A GEORGE II BLACK JAPANNED EIGHT-DAY LONGCASE CLOCKWILLIAM GOUGH, LONDON, CIRCA 1715The five finned pillar rack and bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by seconds pendulum, the 12 inch square brass dial with subsidiary seconds dial, herringbone border engraved calendar aperture and applied oval signature plate engraved W'm Gough, London to the matted centre, within applied silvered Roman numeral chapter ring with fleur-de-lys half hour markers and Arabic five minutes beyond the minute track, with scroll pierced steel hands and Indian mask and scroll cast spandrels to angles within wheatear engraved border, the black japanned case with generous complex moulded cornice and foliate spray-centred gilt panel decorated frieze over hinged glazed dial aperture with delicate gilt floral sprays to surround and applied with Doric three-quarter columns to front angles, the sides with rectangular windows and conforming quarter columns to the rear, the trunk with convex throat moulding over rectangular door painted in raised polychrome and gilt with oriental garden landscapes and square-rigged warships within line painted half-round moulded borders and delicate foliate decorated surround, the sides with panels of large scale leafy sprays, on ogee moulded skirt base with conforming painted decoration to front and applied moulded skirt.218cm (86ins) high, 54.5cm (21.5ins) wide, 29cm (11.5ins) deep at the cornice. William Gough is recorded Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working from before 1726 to circa 1760.Condition Report: The movement appears to be in fine original condition with no visible alteration or replacements including the escapement which appears all-original. The mechanism is fairly clean and in working order. The dial is in good relatively condition with only light discolouration/spotting to lacquered and silvered finishes; the hands and spandrels appear original. The movement retains its original seatboard which rests on the cheeks of the case fitted with very slim packing pieces to fine-tune the level of the dial within the hood aperture. The level of the top of the seatboard lines-up with historic scribe lines on the backboard hence we are inclined to believe that the movement and dial are original to the case despite the thin packing slips beneath the seatboard. The case is in presentable condition however the plinth base has been rebuilt/restored to match the rest of the case. The backboard has a braced split to the upper section and the front of the base has a vertical shrinkage crack otherwise case is in good condition retaining original japanned finish with light crazing and faults limited to minor bumps, scuffs, shrinkage, other blemishes and small repairs commensurate with age.Clock is complete with pendulum, two weights, case key and winder. Condition Report Disclaimer
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TWO BRASS KEW-PATTERN MERCURY MARINE STICK BAROMETERS ADIE, LONDON AND ADIE, LIVERPOOL, LATE 19th CENTURYEach with slender cylindrical case the first finished in oxidised brass with silvered scale calibrated in barometric inches next to vertical slot revealing the tube and with silvered Vernier slide opposing signature ADIE, LONDON, No. 950, the other black japanned incorporating fully silvered cylindrical scale section signed Adie, Liverpool No. 325 to lower margin, the shafts with Vernier adjustment discs to right, gimbal mount and applied mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometers with concealed bulbs, the bases with cylindrical cisterns, (both unrestored the first lacking gimbal yoke, the second lacking tube, both lacking scale glasses), (2).The first 93cm (36.5ins) high, 6.5cm (2.5ins) max diameter; the second 90cm (35.5ins) high, 5cm (2ins) max diameter. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton. Richard (Liverpool) and Patrick Adie (London) were the sons of the celebrated Scottish instruments maker Alexander Adie who is recorded in Goodison, Nicholas English BAROMETERS 1680-1860 as born 1774 and apprenticed to his uncle, the eminent Scottish instrument maker John Miller, in 1789. Alexander Adie was particularly noted for his meteorological instruments and is perhaps best known as the inventor of the Sympiesometer in 1818. In recognition of his work he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1819. He was appointed optician to William IV and later Queen Victoria and took one of his sons, John, into partnership in 1835. Two of his other sons set up businesses; Richard in Liverpool from 1837 and Patrick in London from 1846. Unfortunately John Adie was prone to fits of despondency' which resulted in him shooting himself in 1857, Alexander Adie died the following year - no doubt expediated by the stress of his son's demise. Richard Adie subsequently spent a lot of time in Edinburgh looking after the business of Adie and Son up until his death in 1881.The Kew pattern marine barometer was developed prior to 1855 by John Welsh of the Kew Observatory and Patrick Adie and included refinements such as iron cistern beneath thermometer bulb within the brass tube case (in order for the temperature reading to mirror that of the mercury in the tube), a restriction in the bore of the tube (to dampen the movement of the mercury) and a Bunten air trap.
A GEORGE III INLAID MAHOGANY BRACKET CLOCKTHE DIAL SIGNED FOR J. COLLINWOOD, LONDON, EARLY 19th CENTURYThe five pillar twin fusee bell striking movement with anchor escapement regulated by lenticular bob pendulum with holdfast to the geometric border engraved rectangular backplate, the 8 inch circular convex cream painted Roman numeral dial inscribed J'N COLINWOOD, LONDON to centre and with pierced gilt brass hands set behind a hinged convex-glazed cavetto moulded cast brass bezel, the arched case with brass ball finial to the concave-sided pyramidal upstand over front line inlaid with an oval panel within conforming shaped panel and strung edges, the sides with ached brass fish scale inset sound frets and the rear with arch-glazed door, on cavetto moulded skirt base with gilt brass lobed bun feet.60cm (23.5ins) high, 29cm (11.5ins) wide, 18.5cm (7.25ins) deep. A John Collingwood is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as working in London circa 1782. Condition Report: The movement is in complete original condition with no visible evidence of alteration or significant replacements. The backplate has a spare threaded hole towards the upper left hand corner which was most likely intended for holding a pendulum locking screw when not in use; the clock is fitted with a spring type clamp hence this hole is surplus to requirements. The mechanism is in relatively clean working condition. The dial retains its original old cream surface but with overall light crazing and touching in/restoration. The numerals have been 'strengthened' and the signature overpainted in a manner most likely intended to match the original worn text beneath. The hands have some slight bending but otherwise appear undamaged. Condition Report Disclaimer
TWO LACQUERED BRASS AND BLACK JAPANNED STATION/LABORATORY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERSBOTH BY CASELLA, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe first a rare bench barometer with ring over cylindrical silvered scale with vertical slot to reveal the tube and sliding silvered Vernier slide reading against millibar scale to the right opposing signature CASELLA, LONDON with Met Office monogram MO and numbered 2205 over shaft with Vernier adjustment disc to right and applied mercury tube Centigrade scale thermometer with concealed bulb, the base with disc applied with X and Y positioned spirit levels and over cage of three uprights around the stepped cylindrical cistern applied to a second conforming lower disc with the tube passing to one side and looped into the base of the cistern, on three fine screw adjusting feet; the second of standard Fortin pattern with similar cylindrical brass Vernier scale this time calibrated in barometric inches and signed C.F. CASELLA & Co. LTD, LONDON, No. 2349 to left hand margin, the shaft with Vernier adjustment screw and Fahrenheit scale mercury thermometer over base with cylindrical glass chamber clamped between horizontal plates over cylindrical cistern and adjustment screw to base, mounted via hook for the top ring bracket at the base to a mahogany panel for wall hanging, (both unrestored), (2).The bench barometer 103cm (40.5ins) high, 15cm (6ins) diameter; the Fortin 109cm (43ins) high, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon; the first acquired direct from the Meteorological Office. 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. Charles Frederick Casella succeeded his father, Louis Pascal, in 1897; the business subsequently became a Limited Company in 1910 and continued trading well into the 20th century. The second barometer in the current lot is made to the principles laid down by Nicholas Fortin (1750-1831) and incorporates a glazed cistern so that the level can be calibrated via the adjustment screw to the base against an inverted conical ivory cone in the cistern in order to obtain consistency in the readings.
