13.10  LARGE SHIP’S BELL CLOCK.  Most impressive ship’s bell clock manufactured by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston as engraved  between the winding arbors, “CHELSEA SHIP’S BELL.”  This clock contains Chelsea’s finest quality jeweled ship’s bell movement with an 8 inch silvered brass dial, engraved with bold Arabic numerals, minute chapter, blued steel Breguet-type “moon” hands and reflector ring.  The enduring appeal of this clock is in its magnificent presentation.  It has a classic ship’s clock case of solid rose bronze with flared bezel hinging open with a spring-loaded button latch.  This clock is also equipped with the valuable added feature of having a bell ON/OFF switch.  The entire presentation weighs an astounding 17 pounds and measures 10 inches in diameter overall by 4 inches deep.  With a serial number of XXXXXX* this clock dates to 1968.  It is in excellent running condition and is a good time keeper, striking the ship’s bell sequence properly with a clear sonorous tone.  It has just been thoroughly serviced by our AWI (American Watchmaker’s Institute) certified technician.  Amazingly, it is in excellent, virtually perfect cosmetic condition, after nearly a half century of use!  Complete with original Chelsea-marked brass winding key.    

* For the privacy and security of the ultimate purchaser, the serial number of this clock is being withheld.

13.16  GIMBALLED SHIP’s BAROMETER.  Scarce, second half of the 19th century English gimbaled marine barometer with the ivory register plates engraved by the maker, “W. H. MORALEE SOUTH SHIELDS” at the top.  The scale on the left is engraved with the standard weather indications, “Stormy, Much Rain, RAIN, Change, FAIR, Set Far, and Very Dry.”  On the right the scale is calibrated in inches of mercury from 27 to 31 in tenths.  The sliding vernier scale operated by the ivory set knob and internal rack and pinion system, provides an accurate reading down to 1/100th of an inch.  The scales are protected by a beveled glass crystal set into the arched pediment.  The body of this barometer is made of rich rosewood with a lovely color and grain.  The top is equipped with a pivoting brass suspension loop attached to a chain for hanging the barometer up when not in use.  When in use, the barometer is equipped with an elaborate silvered brass gimbal bracket with floral decoration.  A very unusual feature of this instrument is the fact that the bracket is actually signed by its maker “Pascall Atkey & Son, Cowes” the famous nautical instrument makers on the Isle of Wight!  It is made even more desirable because the gimbal is complete with the original detachable wall bracket or “shoe.”  Two prongs on the back of the gimbal fit into the shoe, allowing the barometer to be easily removed from the mount.  Below the gimbal, inset into the front, is the handsome mercury thermometer with ivory scale calibrated in degrees Fahrenheit from 30 to 110 in 2 degree increments.  At the bottom of the barometer is the solid brass cistern cover which houses the boxwood mercury reservoir within.  The entire instrument measures 37 inches tall overall by 3 inches wide at the register.  When mounted the instrument protrudes 8 inches from the bulkhead.  Fully functional and in outstanding original condition showing good age but no abuse.   All surfaces and components are original.  This is an exceptionally nice example of a highly sought after ship’s “stick” barometer, circa 1850.  

Extraordinary shipping and handling applies.

