period pendulum Abraham Farrer, Pontefract, circa 1695 The four finned pillar inside countwheel bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by one-and-a-quarter seconds pendulum, the 11 inch square brass dial with ringed winding holes, subsidiary seconds dial and scroll border engraved calendar aperture to the rose motif decorated matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised sword hilt hour markers and Arabic five minutes to outer track, with fine pierced steel hands and winged cherub mask and leafy cast spandrels to angles with generous foliate scroll engraved infill to upper and side margins over signature Abraham Farrer Pontefract to lower border, the ebonised case with twin cherub and crown centred scroll carved crest over complex moulded cornice and three-quarter columns applied to the glazed hood door, the sides with rectangular windows and conforming quarter columns applied to bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with convex throat moulding over 41.5inch rectangular door, the plinth base incorporating hinged front panel to reveal the pendulum bob, on bun feet, (some restoration), 212cm (83.5ins) high. Little is known of the life of Abraham Farrer although a maker with this name is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as having a son, also named Abraham, in 1728. Loomes also cites the records of two deaths - one in 1740, the other in 1752/3, it would perhaps be appropriate to speculate that these refer to the passing of father and son respectively. The movement of the current lot can be described as being very much in the London style and demonstrates a high quality and skilled approach both in its finish and specification. The provision of a one-and-a-quarter seconds pendulum is extremely rare for a provincial longcase however another clock (of month duration) by Farrer with this feature is described in Edwardes, Ernest THE GRANDFATHER CLOCK pages 226-7 with the dial illustrated as Plate 19.
Lot 152
An ebonised miniature thirty-hour longcase timepiece with alarm The movement... An ebonised miniature thirty-hour longcase timepiece with alarm The movement and dial by Conyers Dunlop, London, circa 1740 The posted single-handed movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum swinging to the rear of the clock and alarm set within the frame behind the going train, the 5 inch brass break-arch dial with alarm disc and pierced steel hand to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring and rococo scroll cast spandrels to angles beneath circular boss signed Conyers Dunlop, London flanked by conforming mounts to arch, with domed bell bearer behind, in an ebonised case with ball and spire finial to the shallow domed caddy superstructure over ogee moulded cornice, scroll cast brass infill mounts and break-arch glazed door to hood, the trunk with concave throat moulding over slender caddy moulded rectangular door and ogee moulded plinth base with applied skirt, (case with restoration), 193cm (76ins) high excluding finial; 206cm (81ins) high overall. Conyers Dunlop, the son of renowned clockmaker Andrew Dunlop, is recorded in Baillie. G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as apprenticed in 1725 gaining his freedom of the Clockmaker's Company in 1733; he was appointed Master in 1758 and died in 1779.
Lot 174
A George II/III green japanned eight-day longcase clock William and John... A George II/III green japanned eight-day longcase clock William and John Kipling, London, mid 18th century The five pillar inside countwheel bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial and calendar aperture to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and twin bird and urn cast spandrels to angles beneath circular boss signed W:m & Jn:o, Kipling, London flanked by dolphin cast mounts to arch, the green japanned case with concave sided 'pagoda' pediment fronted with anthemion and scroll pierced fret over gilt floral trail and hatched panel painted break-arch cavetto cornice and further scroll pierced fret above figural panel decorated hood door flanked by conforming columns to front angles, the sides with rectangular windows within leafy borders and bargeboards to the rear, the trunk with gilt leaf motif centred hatched panel painted concave throat moulding over shaped 'block top' door decorated in raised polychrome and gilt with figures amongst elaborate pagodas and other structures within silver line borders, the surround with seated figures to upper margin over foliate trails interrupted by hatch panels, the sides divided into pairs of leafy panels, on raised shaped panel fronted plinth base decorated with a European man o' war moored beside a coastal fort over moulded double skirt and squab feet, 250cm (98.5ins) high. William Kipling is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born in Romaldkirk, Yorkshire in 1680/1 and apprenticed through the Blacksmiths' Company to Thomas Johnson in September 1695. He is thought to have succeeded Johnson working from Ratcliffe Cross, London from circa 1705. Latterly William Kipling took his son, John (born 1722) into partnership until the latter's death in 1750, when the business was handed over to Charles Bosley. William is believed to have outlived his son by seven years dying in 1757. The current lot is a fine original unrestored example of an early London pagoda-cased clock which retains much of its original decorated surface to the case.
Lot 148
A Queen Anne ebonised eight-day longcase clock Etherington, London A Queen Anne ebonised eight-day longcase clock Etherington, London, circa 1710 The five finned pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum with rise/fall regulation to suspension, the 12 inch shallow break-arch brass dial with subsidiary seconds dial and calendar aperture to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers, Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed Etherington, London to lower margin, with fine pierced steel hands and crisply cast gilt brass Indian mask and scroll spandrels to angles within herringbone engraved outer border, the shallow arch centred with applied arched silver rise/fall regulation scale annotated Slo/Fas and divided 0-60 within fine symmetrical foliate scroll engraved field incorporating basket of fruit and strapwork over festoon to centre and conforming herringbone border to upper margin, the ebonised case with brass ball and spire finials to the domed caddy surmounted fine foliate fretwork fronted box upstand over moulded cornice and conforming foliate pierced quadrant frets to frieze and generous three-quarter columns with gilt caps and bases to the glazed hood door, the sides with arched apertures and quarter columns set against bargeboards at the rear beneath further rectangular blind frets, the trunk with concave throat above 42 inch rectangular door centred with a brass lenticle, on ogee moulded plinth base applied with two-tier moulded skirt, (case reduced in depth), 259cm (102ins) high excluding finials; 277cm (109ins) high overall. Provenance: By repute formerly at Marston House, Somerset. Literature: The dial of the current lot is illustrated in Cescinsky, Herbert THE OLD ENGLISH MASTER CLOCKMAKERS AND THEIR CLOCKS 1670-1820 on page 39 (Fig. 40). George Etherington is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as being made a Free Brother of the Clockmakers' Company in 1684 having previously being apprenticed to Robert Rooksby possibly in Newcastle-on-Tyne or York. In 1689 he moved from the 'Dial in Fleet Street' to 'against the New Church in the Strand', London. In 1697 he signed the oath of allegiance and became an Assistant of the Clockmakers' Company in 1701, Warden in 1706 and finally Master in 1709. He attended until at least 1720 and is thought to have died in 1729. George Etherington's work can generally be characterised as distinctive, often impressive and innovative in its decorative form; this very much follows the shift in fashion towards increased scale and heightened decoration which occurred during the Queen Anne period. The current lot is typical of this approach with the very early use of a shallow break-arch dial featuring unusual arched regulation scale within a finely engraved field. The case is also of impressive proportions and was almost certainly made by the same case maker responsible for that accommodating a clock of six week duration by John Lowndes which was sold in these rooms on Tuesday 15th September 2015, lot 204.