THREE BLACK JAPANNED AND LACQUERED BRASS KEW-PATTERN MERCURY MARINE STICK BAROMETERSJ. HICKS, S. AND A. CALDERARA, AND KELVIN & HUGHES LIMITED, LONDON, EARLY TO MID 20th CENTURY Each with slender cylindrical case with the upper section incorporating silvered scale with vertical slot to reveal the tube and sliding Vernier reading against silvered scale calibrated in barometric inches to the right for all three and millibars to the left for the examples signed J. HICKS, LONDON with Met Office monogram MO and numbered 1298 and KELVIN & HUGHES MARINE LIMITED, LONDON, No. 8507, the third without Millibar scale and signed S. &. A CALDERARA, LONDON to upper margin over Met Office MO monogram and number 2209, the shafts with Vernier adjustment disc to right and applied mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer (Hicks lacking thermometer tube), the bases with cylindrical cisterns, The Kelvin and Hughes now in a wooden box applied with paper labels relating to an instrument by 'F, Darton & Co. Ltd' supplied to the Air Ministry Meteorological Office, (all unrestored lacking scale glasses and in varying states of completeness), (3).The Hicks and Kelvin approximately 90cm (35.5ins) high, 5cm (2ins) max diameter; the Calderara 100cm (39,5cm) high, 9cm (3.5ins) max diameter. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon; the second and third acquired direct from the Meteorological Office. James Joseph Hicks is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from Hatton Garden, London from 1861 until after 1900. He was a committed Catholic who presented various meteorological instruments to the Vatican receiving the title Knight Commander of St. Gregory in recognition for his services.The firm of Kelvin and Hughes Limited was formed in 1947 with the merger of Henry Hughes and Son Limited of London with Kelvin, Bottomley and Baird Limited of Glasgow.Serafino and Alfred Calderara are recorded by Banfield as working from 10 Cross Street, Hatton Garden, London from 1875 until well into the 20th century.The Kew pattern marine barometer was developed prior to 1855 by John Welsh of the Kew Observatory and Patrick Adie and included refinements such as iron cistern beneath thermometer bulb within the brass tube case (in order for the temperature reading to mirror that of the mercury in the tube), a restriction in the bore of the tube (to dampen the movement of the mercury) and a Bunten air trap.
A CASED JAPANNED AND LACQUERED BRASS FORTIN-PATTERN LABORATORY/STATION MERCURY STICK BAROMETERJ.W. TOWERS AND COMPANY LIMITED, MANCHESTER, EARLY TO MID 20th CENTURYThe instrument with slender cylindrical case with the upper section fitted with a glass sleeve enclosing silvered scale incorporating vertical slot to reveal the tube and sliding silvered Vernier slide reading against silvered scale calibrated in barometric inches to the right and millibars to the left, the upper margin with Met Office number 5483, over signature J.W. TOWERS & Co. LTD, MANCHESTER to lower margin, the shaft with Vernier adjustment disc to right above applied mercury CENTS and FAH'T scale thermometer, the base with cylindrical glass chamber clamped between horizontal plates over cylindrical cistern and adjustment screw to base, mounted via hook for the top ring and screw clamp at the base onto a rectangular oak backboard into a pine framed case with full-height glazed front door and side windows, (unrestored).The cabinet 123cm (48.5ins) high, 21.5cm (8.5ins) wide, 20cm (8ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. J.W. Towers and Company Limited are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working in Widnes and Manchester circa 1880-1900.The current lot is made to the principles laid down by Nicholas Fortin (1750-1831) and incorporates a glazed cistern so that the level can be calibrated via the adjustment screw to the base against an inverted conical ivory cone in the cistern in order to obtain consistency in the readings.
A VICTORIAN BRASS KEW-PATTERN MERCURY MARINE STICK BAROMETERADIE, LIVERPOOL AND LONDON, CIRCA 1870 The slender cylindrical case with the upper section incorporating vertical slot to reveal the tube and sliding Vernier reading against silvered scale calibrated in barometric inches positioned to the right and signed ADIE Liverpool No. 375. ADIE London to outer margin, set behind a glass sleeve retained by domed cap at the top, the shaft with Vernier adjustment disc and gimbal wall mount over applied mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer, the base with cylindrical cistern.92cm (36ins) high, 5cm (2ins) diameter. Richard Adie was the son of the celebrated Scottish instruments maker Alexander Adie who is recorded in Goodison, Nicholas English BAROMETERS 1680-1860 as born 1774 and apprenticed to his uncle, the eminent Scottish instrument maker John Miller, in 1789. Alexander Adie was particularly noted for his meteorological instruments and is perhaps best known as the inventor of the Sympiesometer in 1818. In recognition of his work he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1819. He was appointed optician to William IV and later Queen Victoria and took one of his sons, John, into partnership in 1835. Two of his other sons set up businesses; Richard (the maker of the current lot) in Liverpool form 1837 and Patrick in London from 1846. Unfortunately John Adie was prone to fits of despondency' which resulted in him shooting himself in 1857, Alexander Adie died the following year - no doubt expediated by the stress of his son's demise. Richard Adie subsequently spent a lot of time in Edinburgh looking after the business of Adie and Son up until his death in 1881.The Kew pattern marine barometer was developed prior to 1855 by John Welsh of the Kew Observatory and Patrick Adie and included refinements such as iron cistern beneath thermometer bulb within the brass tube case (in order for the temperature reading to mirror that of the mercury in the tube), a restriction in the bore of the tube (to dampen the movement of the mercury) and a Bunten air trap.
AN INCOMPLETE GEORGE I/II 'RED WALNUT' MERCURY STICK BAROMETERUNSIGNED, CIRCA 1725With remnants of a cavetto-moulded break-arch pediment over inset frieze and panel now applied with only the right-hand half of a break-arch silvered brass scale calibrated in barometric inches with recording slider and indistinctly inscribed ...AYTON to upper margin, the slender trunk with visible tube over half-cylinder cistern cover with ogee top moulding and level adjustment screw to the rounded underside (unrestored and with losses).95cm (37.5ins) high, 11.5cm (4.5ins) wide. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon.
A VICTORIAN OAK CASED MERCURY MINER'S STICK BAROMETERUNSIGNED, LATE 19th CENTURYWith canted glazed ceramic Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches to the right opposing mercury Fahrenheit scale to the left over inscribed serial number No 5991 to lower margin, set behind rectangular glass secured via brass plate bezel, the substantial rectangular section case with shallow-arch top over Vernier adjustment square to throat, chamfered angles to trunk and squared-off base.94cm (37ins) high, 9cm (3.5ins) wide. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Miner's pit barometers were adopted during 1860's to assist with the possible prediction of an explosion in coal mine due to anecdotal evidence indicating a pressure drop prior to such events. The Mines Regulations Act of 1872 sought to formalise their use stating 'After dangerous gas has been found in a mine, a barometer and thermometer shall be placed above ground in a conspicuous position near the entrance to the mine'.
