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Lot 13
WILHELM KAGE FOR GUSTAVSBERG - a Mid-Century Swedish green glaze ceramic Argenta vase, circa 1946, tapered cylindrical form with silver overlaid water dragon decoration, maker's stamps on base with model no. 978 II and date letter P, height 21cm Very good original condition, largest dragon has half of a body scale missing, vase is lightly crazed all over, most of the interior of vase is water stained, no obvious restoration, signatures on base are clear.
Lot 14
Two rare pilot's wrist mounted 'aero hypsometers' J.H. Steward Limited, London, circa 1915 Each with circular silvered dial inscribed J.H. STEWARD LTD, 406 STRAND, & 547 WEST STRAND, LONDON, AERO HYPSOMETER, COMPENSATED to centre and with blued steel pointer within adjustable outer concentric scale calibrated for altitude 0 to 10,000 feet divided into one-hundred foot intervals and sub annotated 2 to 8 for each thousand feet, in watch-type case with knurled scale adjustment crown at three o'clock and fitted with wire lugs for wrist straps, the first numbered 4842 and with red arrow marker to the inside of the glass, the second numbered 4789 and with domed plexiglass cover, each 5cm (2ins) diameter and with brown leather wrist straps, (2). The firm of J.H. Steward Limited is recorded on the Science Museum website as established in London by James Henry Steward in 1852 as opticians and scientific Instrument makers. J.H Steward became incorporated as J.H. Steward Limited on 1st February, 1913. The company produced a large range of items for military use and advertised in their catalogues that they produced instruments for 'Reconnoitring, Sketching, Night Marching, Signally, Gun Laying'. They were well thought of with their work to such a standard that they were opticians to 'The British & Foreign Governments, the National Rifle Associations of England, India, Canada & the Colonies and the National Artillery Association'. Technically a hypsometer is an instrument that allows altitude to be measured by ascertaining the exact temperature at which water boils. This utilises the principle that the boiling point lowers with lower air pressure. The present instruments however are essentially aneroid altimeters specifically designed for aeronautical use which have been described as 'Aero Hypsometers' by the maker, probably to differentiate them from other altimeters available at the time. The present lot were during the formative years of air flight and were often issued/used to pilots during WWI as well as airship crewmen. Both appear to retain old/original straps which are noticeable long suggesting that the instruments were strapped either around the wrist of a heavily padded flying jacket or even the thigh of a pilot. Condition Report: Instrument 1 (top left in image) responds to change in pressure (has been bag tested) hence appears to be in working condition. The dial has some light discolouration/mellowing to the silvering but appears undamaged. The glass has s small shallow internal chip at 4 o'clock. The case has some losses and flaking to the plated finish otherwise is in good original condition and the crown-operated adjustable bezel is operational. Instrument 2's hand is detached hence we cannot test for response to change in pressure. The dial has overall tarnished appearance and the glass is a replacement (now plexiglass). The crown-operated adjustable bezel is operational, the case is discoloured/worn but appears undamaged. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 148
A Regency ormolu and patinated bronze figural mantel timepieceUnsigned but probably by Baetens, London, circa 1825The circular four columnar pillar eight-day single chain fusee movement with anchor escapement regulated by a lenticular bob pendulum, the 3.5 inch circular white enamel Roman numeral dial with Arabic fifteen minutes to the outer minute track and steel moon hands within a gilt serpent scale milled bezel, the case with surmount cast as an eagle perched on a ball and ribbon-tied oak leaf crest draped over the apex of the drum housing the movement, cradled on honeysuckle decorated scroll supports applied to a relief floral garland decorated upstand flanked by a pair of figures each cast as recumbent Classical females reading a folio, the base applied with Satyr masks flanked by conforming floral swags, raised on engine-turned toupe feet, 32cm (30.5ins) high. Several models of this timepiece sharing the same castings, form and specification are known signed either by Joseph van Baetens, F.Baetens or just Beatens who were a family firm of bronziers who also produced timepieces. Working in a similar vain to the Vulliamy family they were based at 23 Gerard Street, Soho, and according to Baillie, G.H. (in Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World) were active around 1832. An identical timepiece was sold in these rooms on Tuesday 2nd October 2019 (lot 163) for £1,900 hammer.Condition Report: Movement is in working condition and appears all-original however a clean and overhaul is advised. There is a non-original pendulum with the clock which is lacking its suspension spring. The dial appears to be in fine condition however on close examination (particularly from an angle allowing light to reflect off the surface) very light surface cracks and undulations in the surface can be seen indicating that the enamel has been restored. The hands are in good condition. The case appears to be in fine original condition retaining original gilding with only light edge rubbing and patchy discolouration in places most noticeably around a join in the casting of the floral drape mount over the dial. There are also signs to the rear of the same of steady pins being soldered to each side at the 10 and 2 o'clock positions.Timepiece has a pendulum and winding key. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 151