13.12  EARLY HAMILTON CHRONOMETER.   Very rare survivor from the first production run of the  legendary Model 21 marine chronometer made by the Hamilton Watch Company during world War II.   Only 337* of these first-run key lock box chronometers were produced by Hamilton, before it went on to manufacture 13,086* more of the standard type.  This exceptional timekeeper has a silvered brass dial with Arabic numerals and minute chapter swept by black spade hands.  It is marked adjacent to the center arbor “HAMILTON Lancaster, PA., U.S.A.” serial number “298.”  A 56 hour Up/Down indicator is positioned below the “12” and a subsidiary seconds bit covers the 6.  The movement is Hamilton’s famous 14 jewel, fusee-driven full-size chronometer with elinvar balance and spring détente escapement.  The nickeled plates are beautifully damascened and signed “Model 21, 14 Jewels HAMILTON WATCH CO. Lancaster, Penn.”  This early machine was retrofitted with the innovative brake lock feature which was invented after the initial production run.  The feature was installed on later production machines and often retrofitted on earlier models. The movement is housed within the standard Hamilton brass tub with spring-loaded winding dust cover; slung in gimbals with a gimbal box lock.  But this is where a major difference is obvious – the chronometer box.  It is not the standard Hamilton box, but for all intents and purposes is a Ulysee Nardin box with Hamilton markings!  The lid latch is different.  The lower tier closes with a keyed lock rather than a button latch, and the side carrying handles are different.  Yet the front prominently displays the familiar “HAMILTON WATCH CO.” plaque and the interior bears the metal “corking instructions” placard which was obviously in place before the brake lock retrofit. Another differing feature of this remarkable machine is the original ratcheted winding key. It is not the typical Hamilton form, but reminiscent of earlier chronometer keys from which it was copied. It is equipped with a unique rubber o-ring which acts as a cushion.   This chronometer is in magnificent cosmetic and running condition.  It has just been thoroughly overhauled and restored by master chronometer box maker Gary Sellick, founder of Ships Clocks Cabinetry.   It is original, NOT a copy or reproduction.   We absolutely guarantee the authenticity of this presentation which represents one of the rarest chronometers we have offered in our 35 years in this business.    

The Hamilton marine chronometer was a state-of-the-art ship's mechanical precision timekeeper representing the epitome of American ingenuity and dedication under the most trying of circumstances. In 1940, as war clouds gathered around the world it became obvious to the American government that the huge number of ships needed to fight a global war would each require an accurate means of navigation.  At the time, a good chronometer was the only answer. Yet no manufacturer in the world was geared up to produce the numbers required. Amazingly, the Hamilton Watch Company which had never manufactured a true chronometer before, stepped up to the task by mass producing a chronometer based on the Swiss design of Ulysee
Nardin.  This literally "reinvented" chronometer took form as the famous Hamilton "Model 21" which had many revolutionary features including the non-magnetic "Elinvar" balance, unaffected by temperature changes; fully interchangeable parts; and the "brake lock" system which allowed the chronometer balance to be secured into position for safety in shipment.  This rare early example shares the same type of key lock box as its predecessor Nardin.

* Marvin Whitney, author of “The Ship’s Chronometer,” 1985, American Watchmakers Institute Press, Cincinnati, Ohio, and renown authority on Hamilton chronometers, indicates that the first 337 Hamilton chronometers were ordered by the Navy on October 14, 1941, nearly 2 months before America’s entry into World War II.  The company went on to produce over 13,000 of these incredible machines!

13.13   MOUNTAIN BAROMETER.   Scarce early 1900’s American-made aneroid barometer for use at altitude.   This lovely precision weather instrument has a white enameled brass dial protected by a glass face.  The bottom of the dial is signed “Taylor Rochester, N.Y. U.S.A. / Toronto, Canada.”  At the top it is marked “PAT. AUG. 18-1914.”  The dial is calibrated in inches of mercury reading from 26 to 31 in tenths of inches, divided by 2/100ths.  It is also marked with the standard weather indications “~STORMY – RAIN –CHANGE * FAIR – VERY DRY~.”  A blackened steel indicator needle points to the precise reading, overlaid by a brass set needle connected to a knurled brass knob through the glass.  The barometer is contained within its lovely solid bronze case with pivoting suspension loop at the top.  The unique feature of this barometer is on the back.  Rotating the knurled brass plate moves the entire  movement within, thus setting the reading for a given altitude.   The rim of the plate is calibrated in “FEET” of altitude from “3500 to 7000” in 100 foot increments.  Instructions read “ROTATE THIS PLATE UNTIL ARROW ON CASE POINTS TO THE ALTITUDE OF YOUR LOCALITY.  PATENTED AUGUST 18-1914.”  5 ¼ inches in diameter and 2 ½ inches deep.  6 ¼ inches tall overall including the suspension loop.  This fine instrument is fully functional and in a virtually pristine state of original preservation.  395