A VICTORIAN OAK MERCURY 'ADMIRAL FITZROY'S STORM BAROMETER'NEGRETTI AND ZAMBRA, LONDON, CIRCA 1870The arched bevel-glazed double ceramic Vernier scales flanking mercury tube, each calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the lower margins annotated ADD ONE TENTH FOR, EACH HUNDRED, FEET ABOVE, THE SEA and 10 A.M YESTERDAY and 10 A.M TO DAY over PATENT and No. 378 and with signature NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, INSTRUMENT MAKERS, TO HER MAJESTY, HOLBORN VIADUCT E.C., 122 REGENT ST. W, & 59 CORNHILL E.C., LONDON to upper margin, the apex of the arch further inscribed ADMIRAL FITZROY'S, STORM BAROMETER., the trunk with Vernier setting squares to throat above applied glazed mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer further signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, 11, HATTON GARDEN, &, CORNHILL LONDON to upper margin and with ogee moulded crests to the upper and lower rails, the base with rectangular ogee moulded cistern cover over conforming base moulding with level adjustment screw to underside.102cm (40ins) high, 13cm (5ins) wide. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The firm of Negretti & Zambra are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as being established in 1850 when a partnership between Enrico Negretti and Joseph Warren Zambra was formed. The firm became one of the most prolific makers of scientific instruments and continued trading well into the 20th century.The current lot is a textbook example of a Fishery or Sea Coast storm barometer devised by Admiral Robert Fitzroy in the 1860`s to aid mariners in the forecasting of storms. Fitzroy lobbied the Board of Trade resulting in this type of barometer being supplied (at public expense) to many coastal communities for display in a prominent public space. In addition to this The Royal Lifeboat Institution installed these barometers into each of its stations and the Duke of Northumberland (in association with the British Meteorological Society) erected several on the coast of Northumberland. By 1864 over 80 barometers had been installed by the Board of Trade and a further 14 by the Duke of Northumberland with their usefulness fully appreciated in Fitzroy's Meteorological Office Report published that year.Condition Report: Instrument is generally in fine original condition with the tube filled with mercury with no air present. The barometer scales are undamaged. The thermometer scale is also in good original condition although the ceramic scale has a few light spots of browning mainly towards the edges. The case is in fine original unrestored condition with faults very much limited to a few minor bumps, scuffs, age related grime and tarnishing to the lacquered brass fittings hence can be described as having genuine light age-related patina. Condition Report Disclaimer
TWO DECORATIVE MERCURY STICK BAROMETERSBEARING SIGNATURES FOR I. BLATT, BRIGHTON, AND RIVA, SELBY, 20th CENTURYThe first mahogany with arched ivorine Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations beneath text I. BLATT, BRIGHTON opposing Fahrenheit scale spirit thermometer to the left hand side, the second yew wood with onion-shaped top over silvered scale inscribed RIVA, Selby to upper margin, each with visible tube to slender trunk over circular cistern cover to the rounded base, (2).The first 90cm (35.5ins) high, 9cm (3.3ins) wide; the second 93cm (36.5ins) high, 8cm (3.125ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton Devon.
A GEORGE III STYLE LINE-INLAID MAHOGANY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERO. COMITTI AND SON, LATE 20th CENTURY With open triangular pediment over silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations beneath signature O. Comitti and Son, LONDON to the right hand side opposing Fahrenheit and Centigrade scale alcohol thermometer to the left, set behind line-strung hinged glazed door over trunk with visible tube flanked by conforming vertical line inlay and ring-turned domed cistern cover to the rounded base.96.5cm (38ins) high excluding brass finial, 14cm (5.5ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton Devon.
A GEORGE III STYLE CHEVRON-STRUNG MAHOGANY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERO. COMITTI AND SON, LATE 20th CENTURY With open triangular pediment over silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations beneath signature O. Comitti and Son, LONDON to the right hand side opposing Fahrenheit and Centigrade scale alcohol thermometer to the left, set behind chevron-edged hinged glazed door over trunk with visible tube flanked by conforming vertical parquetry inlay and ring-turned domed cistern cover to the rounded base.96.5cm (38ins) high excluding brass finial, 14cm (5.5ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton Devon.
AN UNUSUAL GEORGE III STYLE CHEVRON-STRUNG MAHOGANY ANEROID FLUID TUBE STICK BAROMETERUNSIGNED, LATE 20th CENTURYWith swan neck pediment over silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations to the right hand side opposing Fahrenheit and Centigrade scale alcohol thermometer to the left, set behind chevron-edged hinged glazed door over trunk with visible tube filled with light-green translucent fluid flanked by conforming vertical parquetry inlay and ring-turned domed cistern cover to the rounded base enclosing transverse mounted four-segment aneroid chamber and pivoted linkage connecting to a diaphragm chamber fitted at the base of the tube. 96.5cm (38ins) high excluding brass finial, 14cm (5.5ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton Devon. The above lot utilises and aneroid mechanism connected to a diaphragm to raise and lower the level of a column of green dyed fluid in the tube. This system was developed by Philip Collins of Barometer world in order to create an instrument that has the attractive visual qualities of a stick barometer but with the practicalities of an aneroid barometer.
AN UNUSUAL GEORGE III STYLE CHEVRON-STRUNG MAHOGANY ANEROID FLUID TUBE DWARF STICK BAROMETERUNSIGNED, LATE 20th CENTURYWith swan neck pediment over silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations to the right hand side opposing Fahrenheit and Centigrade scale alcohol thermometer to the left, set behind chevron-edged hinged glazed door over trunk with visible tube filled with light-green translucent fluid flanked by conforming vertical parquetry inlay and ring-turned domed cistern cover to the rounded base enclosing transverse mounted four-segment aneroid chamber and pivoted linkage connecting to a diaphragm chamber fitted at the base of the tube. 66cm (26ins) high excluding brass finial, 14cm (5.5ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton Devon. The above lot utilises and aneroid mechanism connected to a diaphragm to raise and lower the level of a column of green dyed fluid in the tube. This system was developed by Philip Collins of Barometer world in order to create an instrument that has the attractive visual qualities of a stick barometer but with the practicalities of an aneroid barometer. The squat proportions of the present instrument is possible as it does not rely on the weight of a mercury column to provide an indication of barometric pressure.
A MAHOGANY CASED ADIE-TYPE SYMPIESOMETERPHILIP COLLINS, MERTON, LATE 20th CENTURYThe glazed rectangular case with ogee-moulded pediment above rectangular silvered scale inscribed Adie's Sympiesometer over applied central siphon tube filled with red-stained almond oil incorporating low cistern bulb to the left limb beside tube terminating with a further sealed bulb at the top, the left hand margin with mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer, opposing vertical scale for degrees Fahrenheit ranging between 0 and 160 set behind slide with scale annotated for barometric inches and with the usual weather observations to the right, the upper edge of the slide fitted with angled brass pointer for calibration against the temperature scale behind and with sliding adjustment via a brass knob to the exterior of the case, the lower edge with recessed circular level recording disc labelled Yesterday, engraved with barometric scale visible through an arched aperture in the plate and manually adjusted via projecting rim to the left hand side of the case, the lower margin inscribed Made by, P. Collins, Merton over conforming inverted ogee moulded base.65cm (25.5ins) high, 8cm (3.25ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The sympiesometer was invented by Alexander Adie of Edinburgh in 1818 and is essentially an improved version of Robert Hooke's thermobarometer which was subject of a paper presented to the Royal Society in 1668. The instrument works by having a syphon tube filled with liquid open to the air at one end and with trapped gas at the other (sulphuric acid and hydrogen were used in later sympiesometers). As barometric pressure increases the liquid will be forced down the tube causing the gas to be compressed, resulting in a change in level in the tube; however the volume of the gas changes with temperature so before a reliable reading can be taken the instrument would first need to be calibrated by adjusting the position of the movable barometer scale in relation to the temperature scale behind to reflect the reading provided by the thermometer. The sympiesometer was conceived by Adie as an alternative to the mercury marine barometer as it was smaller and believed to be less susceptible to the motion of a vessel at sea.
A MAHOGANY CASED ADIE-TYPE SYMPIESOMETERPHILIP COLLINS, MERTON, LATE 20th CENTURYThe glazed rectangular case with ogee-moulded pediment above rectangular silvered scale inscribed Adie's Sympiesometer over applied central siphon tube filled with red-stained almond oil incorporating low cistern bulb to the left limb beside tube terminating with a further sealed bulb at the top, the left hand margin with mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer, opposing vertical scale for degrees Fahrenheit ranging between 0 and 160 set behind slide with scale annotated for barometric inches and with the usual weather observations to the right, the upper edge of the slide fitted with angled brass pointer for calibration against the temperature scale behind and with sliding adjustment via a brass knob to the exterior of the case, the lower edge with recessed circular level recording disc labelled Yesterday, engraved with barometric scale visible through an arched aperture in the plate and manually adjusted via projecting rim to the left hand side of the case, the lower margin inscribed Made by, P. Collins, Merton over conforming inverted ogee moulded base.65cm (25.5ins) high, 8cm (3.25ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The sympiesometer was invented by Alexander Adie of Edinburgh in 1818 and is essentially an improved version of Robert Hooke's thermobarometer which was subject of a paper presented to the Royal Society in 1668. The instrument works by having a syphon tube filled with liquid open to the air at one end and with trapped gas at the other (sulphuric acid and hydrogen were used in later sympiesometers). As barometric pressure increases the liquid will be forced down the tube causing the gas to be compressed, resulting in a change in level in the tube; however the volume of the gas changes with temperature so before a reliable reading can be taken the instrument would first need to be calibrated by adjusting the position of the movable barometer scale in relation to the temperature scale behind to reflect the reading provided by the thermometer. The sympiesometer was conceived by Adie as an alternative to the mercury marine barometer as it was smaller and believed to be less susceptible to the motion of a vessel at sea.