A Victorian mahogany longcase regulator Signed for William Russell, Tunbridge Wells, mid 19th centuryThe eight-day four double-screwed pillar movement with thick plates measuring 8.25 by 6.75 inches enclosing wheel train with Harrisons maintaining power and deadbeat escapement incorporating jewelled pallets, regulated by mercury jar compensated seconds pendulum incorporating wide jaw suspension and hanging from an brass bracket screwed to the case backboard, the 12 inch circular silvered brass dial with subsidiary seconds over Roman numeral hour dials and signed William Ruffell, Tunbridge Wells to centre within outer Arabic minute track, with blued steel hands and canted silvered bezel to circumference, the arched case with pendulum hanging access flap to apex of the top over arch-glazed double-locked door enclosing fine foliate scroll carved and pierced apron beneath dial and silvered beat scale to the backboard, on plinth base centred with a recessed panel to front over moulded skirt, 193cm (74ins) high. William Russell of Tunbridge Wells appears not to be recorded in the usual sources listing clock and watch makers. From this it is most likely that William Russell was a jeweller and retailer of watches with the current lot being supplied by a London (Clerkenwell) maker and signed with his name as the 'shop regulator'.Condition Report: The movement appears complete and all original and is in working order although a precautionary clean and overhaul is advised. The pendulum is in good condition with faults limited to discolouration to the lacquered and polished surfaces. The dial has some surface rubbing and scuffing around the winding hole otherwise is in good original condition with minor tarnishing to the silvering in places. The brass cased weight is in good condition with only minor surface discolouration, the silvering to the beat scale is in similar condition. One of the movement securing screws to the seatboard is lacking it's large diameter washer.The case is in good original condition with faults limited to some relatively minor shrinkage and veneer cracking to the towards the rear of the right hand side of the arched-top and a very light crack to the left hand side around at dial height. The base front panel is loose but is undamaged (simply requires gluing back in place) faults to case otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs and wear commensurate with age as well as a few spots of what appear to be ink spots to the front at the case. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 154
A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock with rolling moonphase incorporating tidal indicationJohn Baker, Hull, circa 1780The four pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch brass break-arc h dial with 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 scroll-pierced blued steel hands and rococo cast spandrels to angles beneath arch with rolling moonphase signed IOHN BAKER HULL to upper margin and calibrated for age of the moon and high-water times to the circumference of the lunar disc over lunettes engraved with globe delineations flanking two adjustable blued steel pointers to centre, the case with gilt Ho-Ho bird centred oval fretwork panel to the pagoda upstand over hinged glazed dial aperture flanked by free-standing Corinthian columns, the trunk with rectangular flame-figured door with concave-cut upper angles and flanked by fluted canted angles, on figured plinth base with ogee bracket feet, 228cm (89ins) high. John Baker is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World, Volume 2 as believed working in Hull, during the late 18th century. The current lot is perhaps a little unusual in having two steel pointers within the moonphase; the first is intended for the age of the moon whilst the other can be adjusted to provide the times of high water for a given port to be read from the scale engraved to the edge of the disc. Condition Report: Movement appears to be all-original and in relatively clean working condition although a precautionary clean and overhaul is advised. The dial has some patchy discolouration to brass plate -most noticeably to the centre, otherwise is in good condition and free from alterations or noticeable faults except for a well executed patch repair to the rear of the lunar disc (probably to stabilise a casting crack).The movement rests on an old seatboard which in turn rests on uprights (cheeks) which continue down to the throat area where they terminate and are fixed with screws to the inside of the trunk sides. The fact that these 'cheek' uprights are not integral to the sides of the trunk indicate that we cannot offer any assurances that the current movement and dial are original to the case. However the mask applied to the inside of the hood appears unaltered and fits the dial perfectly which would support the possibility that all started life together. Indeed the case would seem to be a provincial interpretation of the 'London pagoda' case hence is of correct type for the movement and dial.Generally the case is in fine condition with faults limited to some shrinkage cracking to the trunk door and base fascia. For some unknown reason the backboard has been cut just above the rear of the seatboard and then re-attached via batons applied behind (probably to ease transport at some time). The colour of the door appears a little lighter than the rest of the case but this could no doubt be addressed by a good cabinet maker/surface finisher.Clock is complete with pendulum, weights, case key and winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 16
A collection of pocket sighting compasses, inclinometers and other related instrumentsVarious makers, late 19th century and laterComprising a French compass with silvered two-piece dial divided for every degree to circumference set within a folding square mahogany case, 8.5cm (3,375ins) wide; an unsigned oxidised brass surveyor's compass with floating silvered scale divided into half degree increments to outer track beneath hinged prism magnifier and pivoted filters opposing crosshair sight backed by a hinged mirror, with circular snap-on cover, 7.5cm (3ins) diameter; five various military issue sighting compasses, 6cm (2.375cm) wide and smaller including one in a leather pouch-type case; a circular oxidised brass perpendicular sight stamped STANLEY, LONDON 5.1cm (2ins) diameter, in red leather case similarly signed to interior, and a circular oxidised brass WATKIN MIRROR CLINOMETER by J. HICKS,MAKER, 8 HATTON GARDEN, LONDON further inscribed REG 14 MAR 1881, 7cm (2.75ins) diameter, in leather case, together with five assorted pocket compasses and a brass folding map magnification lens stamped CASARTELLI, MANCHESTER, (15).