Lot 113
A fine and rare North Italian ebonised architectural table timepiece with... A fine and rare North Italian ebonised architectural table timepiece with silent-pull quarter-repeat on two bells Gio Pietro Callin, Genoa, circa 1680 The rectangular movement with four baluster turned pillars pinned through the backplate signed Gio Petro Callin AGenoua to the lower margin, the going train with spring barrel and verge escapement regulated by short pendulum with silk suspension and cycloidal cheeks, the early Knibb type silent-pull quarter-repeat train striking the hours and quarters on demand only via twin vertical hammer arbors sounding on a graduated pair of bells mounted within the pediment of the case, the 8 by 7 inch faded salmon silk covered iron dial applied with silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with tied asterisk half hour markers and Arabic five minutes within the outer minute track, the angles applied with foliate scroll pierced chased gilt brass spandrels with the lower two continuing down further to flank a cartouche cast as en entwined pair of serpents enclosing silvered signature plate engraved Gio Petro Callin AGenoua , the finely detailed Baroque case with open arch pediment centred with a small panel upstand capped with triangular tympanum flanked by scroll-carved infill over breakfronted lintel with plain frieze and tight cornice mouldings, the front with rectangular door applied with raised mouldings to the glazed dial aperture flanked by generous hipped carved sides scrolls, the conforming breakfronted base incorporating key drawer and deep cavetto moulded skirt, on six bun feet, 52cm (20.5ins) high. A Pietro Calim is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as 'German Keeper of clock on Palazzo delle Compere' 1677-85; although little else appears to be known of Callin a few clocks signed by him are known including; An ivory inlaid ebonised night clock with fine painted dial depicting chronos and death passing the hours, offered in this sale as the previous lot. An impressive ebonised tall alter clock with allegorical dial painted by Giovanni Battista Gaulli, The Poldi Collection, Milan. An ebonised night clock with dial painted with a Saint at prayer, Cambi, Genova, 18th November 2014, lot 136. In addition to these another night clock probably from the same workshop but signed 'Giovanni Carlo Calin' (also with fine painted dial depicting chronos and death passing the hours) was offered at Christies, New York THE ABBOTT GUGGENHEIM COLLECTION , 27th January 2015, lot 118. Finally a further ebonised table timepiece of noticeably similar design to the current lot (and with almost identical dial) but signed 'Giovanni Battista Batta Callin' is illustrated in Tardy LA PENDULE FRANCAIS. 3'eme Partie, Provinces et Etranger on page 417. The movement of the current lot closely resembles that of an early French 'Pendule Religieuse' but with the additional provision of a 'silent-pull' quarter repeat mechanism. The positioning of the going train between the plates and the design of movement pillars can be directly compared to an hour-striking movement by Nicholas Hanet dating to around 1675 illustrated in Plomp, Reinier Early French Pendulum Clocks, 1658-1700 pages 66-7 Figs. 115-7. Both the movement by Hanet and that of the current lot are arranged with the strike/repeat trains offset to the right to allow room for vertical planting of the going train to the centre. In addition to having offset strike trains both movements also share essentially the same configuration of double-footed backcock (fitted with cycloidal cheeks) and similar crown wheel top cock casting (each incorporating pallet arbor front pivot). From these details it would be logical to suggest that the current lot was made around the same time (or marginally later) as the clock by Hanet, and that the maker was clearly strongly influenced by contemporary French practice. The 'French influence' within the current lot is not confined to the movement as the use of fabric-covered iron for the dial plate incorporating signature cartouche doubling-up as a pendulum bob access flap are also classic features seen on early French pendulum clocks. The design of 'silent-pull' repeat mechanism used in the current lot is of the earliest type which is believed to have been invented in around 1676 by Edward Barlow and/or Daniel Quare which, in practice, seems to have been first put to use by Joseph Knibb (see Dawson, Percy G., Drover, C.B. and Parkes, D.W. Early English Clocks pages 343-4). This mechanism will sound the last hour and quarter on two bells on demand only and is thought to have been devised 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. The presence of this mechanism on the current lot would suggest that the maker was well versed with English practice as well as French. Indeed the dial also exhibits possible subtle English influence in the chapter ring (with Arabic five-minute annotations within the outer minute track) and use of cast spandrels to angles. In England, prior to the invention of quarter-repeat work, the only clocks available to assist with telling the time after dark were night clocks. English night clocks are rare as they were quickly superseded by repeating clocks/watches, hence it seems that none were made after around 1680. Conversely in Italy night clocks seemed to be the preferred solution with the form almost becoming standardised by the Campani family of Rome during the 1670's. The case of the current lot is particularly finely proportioned and detailed with crisp architecturally correct mouldings indicating that it was made by a specialist craftsman familiar with the principals of Classical architecture and Palladianism. The inherent smaller proportions of the case are also quite pleasing when compared with larger night clocks which can be somewhat imposing.
Lot 104
A Renaissance style gold pendant 'form watch A Renaissance style gold pendant 'form watch' Bearing signature for Denis Bordier, Geneva, probably mid 19th century The shaped gilt full plate single fusee verge movement with four double baluster pillars pinned through the backplate, asymmetric tulip pierced and engraved balance cock and conforming infill around the mainspring set-up ratchet opposing engraved text Denis Bordier to lower margin, the scallop-shaped gilt dial with single steel hand to the symmetrical foliate scroll engraved centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with asterisk half hour markers within a fine foliate scroll chased oval surround incorporating equestrian figure to upper margin, the three-piece case cast and chased in the form of a stylised floral bud with integral suspension loop, (movement with losses including escapement, balance arbor and greatwheel), the movement pillar plate 35mm (1.625ins) by 25mm (1ins), the watch 53mm (2.125ins) high to top of suspension post. The movement of the current lot is interesting in that it essentially appears technologically faithful to mid 17th century practice with authentic looking small asymmetric foliate pierced balance cock and steel spring set-up ratchet and pawl to the backplate. However, on closer examination, the distance between the plates coupled with the design of the slender double-baluster pillars and the relative crudeness of the fusee cone would suggest that this watch is a 19th century 'revival' piece. The signature again appears to resemble 17th century practice however is perhaps a little light in its execution. This lightness in detail is also reflected in the dial surround which incorporates open scrolls more akin to 18th century rococo practice than 17th century Arabesque designs. From this it can be concluded that the present watch was made as a 'historic' revival piece which became fashionable from the mid 19th century onwards. Indeed a 19th century 'reproduction' silver oval watch bearing a signature for Denis Bordier was sold at Christies, New York IMPORTANT WATCHES INCLUDING THE LEO COLLECTION on Wednesday 16th June 2010, (lot 308) for $2,750.
Lot 53
Three similar Dutch gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Bearing various... Three similar Dutch gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Bearing various signatures, mid to late 18th century Each gilt full plate single fusee verge movement with scroll-pierced stop-iron block, faceted baluster pillars and sprung three arm balance, the backplate with foliate scroll pierced and engraved balance bridge and conforming applied infill adjacent to the silvered regulation disc, the first three with white enamel Arabic numeral dials incorporating arcaded minutes ring and bearing signatures Ja's Samson, London and John Witter, London to backplates, the third lacking dial and bearing signature John Travers, LONDON, the pillar plates measuring approximately 38mm (1.5ins) diameter, (3). Provenance: The beneficiaries of the Estate of an Italian connoisseur collector of horological artefacts and works of art. The three watch movements in the current lot are almost certainly of Dutch manufacture produced during the mid to late 18th century signed with 'spurious' London signatures. One diagnostic feature is that on such examples the layout of the regulation tends to vary slightly from typical English practice resulting in the silvered regulation disc being positioned on the opposite side of the movement (towards the left rather than the right when viewed with balance bridge uppermost).