A MAHOGANY CASED ADIE-TYPE SYMPIESOMETERPHILIP COLLINS, MERTON, LATE 20th CENTURYThe glazed rectangular case with ogee-moulded pediment above rectangular silvered scale inscribed Adie's Sympiesometer over applied central siphon tube filled with red-stained almond oil incorporating low cistern bulb to the left limb beside tube terminating with a further sealed bulb at the top, the left hand margin with mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer, opposing vertical scale for degrees Fahrenheit ranging between 0 and 160 set behind slide with scale annotated for barometric inches and with the usual weather observations to the right, the upper edge of the slide fitted with angled brass pointer for calibration against the temperature scale behind and with sliding adjustment via a brass knob to the exterior of the case, the lower edge with recessed circular level recording disc labelled Yesterday, engraved with barometric scale visible through an arched aperture in the plate and manually adjusted via projecting rim to the left hand side of the case, the lower margin inscribed Made by, P. Collins, Merton over conforming inverted ogee moulded base.65cm (25.5ins) high, 8cm (3.25ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The sympiesometer was invented by Alexander Adie of Edinburgh in 1818 and is essentially an improved version of Robert Hooke's thermobarometer which was subject of a paper presented to the Royal Society in 1668. The instrument works by having a syphon tube filled with liquid open to the air at one end and with trapped gas at the other (sulphuric acid and hydrogen were used in later sympiesometers). As barometric pressure increases the liquid will be forced down the tube causing the gas to be compressed, resulting in a change in level in the tube; however the volume of the gas changes with temperature so before a reliable reading can be taken the instrument would first need to be calibrated by adjusting the position of the movable barometer scale in relation to the temperature scale behind to reflect the reading provided by the thermometer. The sympiesometer was conceived by Adie as an alternative to the mercury marine barometer as it was smaller and believed to be less susceptible to the motion of a vessel at sea.
A MAHOGANY CASED HOOKE'S OTHEOMETERPHILLIP COLLINS, MERTON, DEVON, LATE 20th CENTURYThe printed paper scale with herringbone border enclosing amplified reversed scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual early-type weather observations for both SUMMER and WINTER beneath comments Fair if Fall and Foul if Rise and title HOOKE'S OTHEOMETER within a scroll decorated to surround to upper margin, applied with syphon tube incorporating large silvered sealed bulb part-filled with red-stained oil opposing column open to the atmosphere at the top for reading against the scale to the centre, the lower left hand corner of the scale with explanation passage over oval cartouche inscribed P. Collins, MERTON, the rectangular glazed case cavetto cornice, simple brass slide recording pointer to right hand side and conforming base, the rear with applied paper build label.68.5cm (27ins) high, 21.5cm (8.5ins) wide, 7c, (2.75ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Within the explanation passage printed to the lower left-hand corner of the paper scale Phillip Collins notes that Robert Hooke's diary for 12th July 1677 records It is now very evident that the Otheometer moves directly opposite to the Barometer. The present instrument is an improved version of the Otheometer as devised/described by Hooke and indicates barometric pressure via the column of fluid in the tube which rises and falls due compressive effect atmospheric pressure has on the air-filled bulb. The large diameter of the bulb in relation to the bore of the tube amplifies the motion of the fluid hence the enlarged scale which is also in reverse as increase in pressure causes the air volume of the air in the bulb to reduce. Hooke derived the name form the Greek othe which means to push, as this is action that atmospheric pressure has on the fluid within the column. A notable fault with Hooke's design is the effect that temperature has on the volume of air in bulb. For this improved model the surface of the chamber has been blown with a second wall enclosing an evacuated jacket around the first, which in-turn has been silvered to reduce the effect sunlight would have on the chamber's internal air temperature; this refinement requires a great deal of skill from the glass blower.
A RARE AMERICAN WALNUT CASED MERCURY 'UNION' BAROMETER CURRIER AND SIMPSON, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 19th CENTURYThe ogee moulded rectangular glazed case enclosing syphon tube with large mercury bulb reading against a scale calibrated in barometric inches with Vernier with up-down adjustment in tandem with the entire Fahrenheit scale mercury thermometer positioned to the left hand side via a knob to the base of the case, the upper margin stamped CURRIER & SIMPSON, PAT'D JAN 31. 1880 the top of the case with valve for closing the top of the mercury tube to the atmosphere, the rear with pasted paper label providing instructions for use.39cm (15.5ins) high, 13cm (5ins) wide. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Surprisingly little appears to be recorded regarding Simpson and Currier, however the current lot was apparently devised as a small portable form of mercury barometer no doubt targeted to frontiersmen amongst others. The instrument utilises a sealed bulb cistern part filled with air connected to a short column. Change in barometric pressure will naturally cause the mercury column to move but also will a change in temperature. In order to allow for the effect of temperature the level of mercury in the thermometer tube has to be first aligned with that of the barometer tube; the Vernier (which is directly connected to the movement of thermometer) will then provide the reading in barometric inches.
A VICTORIAN CARVED OAK AND WALNUT ANEROID WHEEL BAROMETERI.P CUTTS, SUTTON AND SONS, SHEFFIELD, LATE 19th CENTURYThe 8 inch circular glazed ceramic register decorated with a Celtic rosette and inscribed I.P CUTTS, SUTTON, DIVISION ST. SHEFFIELD to centre within scale calibrated in barometric inches with the usual observations together with Admiral Fitzroy's FALLS and RISES annotations and inscribed ANEROID BAROMETER to lower margin, set behind glazed cast brass bezel incorporating recording hand to glass, the case with vase finial to the anthemion carved crest over architectural cornice and pair of collared Ionic columns flanking a glazed ceramic Fahr't and Cent'e scale alcohol thermometer, the lower section of lyre form with lappet=leaf border to dial flanked by stylised leaf carved ears over strapwork panelled base with an inverted swan-neck pendant crest.104cm (41ins) high, 32cm (12.5ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. J.P. Cutts, Sutton and Son are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from 43 Division Street, Sheffield and 14 Bridge Road, Lambeth, London 1845-69.
A LATE VICTORIAN CARVED OAK ANEROID WHEEL BAROMETERR. AND J. BECK, LONDON, CIRCA 1895The 8 inch circular glazed ceramic register decorated with a rosette and inscribed R & J. BECK LTD, 68 Cornhill, LONDON to centre within scale calibrated in barometric inches with the usual observations, set behind glazed cast brass bezel incorporating recording hand to glass, the case with tied laurel infill to the shaped pediment over upright applied with glazed ceramic FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE scale mercury thermometer applied with an eagle to upper rail flanked by carved earls, the lower section with swan-neck pediment over rectangular panel for the dial incorporating leaf-carved spandrel infill above shield and leafy scroll carved base terminating with an inverted swan-neck pendant crest.104cm (41ins) high, 30.5cm (12ins) wide. Provenance: The retail stock of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Richard and Joseph Beck who is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as first working from 31 Cornhill 1867-80 and then 68 Cornhill from 1868. They were best known for supplying microscopes and other optical instruments which were presumably constructed in their factory at Lister Works, Kentish Town, Holloway, East London. Banfield further notes that they often signed their instruments 'R & J Beck Ltd' from 1894.