Lot 162
A George III mahogany eight-day longcase clock with moonphase Thomas Willshire, Bristol, circa 1780The four pillar rack striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch brass break-arch dial with recessed subsidiary seconds dial and calendar aperture to the matted centre decorated with bright-cut insects and floral motifs within applied Roman numeral chapter ring with Arabic five minutes to outer track and signed Tho's Willshire, Bris=tol to lower margin, with scroll pierced steel hands and gilt twin bird and urn cast spandrels to angles beneath arch with rolling moonphase incorporating arched silvered scale for the lunar month and HIGH WATER AT BRISTOL KEY to the upper margin over landscape engraved lunettes beneath, the case with moulded dentil break-arch cornice and conforming veneered frieze over wavy-edged hinged glazed dial aperture flanked by free-standing spiral twist turned Corinthian hood columns with gilt caps and bases, the sides with shaped side windows and scroll-outline bargeboards at the rear, the trunk with elaborately shaped flame figured caddy moulded door flanked by Corinthian quarter columns with gilt caps and bases, on conforming raised panel fronted plinth base with ogee bracket feet, 225cm (88.5ins) high. Thomas Willshire is recorded in Moore, A.J. THE CLOCKMAKERS OF BRISTOL 1650-1900 as being in business with Henry Link until 1777 when the partnership was dissolved and took apprentice, William Alexander, in 1785.The current lot is an archetypical example of the fully developed Bristol style of longcase clock made during the last quarter of the 18th century. Such clocks were made with wealthy Bristol merchants in mind with the moonphase being annotated with high-water times in order to assist ship-owners with the scheduling of arrivals and departures through the Bristol Channel which is essentially unpassable during low tide. Condition Report: Movement is very dirty/neglected hence will require a full overhaul before putting to use. The strike train has been converted to sound on a gong mounted on the case backboard (would have originally sounded on a bell) reconversion back to bell strike would not prove problematic to a skilled clock restorer. The escapewheel and pallets are service replacements and there is some variance in the collet shapes to the strike train suggesting that some re-pinioning may have taken place at some point otherwise movement appears fundamentally original and is in sound condition. The dial is complete and fundamentally original with the probable exception of the hands but is in very dirty/neglected condition. The movement rests on an old seatboard onto uprights of the case which show evidence of adjustment to their levels. The right hand side has a packing piece approx. 8mm thick whilst the right hand side is cut at the correct level. Due to the clock having evidence of adjustment to the levels of the 'cheeks' we cannot provide any assurance that the movement and dial are original to the case however the case is a 'textbook' example for this type of movement.The case would have originally had a swan neck pediment and box superstructure above the current break-arch top which have been removed. The frieze would have also had fretwork which also appears to have been replaced by plain veneer. Case otherwise is in sound unrestored condition with faults limited to some shrinkage, bumps, scuffs and other faults commensurate with age.Clock has pendulum, weights, winder but no case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 164
A George III brass mounted mahogany table clockThe dial signed for John Chance, Chepstow, circa 1800The five pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with half deadbeat escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum, with trip-hour repeat and geometric border engraved backplate, the 8 inch single-sheet silvered brass Roman numeral break-arch dial with subsidiary calendar dial and inscribed Joh'n Chance, Chepstow to centre, with delicate pierced blued steel hands and subsidiary STRIKE/SILENT selection dial to arch, the break-arch case with hinged brass carrying handle to the single brass-edged pad to top over conforming brass fillet inset glazed aperture to front door and rectangular brass fish scale sound frets to sides, the rear with break-arch glazed door set within the frame of the case, on cavetto moulded skirt base with brass ogee bracket feet, 43cm (17ins) high excluding handle. The dial of the current lot is inscribed for John Chance who is recorded in Loomes, Brian Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World, Volume 2 as working in Chepstow circa 1760-91.Condition Report: The movement appears essentially complete and original and is in relatively clean condition however the centre-wheel arbor is broken (snapped) at the pinion end hence will require a new centre arbor with pinion to be made before clock will run. The strike train is operational. The dial is a little dull/tarnished in appearance otherwise appears free from noticeable faults. The movement and dial appears original to the case and the case is in fine condition and of good colour exhibiting minor shrinkage to mouldings and veneers, and light historic bumps, scuffs and other minor blemishes commensurate with age.Clock has winder and a case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 17
Four automobile aneroid barometers/altimeters, an anti-submarine patrol timer and a ship's trim spirit level Various makers, first half of the 20th centuryThe barometers comprising two similar white on black dialled models each with concentric scale calibrated in barometric inches within adjustable outer altimeter scale, the first calibrated 0-10,000 feet and signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON, 18866 to centre, the second unsigned and calibrated 0-6,000 feet; the third larger with silvered scale incorporating adjustable 0-10,000 altimeter scale and inscribed S. SMITH & SONS LONDON to centre and the fourth signed for G. VIALLET, MARSEILLE and calibrated for centimetres of mercury within altimeter scale divided 0-24, 9cm (3.5ins) diameter; the timer of WWII British Royal Navy issue, Admiralty Pattern No6 ASDIC Anti Submarine Patrol Stopwatch, inscribed WALTHAM, U.S.A., ADMIRALTY PATTERN No. 6 to centre within concentric scales marked in both yards and seconds for indicating half the speed of sound in seawater in seconds, with winding and start/stop/reset function to crown and engraved PATT. 6 over large MOD broad arrow and designation U11782 to rear, 57mm (2.25ins) diameter, the ship's trim spirit level with curved tube set within circular ceramic scale calibrated for degrees of list over Royal Navy crown insignia, mounted with heavy glazed phosphor bronze bezel onto a wooden back panel, diameter 13cm (5ins), (6).