13.08 NAUTICAL CLOCK AND BAROMETER SET. Handsome 3rd quarter of the 19th century English wall clock and barometer set with a nautical presentation. This high quality set is housed in a beautifully hand-carved oak case in the form of a large kedge anchor with the dials encircled by rope-carved borders. Both dials are finished in white enamel and are protected by beveled glass crystals. The clock has Roman numerals, Breguet-type moon hands and a minute chapter. The all brass 8-day jeweled movement is of the rare, early cylinder escapement type and runs well. The barometer is open faced showing its high quality movement. The dial is marked from 25 to 31 inches of mercury in 2/100ths increments with the standard weather indications, "RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR," etc. Both instruments are accessible from the rear. The clock has a hammered brass press-fit cover easily removed for winding and the barometer has a wooden cover secured by unusual slotted washers. The back of the case bears a wood-branded Victorian "Registration of Designs Office" mark used to identify pottery, wood and metal objects produced in England during the period from 1842 through 1883. Using it we can date the production of this clock/barometer exactly to June 19, 1873! (F, M, 19). The entire presentation measures 21 inches high and 10 inches wide. Outstanding original condition showing 140 years of careful use. 1395

13.77 SHIP'S CLOCK.   Early1900's ship's pilothouse clock of German manufacture, which likely saw service in World War I. This high quality clock has a fired porcelain dial with Arabic numerals, spade hands and a large subsidiary seconds bit below the 12 o'clock position. It has a heavy solid brass case, a hinged brass bezel with a polished glass crystal and an all brass movement with lever escapement. The movement has just been professionally serviced and it is an excellent timekeeper. A very unusual feature of this clock is that it is equipped with a "stop seconds" lever at the 2 o'clock position allowing the clock to be set to the precise second. Such a complication permits the clock to function as a "hack" for taking time measurements required in navigation. In addition, such a function is required during joint operations (such as convoy steaming) when coordinated movements between ships are necessary. The solid brass case measures just over 9 inches in diameter.  A rare and unusual ship's clock, in extra fine original condition. 895

13.07  LARGE CHELSEA CLOCK.  Most impressive, extra large ship’s bulkhead clock made by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston, Massachusetts, with the dial signed below the “6”, “CHELSEA CLOCK COMPANY., BOSTON, U.SA.”  This massive precision timekeeper has a silvered brass dial with bold Arabic numerals swept by Breguet-style moon hands.  The minute chapter ring is encircled by the heavy, silvered reflector ring.  It has a large secondary seconds bit below the “12” and a Fast/Slow adjustment near the 2 o’clock position.  The movement is of the early rectangular type, fully jeweled with serial number XXXXXX* matching the case.  The exact serial number of this clock is listed in Demeter’s book, “Chelsea Clock Company, The First Hundred Years.”  It is identified as having been sold to “P.H.” on August 27, 1918.  The imposing solid brass case is of the classic ship’s clock type with flared bezel and large mounting flange.  It is hinged, allowing easy access for winding and setting with a button latch opening from left to right.  The case measures 12 3/8 inches in diameter and is 3 inches deep.  Cosmetically, this clock is in an unbelievably outstanding state of original preservation!  And it is an excellent time keeper, having just been professionally serviced by an AWI (American Watch Makers Institute) certified technician. An absolutely GORGEOUS clock.   

* For the privacy and security of the purchaser the serial number of this clock is being withheld.

13.21 EARLY SHIP'S BELL CLOCK. Genuine early 1900's American ship's bell clock made by Seth Thomas of Thomaston, Connecticut. This quality ship's clock has a silvered brass dial with bold black Roman numerals, blued steel spade hands, minute chapter ring and a seconds bit showing individual seconds below "XII." The dial is signed "SETH THOMAS" between the two winding arbors and is further marked "Made In U.S.A." below "VI.". The Fast/Slow adjust lever is above the 12 o'clock position and the manual strike lever marked "Strike" is left of "IX." The glazed hinged bezel with reflector ring opens from the left with a tight press fit. The case is the classic ship's clock type with flared bezel and is all brass in its original nickel finish. There is a screen at the bottom of the clock which allows maximum bell sound and it does so, ringing the ship's bell sequence properly with a loud, clear tone. The clock has just been thoroughly overhauled by a professional AWI-certified watchmaker and is in tip top condition. It is considered a 48 hours type. But in our possession since servicing, it has run 4 days on a single winding. 7 inches in diameter and 4 inches deep. Circa 1910. Excellent original condition showing wonderful age and absolutely no abuse. 495