AN UNUSUAL VICTORIAN CARVED BOXWOOD MINIATURE ANEROID WHEEL BAROMETERTHOMAS ARMSTRONG AND BROTHER, MANCHESTER AND LIVERPOOL, CIRCA 1880The 1.5 inch circular silvered register calibrated in barometric inches divided into hundredths and with the usual observations over signature THOMAS ARMSTRONG & BROTHER, MANCHESTER & LIVERPOOL and serial number 372 set behind glazed rotating milled gilt bezel incorporating recording pointer to the inside edge, the case with fine rosette-centred leafy scroll-carved pediment over applied Fahrenheit silvered scale glazed mercury thermometer to the slender scroll-edge upright, the base with conforming rosette-centred leafy scroll carved decoration.22.5cm (8.875ins) high, 6.5cm (2.5ins) wide. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Thomas Armstrong and Brother are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from circa 1875 until after 1900.The unusual size and fine accurate detailing of the current lot would suggest that it was probably intended as a tradesman's sample designed to give trade customers a feel for the overall quality and appearance of the maker's products.
Y A VICTORIAN GILT BRASS AND EBONY ANEROID 'SHIPS WHEEL' MANTEL BAROMETERUNSIGNED, PRESENTATION DATED 1879The 4 inch circular silvered register calibrated in barometric inches with the usual annotations over curved mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer set behind thick glass incorporating recording pointer within rotating bezel adjusted by turning the outer ship's wheel fitted with nine brass-collared ebony handle pieces to circumference, rotating within two fixed outswept brass plate supports with the front applied with panel decoration and plaque engraved MAY, 1879, on banted ebony veneered plinth base.34,5cm (13.5ins) high, 26cm (10.25ins) wide, 11cm (4,25ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon.
A RARE VICTORIAN EBONISED MITCHEL PATENT BAROMETER OR 'DIFFERENTIAL BAROMETER'R.H.C. WILSON, LONDON, CIRCA 1875The oil filled tube with sealed cistern formed as a radially corrugated capsule set behind a panel inscribed with monogram HB over inscription DIFFETRENTIAL BAROMETER the upper section with slightly enlarged scale calibrated in barometric inches incorporating rack-and-pinion adjusting recording pointer set beside a FAHREN'T and CENTIG'E scale mercury thermometer, the upper margin inscribed R.H.C. WILSON, 12 WILSON ST, GRAYS INN, LONDON and the case with Greek style shallow triangular pediment opposing cavetto moulded underside. 32cm (12.5ins) high, 11cm (4.25ins) wide. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Robert Henry Capel Wilson is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from 12 Wilson Street, Gray's Inn, London 1873-91 and 37 Gough Street, London 1871-80; he joined the firm of Pastorelli and Rapkin in 1893.The design of the current barometer utilises the effect that a change of barometric pressure would have on a sealed disc-shaped corrugated metal chamber. Although the chamber resembles that of an aneroid barometer the instrument utilises fluid (oil) which, via a glass tube rising from the chamber, provides a level from which readings can be taken. It is thought that the patent for this type of barometer was filed in 1863.Condition Report: Instrument is generally in original unrestored condition. The capsule has some visible solder residue suggesting that it may have been repaired/re-sealed at some time however the instrument will respond to variation in pressure (bubble in the column will rise when pressure is increased). The cover for the chamber is missing one screw. Faults otherwise limited to surface grime, very light wear and oxidation of brass fittings. Condition Report Disclaimer
A SCARCE GENERAL POST OFFICE BRASS ANEROID BAROMETERUNSIGNED, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe 2.25 inch circular white register inscribed COMPENSATED, G.P.O. to centre within concentric scale calibrated in barometric inches divided into hundredths and outer LBS./SQ. IN from 13.6 to 15.2 also divided for hundredths, the glazed cylindrical lacquered brass case with internal steel recording pointer to the revolving bezel, in blue velvet lined faux red leather covered outer case.The barometer 6cm (2.375ins) diameter, 2cm (0.75ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon.
A SCARCE VINTAGE MOTORING ANEROID BAROMETER WITH ALTIMETERNEGRETTI AND ZAMBRA, LONDON, CIRCA 1910The 2.75 inch circular white-on-black register inscribed MOTOR ANEROID over NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON, 12833 to centre within scale calibrated for barometric inches divided into twentieths and outer rotating altimeter scale calibrated 0-10000 feet with divisions down to every fifty feet, set behind glazed milled bezel withing cavetto moulded surround and drilled flange for dashboard mounting.10cm (4ins) diameter, 3cm (1.5ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The firm of Negretti & Zambra are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as being established in 1850 when a partnership between Enrico Negretti and Joseph Warren Zambra was formed. The firm became one of the most prolific makers of scientific instruments and continued trading well into the 20th century.The current lot would have been supplied for a motorcar during the early years of motoring no doubt with the intention to assist the driver whilst touring.
AN EARLY AVIATOR'S ANEROID WRIST BAROMETER WITH ALTIMETERF.E. BECKER AND COMPANY, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe 2.25inch circular silvered register calibrated in barometric inches ranging from 22 to 31 and inscribed Compensated over signature F. E. BECKER & Co., SUCCESSORS, W & J GEORGE LD 1897, HATOON WALL, LONDON to centre within boldly annotated rotating outer altimeter scale calibrated 0 to 10000 feet divided for every hundred feet and highlighted in red for every five hundred feet, set behind bevel-glazed rotating milled bezel, the cylindrical lacquered brass case mounted visa rivets onto a leather wrist strap with brass buckle; together with an Altimeter previously fitted to a WWII Halifax Bomber, with 3.25 inch white and green on black scale calibrated in THOUSANDS OF FEET, 0 to 20 divided for every 200 feet, the centre inscribed HEIGHT over MK IIIB 141, the cylindrical bakelite case with three drilled mounting lugs and a knob for rotating the scale, the rear with A.M. crowned sypher for HM Air Ministry, (2).The aneroid barometer 6cm (2.375ins) diameter, 2cm (0.75ins) deep; the altimeter 9cm (3.75ins) diameter, 5cm (2ins) deep excluding connector. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The firm of F.E. Becker and Company Successors W. & J. George Limited was established in 1897 when W. and J. George purchased the business of F. E. Becker who are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from 33-37 Hatton Wall, Hatton Garden, London from 1884.The aviator's wrist barometer in the current lot is a relatively rare example which would have been used during the early years of aviation. The large size of the strap and bold clear dial are ideally suited for use in an open cockpit with the instrument strapped over the sleeve of a heavily insulated flying jacket.
TWO GILT BRASS ANEROID POCKET BAROMETERS WITH ALTIMETERSWATSON BROTHERS, LONDON AND UNSIGNED, LATE 19th CENTURYBoth with 1.75 inch circular registers, the first with subsidiary dial Fah't scale thermometer to centre inscribed PATENT 7318 beneath Improved Scale, Compensated, R'D N. 213776, Watson Bro's, 31 COCKSPUR St, LONDON within concentric scale calibrated for barometric inches and outer rotating altimeter scale annotated 0 to 10000 feet divided for every fifty feet; the second with conforming barometer scale and 0 to 8000 foot altimeter scale, each in a frosted gilt finish pocket watch type case with suspension loop, (2).Each approximately 5cm (2ins) diameter, the Watson 1.5cm (0.675ins) deep; the other 1.2cm (0.5ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Watson Brothers of 31 Cockspur Street were retailers of clocks, watches jewellery, silver and objects who took-on the premises of Phillips Brothers after 1855.