Lot 177
A George I/II burr walnut eight-day longcase clock with moonphaseUnsigned, probably West Country, second quarter of the 18th centuryThe four finned 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 leafy border engraved calendar aperture 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, with pierced blued steel hands and crested mask centred foliate scroll cast spandrels to angles, the arch with rolling moonphase incorporating herring border and silvered scale calibrated for the lunar month to upper margin over landscape opposing armillary engraved lunettes beneath, the case with ogee cornice and blind fretwork decorated upper quadrants over break-arch glazed door flanked by integral three-quarter columns with gilt brass caps and bases, the sides with rectangular windows, the trunk with shaped arch top quarter veneered caddy moulded door with chevron strung crossbanded, on conforming truncated plinth base with ogee top moulding and moulded double skirt, 211cm (83ins) high. Provenance: Bears an old label inscribed in ink "This clock was the property of Hannah Moore of 'Cowslip Green' Wrington, Somerset, & was purchased at a sale of her furniture, supposed date of clock, 1700."Hannah Moore was a prolific poet, playwright and writer on religion and morality. Born in Stapleton, South Gloucestershire in 1745 she was the daughter of a schoolmaster who after breaking-off her six year engagement to William Turner after he kept postponing the wedding in 1773 focussed on her writing. Her poetry gained the acclaim David Garrick and Dr. Samuel Johnson proclaimed her the most powerful of English women poets after reading her work 'Bas Bleu' (Blue Stocking) in 1784. Latterly she turned towards writing moral treatises criticising fashionable society for its selfishness and immorality as well as becoming a strong voice in the anti-slavery movement exemplified by her 1788 poem 'Slavery'. By 1785 she had moved, along with her sister Martha to thatched cottage at Cowslip Green, Wrington, North Somerset before moving again to a nearby larger house in 1801. When Hannah Moore died in 1833 she left the bulk of her estate of £27,500 (equivalent to about £2m today) to various religious and medical causes.Condition Report: Movement is basically complete and appears all-original with the exception of the escapewheel and pallets which appear to be old service replacements. A spare hole to the upper front edge of the frontplate suggests that the bellstand was once fitted to the frontplate rather than the backplate. The mechanism is generally in dirty/neglected condition hence will require a clean and overhaul prior putting to use. The upper left hand corner of the frontplate (viewed from the rear) has a break across the corner around what appears to be a disused dial foot hole, it is most likely that this was done during the fitting of the dial with the maker choosing to fit the dial foot a little lower down rather than effect what would be an unsound repair.The dial is somewhat dirty/discoloured with some patchy discolouration and light wear to the finishes otherwise is in sound original condition.The movement retains on what appears to be its original seatboard (albeit with strengthening repairs to underside) which rests on the original uprights (cheeks) of the case with no evidence of alteration or other movement being fitted hence it is our opinion that the movement and dial are original to the case.The case is generally in sound condition with the only major fault being the base which has lost perhaps around 4-5 inches in height out of the box. The hood is lacking its rear quarter column from the right hand side, the corresponding column to the left side is also missing along with its 'bargeboard' strip behind. The trunk has slight bowing to the sides as well and a slight warping to the door but not to extent where it is unsightly or problematic with regards to fit and closing. The finish to the case is somewhat muddy hence would benefit from the attention of a cabinet maker/finisher. Faults are otherwise limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage etc. commensurate with age and use.Clock has pendulum, weights, case key and winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 18
A group of five gilt brass aneroid pocket barometers Various makers, late 19th and early 20th century Each with circular silvered register incorporating rotating outer scale calibrated for altitude in feet divided into fiftieths and the inner scale calibrated for barometric inches, the first signed Husbands, Optician, BRISTOL; the second Kelvin & James White Ltd., GLASGOW; the third NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON, 9355; and the fourth inscribed Hutchinson's Improved Surveying Aneroid..., each in gilt pocket watch type case with altimeter scale adjustment either by manual rotation of the bezel or via a knurled crown within the suspension ring, diameters 5cm (2ins) and smaller, all with leather covered outer cases, together with an unusual silver cased miniature aneroid pocket barometer the engine-turned register numbered 1196 to centre with fixed inner scale annotated 10-40 divided into single increments within 50-110 outer scale divided into half increments and signed KROHNE & SESEMANN, PATENT, LONDON to lower edge, in silver pocket watch type case with suspension loop, (unmarked), 2.8cm (1.125ins) diameter, in velvet lined outer case, (6). Condition Report: All barometers appear to be in working order (have been bag tested) and are generally in sound/good original condition with some slight mellowing to the silvered dials and light wear/discolouration to the gilding only. The only exception being top centre right in the image (Negretti and Zambra retailed by J. Lizars) which has significant wear and discolouration to gilding. The cases are generally intact but are worn with some missing clasps etc. The thermometer appears to be in good original condition and providing correct temperature. The dial has some light patchy tarnishing only. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 180