Lot 92
A Regency brass inlaid ebonised bracket clock Edwards, London A Regency brass inlaid ebonised bracket clock Edwards, London, circa 1820 The five pillar twin fusee gong striking movement regulated by anchor escapement with heavy lenticular bob pendulum, the shouldered backplate with pendulum holdfast and signed EDWARDS, Shoreditch to centre, the 5.5 inch circular fired white enamel Roman numeral dial signed EDWARDS, LONDON to centre and with steel moon hands set into square brass surround engraved with baskets of flowers and musical trophies within floral scrolls to spandrel areas and with strike/silent selection lever to upper margin, the case with brass line bordered stepped 'chamfer' upstand incorporating applied batons with scroll inlaid terminals to hip angles above cavetto cornice and glazed front door with rosette-centred line decorated uprights and rails flanked by brass inset canted angles over moulded dado and symmetrical foliate scroll fronted apron panel, the sides with twin cornucopian brass ring handles over rectangular brass fishscale sound frets, the rear with plain rectangular glazed door set within the frame of the case, on brass ogee moulded shallow skirt base inlaid with brass line border to front and with adjustable ball feet, 37cm (14.5ins) high excluding finial; 41.5cm (16.25ins) high overall. Provenance: George Fludyer, (d.1837) and by descent through the Fludyer Family, finally to Sir Arthur John Fludyer, 5 th and last baronet, who died childless in 1922. Then to his sister Katherine who married Henry Randolph Finch of the Croft, Manton, second son of George Finch, Burley-on-the-Hill, Rutland and by descent. The Finch Family had the title of the The Earls of Winchelsea and Nottingham Burley-on-the-Hill. A paper transcript of repairer's marks is included with the clock with the first entry being for Tupman 1826. In addition to this there is also the following note which provides clear confimation of the above provenance: This dial was broken by F. Langley Butler to Sir A. Fludyer (!). Several makers with the surname Edwards are recorded working in London during the first half of the 19th century including a handful with the forename James (noted in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World ) as active around 1820 in areas around Shoreditch including Limehouse, Cheapside and Whitechapel.
Lot 102
A monumental Victorian brass quarter chiming 'exhibition A monumental Victorian brass quarter chiming 'exhibition' skeleton clock Attributed to John Smith and Sons, Clerkenwell, London for Duncan Anderson Cooper, Huddersfield, circa 1864 The triple chain fusee movement with Vulliamy type deadbeat escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum and chiming the quarters via a transversely planted six-inch pinned cylinder on a nest of eight graduated bells positioned within the superstructure of the frame and sounding the hours on a coiled gong mounted on a separate post at the rear, the finely executed wheelwork with six-spoke wheel crossings set between elaborate heavy-gauge plates pierced in the Gothic Revival manner incorporating buttresses flanking a central tracery lancet arch to centre beneath further shaped arch flanked by tiers of spires and surmounted by a fleur-de-lys finial to apex, the plates united by seven massive double-screwed knopped pillars and applied with elaborate silvered brass skeletonised Roman numeral chapter ring pierced and engraved with fine foliate scrolls surmounted by a coronet to each cartouche numeral around an open centre revealing fine decorated steelwork and pierced cocks to the under dial work, mounted on a green baize covered slightly canted rectangular base applied with silvered brass ribbon-form retailer's signature plate engraved COOPER, NEW ST., HUDDERSFIELD over large presentation plaque inscribed PRESENTED TO, Joseph Norton Esquire, on retiring from business, FROM HIS NUMEROUS WORK PEOPLE, AS A TESTIMONIAL OF THEIR REGARD AND ESTEEM, MAY 1864, flanked by elaborate foliate pierced sprays and on gilt bun feet, with brass-edged rectangular five glass protective cover, the clock 51cm (20ins) high; with base and cover 71.5cm (28.25ins) high overall. Duncan Anderson Cooper is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World, Volume 2 as working in Huddersfield 1850-66. The current lot can be firmly attributed to John Smith and Sons of St. John's Square, Clerkenwell, who were established in 1780 and became one of the largest manufacturers of both domestic and public clocks throughout the 19th century and is still trading today but as a materials stockholder and broker having made their last clock in 1938. The company was the subject of an article published in The Illustrated London News on 20th September 1851 (see Roberts, Derek British Skeleton Clocks pages 260-67), in which it was held up as being at the forefront of contemporary clock manufacture. Smith's 1865 catalogue gives an idea of the extensive range of skeleton clocks the company produced. A relatively standard scroll pattern skeleton clock is listed at £2.10s, however a clock such as the present example would have cost ten times as much 'Chime Skeleton Clocks, quarter-hours on 8 bells & hours on gong, 25 upwards' (see Roberts, page 127). Such clocks were amongst the finest the company produced. The presentation plaque applied to the plinth of the current lot indicates that the clock was given to Joseph Norton on his retirement in 1864. Joseph Norton is recorded as the owner of Highbridge Mill, Huddersfield, Yorkshire, who resided at nearby Nortonthorpe Hall. A detailed history of the Norton family, including reference to the presentation of the current lot to Joseph Norton on his retirement in 1864, is documented in the online article by Brook, Alan A CATALOGUE OF THE TEXTILE MILLS OF THE HUDDERSFIELD AREA C.1790-1914, PART TWO - GROVE MILL TO RUSHFIELD MILL (entry 153).
Lot 21
A rare Spanish brass and silver portable equinoctial compass sundial Unsigned A rare Spanish brass and silver portable equinoctial compass sundial Unsigned, probably mid 17th century The square case with recessed simple compass plate engraved with concentric line decoration and retained by a square brass friction collar, the hinged silver open hour circle set within a pierced square frame and pivoting against a folding brass arm locating into corresponding graduated slots calibrated for degrees of elevation to the side of the instrument, the hour ring engraved 1-12-1-12 twice and fitted with pivoted steel needle gnomon fitted onto double baluster arbor to centre, both sides of the lid and the base of the case engraved with tables giving the respective latitudes of seventy-four European and South American cities including Lima 12, Cuzco 14, Santiago 32, Buenosayres 36, Cartegena 12, Mexico 20, Guatimala 15, Valencia 39, Murcia 37, Toledo 40, Madrid 42, Roma 41, Florencia 43 and Paris 50 , the front of the case applied with foliate bud finial, the rear with foliate mount centred with a hole to take a suspension post (compass plate probably a replacement, suspension post/ring lacking), 4.5cm (1.75ins) wide. The current lot is a rare form of Spanish dial which operates essentially in the same manner as other sundials designed with inclined chapter rings and pivoted pin gnomons such as German Augsburg pattern dials. A noteworthy detail which sets the current lot aside from related German models is the use of a pivoted stay engaging with graduated slots cut into the body of the instrument to set the elevation of the hour ring rather than a reading directly against a pivoted arm engraved with degrees for latitude.
