Time to add to your clocks collection? Hansons Auctioneers will host The Clock Auction at Bishton Hall on Monday, June 28, 2021. Here, clock expert Mike Wetton picks out 5 of his favourite lots. Browse and and bid at www.hansonslive.co.uk. The sale features a wide range of clocks, including French, Austrian and English examples, as well as barometers.
Timely French Flair | Lot 23A
1. This is my best pick of the clocks in the auction, a small travelling clock by the famous French maker Antide Javier. He worked from 1751 to 1835. Known for his fine clocks, astronomical and planetary clocks as well as being a clockmaker to King Louis XVIII of France, he trained many French clockmakers.
This clock is serial numbered with lovely blue enamel work and gilding. A very rare clock. Untouched condition. £2,000-£3,000.
Viennese Elegance | Lot 66
2. Early Vienna Wall Clock by A W Mayer in Wein with a 90-day movement. Lovely early clock from the stable of the famous town of Wein. £750-£,1000
Rare Derby Barometer | Lot 92
3. Barometer by Davis of Derby. This is a very rare find. It was in the old factory of Davis of Derby, a firm famous for the Davy lamps and precision instruments. £200-£250.
It was owned by the ex-works manager Mr John Henry Walters. It is in its original condition with thermometer and scales on the brass tube, all contained in a mahogany case. Inscribed ‘Davis Optician Derby’, this may have been a prototype made by the famous Derby instrument makers. I have not seen one before. Could it be that this is a one-off?
Electric Clock Pedigree | Lot 46
4. Early Electric wall clock by Gibbs of Derby. It was made by former Rolls-Royce employees Reginald Gibbs who worked for the famous firm for 47 years before retiring in 1959.
It is not known whether this clock was requested by Rolls-Royce or a private project. Even so, it is a lovely find and of good quality. £50-£100
Scottish Offering | Lot 69
5. A good wall-hanging regulator by Byson of Edinburgh, Scotland. Late 19th century. Quality regulator single train movement, 15” silvered dial, In burr maple Drum case.
Bysons were a famous family of clock and chronometer makers in Edinburgh, operating from 1778 until 1900.
The Bryson of Edinburgh family are described as eminent and inventive clockmakers. Robert Bryson was born in 1778 and died in 1852. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and made a Sidereal Regulator for the Edinburgh Observatory. He had two sons, Alexander and Robert, who succeeded him. £1000-£2000
To arrange a FREE clock valuation email: [email protected] Clocks are sold at a variety of specialist and general auctions throughout the year.