A George III brass mounted mahogany quarter-chiming table clock with concentric calendarThe dial signed for James Tregent, London, circa 1775The six pillar triple fusee movement with verge escapement regulated by short bob pendulum, chiming the quarters on a graduated nest of eight-bells and sounding the hours on a further larger bell, the backplate engraved with rococo scrolls around an oval cartouche centred with a rosette beneath a basket of flowers, 8 inch brass break-arch dial inscribed James Tregent, London concentric calendar scale to the silvered centre within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring, with pierced blued steel hands and rococo scroll cast spandrels to angles beneath subsidiary STRIKE/SILENT selection dial flanked by conforming mounts to arch, the bell-top case with hinged brass carrying handle and pineapple finials to superstructure over cavetto top mouldings and raised border moulded break-arch glazed front door incorporating scroll cast brass upper quadrant frets and repeating rosette cast brass mounts to angles, the sides with circular over concave-topped glazed apertures and the rear with break-arch glazed rectangular door set within the frame of the case, on cavetto moulded skirt base with cast brass ogee bracket feet, 51cm (20ins) high. James Tregent is recorded in Britten, F.J.Old Clocks and Watches & Their Makers as a famous maker who worked in London from 35 Strand in 1775 and then at 29 Cranborne Street, Leicester Square by 1780. He was appointed an honorary fellow of the Clockmaker's Company in 1781 and became watchmaker to the Prince of Wales. Tregent and was intimate with Garrick, Sheridan and other notabilities of the theatre, Kelly refers to him as 'Mr. Tregent the celebrated French watch maker' and relates how Sheridan by attributing his proverbial unpunctuality to the lack of a timepiece obtained from Harris, proprietor of Covent Garden Theatre, a watch of Tregent's make. The Duke of Sussex paid him £400 for a repeater and alarm travelling watch; a bracket clock by him was in the in the Wetherfield collection, and another with Battersea enamel dial (possibly made by his brother the enameller Anthony Tregent) was in the Schreiber collection.Condition Report: Movement appears to be complete and essentially all-original with no obvious evidence of alteration or significant replacements. The verge escapement appears to be the original configuration and there is no evidence in the plate to suggest an earlier conversion to anchor. The movement is in working condition however a precautionary service is advised. The dial is in good condition with visible faults limited to repaired minute hand and slight overall mellowing/tarnishing to the silvered areas. The fact that only the dial is signed for James Tregent suggests that the current clock was supplied by another maker for retail by him rather than being made in his own workshops.The movement and dial appears original to the case and the case is in fine condition and of good colour exhibiting minor shrinkage to mouldings and veneers, and light historic bumps, scuffs and other minor blemishes commensurate with age. The mounts are a little rubbed/discoloured in places.Clock is complete with winder and case key. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 19
A French aneroid Holosteric barometer with thermometerRetailed by Ducatillon, Paris, circa 1860The 4.75 inch circular silvered register with open centre revealing the aneroid mechanism with arched upper scale calibrated in millimetres and with weather observations in French to outer track, inscribed BAROMETRE, HOLOSTERIQUE incorporating HPBN circular trademark for Naudet, Hulot et Cie, the lower section with curved mercury tube THERMOMETRE CENTIGRADE and inscribed DUCATILLON OPTN 29. BD DES CAPUCINES PARIS to lower edge, set behind circular glass fitted with a brass recording pointer into a moulded brass case with repeat trade stamp to rear and suspension ring to top, diameter 13.5cm (5.125ins); with an ebonised and faux marble cradle stand, (some damage) 21.5cm (8.5ins) high including the barometer. Naudet Hulot et Cie capitalised on the expiration of Vidies patent rights for the aneroid barometer in 1859 by putting into production their Holisterique (solid) barometer of which several thousand were made up until 1866.Condition Report: Instrument is in sound original working condition with some discolouration/tarnishing to the silvering of the scale. The thermometer is intact and in working order. The brass case is discoloured/tarnished (mainly to upper surfaces) otherwise is undamaged. The stand has losses and faults to the applied decoration to the front otherwise is in sound condition.Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 20
A collection of aneroid barometers and in varying states of repairVarious makers, late 19th and early 20th centuryComprising two gilt brass cased pocket barometers signed Negretti & Zambra, LONDON numbers 2371 and 5378; a similar silver-cased pocket barometer with altimeter scale, unsigned, marked for London 1893 makers JS&S; a French nickel finish combination barometer with altimeter, thermometer and compass, unsigned; a brass barometer with altimeter scale inscribed TAMAYA & CO., TOKYO, 821; an oxidised brass surveyor's barometer with altimeter scale signed F. Darton & Co., London; a silver plated desk barometer signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON, 10131; an unusual brass aneroid WEATHER INDICATOR with external lever for calibration and annotated for winter weather conditions, diameters 13.5cm (5.25ins) and smaller, together with a rare brass desk weather forecaster signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON with circular scale incorporating adjustments for DIRECTION OF WIND and barometric pressure providing response in the form of a letter key over slot for the corresponding forecast adjusted via knurled knob to the side, 14cm (5.5ins) high, and an unusual gilt brass pocket hygrometer also by NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON with paper scale in pocket-watch type case, diameter 3cm (1.375ins), (10). The Negretti & Zambra weather forecaster in the current lot is based upon their design patented in 1915 which was developed using actual weather conditions over a ten year period. By setting the wind direction and lining up the central disc for the current barometer reading, a key in the form of a letter appearing within the appropriate aperture in the centre of the disc (which takes into account whether the pressure has been rising, falling or remaining steady) can be obtained. This key can then be translated into a 'forecast' by lining up the letter in adjustable the slot below.