Lot 24
An English brass universal equinoctial ring dial Unsigned An English brass universal equinoctial ring dial Unsigned, mid to late 18th century The outer meridian ring with two quadrants divided into degrees annotated 0-90 in two directions to one side opposing engraved quadrant of degrees for altitude also annotated 0-90 to be used in conjunction with a pin (missing) to be placed in a hole opposing the scale, the pivoted inner ring is engraved with Roman numeral chapter ring annotated I-XII twice divided into five minute intervals and with tied lozenge half hour markers, the rotating bridge with central slot fitted with pinhole slider and finely engraved with a zodiacal scale with corresponding signs over declination scale in degrees opposing calendar to other side, the outer rim with adjustable bracket fitted with suspension ring, diameter 10cm (4ins); with an English mahogany pocket compass, unsigned, late 18th century, the circular paper scale printed with rose within band annotated with the cardinal points sub-divided into four within outer scale calibrated in degrees, fitted with locking pointer beneath glass secured by a brass bezel in simple square case with hinged cover, 5.5cm (2.125ins) wide. The equinoctial ring dial is generally thought to have been developed from the mariner's astrolabe by William Oughtred in around 1600. To use an equinoctial ring dial the suspension ring bracket must be first slackened and moved to line up with the scale at a position corresponding to the latitude of the location from where the reading is being taken. The sliding pin-hole curser to the bridge needs then to be positioned to correspond with the date. Ensuring that hour ring is fully opened (ie. at ninety degrees to the outer ring) the instrument then can be suspended in sunlight and orientated until the pin hole projects onto the inner edge of the hour ring thus providing a reading for local solar time. When correctly orientated the outer ring will be aligned with the north-south direction, the hour ring with the equator and the bridge will be parallel with the access of the earth. The fact that the current lot has a calendar annotated in English as well as typical tied lozenge half-hour markers to the hour ring confirms it origins. With regards to dating the instrument, the calendar is divided so that the sign of Aries commences on the 20th of March, this indicates that the current lot was made to operate under the Gregorian calendar which was adopted in England in 1752.
Lot 150
A small George II thirty-hour longcase clock movement with nine-inch dial... A small George II thirty-hour longcase clock movement with nine-inch dial Gabriel Smith, Nantwich, circa 1730 The single handed countwheel bell striking movement with four finned pillars, anchor escapement and plates measuring just 4.5 by 3 inches, the 9 inch square brass dial with pierced blued steel hand to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with elaborate foliate half hour markers and signed Gab Smith, Namptwich to lower margin, the angles applied with unusual scallop shell and foliate scroll cast spandrels (no pendulum or weight). Gabriel Smith is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born in Barthomley, Chesire in 1656. He married Ann Whittington in 1682 and worked as a clockmaker, carpenter, bell founder and millwright in Barthomley up until 1722. He subsequently moved to Nantwich where he continued working presumably until his death in 1743 aged 87. The current lot is highly unusual in that the movement is particularly small in its dimensions. The reason why the maker chose to make the movement this size is unknown however it did require him to attach it to the dial via horizontal iron straps applied to the rear of the plate in order to avoid riveting the dial feet within the matted area at the centre.
Lot 119
A Swiss 'Neuchatel' quarter-striking bracket clock with pull-quarter repeat... A Swiss 'Neuchatel' quarter-striking bracket clock with pull-quarter repeat on two bells The dial inscribed for Fredrich Perrenoud and Henriette Huguenin, dated 1796 The rectangular twin barrel movement with four columnar pillars pinned through the backplate and going train regulated by verge escapement with silk suspension, the two-in-one quarter striking train with countwheel cut for the hours and quarters and visible strikework mounted on the backplate and sounding via a pair of vertically pivoted hammers on two bells mounted behind the superstructure of the case, the pull-quarter repeat mechanism also visible on the backplate and with similar arrangement of hammers sounding on the same two bells, the 9 inch circular convex white enamelled Roman numeral dial inscribed Fredrich Perrenoud Henriette Hugueni(n), 1796 to centre within concentric date of the month ring with blued steel pointer to inner track and Arabic five minutes to outer track, with fine pierced and chased gilt brass lattice hands, the waisted salmon pink and floral garland painted case with gilt ball finial to the ogee-shaped upstand over arched gilt cornice and two-piece shaped giltwood door incorporating circular convex glass over shaped pendulum aperture, the sides with recessed arch glazed panels, the rear with door painted with floral spray to lower margin to interior, with gilt scroll carved feet standing on a conforming two-tier ogee-shaped bracket painted with further floral sprays over pendant ball finial, 89cm (35ins) high. Frederic Louis Perrenoud is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Ponts-de-Martel and La Brevine, Switzerland, 1761-1801. Henriette Huguenin however does not appear to be recorded in the usual sources although several members of the Huguenin family are recorded as clockmakers working in the Chaux-de-Fonds and Neuchatel areas of Switzerland during the latter decades of the 18th century.
Lot 23
A rare Spanish pewter portable equinoctial compass sundial Unsigned A rare Spanish pewter portable equinoctial compass sundial Unsigned, 18th century The square case centred with recessed compass incorporating a circular paper scale printed with rose within band annotated in English with the cardinal points sub-divided into four beneath circular glazed panel retained by a scalloped brass bezel, the surround with band annotated in Spanish NORTE, Norteste, LESTE, suete, SVR, sudoeste, ESE, Noveste within spandrel areas engraved with masks emblematic of the four winds, the hinged open hour circle set within a pierced square frame and pivoting against a folding arm locating into corresponding graduated slots calibrated for degrees of elevation to the side of the instrument, the hour ring engraved 1-12-1-12 twice and fitted with pivoted needle gnomon to centre, the interior of the lid engraved with a panel of a naked figure holding a basket of fruit and blowing a horn over Memento Mori motif with further masks to angles, the exterior engraved with rococo scroll motifs and the text SYRVOAD: ETAN, CISCOCRVANTeS, NEGRI , (suspension post/ring lacking), 6cm (2.375ins) wide. The current lot is a rare form of Spanish dial which operates essentially in the same manner as other sundials designed with inclined chapter rings and pivoted pin gnomons such as German Augsburg pattern dials. A noteworthy detail which sets the current lot aside from related German models is the use of a pivoted stay engaging with graduated slots cut into the body of the instrument to set the elevation of the hour ring rather than a reading directly against a pivoted arm engraved with degrees for latitude.
Lot 158
A fine inlaid oak architectural floor-standing lantern clock case Unsigned A fine inlaid oak architectural floor-standing lantern clock case Unsigned, possibly Bristol, circa 1700 The hood with inverted breakfronted dentil moulded open-centred shallow arch tympanum incorporating geometric parquetry decorated blocks to frieze flanking infill panel inlaid with triple spire motifs over triangular arched aperture bordered by pilaster uprights flanked by shouldered pilasters incorporating panel inlaid plinths, the sides with conforming articulated dentil cornice over double line banded panel, the trunk incorporating Roman Doric column mouldings with capital inset with rosettes to frieze over rectangular double line banded door set within the frame of the case and conforming complex pilaster base, the sides with further double line banded panels, on plinth base with geometric band to upper surface of the complex top mouldings over diagonal star inlaid front and generous skirt base, 217cm (85.5ins) high ; with an incomplete lantern clock, attributed to Benjamin Willoughby, Bristol, circa 1700 , the two-handed posted countwheel striking movement with anchor escapement, finely detailed one piece 'Bristol' pattern uprights with integral finials and feet, and domed bell bearer (lacking dial, frets, doors, backplate, one finial, pinion of report for countwheel, weight and pendulum), 33cm (13ins) high, (2). According to the vendor the incomplete lantern clock included in the current lot was formerly fitted with an unusual dial signed for Benjamin Willoughby, Bristol. The dial was apparently matted with an engraved rose at the centre and applied with a Roman numeral chapter ring; regrettably it appears that this dial has now been lost. Benjamin Willoughby is recorded in Moore, A. J. THE CLOCKMAKERS OF BRISTOL 1650-1900 as apprenticed in London to Robert Dingley in 1676 before moving to Bristol where he worked from Small Street presumably until his death in 1709. The highly unusual architectural form of the hood of the lantern clock case in the current lot can be compared to that of a three-month longcase clock by Thomas Tompion residing in the collection of the British Museum (Museum number 1958,1006.2159). The movement of this Tompion longcase is numbered 132 which would date it to around 1688, however the dial incorporates an arch engraved with a bust of Queen-Anne. This suggests that the dial plate was altered along with the hood during the first decade of the 18th century. From this it would be appropriate to speculate that the current lot also dates to the first decade of the 18th century due to the strong stylistic similarities between the two. In addition to the complex architectural pediment to the hood the trunk of the current lot also incorporates accurately observed Roman Doric column mouldings which again demonstrate a high degree of architectural enlightenment by the maker. The inlaid decoration is unusual being very laborious in its execution requiring the surface to be cut back and sections inserted.