TWO BRASS PRESENTATION ANEROID BAROMETERSBOTH UNSIGNED, DATED 1863 AND 1866The first with 2.5 ich printed paper scale calibrated in barometric inches, with 0 to 8,000 altimeter scale and inscribed MOUNTAIN BAROMETER over kite mark to centre, the cylindrical case with recording pointer to glass and engraved Presented to Mr John Bisset, THE 4TH B.A.V. CORPS, as a mark of their high appreciation, OF HIS SERVICES, AS SECRETARY AND TREASURER, To, the Corps since its formation, PORTSOY, 23rd NOV'R 1863 to the rear, the second a pocket barometer with 1.75 inch circular silvered register calibrated for barometric inches only and inset with a compass, the brass case with recording pointer to the interior of the rotating bezel and engraved To J. D..., For progress in Navigation, H.M.S. Britannia, 1866 to rear, (2).The first 7cm (2.5ins) diameter, 3.5cm (1.375ins) deep; the second 5cm (2ins) diameter, 2cm (0.75ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The presentation inscription on the first barometer in the present lot related to The Banffshire Artillery Volunteers with the 4th Banffshire A.V.C. being stationed at Portsoy Battery from October 1860 presumably until reorganisation of the Various Scottish Artillery Volunteer Corps in 1876.
TWO ANEROID POCKET BAROMETERS WITH ALTIMETERSDOLLOND, LONDON, LATE 19th CENTURYBoth with 1.75 inch circular silvered register calibrated in barometric inches divided into twentieths with the usual observations, signed DOLLOND, LONDON to centre within outer revolving altimeter scale, the first numbered No. 6995 to centre, in gilt brass watch-type case and with outer silk-lined leather protective outer case, the second unnumbered and in an aluminium case with knurled altimeter adjustment crown within the suspension ring, (2).Each instrument 5cm (2ins) diameter, 1.5cm (0.625ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. 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 business 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. The firm became one of the largest makers and suppliers of scientific and optical instruments and continued trading under various guises throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
A GROUP OF FIVE ANEROID POCKET BAROMETERSALL UNSIGNED, LATE 19th CENTURYAll with 1.75 inch circular registers calibrated in barometric inches, comprising two with white enamel registers in frosted gilt cases; two with silvered registers including altimeter scales to circumference, in frosted gilt cases with one in additional outer leather case; the last an aluminium cased example with subsidiary dial Fah't scale thermometer to centre inscribed IMP'D PAT, No. 7318 beneath Improved Scale, Compensated, the case with altimeter scale adjustment via a knurled crown to the suspension loop, the leather travelling case incorporating a compass needle set on its pivot between two glass disc annotated with eight cardinal points, (5).All approximately 5cm (2ins) diameter, 1.5cm (0.625ins) deep excluding protective cases. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon.
THREE GILT BRASS ANEROID POCKET BAROMETERS WITH ALTIMETERSSHORT & MASON, L.H. LEON & COMPANY AND UNSIGNED, LONDON, LATE 19th CENTURYThe first with 1.75 inch circular silvered register incorporating curved mercury tube Fahrenheit thermometer beneath inscription COMPENSATED FOR TEMPERATURE, SHORT & MASON, LONDON, MADE FOR A. & N.C.S., WESTMISTER to centre, within concentric scale calibrated in barometric inches divided for twentieths and rotating outer concentric altimeter calibrated in feet 0 to 8000 with divisions for every fifty feet; the second with 1.5 inch register inscribed Compensated, L.H. Leon & Co., 167 PICCADILLY within similar barometric and rotating altimeter scales, both in watch-type cases with milled band for the rotating bezels and suspension ring, the Short and Mason also with leather covered protective outer case; the third with 2 inch register inscribed Hutchinson's Improved, Surveying Aneroid over Keep the eye level with the needle, In ascending the point of the needle goes up, In descending it moves down, to centre within concentric barometric scale and movable altimeter scale annotated 0 to 1000 feet in two directions for up and down, the cylindrical case with rotating bezel and thumb-piece to left hand side, (3).The instruments 5cm (2ins) diameter, 2cm (0.75ins) deep; 4cm (1.625ins) diameter, 1.2cm (0.5ins) deep; and 5cm (2ins) diameter, 2cm (0.75ins) deep respectively. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. 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.L.H. Leon and Company do not appear to be recorded in the usual sources hence it is likely that they were most likely retail jewellers.Condition Report: All three are in working condition (ie. Respond when 'bag tested') but may require calibration. The thermometer to the dial of the Short and Mason example is undamaged and giving a correct reading. All of the dials are in good original condition but with some tarnishing/discolouration/mellowing to the silvering (the degree of which varies between each instrument). The case example retains original exterior finish in generally good condition with a few spots of discolouration and minor wear only; the other two are more heavily tarnished and worn (see catalogue images). The travelling case for the Short and Mason has overall wear/rubbing but is in sound original condition. Condition Report Disclaimer
A RARE SMALL GOLD ANEROID POCKET BAROMETER WITH ALTIMETERUNSIGNED, LATE 19th CENTURYThe 1 inch circular frosted gilt open-centred register calibrated in barometric inches and inscribed COMPENSATED to lower margin within outer altimeter scale calibrated in two directions for feet ranging 2,500 to 0 to 1,500 elevation set behind slightly convex glass, the case with rotating milled bezel fitted with recording pointer for the altimeter to interior, and suspension loop to top.2.5cm (1ins) diameter, 0.8cm (0.375ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon.
A SMALL SILVER CASED ANEROID POCKET BAROMETER WITH ALTIMETERJ.H. STEWARD, LONDON, LATE 19th CENTURYThe 1.125 inch circular silvered register calibrated in barometric inches divided into tenths and inscribed Compensated, J.H. Steward, 456 West Strand, LONDON, 2024 to centre within outer rotating altimeter scale calibrated for 0 to 8000 feet divided for every hundred feet set behind slightly convex glass, the case with engine-turned back, (suspension post lacking).3.2cm (1.25ins) diameter, 1.2cm (0.5ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. James Henry Steward is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as a maker of all types of barometers who worked from several addresses in London including; 406 Strand (1857-1900 and beyond), 67 Strand (1867-8), 63 St. Pauls Churchyard (1867-80), Cornhill (1867-92), 66 Strand (1869-88), 456 Strand (1879-88), 474 West Strand (1886-1900 and beyond) and 7 Gracechurch Street (1893-1900 and beyond). He advertised as maker of the celebrated Lord Bury telescope and maker of the Fitzroy barometers, as in use at all railway termini and principal hotels in London.
A RARE MINIATURE GOLD ANEROID POCKET BAROMETER WITH ALTIMETERPILLISCHER, LONDON, LATE 19th CENTURYThe 0.675 inch circular silvered register calibrated in barometric inches divided into tenths and signed PILLISCHER, LONDON to centre within outer rotating altimeter scale calibrated for 0 to 5000 feet divided for every hundred feet set behind slightly convex glass, the case with engine-turned back and suspension post incorporating knurled crown for adjusting the altimeter scale within the suspension loop.2cm (0.75ins) diameter, 0.8cm (0.375ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Moritz Pillischer is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as working from 398 Oxford Street 1851-53 then 88 New Bond street, London 1854-87. He was succeeded by his Nephew, Jacob.The very small size and the use of gold for the case of the current lot suggests that was perhaps intended as a demonstration example to show the maker's capability.Condition Report: Instrument is in fine almost immaculate condition with faults limited to extremely light mellowing to the silvering of the dial. The mechanism is in working order (responds to the 'bag test') and the rotating bezel (by rotating the knurled crown) is operational. Condition Report Disclaimer
AN ANEROID MOUNTAIN BAROMETERNEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDONThe 2.75 inch circular silvered register inscribed Compensated over Negretti & Zambra, LONDON, 3838 within concentric outer scale calibrated in barometric inches ranging from 12 to 31 divided into twentieths, the glazed aluminium case with rotating bezel fitted with recording pointer to interior, and with suspension ring to top.7.5cm (3ins) diameter, 3cm (1.25ins) deep. Provenance: The archive collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The firm of Negretti & Zambra are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as being established in 1850 when a partnership between Enrico Negretti and Joseph Warren Zambra was formed. The firm became one of the most prolific makers of scientific instruments and continued trading well into the 20th century.