Lot 21
An oak cased barograph with thermometer G. Lee and Son, Portsmouth, early 20th century The mechanism with seven segment aneroid chamber connected via a lacquered brass armature to an inked pointer for recording the change in barometric pressure on a clockwork-driven rotating paper scale lined drum, the brass baseplate also applied with mercury tube Fahrenheit and Centigrade silvered scale thermometer and with ivorine trade label inscribed G. LEE & SON, THE HARD, PORTSMOUTH, the case with five panel bevel-glazed cover above ogee moulded base incorporating apron drawer containing some spare charts over simple squab feet, 38cm (15ins) wide. George Lee and Son and recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as 'Instrument-makers to the Honourable Corporation of Trinity House and the Admiralty' working from Ordnance Row, Portsea and 3 Palmerston Road, Southsea, Portsmouth circa 1880-1900.Condition Report: Clock movement is in working condition, the aneroid mechanism appears to be in good condition and is providing an appropriate reading so also appears to be in working order. The instrument retains original lacquer finish to the brass work which has some relatively light degradation and discolouration. The thermometer is intact and working with only light tarnishing to the silvered scale. The ink bottle is present; there is a small ink stain to the base of the case but this is concealed by the frame of the cover so cannot be seen with the cover in place. Extenally the case is in good original condition with no visible damage to the glass and good tight joints to the cover. The finish appears untouched with hence would benefit from a polish however is free for any visible problematic damage. The chart drawer contains a small quantity of spare charts.Instrument has integral winder for the clockwork mechanism. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 22
A French Bourdon pattern carved ebonised aneroid wheel barometerJules Richard, Paris, Late 19th centuryWith visible gilded mechanism incorporating curved Bourdon tube connected to pivoted rack driving a pinion to the arbor of the pointer, the mechanism back panel stamped with circular JR monogram trademark over Brevette, within shaped silvered surround fronted with glass printed with scale in barometric inches from 28 to 31 divided into tenths and with the usual observations, the banjo-shaped case inset with glazed mercury tube FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE enamel scale thermometer to upright with fine foliate scroll relief carved decoration applied to shaped moulded platforms to crest, waist and base, 79cm (31ins) high. The maker of the mechanism of the current lot, Jules Richard, was the son of Felix Richard who worked in partnership with Bourdon. Jules Richard was born in 1848 and trained under his father before working with other scientific instrument and clock manufacturers. However he later diversified in the manufacturing of telegraph equipment and worked closely with the French scientist EJ Marey on electrical and photographic recording techniques during the 1870's. Following the death of his father in 1876, Jules inherited the family business and in 1882, he formed a partnership with his brother Max under the name of Richard Freres. This partnership was dissolved in 1891 but the company maintained its partnership name with Jules taking sole control of the business until 1921 when it was listed as a public company. The 'JR' makers stamp to the current lot would date it between 1876 when Jules took over the business and 1882, when the Richard Freres partnership began.; later movements were stamped 'RF' The inventor of the mechanism, Eugene Bourdon (1808-1884) was an early competitor to Lucien Vidie (inventor of the bellows movement) registering his crescent shaped mechanism design in 1849; it was originally produced under licence with Felix Richard (Bourdon & Richard), and continued to be produced by his successors. Bourdon's designs for both barometers and pressure gauges were met with approval at The Great Exhibition in 1851 winning him a council medal alongside his competitor Vidie. Bourdon's mechanisms however were slightly more fragile than Vidie's and although they continued to be produced until the turn of the century, they were less well received.
Lot 23
An unusual mercury stick barometer with isothermal altitude scaleShort and Mason Limited, London, first half of the 20th centuryThe oak wall panel applied with cast-iron cistern and tube complete with Bunten air trap against twin silvered scales, the left annotated for ISOTHERMAL ALTITUDE FEET from -1000 to 0 to 24,000 and the right for INCHES from 12 to 32 and divided into twentieths, the right hand margin signed SHORT & MASON, LONDON and the top edge inscribed No. E.7641, (lacking mercury), the back panel 94cm (37ins) high. The firm of Short and Mason are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as operating from 62 Hatton Garden, London 1873-75 then 40 Hatton Garden from 1876. They were leading makers of barographs and aneroid barometers well into the 20th century later merging with Taylor Instruments in 1969.It would appear that the lot is designed to demonstrate the non-linear relationship with regards to variance in air pressure versus altitude. The labelling of the altitude scale with the term 'isothermal' indicates that the scale is has no form of temperature compensation, in other words the altitude reading would only prove accurate if temperature remains the same.