13.05  PATENTED ANEROID BAROMOMETER.  Exceptional 19th century barometer of American manufacture, with an open face movement, reverse glass dial and porcelain surround!  This magnificent creation is signed “PORTLAND INSTRUMENT CO., PORTLAND, ORE.” just below the center arbor.  The dial is calibrated in inches of mercury from 25.5 to 31.5 divided in 5/100ths increments.  It is further decoratively identified with the standard weather indications “STORMY, RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR  and VERY DRY.”  The internal porcelain reflector ring is marked “PATENT No. 2526” and is dated “1888.”  The complex, highest quality nickeled movement is entirely visible and operates a blued steel indicator needle overlaid by a brass set needle connected to a small knurled knob rove through the thick beveled glass crystal.  The solid brass case measures 7 inches in diameter and is 2 ¼ inches thick.  It retains its large pivoting suspension loop at the top for hanging.  This instrument is in remarkable original condition in all respects.  The interior is perfect.  The brass case retains it original bright brass lacquered finish showing good age.  Certainly one of the finest barometers of its type we have ever seen.  A genuine beauty worthy of the finest collection!   Over 120 years old.   

13.04  RARE PROTOTYPE CHRONOMETER.  Very scarce, possibly unique, first-run example of the now legendary model 21 marine chronometer made by the Hamilton Watch Company during world War II.  This exceptional timekeeper has a silvered brass dial with Arabic numerals and minute chapter swept by black spade hands.  It is marked adjacent to the center arbor “HAMILTON Lancaster, PA., U.S.A.”  Uniquely it has no serial number!  A 56 hour Up/Down indicator is positioned below the “12” and a subsidiary seconds bit covers the 6.  The movement is Hamilton’s famous 14 jewel, fusee-driven full size chronometer with elinvar balance and spring détente escapement.  The nickeled plates are beautifully damascened, but again, very atypical of Hamilton production, the movement is unsigned and unnumbered!  Also telling of its early manufacture, this machine is not equipped with the innovative brake lock feature which was introduced on later production machines and often retrofitted on earlier models. The movement is housed within the standard Hamilton brass tub with spring-loaded winding dust cover; slung in gimbals with a gimbal box lock.  But this is where another major difference is obvious – the chronometer box.  It is not the standard Hamilton box, but for all intents and purposes  is a Ulysee Nardin box with Hamilton markings!  The lid latch is different.  The lower tier closes with a keyed lock rather than a button latch, and the side carrying handles are different.  Yet the front prominently displays the familiar “HAMILTON WATCH CO.” plaque and the interior bears the early rectangular ‘corking instructions’ placard.  This chronometer is in magnificent cosmetic and running condition.  It has just been thoroughly overhauled and restored by master chronometer box maker Gary Sellick, founder of Ships Clocks Cabinetry.   But rest assured it is original, NOT a copy or reproduction.   We absolutely guarantee the authenticity of this entire presentation.  To those ends we have chosen to leave the bottom of the box in its original, as found condition, showing its age.  This is perhaps the rarest chronometer we have offered in our 35 years in this business.  

Due to the rarity of this chronometer, no auction records exist for the sale of a similar example.  We believe the actual retail value could approach $10,000.  However, we are offering it for much less to our devoted clientele.