Lot 145
A George I black japanned longcase clock of one month duration Markwick and... A George I black japanned longcase clock of one month duration Markwick and Markham, London, circa 1720 The substantial five finned pillar rack and bell striking movement with five-wheel trains and anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 13 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial, calendar aperture and low winding holes to the matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with fleur-de-lys half hour markers and Arabic five minutes to outer track, the angles with female mask and scroll cast spandrels beneath silvered Strike/Silent switch and boss engraved Markwick, & Markham, LONDON flanked by dolphin cast mounts to arch, the black japanned case with architectural cornice over gilt floral painted upper quadrant infill to frieze and conforming leafy trail decorated break-arch glazed hood door applied with generous three-quarter columns to front angles, the sides with rectangular windows and quarter columns set against bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with convex throat moulding over rectangular door painted in gilt with oriental garden landscapes within stylised leafy strapwork borders and conforming delicate surround, on ogee moulded skirt base with conforming painted decoration to front and applied moulded skirt, (painted decoration circa 1900), 230cm (90.5ins) high. James Markwick senior is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as apprenticed in 1756 to Edmund Gilpin (through Richard Taylor); he initially worked at Croydon before returning to London where he gained his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1666. In 1673 he took-over the former business of Samuel Betts at behind the Royal Exchange. Markwick had a turbulent relationship with the Clockmakers' Company - in 1676 he was fined for abuse of the Master at the Steward's feast and was often reprimanded for not attending court. James Markwick junior was born in Croydon in 1662 and was apprenticed to his father gaining his freedom (by patrimony) in 1692. He initially went into partnership with his father before gaining outright control of the business on the latter's retirement to Pevensey in Sussex in around 1700 (where he subsequently died in 1716). In around 1710-15 James Markwick junior went into partnership with his son in Law Robert Markham which lasted until the former's death in 1730. The business was subsequently continued by Markham and his successors and specialised in producing clocks and watches for export to the Middle East. The current lot is unusual in that it is signed 'Markwick & Markham' rather than just 'Markwick Markham' suggesting that it was made fairly early on in the partnership.
Lot 130
A fine George III ebonised table clock with pull-quarter repeat on six bells... A fine George III ebonised table clock with pull-quarter repeat on six bells John Jefferys, London, circa 1750 The six pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum and pull quarter repeat sounding on a graduated nest of six bells followed by the hour on a single larger bell, the symmetrical foliate scroll engraved backplate signed John Jefferys, London beneath a stylised basket of fruit to centre, the 7 inch brass break-arch dial with shaped false bob aperture backed with silvered name plate engraved Jn'o Jefferys London and calendar to the finely matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and rococo scroll cast brass spandrels to angles beneath subsidiary Strike/Silent dial flanked by conforming mounts to arch, the inverted bell top case with hinged brass carring handle over brass fillet inset break-arch glazed dial aperture and fine foliate scroll engraved and pierced upper quadrant frets flanked by caddy moulded angles to the full-width front door, the sides with further engraved brass circular sound frets over concave-topped brass fillet inset rectangular glazed apertures, the rear with door set within the frame of the case with break-arch window and further scroll pierced ebonised upper quadrant frets, on cavetto moulded skirt base with squab feet, 44.5cm (17.5ins) high excluding handle. John Jeffrys was an important clock and watchmaker (through his association with John Harrison) who was born in Midgham, Berkshire in 1701. In November 1717 he was apprenticed to in London to the watchmaker Edward Jagger gaining his freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1726. In 1735 Jeffrys took Larcum Kendall as an apprentice followed by another named Jethro Tull in 1739. In 1751-2 Jeffrys was commissioned by John Harrison to make a watch for his personal use mainly to assist with astronomical observations and interval timing. In order to satisfy Harrison's needs the timepiece was specified to incorporate features such as maintaining power, centre seconds and bimetallic strip temperature compensation for the modified balance. On completion the watch performed beyond expectations leading Harrison to focus his attention on watch-based technology to create a suitably accurate marine timekeeper. John Jeffrys died in 1754 leaving his workshop in the hands of his former apprentice, Larcum Kendall, who continued to assist John Harrison with the development of H4 before producing his own versions (K1 and K2) of Harrison's design in order to satisfy the requirements of the Board of Longitude. The current lot is one of only a small handful of clocks known by Jeffrys and is notable in that the repeat work operates with a slight but precise action which befits the description of him being a 'Repeating motion maker'. In addition to this the signature is executed in the same manner as that of his famous watch further leaving little doubt that it originated from his workshop.
Lot 146
A fine George II japanned eight-day quarter chiming musical longcase clock... A fine George II japanned eight-day quarter chiming musical longcase clock Newman Cartwright, London, circa 1730 The substantial five pillar triple train rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the musical train peeling the quarters and playing a choice of two tunes on the hour via a sixteen hammers on eight bells, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with calendar aperture, subsidiary seconds dial and applied arched signature plate Newman Cartwright, London to the matted centre within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track, with pierced steel hands and applied female mask and scroll cast spandrels to angles beneath arch centred with A Minuett/A March tune selection dial flanked by dolphin cast mounts, in a black japanned case with domed caddy surmount to the blind fret fronted box upstand over moulded cornice and conforming infill to the quadrants above the break-arch glazed hood door decorated with gilt foliate trails, the sides with rectangular glazed apertures and quarter columns applied to bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with floral spray painted concave throat moulding over break-arch door finely decorated in raised polychrome and gilt with a stag being pursued by hounds within an arcadian Oriental landscape with pavillions, the surround further decorated with foliate trails beneath birds to upper quadrants, the sides painted with full height flowering foliage, on cavetto moulded plinth base with conforming landscape scene to front and applied skirt over squat ogee bracket feet (wear and loss to decoration), 234cm (92cm high). A clockmaker with the name Newman Cartwright does not appear to be recorded in the usual sources however a watch dating to around 1720 by 'N. Cartwright, Lombard Street' (with pierced silver pillars) is noted in Britten, F. J. FORMER CLOCK AND WATCH MAKERS AND THEIR WORK. In addition to this a walnut eight-day longcase clock by Newman Cartwright, also dating to around 1720, was sold at Chorley's, Prinknash Abbey on 24th June 2010 (lot 445) for £3,000 hammer. Finally a record of successful proceedings and notice of a meeting for debtors relating to the bankruptcy of Newman Cartwright 'of Lombard Street, Silversmith and Chapman' is recorded in the Gazette printed in late May or early June 1758.