Lot 26
Y A Victorian rosewood mercury marine stick barometerCasella, London, circa 1860With suspension ring to top over arched bevel-glazed canted double ivory Vernier scales calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the upper margin signed Casella, MAKER TO THE ADMIRALTY, LONDON and the arch inscribed James Furnell, the trunk with ivory button keys for the Vernier setting squares above applied arch-glazed mercury FAHRENHEIT and REAUMUR scale thermometer, the base with stepped moulded brass cylindrical enclosed cistern (lacking gimbals), 97cm (38ins) high. The firm of Casella is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as being established by Louis Casella in 1838 when he went into partnership with his father-in-law Caesar Tagliabue initially trading as Tagliabue & Casella from 23 Hatton Garden, London. His successor, Louis Pascal Casella worked from 1858 and expanded the business resulting in Casella becoming one of the largest makers of barometers and other instruments in England who were still trading well into the 20th century. The name 'James Furnell' inscribed above the maker's signature is probably that of the first owner of the barometer.Condition Report: Barometer contains mercury however the contents appear not to respond to tilting hence there is either a substantial air lock or a problem with the cistern (although there is no evidence of leakage). The scales are in good condition with both Vernier slide adjustments working. The thermometer is in good condition with only minor discolouration to the scale, the lower rail of the moulded surround is missing a small length of moulding. The case is generally in good original unrestored condition as a consequence the cistern casing is tarnished/discoloured in appearance. As catalogued the barometer does not have its gimbal mounts. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 27
A George III mahogany mercury stick barometerPedraglio, London, circa 1810With open triangular pediment above line-edged glazed door enclosing rectangular silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations to the right opposing Fahrenheit scale spirit thermometer to the left, the upper margin signed Pedraglio Fecit, the moulded-edge trunk with visible tube flanked by figured mahogany veneers within line border over rounded base with hemispherical cistern cover inlaid with a concentric chevron parquetry band, 95cm (37.5ins) high.An M. Pedraglio is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working in London circa 1810-30.Condition Report: Instrument is filled with mercury and providing reasonable reading with no apparent airlocks. The thermometer is intact and operational. Silvering to the scale has very light rubbing/discolouration to Vernier slide otherwise is in fine condition. Case is in good condition but has fairly glassy finish which has light but noticeable surface scuffs to the shellac in places. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 32
Y A fine Regency mahogany bowfronted cistern tube mercury stick barometer Dollond, London, early 19th century With swan-neck pediment and cavetto cornice above bow-glazed silvered vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations beneath signature Dollond, LONDON to upper margin, the bowed trunk with bone vernier adjustment key to throat and ebony line inlaid edges, the shaped base with ebonised half vase turned cistern cover flanked by canted angles decorated with ebony line infill, the cavetto moulded underside with level adjustment square, 100cm high excluding finial. Peter Dollond is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1680-1860 as born 1730 and died 1820. He was the son of John Dollond, a Huguenot silk weaver and started business as an optician in 1750. He was joined by his father in 1752 until his death in 1761, and then by his brother, John, until his death in 1804. The family businesss was continued by Peter Dollond's nephew, George Huggins, who changed his surname to Dollond. George Dollond became instrument maker to William IV and Queen Victoria, exhibited at the Great Exhibition in 1851 and died 1856. Condition Report: Tube is filled with mercury and will rise almost all the way to the top of then tube when tilted suggesting that there is only a very small amount of air in the system. The scales are in fine condition and the Vernier slide mechanism is operational. The case is fairly heavily faded but otherwise is free from significant faults. The level adjustment screw to the underside is missing around three-quarters of it ivory disc.Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 33
A Regency mahogany mercury stick barometerWilliam Harris and Company, London, early 19th centuryWith arched glazed door enclosing silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations to the right opposing Fahrenheit scale mercury thermometer to the left, the upper right signed W. Harris & Co., 50 Holborn, LONDON, the moulded-edge trunk with visible tube flanked by mahogany veneers with grain set at forty-five degree angles over rounded base with hemispherical cistern cover with moulded band to waist and level adjustment screw to underside, 97cm (38ins) high. Many makers with the surname Harris have worked in the London instrument trade since the middle of the 17th century, however this branch of the family can be traced back to Richard Harris who is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as working from several addresses in London circa 1710-1810. His son, William, was apprenticed to the clockmaker Joseph Robinson and gained his freedom of the Clockmakers Company in 1796. William set up business first at 47 High Holborn, London in 1805 before moving to a couple of doors down to number 50 in 1815. The business became William Harris & Company in around 1813 before being renamed William Harris & Son in 1841 when William Harris is believed to have taken in his son, Richard Joshua, into partnership. The business is recorded working from 50 High Holborn until around 1855.
Lot 34
Y A Victorian rosewood mercury stick barometerG. Braham, Bath, circa 1850The arch-glazed canted double ivory Vernier scales calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the lower margins annotated 10 A.M YESTERDAY and 10 A.M. TODAY and the arch signed G. BRAHAM, Bath, the trunk with ivory button keys for the Vernier setting squares above applied arch-glazed mercury FAHRENHEIT and REAUMUR scale thermometer, the base of circular outline applied with mounded cistern cover and with level adjustment square to underside, 93cm (36.25ins) high. A G. Braham of Bath appears not to be recorded however John Braham is listed in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from several addresses in Bristol, Bath, Torquay and Cheltenham circa 1830-56 including 8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath in 1833 and 5 York Buildings in 1837.Condition Report: Instrument is filled with mercury and providing reasonable reading. The ivory scale has slight mellowing/greying but otherwise is in fine condition; both Verniers are operational. Thermometer scale has similar greying but otherwise thermometer is in fine condition. Case is in fine condition with no faults worth noting other than some very light crazing to the polish in places. Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 47
A German Augsburg pattern gilt brass portable equinoctial compass sundialLudwig Theodor Muller, Augsburg, mid 18th century The recessed silvered compass centre with rose and radial lines engraved with German annotations for the four cardinal points beneath glazed panel within octagonal surround engraved with symmetrical foliate scrolls on a matted ground, the hinged open hour circle pivoting against folding curved latitude scale and engraved in reverse III-XII-IX with stylised wheatear half hour markers, the centre with pivoted needle gnomon set on a sprung arbor, the underside of the compass with engraved Elev Poli, Lisbon 39; Rom 42; Venedig 45; Wien, Munch, Aug sp. 4X; Nurn, Regen sp 49; Prag, Cracau 50; Leizig 51 over monogram L.T.M. to lower margin, 6cm (2.375ins) wide. The exact working dates for Ludwig Theodor (or Ludovicus Theodatus) Muller appear to be unknown however he is believed to have flourished between 1710 and 1770.