13.01  EARLY DECK WATCH.   Extra nice World War I era American ship’s deck watch made by the “Elgin National Watch Co” as marked on the porcelain dial.  Known as the “Father Time” model, this highest quality 18 size free sprung lever watch has bold Roman numerals with a minute chapter marked in 5’s swept by steel spade hands.  A sunken subsidiary seconds bit is located above the VI and a sunken wind indicator marked from “0 UP” to “40” in single hours is below the XII.  The dial is surrounded by a bright brass reflector ring and is protected by a thick beveled crystal within a knurled bezel.  The damascened nickel movement is a thing of beauty.  Its 21 jewels are housed in gold collars.  The bi-metallic balance also features gold timing weights and is “free-sprung,” meaning it was not required to be corrected Fast/Slow.  Underneath the balance is the signature “Elgin Watch U.S.A.”  The backplate of the movement is also marked “Father Time Elgin Ill, U.S.A., XXXXXXXX*, 21 Jewels, Safety Barrel, Adjusted 5 Positions.”  This deck watch is stem wind lever set – a feature found only in the highest grade watches to prevent accidental setting of the watch during winding.  The lever is located on the edge of the dial at the II o’clock position.  Although adjusted for position, the watch is slung in gimbals to keep it running upright in a seaway.  To these ends a heavy brass counterweight is located on the bottom.  It is hand-engraved with a 4-lobed design around an oval inscribed “USSB” and the number “824.”  This indicates military-related service under the control of the United States Shipping Board.  The brass gimbal has a knurled locking lever at the right rear and is mounted in the original 3-tier solid mahogany chronometer box with brass furniture.  A brass knife edge dust barrier is fitted in the lower tier.  It also has the original brass lock with functional key.  The second tier has a glazed top for viewing and is held open by a brass lid stop on the left.   The front bears an inlaid brass plaque reading “ELGIN.”  The upper lid has a button latch on the front and a quarter circle lid stop on the back.  The diminutive box measures 5 inches square and 5 ½ inches high.  Excellent cosmetic condition.  The watch itself has just been serviced by an AWI (American Watchmakers Institute) certified technician and keeps perfect time.  Of special note is the fact that this offering comes complete with its rarely-found outer carrying box!  It is constructed of solid mahogany with splined joints and a brass piano hinge.  The front bears the original lock and inlaid faux ivory Elgin disc.  The lower compartment is lined in blue felt padded with horse hair.  The bottom bears the same felt.  This outer box measures 7 ½ inches cubed and is in excellent condition complete with leather strap for carrying.  

*  For the privacy of the ultimate purchaser the serial number of this watch is being withheld.  The serial number indicates a manufactory date of 1918.

The United States Shipping Board was established as an emergency agency by Congress on September 7, 1916 and was formally organized on January 30, 1917.  Also known as  the War Shipping Board, its functions were to regulate commercial maritime carriers, transfer ships' registries to the Government, develop port and transportation facilities, develop a naval auxiliary and merchant marine and subsidize private ship construction.  The board served its purpose well as the United States entered the Great War, effectively managing literally thousands of ships and merchant seamen before the war's end.  It was abolished on March 2, 1934.  The Board’s successor was the U.S. Maritime Commission, which was established in 1936 and provided many of the same functions during World War II.

13.03  19th C. FRENCH POCKET BAROMETER.   Highest quality French barometer/altimeter from the second half of the 1800’s.  This diminutive precision instrument features a silvered brass open face dial only 1 5/8ths inches in diameter!  It is marked in centimeters of mercury from 56 to 79, divided in 1 millimeter increments.  The standard French weather indications “TEMPÉTE, Pluie, VARIABLE, Beau  and TRÉS SEC”  are marked at the appropriate readings.  The bottom of the dial is marked “Compensé.”  Then on the periphery of the dial the altitude is shown in meters, reading from 0 to 2400, calibrated in 20 meter increments, marked in hundreds.  An opening in the center of the dial shows the complex miniature movement within.  It connects to a steel needle as fine as a hair which indicates the reading.  For purposes of marking the reading the knurled bezel with convex beveled glass crystal rotates a very fine pointer to the desired position.  This instrument is housed in its solid nickel brass case with traditional watch bow at the top.  The back has a small aperture exposing a set screw for calibrating the reading.  It is contained in its original wooden case with leather covering, purple felt cushion and satin lining.  The hinged lid closes positively with a button latch.  The instrument itself measures 1 7/8ths inches in diameter, 2 ½ inches tall inclusive of the bow and less then ½ inch thick.  The case is 3 inches long, 2 ¼ inches wide and 1 inches thick.  Outstanding original condition in all respects.  The barometer is lively and the altitude function is remarkably accurate! 