Lot 153
A George III stained pine hooded wall timepiece with alarm William Yardley A George III stained pine hooded wall timepiece with alarm William Yardley, Bishop's Stortford, circa 1760 The posted movement with rectangular section corner uprights and anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum swinging to the rear, the alarm mechanism set within the frame behind the going train and sounding on a bell mounted above the top plate, the 5 inch brass break-arch dial with alarm setting disc and single pierced iron hand to the foliate spray and symmetrical scroll engraved silvered centre within conforming applied Roman numeral chapter ring with quarter hour divisions to inner track, the angles applied with gilt Indian mask and scroll cast spandrels beneath arch centred with a silvered boss signed W'm Yardley, B:r Stortford flanked by conforming mounts, the stained pine case with cavetto moulded cornice above door incorporating glazed dial aperture flanked by three quarter columns to front angles, the sides with conforming quarter columns to the rear over complex lower lip mouldings, the bracket with backboard pierced for hanging above lower section fitted with scroll outline side supports united by stepped ogee shaped throat moulding over rectangular backboard with chamfered lower edge, 52cm (20.5ins) high. A W. Yardley is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Bishop's Stortford in around 1790.
Lot 127
A Charles II ebonised thirty-hour longcase clock James Delance, Frome A Charles II ebonised thirty-hour longcase clock James Delance, Frome, circa 1685 The substantial two-handed posted countwheel bell striking movement measuring 7.75 inches between the plates with generous rectangular section corner uprights and resting on integral spikes fitted to the underside of the baseplate, the going train with anchor escapement incorporating solid ºttery brass' escape wheel and regulated by seconds pendulum, the strike train sounding on a large bell mounted above, the 10.25 inch square brass dial with fine pierced iron hands and symmetrical scrolling tulip engraved centre incorporating a central rose over lambrequin signed Jam's Delance, in Froome to lower margin, within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised sword-hilt half hour markers and Arabic five minutes within the outer minute track, the angles applied with winged cherub mask and scroll cast and pierced spandrels, in an ebonised pine case with substantial ogee moulded cornice and deep open panel fronted frieze (to accommodate the large bell behind) over full-width hood door applied with raised mouldings to the glazed aperture and the sides with conforming rectangular windows, the trunk with convex throat moulding and 42 inch rectangular door centred with an oval lenticle, the sides applied with further mouldings to form tall rectangular panels, the plinth base with ogee mouldings to upper edges and bun feet, (case with restoration), 221cm (87ins) high. James Delance is recorded in Loomes, Brian Clockmakers of Britain 1286-1700 as born in Downton, Wiltshire in 1655, he is believed to have learnt the clockmaking trade from Lawrence Debnam in Frome (see previous lot) prior to moving to London in 1677 where he was admitted as a Free Brother to the Clockmakers' Company the following year. Delance remained in London until 1685 when he left the city and returned to Frome where he set up business in Cheap Street - probably succeeding Lawrence Debnam who died in 1683 at the age of 40. Delance is recorded as undertaking work on clocks for Lord Weymouth at Longleat from at least 1694 until 1703. By 1721 Delance had moved to Downton, Wiltshire (see following lot) and was still working in 1736. The current lot employs and escape wheel made from work-hardened ºttery brass' formed by hammering a cast solid disc prior to cutting of the teeth. This creates a wheel much more resilient to wear however this process makes it difficult to cross it out hence why it is left as a solid disc when fitted. This very rare feature was probably learnt from Lawrence Debnam as it also seen on the previous lot; it is testament to both makers that these wheels are still serviceable after over three hundred years of use. The well engineered and precisely finished nature of the movement extends to the use of substantial rectangular section corner uprights which appear to have been favoured by Delance as these can be seen on other clocks by him including a fine thirty-hour musical clock by him sold at Christies, King Street THE VITALE COLLECTION OF HIGHLY IMPORTANT EUROPEAN CLOCKS on Tuesday 26th November 1996 (lot 247). The engraved decoration to the dial of the current lot is also of the best 'London' quality and can be directly compared to the dial of a clock by Tompion illustrated in Darken, Jeff and Hooper, John English 30 Hour Clocks, Origin & Development 1600-1800 on page 83 (Plate 2/53). From both the dial engraving and the general quality of approach with regards to the movement it would perhaps be appropriate to speculate that Delance had close connections with the best London makers and may well have spent time in a leading workshop during his time in the capital.
Lot 52
Four similar Dutch gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Bearing various... Four similar Dutch gilt brass verge pocket watch movements Bearing various signatures, mid to late 18th century Each gilt full plate single fusee verge movement with scroll-pierced stop-iron block, square section baluster pillars and sprung three arm balance, the backplate with foliate scroll pierced and engraved balance bridge and conforming applied infill adjacent to the silvered regulation disc, the first three with white enamel Arabic numeral dials incorporating arcaded minutes ring and bearing signatures Markham, London, 2897 ; Geo. Clarke, London. No. 7424 and Tarts, London, 26166 to backplates, the third lacking dial and bearing signature J. Miller, London, No. 25272, the pillar plates measuring approximately 35mm (1.375ins) diameter, (4). Provenance: The beneficiaries of the Estate of an Italian connoisseur collector of horological artefacts and works of art. The four watch movements in the current lot are almost certainly of Dutch manufacture produced during the mid to late 18th century signed with 'spurious' London signatures. One diagnostic feature is that on such examples the layout of the regulation tends to vary slightly from typical English practice resulting in the silvered regulation disc being positioned on the opposite side of the movement (to the left rather than the right when viewed with balance bridge uppermost). In addition to this the presence of the signature 'Tarts, London' to one of the watches would also suggest Dutch origins as it seems that this was a fictitious name specifically used by Dutch makers to give the impression that the watch was of English manufacture.
Lot 76
A decorative gilt brass and marble mantel timepiece Unsigned A decorative gilt brass and marble mantel timepiece Unsigned, 20th century The French eight-day movement with platform lever escapement and skeletonised plates visible through the glazed dial centre, with blued steel moon hands and silvered Roman numeral chapter ring within engine-turned bezel, the case of gilt hemispherical form applied with ribbon tied oak leaf trails to crest and a bumble bee to verso, the whole raised on a pedestal cast and chased as dophin mounted onto cavetto moulded foot secured to a veined grey marble rectangular plinth, 28.5cm (11.25ins) high.
Lot 75
A French porcelain inset ormolu mantel clock Unsigned A French porcelain inset ormolu mantel clock Unsigned, circa 1870 The circular two train bell striking movement with anchor escapement, Brocot rate adjustment and backplate stamped with serial number 324 147 to lower margin, the square porcelain dial with fine gilt ground figural painted centre within stylised Roman numeral cartouche chapter ring and outer minute track, the spandrel areas decorated in black with Anthemions and scrollwork on a Uranium orange ground within fine repeating leaf cast surround, the plinth form case with twin-handled urn surmount incorporating orange ground porcelain body decorated with bands of stylised foliage on a gilt ground flanked by seated chimera sphinxes onto a foliate panel cast cavetto moulded platform incorporating elaborate repeating anthemion cast cornice beneath, the sides with projecting tapered columns with conforming porcelain shafts and geometric cast panel infill behind, the rear with circular foliate fretwork movement access hatch, on complex breakfronted ogee moulded skirt base cast with acanthus leaf decoration over ivy trail band and moulded squab feet applied with leafy motifs, the sides terminating with tombstone shaped panels, 40.5cm (16ins) high; with original giltwood stand 44.5cm (17.5ins) high overall.