TWO ANEROID SURVEYING BAROMETERSSHORTS & MASON AND ELLIOTT BROTHERS, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe first with 2.75 inch circular silvered register inscribed Surveying Aneroid, COMPENSATED, No C.28039, SHORT & MASON, LONDON, MADE IN ENGLAND to the recessed centre within barometric scale calibrated in inches divided into fiftieths and outer altimeter scale annotated 0 to 6000 divided to ten foot intervals and with moving Vernier to outer margin, the aluminium case with pivoted magnification lens and knurled crown for adjusting the outer Vernier within the suspension ring, with original leather carrying case; the second with 4.25 inch circular silvered register with subsidiary 0-5,000 1ST and 2nd CIRCLE dial and inscribed Surveying Aneroid, repeating circle reading 1st Circle 0 to 5000 ft, 2nd (ditto) 5000 to 10000 (ditto) over Elliott Bros. LONDON, COMPENSATED to the recessed centre, within double concentric scale calibrated in barometric inches annotated 22 to 25 then 26 to 31 divided into hundredths within outer altimeter scale double-numbered for 0 to 5,000 and 10,000 feet divided for every ten feet and with movable Vernier labelled ASCENT to outer edge, the chrome plated case with pivoted magnification lens and knurled crown for adjusting the outer Vernier to a post at the top, (2).The first 8cm (3.125ins) diameter, 4cm (1.5ins) deep; the second 12.7cm (5ins) diameter, 5cm (2ins deep) excluding magnifiers. Provenance: The exhibition and archive collections of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Elliott Brothers are recorded by Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as succeeding William Elliott and Sons at 56 The Strand, London in 1853. 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.
A MEDICAL SPHYGMANOMETER ALLEN AND HANBURYS LIMITED INCOROPRATRING ANEROID MECHANISM BY SHORT AND MASON, LONDON, MID 20th CENTURYThe brass-cased aneroid gauge incorporating silvered scale annotated for millimetres of mercury and with SM monogram for Short and Mason to centre, connected via rubber tube to arm strap with inflation bulb stamped ALLEN & HANBURYS LTD, LONDON contained in a leather carry case.The case 18cm (7ins) long, 8cm (3.25ins) approx. diameter. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. Allen and Hanburys Limited who were established at 48 Wigmore Street, London in 1893; they continued trading until their acquisition by Glaxo Laboratories in 1958.
AN EXTREMELY RARE WALNUT AND BRASS BALANCE BAROMETERH. MAPPLE, LONDON, CIRCA 1856 With arched brass scale calibrated in barometric inches with the usual observations and engraved H. Mapples PATENT Barometer to upper margin raised over pivoted cradle with counterweight and operating moving pointer for the scale with second recording pointer set behind, the whole raised on a cavetto moulded rectangular brass plinth over walnut box base enclosing rack-and-pinion mechanism for the adjustment of the recording pointer via a knob to the front, on cavetto moulded skirt and brass ball feet, (aneroid vacuum chamber lacking).34cm (13.5ins) high, 17cm (6.75ins) wide, 11cm (4.25ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon; described and illustrated in Collins, Phillip Aneroid Barometers and their Restoration pages 205-6. Henry Mapple is recorded in Baillie, G.H. Watchmakers & Clockmakers of the World as publishing two articles in 'Trans. Soc. Arts' on clock springs and an escapement in 1838 and 1839 respectively. The British Museum webs archives notes that Henry Mapple was a former telegraph engineer for the Electric Telegraph Company who exhibited an electric telegraph, a clock escapement, and a telegraphic fire alarm at the Great Exhibition of 1851. He also, along with William Morris, held a Patent for electric timekeeping (No. 1515, 22nd June 1860 'Electric Clocks and Telegraphs').Henry Mapple devised this type of barometer and patented it in 1856 (Patent No. 1029). The pivoted cradle would have originally held a 'hollow tube, thin and exhausted of air'. This tube was designed to expand or contract due to change in barometric pressure causing a shift in the balance of its weight; consequently the balance cradle would tip and the pointer would move in relation to the scale.
AN EDWARDIAN MAHOGANY CASED BAROGRAPHSHORT AND MASON, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe mechanism with seven-segment aneroid chamber connected via a lacquered brass armature to an inked stylus for recording the change in barometric pressure on a clockwork-driven paper scale lined drum, with ivorine trade liable inscribed SHORT & MASON, LONDON applied between the drum and brass baseplate, the case with bevel-glazed five glass cover incorporating projection top mouldings and square section columns to corners over cavetto moulded base fitted with chart drawer to apron over bracket feet. 23.5cm (9.25ins) high, 38cm (15ins) wide, 23.5cm (9.25ins) deep. 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.
AN BLACK CRACKLE FINISH STEEL CASED MICRO-BAROGRAPHSHORT AND MASON, LONDON, CIRCA 1938 The mechanism with eleven-segment aneroid chamber connected via a gilt brass armature to an inked stylus for recording the change in barometric pressure on an enlarged clockwork-driven paper scale lined drum to take millibar charts measuring 457 by 189 mm, the baseplate inscribed with Met. Office M.O. monogram over MICRO-BAROGRAPH, BY, SHORT & MASON, LONDON, MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN, No. 292/38, the case with glazed five glass cover incorporating brass carrying handles to sides over cavetto moulded base fitted with stylus lever and marking plunger over cylindrical feet.26cm (10.25ins) high, 37cm (14.5ins) wide, 22cm (8.625ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon; acquired direct from the Meteorological Office. 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.
A BRASS TABLE WEATHER FORECASTING CALCULATORNEGRETTI AND ZAMBRA, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYFormed as three discs, the outer calibrated in inches for the barometer reading to the top edge and for wind direction to the lower edge, the middle ring is inscribed STEADY, RISING and FALLING and for summer or winter for lining-up with the wind direction scale, the centre with instructions for use, sector revealing appropriate weather forecast and inscribed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON, PATENT, 6276, 1915, with hinged strut to the black crackle-finish rear.12cm (4.5ins) diameter Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. An identical example to the current lot is illustrated in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETERS Aneroid and Barographs on page 81 and is fully described on page 82.This design of forecaster was patented by Negretti and Zambra in 1915 using actual weather observations over a ten year period and was said to be 80% accurate by the manufacturers.
A SILVERED BRASS DESK WEATHER FORECASTING CALCULATORNEGRETTI AND ZAMBRA, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe gabled plate with central circular scale incorporating adjustments for DIRECTIONS OF WIND and barometric pressure reading providing a response in the form of letter key within a choice of three slots on the centre depending on whether barometric pressure is FALLING, STEADY or RISING the upper edge of the plate labelled BAROMETER READINGS, REDUCED TO SEA LEVEL and the lower section with slot to reveal the forecast for each corresponding letter key brought into view by turning a knurled knob to the right hand side, the lower margin signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON.14.2cm (5.625ins) high, 7.5cm (3ins) wide, 5.5cm (2.25ins) deep. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The current lot is based upon Negretti and Zambra's design of forecasting calculator 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 the slot below.Condition Report: The fascia is in fine condition with minimal discolouration to the tarnishing and all functions operate as designed. The internal revolving 'forecast' cylinder shows some slight mellowing to the silvering. The case retains its original crackle-paint finish however there is some noticeable historic edge wear and flaking mostly to the upper edges. Condition Report Disclaimer
AN IVORINE FRONTED DESK WEATHER FORECASTING CALCULATORNEGRETTI AND ZAMBRA, LONDON, EARLY 20th CENTURYThe gabled plate with central circular scale incorporating adjustments for DIRECTIONS OF WIND and barometric pressure reading providing a response in the form of letter key within a choice of three slots on the centre depending on whether barometric pressure is FALLING, STEADY or RISING the upper edge of the plate labelled BAROMETER READINGS, REDUCED TO SEA LEVEL and the lower section with slot to reveal the forecast for each corresponding letter key brought into view by turning a knurled knob to the right hand side, the lower margin signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON; together with an IVORINE POCKET WEATHER FORECASTING CALCULATOR, also by Negretti and Zambra incorporating the same functions into a small triple-layer disc radially inscribed with forecast key to rear, (2).The desk calculator 14.2cm (5.625ins) high, 7.5cm (3ins) wide, 5.5cm (2.25ins) deep; the pocket calculator 5.5cm (2.25ins) diameter. Provenance: The exhibition collection of Barometer World Museum, Merton, Devon. The calculators in the current lot are based upon Negretti and Zambra's design of forecasting calculator 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 for each, 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 the slot below for the desk calculator or against the inscribed radial to the rear of the pocket version.Condition Report: The desk forecaster is in fine original condition with no noticeable condition issues other than extremely light edge wear to the crackle-paint finish to the rear. The pocket foreteller is in fine original condition with only very slight wear evident. Condition Report Disclaimer
Birmingham. Beilby, Knott & Beilby (publishers), To the Right Honourable William Earl of Dartmouth, Viscount Lewisham &c. &c. the Zealous Promoter of the interests of the Town and Liberal Patron of its Public Institutions, This Map of Birmingham engraved from a minute Trigonometrical survey, made in the years 1824 & 1825, is with permission dedicated..., J. Pigott Smith, Surveyor and Engineer, Birmingham, March 25th 1828, uncoloured large engraved map, sectionalised and laid on linen, inset plan of the town of Birmingham in the year 1731, large calligraphic cartouche, compass rose and mileage scale, slight dust soiling, edged in green silk which is partially frayed, 1380 x 1290 mm, marbled endpapers, Qty: (1)Footnote: A scarce large scale map of Birmingham.