13.98  EARLY BAROGRAPH/THERMOGRAPH.   Extremely scarce, and highly desirable late 19th American recording barograph and thermograph sold by “F. G. Schmidt, New York” as engraved on the faux ivory nameplate.  This magnificent scientific instrument was designed to measure and record both atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature in a weather office or  at sea on a ship.  It features multi-chambered (8) aneroid bellows connected by linkage to a stylus with a pen trace on a revolving drum to record the barometric pressure.  At the same time a bi-metallic coil thermometer is attached via complex linkage to a second stylus for recording the temperature!  These two functions are mounted firmly on a lovely solid brass bedplate.  Both functions are adjustable.   The barometer reading is calibrated using the knurled thumbscrew at the top of the bellows bridge, whereas the thermometer is adjusted by turning a small spring-loaded screw.  The two brass receptacles next to the bedplate hold small glass vials of red and blue instrument ink. The revolving brass recording drum is covered by chart paper indicating degrees Fahrenheit and barometer pressure in inches of mercury on the y axis.   Inside the drum with a press-fit cover is an 8-day jeweled clockwork which makes a full revolution once a week.   Accordingly the x axis is marked in days and hours of the week.  A small knurled lever at the front of the instrument is provided to disengage the pen traces from the drum when not in use.  This handsome device is made even more appealing by its lovely mahogany case with thick beveled glass on 5 sides.  Cleverly, the glass nearest the thermometer has a large hole to admit ambient air.  A drawer is fitted in the bottom of the case with 2 compartments, one for new charts and the other to store recorded charts.  Also included are 2 period pamphlets entitled “The Barograph” and “The Thermograph” describing the function and use of these instruments.  The entire device measures 15 inches wide by 9 inches deep and stands 8 ¼ inches tall.  It is in remarkable condition showing careful use and is still fully functional.  A number of original, unused and recorded charts are present.  In addition we are providing spare vials of red and blue instrument ink acquired from a ship chandler many years ago.

An old article in the “Printer’s Ink,” a New York City journal for advertisers, reports an interview with F. G. Schmidt in connection with the advertising of his successful business as a nautical optician.  The article is dated July 12, 1899 and states that Schmidt, in his 30’s at the time, had been in business for 10 years.

13.94  LARGE CHELSEA SHIP’s BELL CLOCK.  Finest quality ship’s bell mantle clock made by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston, Massachusetts.  This extra large example was known as Chelsea’s “Admiral” model is one of the most sought after examples the company ever made.   According to Andy Demeter in “Chelsea Clock Company, The First Hundred Years,” the Admiral line was discontinued in 1985.  This deluxe version features the fancy 8 inch dial with raised Arabic numerals and pierced filigree hands.  It is contained within its heavy, solid statuary bronze case with hinged bezel on the right opening from the left.  With matching movement and case serial numbers of XXXXXX* this clock dates to 1972.   14 inches wide by 12 inches high and 6 inches deep, weighing an impressive 25 pounds!   It is in very nice cosmetic and running condition.  The factory patinated finished has some spotting from age, but as these clocks go it is in much better than average condition.   

*  For the privacy and security of the ultimate purchaser, the serial number of this clock is being withheld.

13.69 CARVED SHIP'S BAROMETER. Top line English ship's bulkhead barometer from the Victorian period. This precision instrument has a white dial calibrated from 28 to 31 inches, subdivided to 2/100ths of an inch. The scale above the center arbor is also marked with the standard weather indications, "STORMY, RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR, and VERY DRY" all fancily written. Below is a curved mercury thermometer calibrated from 20 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit and -5 to 60 degrees Centigrade. The front brass bezel encircles thick beveled glass fitted with a set needle to track weather changes. Of particular note is the thick and heavy solid oak case, meticulously carved to simulate rope. On the back, this barometer is equipped with two brass hanging brackets, top and bottom, a method of attachment indicative of shipboard use. This very handsome shipboard instrument measures 9 1/2 inches in diameter and 3 inches thick. It is fully functional and in outstanding original condition showing good age with a nice old look. About as nice as they come! Circa 1885. 495