Lot 49
A rare Charles I brass double-horizontal sundial plateElias Allen, London, circa 1630-40The 13 inch octagonal plate with inner curved 4-12-8 chapter ring and projection lines engraved for every five minutes to centre within concentric compass divided into thirty-two points each annotated with stamped abbreviations, the outer IIII-XII-VIII chapter ring with quarter divisions to inner track and minutes to outer with every ten numbered, the space between the IIII and VIII numerals signed Elias Allen Fecit, (lacking gnomon), max width 36cm (14ins); with a later purpose made eight-footed hardwood stand. Elias Allen is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as moving to London from Tonbridge in Kent to take up an apprenticeship with the eminent instrument maker Charles Whitwell in around 1602. He set up business at Blackhorse Alley, Fleet St. (Horseshoe over against St. Clement's Church, Strand) in 1606 and succeeded his former Master in 1611. He gained his freedom of the Goldsmith's Company in 1612 and the Clockmaker's Company in 1633. In addition to supplying sundials, armillary spheres, marine astrolabes, ellipsographs, sectors, rules and magnetic compasses he also was a book engraver. He continued working from 'against St. Clement's' until his death in 1653. A related double horizontal dial by Elias Allen is in the collexction of the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich (object number AST 0232) which is described as having; 'two scales for reading the hours. The first is a standard scale, which is used with the polar edge of the gnomon. The second is formed by the vertical edge of the gnomon (set at the centre of the dial) and the lines of projection of the celestial sphere on to the plane of the horizon (the horizontal projection). The double horizontal dial was designed by the 17th century English mathematician William Oughtred. Elias Allen was a friend of Oughtred and he produced several double horizontal dials. They were useful not only for telling the time but also for demonstrating the motion of the sun through the day and also through the year. A number of double horizontal dials survive from the 17th century but it appears that they were not produced much after 1700. For more information regarding this dial please refer to the OUP & NMM catalogue, Sundials at Greenwich.'
Lot 50
A George III brass portable compass sundial and a pocket compassThe sundial signed for C. Stedman, London, circa 1800The cylindrical case inset with printed paper compass rose signed C: STEDMAN, LONDON to centre with annotations for the four cardinal points and subdivisions for NE, SE, SW and NW within outer scale divided to two-degree s and annotated for every ten degrees set beneath brass collar engraved in reverse with Roman numeral chapter ring III-XII-VIII, the centre with pivoted gnomon over scroll shaped spring plate, the threaded cover with further paper compass rose applied to the inside and concentric ring engraved decoration to exterior, (compass needle and glass cover lacking); the brass pocket compass of similar design but without the chapter ring and gnomon assembly, each 5.1cm (2ins) diameter, (2). Christopher Stedman Junior is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as gaining his freedom of the Grocer's Company in 1784 and succeeding his mother at 24 Leadenhall Street, London from 1785.Condition Report: The compass sundial is lacking its needle and internal glass otherwise both are in original unrestored condition with light to moderate age related bumps, scuffs discolouration and wear.Condition Report Disclaimer
Lot 51
An English brass portable universal inclining compass sundialUnsigned, early 19th centuryThe recessed silvered compass centre with radial lines engraved with annotations for the four cardinal points and subdivisions for NE, SE, SW and NW within outer scale divided to two-degrees and annotated for every ten degrees, within circular surround fitted with hinged open hour circle pivoting against folding curved latitude scale and engraved in reverse III-XII-VIII with stylised wheatear half hour markers, the centre with pivoted gnomon over arched scroll engraved spring plate, (compass needle and glass cover lacking), 7.5cm (3ins) wide. The current lot is of a type made in London from the second half of the 18th century (see Cowham, Mike, A DIAL IN YOUR POKE page 96).
Lot 52
A rare English simple altitude ring or 'poke' portable sundialUnsigned, circa 1700Formed as a ring 1.5 inches in diameter fitted with moveable central band pierced with a pin-hole over slit cut within the body of the ring for about 120 degrees beneath sliding against a scale stamped with letters denoting months of the year I-I (for January to June) in one direction and I-D (for July to December) in the other, the interior with opposing scale stamped 4 to 12 then back from 12 to 8 And with divisions for approximately every ten minutes, the top with simple arched suspension loop. The current lot is designed to be used for a single location (ie. for a fixed latitude) and would be operated by first setting the pin hole for the approximate date and then suspending the dial with the hole facing the sun to allow the light projecting through it to fall onto the scale to the inside of the ring behind to provide the time of day. Naturally the user would need to know whether it is morning and afternoon (can be ascertained by taking a few readings to see if the sun is rising or falling) and the accuracy will be very limited. This type of dial is described in Cowham, Mike A DIAL IN YOUR POKE on pages 21-23 where it is suggested that they were mostly made in England and probably date to around 1700.
Lot 60
A Victorian silver cased keyless lever centre seconds pocket chronograph with unusually signed dialHenry Potter, Red Hill, 1883The three-quarter plate frosted gilt movement with lever escapement, sprung bimetallic balance and cabochon endstone to the fine scroll engraved balance cock incorporating regulation lever, the backplate signed Henry Potter, Red Hill and numbered 70888, the two-piece circular white enamel dial with gilt spade hour and minute hands and blued centre seconds hand, the chapter ring annotated with each letter of the maker's name forming consecutive hour numerals and incorporating monogram HP at twelve o'clock, the outer track with chronograph scale divided into quarter second intervals, the case with two hinged covers to rear, start/stop lever a two o'clock and keyless winding post fitted with suspension loop at twelve o'clock, marks for London 1883, case maker LH, the case 51mm (2ins) diameter.
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