![British Isles. Jansson (Jan & Hondius Henricus), Magnae Britanniae et Hiberniae Tabula, 1631 [but 1636 edition], hand-col](https://cdn.globalauctionplatform.com/0b58d581-ebd7-4ad4-9c12-ae4000b9ea0d/cf131848-546a-44f8-b5a1-ae4001048f1a/468x382.jpg)
British Isles. Jansson (Jan & Hondius Henricus), Magnae Britanniae et Hiberniae Tabula, 1631 [but 1636 edition], hand-coloured engraved map, inset map of the Orkney Islands, decorative cartouche and mileage scale, central fold strengthened on verso, 380 x 510 mm, English text on versoQty: (1)Footnote: R. W. Shirley. Early Printed Maps of the British Isles, 1477 - 1650, no. 435.
England & Wales. Willdey (George), A New & Correct Map of England & Wales now called South Britain, done from the latest surveys and best observations. Containing all ye cities & Market Towns with ye roads & distance in reputed miles between Town & Town by inspection without scale or compass..., circa 1717, engraved map with contemporary outline colouring on two conjoined sheets, tables of towns and cities and eighteen uncoloured vignettes of principal cities to vertical margins, old folds and central fold strengthened on verso, slight marginal fraying to one margin, 620 x 1010 mmQty: (1)Footnote: R. W. Shirley. Printed Maps of the British Isles 1650 - 1750. Willdey 3. An uncommon distance map of England, based on the John Adams wall map of 1677.
Ireland. Speed (John), The Province of Connaugh with the Citie of Galwaye Described, John Sudbury & George Humble, circa 1627, hand-coloured engraved map, inset town plan of Galway, large strapwork cartouche and mileage scale, central fold split and crudely repaired on verso, some staining and mould bloom, 390 x 515 mm, English text on verso, framed and double-glazed, together with Allen (William H.). An Improved Map of India Compiled from the latest documents, is respectfully dedicated to Major James Rennell F. R. S. &c. &c. &c. London Corrected 1842, engraved map with contemporary hand-colouring, sectionalised and laid on linen, very slight staining, 940 x 815 mm, later presentation inscription to rear of front board, publisher's cloth gilt boards, boards faded and stained, with Wyld (James). Map of Europe Exhibiting its Principal States and Physical Features..., circa 1870, engraved map with contemporary outline colouring, sectionalised and laid on linen, 535 x 685 mm, contained in a contemporary cloth slipcase with printed label to upper cover, plus Dower (John). The Chronological and Geographical Family Guide to the Bible, circa 1850, large engraved map of the Mediterranean, sectionalised and laid on linen, inset maps of Canaan and Palestine, 1180 x 1480 mm, with another five British and foreign maps, including examples by Brué, Norden/Kip, Stanford and Cruchley, various sizes and condition Qty: (10)
Liverpool. Bennison (Jonathan), A Map of the Town and Port of Liverpool with the Environs including Seacomb, Woodside, Birkenhead, Tranmere &c. from actual survey, Liverpool, Sept. 1835, large map, engraved by John Dower, with contemporary outline colouring, sectionalised and laid on linen, calligraphic cartouche, compass rose and table of reference, slight offsetting, 1280 x 1780 mm, marbled endpapers, contained in a contemporary morocco gilt book box, book box worn and rubbedQty: (1)Footnote: A fine example of this impressive large scale map of the city of Liverpool.
![Wales. Ortelius (Abraham & Lhuyd Humphrey), Cambriae Typus Auctore Humfredo Lhuydo Denbigiense Cambrobritano [1573], unco](https://cdn.globalauctionplatform.com/0b58d581-ebd7-4ad4-9c12-ae4000b9ea0d/2a2b168f-88f9-42a0-b320-ae400104ac20/468x382.jpg)
Wales. Ortelius (Abraham & Lhuyd Humphrey), Cambriae Typus Auctore Humfredo Lhuydo Denbigiense Cambrobritano [1573], uncoloured engraved map, large strapwork cartouche and mileage scale, very slight staining to the margins, 370 x 495 mm, German text on versoQty: (1)Footnote: Marcel van den Broecke. Ortelius Atlas Maps. no.21 first state. John Booth. Antique Maps of Wales. no. 1.
Prints & Engravings. A mixed collection of approximately 125 prints, 18th & 19th century, engravings and lithographs, including British & foreign topographical views, natural history, domestic animals, portraits, religion, classical and genre, together with ephemera, documents, 'Magic Lantern slides' and facsimile large scale maps, various sizes and conditionQty: (approx. 125)
Curtis (William). Flora Londinensis: Or Plates and Descriptions of such Plants as Grow Wild in the Environs of London: with their places of growth, and times of flowering; their several names according to Linnaeus and other authors: with a particular description of each plant in Latin and English. To which are added their several uses in medicines, agriculture, rural oeconomy, and other arts, 2 volumes bound in 6, 1st edition, London: printed for the author, 1777-98, volume I title with oval engraved vignette, subscribers' list, 435 fine hand-coloured engraved plates on 432 sheets after James Sowerby, Sydenham Edwards, William Kilburn and others, each plate numbered at foot in early ink, index leaves similarly numbered in manuscript, volume II title, dedication and index leaves (bound in second volume detached), occasional light spotting and toning, 19th century morocco-backed boards, somewhat rubbed and scuffed with edge wear, folio (475 x 285 mm) Qty: (6)Footnote: Henrey 595; Hunt 650; Nissen BBI 440. Provenance: Porkington Library, shelf number labels to front pastedown. Porkington (or Brogyntyn) is a mansion house near Oswestry in Shropshire, formerly the estate of the Maurice and Owen families, and subsequently the Ormsby-Gore (Harlech) family from 1815. It housed famous English and Welsh manuscripts which are now in the National Library of Wales."The work was originally published in numbers, seventy-two of these appearing from May 1775 until 1798... Curtis intended to continue the work until all the plants growing wild within ten miles of London were figured and described, and then to publish a continuation of it to extend to all plants indigenous to Great Britain. Unfortunately the undertaking did not receive the encouragement it deserved and so it was never completed. W. Hugh Curtis points out that the Flora londinensis was Curtis's favourite botanical project, but the sales seldom, if ever exceeded 300 copies and the venture lost him a good deal of money... Curtis adopted the novel plan of having the specimens drawn to a uniform scale and to life size, and most of the plates display a high degree of accuracy. In the opinion of Salisbury, the majority of the figures 'represent the most successful portrayals of British wild flowers that have ever been achieved'." (Henrey pp. 65-67).
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