13.93    IMPORTANT ENGLISH WALL BAROMETER.  Impressive, ornately carved oak wall barometer by the venerated English barometer and thermometer makers “J. Somalvico & Co., LONDON.” as engraved on the silvered brass dial.   This extremely handsome Victorian instrument is profusely carved with floral designs, recurring bead and reel cornices and two classical ionic columns.  The precisely calibrated dial is calibrated in inches of mercury from 28 to 31 in fine 1/100th inch increments marked in tenths.  It bears the standard weather indications in fancy lettering, “Stormy, MUCH RAIN, RAIN, ((Change)), FAIR, SET FAIR, and Very Dry.”  Indications are registered by a very precise blued steal indicator needle atop a decorative sunburst pattern engraved at the center.  It is overlaid by a brass set needle which is operated by a knurled brass knob rove through the heavy beveled glass face.  The glass is set within a heavy cast brass bezel which measures 8 ½ inches in diameter.  Above the barometer dial is the crowning glory of this instrument, the largest mercury bulb thermometer we have yet seen!  The silvered brass scale is marked in single degrees Fahrenheit and Centigrade from -16 to 130 and -15 to 55 respectively and is also marked with the notations “FREEZ-ING” and “BLOOD HEAT” at the appropriate points.  The scale is housed under thick beveled glass within a molded oak frames measuring 13 by 3 inches. This wall barometer is nothing short of magnificent.  It stands 33 ¼ inches tall and is 11 ¼ inches wide at the widest.   Fully functional and ready to hang in a place of honor.  Truly museum quality! 

J. Somalvico was from a long line of family scientific instrument and barometer makers dating back to the 1700’s.  Joseph Somalvico & Co., was listed as an Optician and Philosphical Instrument Maker at 2 Hatton Garden, London form 1839 to 1867 and 16 Charles Street, Holborn, London from 1868 to 1899.  (Gloria Clifton, “Dictionary of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851,” 1995, The National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, England).

13.92 19th C. FRENCH SHIP’s BAROMETER. Genuine second half of the 1800’s ship’s barometer and thermometer made for the English speaking market. This very highest quality weather instrument is marked “HOLOSTERIC BAROMETER” at the top of the silvered brass dial. It is calibrated in inches of mercury from 26.6 to 31.4 divided by 1/10th increments, and is marked with the standard weather indications “STORMY, RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR and VERY DRY.” Below the barometer function is the most impressive mercury thermometer we have ever seen on such an instrument. It bears 2 scales, “REAMUR” and “FAHRENHEIT,” reading -20 to 43 and -15 to 130 respectively, both in single degree increments. Incredibly the thermometer tube measures 11 ½ inches long on the curve! The dial is swept by a classic blued steel needle overlaid by a brass set needle operated by a knurled brass knob rove through the heavy glass crystal. The glass has a thick bevel retained and is seated within a brass bezel. The body of the barometer is turned oak. Evidencing its use at sea, there are three brass hanging brackets for attachment on the back. The back of the barometer is covered with a zinc plate impressed with an oval containing the maker’s initials “OB.” A small aperture in the zinc covering allows for adjusting the barometer reading. 11 inches high by 3 inches thick overall. Outstanding cosmetic and functional condition, noting expected patination of the metal surfaces due to age. 695

13.89 BAROGRAPH by FAMOUS MAKER.  Especially nice late 19th century miniature marine barograph made by the renowned French makers “PNHB” as impressed on the heavy brass bedplate.  This high quality diminutive instrument features a multi-chambered aneroid bellows connected via a complex linkage to a stylus which records the barometric pressure on graph paper surrounding a revolving brass drum.  The linkage contains a temperature compensation device.  The drum revolves once a week, driven by a high grade clockwork with a turn-of-the-century jeweled Elgin watch escapement.  A small pivoting lever is equipped to hold the stylus away from the drum when not in use.  The drum retains its original unused barograph paper marked “MAXANT RECORDER” calibrated in days of the week from  0 – 24 hours in 2 hours increments on the x axis and inches of mercury from 28.5 to 30.85 by 5/100ths on the y axis.  The lovely solid mahogany cased is glazed on all four sides and is hinged on one end with two brass closure hooks on the other.  The top is equipped with a folding brass handle for carrying and bears the applied silvered brass label of the retailer “L. LARGHI OPT. BORDEAUX.”.  8 ¼ inches long by 5 wide and 6 inches high.   Excellent original condition.  One of the cutest of its type to be found.  Ex. Museum collection.   1295