Lot 172
A fine George III brass mounted figured mahogany quarter chiming table clock... A fine George III brass mounted figured mahogany quarter chiming table clock Thomas Wagstaffe, London, circa 1770 The substantial six pillar triple fusee movement chiming the quarters on a graduated nest of eight-bells and striking the hour on a further large bell, with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum and holdfast to the fine asymmetric chinoiserie rococo scroll engraved backplate, the 8 inch square single sheet silvered brass dial with fine pierced blued steel hands, calendar aperture to centre within Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed Thomas Wagstaffe, LONDON to lower edge, the shallow break-arch case with generous hinged brass carrying handle and single crisply moulded rectangular pad to top over bird inhabited foliate pierced and engraved brass sound frets to the arched frieze, the full front door incorporating cast brass bezel to the glazed circular dial aperture and conforming brass fillet-bordered lower quadrant frets flanked by brass strung angles, the sides with scroll pierced frets to frieze over generous brass handles and further concave-topped rectangular brass fillet-edged sound frets, the rear again with fretwork frieze over glazed break-arch door set within the frame of the case, on generous cavetto moulded skirt base with cast brass squab feet, 46cm (18ins) high excluding handle. Thomas Wagstaffe is recorded in Baillie, G. H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in Carey Street and 33 Grace-church Street, London 1756-93. Originating from Banbury in Oxfordshire Thomas Wagstaffe and his brother James were fine makers who appeared to have strong connections with the American market - perhaps due to belonging The Quaker Society of Friends. A watch by Thomas Wagstaffe previously owned by Benjamin Franklin was sold by Cowan's Auctions, Cincinnati, on June 17th 2006 (lot 118) for $34,500.
Lot 109
A fine Lithuanian engraved gilt brass horizontal striking table clock signed... A fine Lithuanian engraved gilt brass horizontal striking table clock signed with initials J. G., Vilnius, mid 17th century The single fusee movement with four fine steel baluster pillars secured via decorative nuts through the backplate, verge escapement regulated by sprung three-arm balance and engraved standing barrel for the countwheel hour striking mechanism incorporating decorative floral trail engraved gate and sounding via grotesque mask decorated hammer on a bell mounted beneath the movement, the backplate with fine single-footed flowering tulip pierced and engraved balance cock beside rose engraved countwheel, conforming cocked mainspring barrel ratchet with sculpted steel spring and engraved inscription J G, Wilna within an oblong cartouche, the square engraved gilt brass dial decorated with cupid seated beside a cage containing lovebirds and with sculpted steel hand to centre, within applied pewter Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers and cast silver coloured metal winged cherub head spandrels to angles, the movement and dial fitting into the case from above and secured by three foliate pierced lugs screwed to the backplate, the exterior with hatched-scroll engraved dial surround over complex top mouldings and lozenge-shaped side windows with applied raised surrounds flanked by stylised female terms to angles, the base with conforming lower mouldings and hinged bottom panel incorporating the bell secured by a sculpted steel strap, on four winged mask and paw cast feet, 11.5cm (4.5ins) wide; 8.2cm (3.25ins) high. Although signed for a maker based in Vilnius, Lithuania the current clock is distinctly Germanic in both its overall form and detailing. This is not unusual as many mid 17th century clocks bearing signatures of makers residing in various important city-states throughout central eastern Europe share similar strong Germanic traits. From this it would be reasonable to suggest that such clocks were either bought-in from makers based in Southern Germany (mainly Augsburg or Nuremburg) or were made locally closely copying German practice. The current lot is notable in that it appears to have survived in good original condition with the only significant alteration being the provision of a sprung balance to improve timekeeping. The movement is well finished with an abundance of engraved details (which even extends to the three lugs for securing the movement into the case screwed into the backplate). The steelwork is also particularly fine with detents and springs finely sculpted with complex mouldings and scroll terminals.
Lot 66
A brass and silver limited edition skeleton timepiece 'The Money Clock A brass and silver limited edition skeleton timepiece 'The Money Clock' Thwaites and Reed Limited, 1979 The eight-day movement with platform lever escapement and passing strike sounding on a bell mounted above the plates shaped as the symbol for GBP Sterling united by five cylindrical double-screwed pillars, the front with silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with fleur-de-lys half hour markers and scalloped outer edge beneath stamped edition number NO.113 , mounted on circular wooden base inset with an 500 gram ingot of 999 standard silver bullion issued by JOHNSON MATTHEY, LONDON and numbered HK 10357 , the clock 16.5cm (6.5ins) high; with authentication certificate and glass dome cover, 20.5cm (8ins) high overall.
Lot 171
A fine George III mahogany quarter chiming eight-day longcase clock Ellicott A fine George III mahogany quarter chiming eight-day longcase clock Ellicott, London, circa 1770 The six pillar triple train movement with deadbeat escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, chiming the quarters on a graduated nest of eight bells and striking the hour on a single larger bell, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with subsidiary seconds dial and calendar aperture to the finely matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed Ellicott, London to lower margin, with fine pierced blued steel hands and rococo cast spandrels to angles beneath subsidiary STRIKE/SILENT selection dial flanked by conforming mounts to arch, in a mahogany break-arch case with cavetto cornice and plain frieze over brass stop fluted columns flanking the glazed dial aperture, the sides with break-arch windows and quarter columns applied to bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with shaped-top caddy moulded flame figured door flanked by brass stop-fluted quarter columns over raised panel fronted plinth base with further conforming quarter columns to angles and applied moulded double skirt incorporating squat bracket feet with shaped apron between, 231cm (91ins) high. John Ellicott F.R.S. is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as born 1706 to John Ellicott senior, a Cornish clockmaker who had gained his Freedom of the Clockmakers' Company in 1696 and died 1733. John junior worked from Swithin's Alley, Royal Exchange, London and was elected member of the Royal Society in 1738. He published works on horology in 1739 and 1753 and is particularly noted for the development of the cylinder escapement and a form of compensated pendulum; he also maintained a private observatory at his home in Hackney. John Ellicott was later appointed as Clockmaker to George III, and took his son, Edward into partnership in 1760 which lasted until his death in 1772.
Lot 63
A rhodium plated Atmos timepiece LeCoultre, Switzerland A rhodium plated Atmos timepiece LeCoultre, Switzerland, circa 1952 The fifteen jewel 519 calibre single train movement wound via the expansion and contraction of an aneroid chamber mounted to the rear of the mechanism and regulated by torsion escapement with rotating balance suspended beneath, signed LECOULTRE, SWITZERLAND to frontplate and numbered 34207 to suspension platform, the dial with rhodium plated baton numeral chapter ring applied with Arabic quarters the rectangular five glass ¾ll jar' type case with canted angles, on plinth base with adjustable feet and incorporating bubble level to inside surface, 23.5cm (9.25ins) high.
Lot 143
A William III walnut and Arabesque marquetry eight-day longcase clock Joseph... A William III walnut and Arabesque marquetry eight-day longcase clock Joseph Windmills, London, circa 1700 The five finned and latched pillar inside countwheel bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum and external countwheel locking detent passing through an aperture in the backplate, the 11 inch square brass dial with subsidiary seconds dial, ringed winding holes and calendar aperture to the rose decorared matted centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with stylised fleur-de-lys half hour markers, Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed J: Windmills, London to lower edge, with pierced steel hands and winged cherub and foliate scroll cast spandrels to angles with foliate engraved infill to margins between, in a case with architectural cornice and plain frieze over hood door incorporating foliate scroll marquetry surround flanked by three-quarter columns to front angles, the sides with rectangular windows, the trunk with concave throat moulding over 42 inch door veneered with intense symmetrical foliate strapwork marquetry around a central lentical within parquetry banded outer border, the surround further decorated with scrolling foliage, the sides veneered in walnut each divided into three vertical panels with ebony and box triple line borders and crossbanding, on conforming symmetrical marquetry fronted plinth base with scroll border and later skirt base (hood rebuilt) 214cm (7ft) high. The life and work of Joseph Windmills and his successors is comprehensively documented in Neale, J.A. Joseph and Thomas Windmills Clock and Watch Makers 1671-1737. Joseph joined the Clockmakers' Company as a free Brother in on 29th September 1671 - the same year that Joseph Knibb, Daniel Quare and Thomas Tompion also gained their freedom of the Company. He initially worked from Blow Bladder Street in St. Martins le Grand, London before moving to premises at Swan Court, Mark Lane End, next Tower Street by April 1674 where the business remained. Joseph took his son, Thomas, as an apprentice who, after gaining his freedom in 1696, is thought to have immediately gone into business with his father; by 1700 the firm had become a partnership which lasted until Joseph's death in 1724. As a contemporary of Knibb, Quare and Tompion, Joseph Windmills would have had to compete with some of the finest clockmakers that have ever lived during a period of heightened scientific enlightenment. In this environment Windmills excelled, producing clocks of a quality that equalled many of his more famous peers. The dial of the current lot is typical of Windmills at this period with the winding holes, calendar aperture and centre of the seconds dial having ring-turned decoration although the rose to the centre is an embellishment not often used by Windmills. The case can be directly compared to two examples illustrated in Neale A. J. Joseph and Thomas Windmills, Clock and Watch Makers 1671-1737 colour plate IX and on page 129 (Figure 510); both of these exhibit exactly the same cut of marquetry as the current lot.
Lot 107
A Fine German Renaissance gilt brass and iron hexagonal table clock Stamped... A Fine German Renaissance gilt brass and iron hexagonal table clock Stamped with initials M L , mid to late 16th century The posted twin fusee movement with pinned iron-capped brass spring barrels concealed between two horizontal plates in the base beneath posted frame with four fine slender double baluster turned uprights, the going train now with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum swinging to the rear, the strike train set behind the going train incorporating twin-arbor warned release and sounding the hours via a vertically pivoted hammer on a bell mounted on top of the clock, the exterior with moulded cornice and geometric panel decorated frieze over twenty-four hour dial with stylised bird and fruiting foliage engraved centre within punch-stamped Arabic numeral chapter ring with touch pieces to the moulded outer margin, set over a shaped scribed panel enclosing further scrolling foliate and centred with a winding square, the sides with twin panel doors engraved with standing figures of Adam and Eve to the right and a pair of allegorical females to the left, the angles with conforming vertical geometric bands and the rear engraved after Hans Sebald Beham with Christ standing on a globe and holding the standard of the crucifixion beneath dove emblematic of the Holy Spirit, the lower margin with small panel decorated with a reclining female, the plinth base with complex moulded dado over foliate engraved panels centred with roundels featuring four profile busts to the sides and indistinct armorial crest to the front incorporating the stamped initials M L , on conforming moulded skirt incorporating leaf engraved ogee moulded foot, (alarm mechanism removed), 22cm (8.625ins) high. Provenance: The beneficiaries of the Estate of an Italian connoisseur collector of horological artefacts and works of art. The current lot can be compared to an example illustrated in Tardy LA PENDULE FRANCAIS, 3'me Partie: Provinces et Etranger on page 314. The hexagonal form echoes that of contemporary French examples however differs in the that trains are laid out with the strike behind the going rather than the usual French system of having one above the other. The use of iron for the wheelwork would indicate a date prior to 1580 although the inclusion of brass for the walls of the spring barrels would suggest that the clock was made closer to 1580 than 1550. The strike train also incorporates twin-arbor warning which although is known to have been in use by around 1480 (see Leopold, J. H. The Almanus Manuscript ) seems to have been rarely adopted until the introduction of the English lantern clock in its fully developed form in around 1600. The rear of the clock incorporates an engraved view of Christ standing on a globe holding the standard of crucifixion with a dove emblematic of the Holy Spirit above. Typically such decoration was often copied from a contemporary engraved source - in this case an engraving executed by Hans Sebald Beham in 1546. The panels to the sides of the case are probably also copied from similar sources however these have yet to be identified. The base also incorporates an armorial crest to the front panel, unfortunately wear and degradation to the surface now renders this crest indistinct however closer examination and specialist research may result in the family for whom the clock was made to be identified.
Lot 22
A rare Spanish brass portable equinoctial compass sundial Unsigned A rare Spanish brass portable equinoctial compass sundial Unsigned, dated 1622 The square case with recessed copper compass plate engraved with sixteen-point rose and retained by a square brass friction collar beneath fitted glass cover, the hinged open hour circle set within a pierced square frame engraved with hatched border decoration and pivoting against a folding brass arm locating into corresponding graduated slots calibrated for degrees of elevation to the side of the instrument, the hour ring engraved V-XII-VII and fitted with pivoted needle to centre, the inside of the lid engraved with table entitled Gra dosdelas ciudades infra escriptas giving the respective latitudes of thirty countries and cities including Acapulco. 17, Alexandria. 31, China 17. a. 48, Guatimala. 15, Iapon 31. a. 37, Madrid. 40, Mexico. 20 and Roma. 41 the exterior of the lid engraved with a cruciform motif within circular border and leafy spandrels, the front engraved with the text Yoxic. August. Iap and the left hand side dated Anno Dni 1622 beneath the elevation scale, the right hand side, rear and base decorated with engraved foliate designs, (compass plate a replacement, suspension post/ring lacking), 4.5cm (1.75ins) wide. The current lot is a rare form of Spanish dial which operates essentially in the same manner as other sundials designed with inclined chapter rings and pivoted pin gnomons such as German Augsburg pattern dials. A noteworthy detail which sets the current lot aside from related German models is the use of a pivoted stay engaging with graduated slots cut into the body of the instrument to set the elevation of the hour ring rather than a reading directly against a pivoted arm engraved with degrees for latitude.
Lot 65
A brass pedestal timepiece 'The Orrery Clock' The St A brass pedestal timepiece 'The Orrery Clock' The St. James's House Company, London, late 20th century The horizontal eight-day movement with tandem barrel drive and inverted platform lever escapement applied to the underside of the top plate set beneath silvered annular Roman numeral hour and subsidiary minutes ring, the superstructure modelled with an armillary sphere enclosing an orrery simulating the relative orbits of six planets around the sun against a meridian scale calibrated in degrees to interior and with the months of the year to exterior, the orrery motionwork contained between circular plates incorporating a shaped sub plate and driven by an external pinion arbor engaging with one of the barrel greatwheels of the timepiece movement beneath, the whole raised on a concave lacquered brass pedestal foot with turned wooden plinth, 44.5cm (17.5ins) high; with original instruction booklet and a glass dome cover, 46cm (18ins) high overall.
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