The first practical aneroid ("without liquid") barometer is generally attributed to Parisan, Lucien Vidie in 1843, who was awarded an English patent for the device in 1844.  Vidie's patent rights expired in 1859, allowing other makers to produce instruments.  The most successful makers in France were Naudet, Hulot & Cie, who reportedly made 20,000 instruments between 1861 and 1866. ¹ 

Another reference to the firm was made by Middleton who states, "...there were several makers soon after the patent expired in 1859, the most successful being Naudet, Hulot, & Cie.  According to Le Roux they made 20,000 aneroid batomere between 1861 and 1866.  They called them baromètres holostériques...  references occur in the continental literature to Naudet barometers and to holosteric barometers for the rest of the nineteenth century.  They acquired a great reputation and were widely imitated." ²   Middleton goes on to state,  "For many purposes aneroids continued to be made - and are indeed still made - of a form very like that arrived at by Naudet, Hulot & Cie about 1860." ³     In the Appendix is an entry for a barometer held in the collection of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.  It reads, "230,002  A "Holosteric  Barometer - Compensated, "made by Naudet & Co. Marked on back of the case, U.S. Signal Service" ⁴   indicating manufacture around the time of the First World War.

The exact meaning and dating of the markings HBPN (alternatively PNHB) are less clear.  An entry for a barometer sold on eBay indicates the markings refer to "Hulot, Pertius & Naudet, Paris barometer makers in the 1930's.  However Andy Demeter, writing about the history of the Chelsea Clock Company notes, "With the possible exception of recording barometers, Chelsea did not assemble holosteric or aneroid movements for their barometers preferring to purchase them from the legendary French maker, Pierre (alternatively Paul) Naudet.  His firm's trademark is typically found in a circle on these early barometer dials with the letters "HBPN" as an abbreviation for "Holosteric Barometer, Pierre Naudet." ⁵   On page 220 a barometer dial is pictured with the caption, "1909 Pierre Naudet barometer."

In conclusion, it is apparent that the “Naudet” name figured in aneroid barometer production for nearly a century, in a period stretching from 1860 into the 1930’s.

1.  Edwin Banfield, "Barometers Aneroid and Barographs," 1985, Baros Books, Wiltshire, England, p. 21.
2.  W.E. Knowles Middleton, "The History of the Barometer, 1964, The Johns Hopkins Press, Baltimore, p. 407.
3.  Ibid. p. 409.
4.  Ibid. p. 464.
5.  Andrew Demeter, "Chelsea Clock Company, The First Hundred Years," 2001, Demeter Publications, Ltd., Boston, Massachusetts, p. 221.

13.81  IMPORTANT CHRONOMETER.  Finest 19th century marine chronometer made by the very respected English maker Asmus Johannsen.  This superior 2-day ship’s timekeeper features a silvered brass dial with bold Roman numerals, minute chapter ring, 56 hour Up/Down indicator at XII and subsidiary seconds bit at VI.  The dial is swept by solid gold spade hands.  It is signed in lovely script, “A. Johannsen 149 Minories, London.” and serial numbered “1787” within the seconds bit.  The thick beveled glass crystal covering the silvered reflector ring is in perfect condition.  This chronometer is housed in its solid brass tub with spring-loaded winding cover on the bottom.  It is mounted in its working gimbals and can be locked in place by the gimbal lock on the forward right corner.  The lovely all brass jeweled movement features a spring détente escapement with large bi-metallic balance, chain fusee, blued steel helical hair spring and diamond end stone.  All of this is mounted in the original 3-tiered fully brass-bound rosewood box with inlaid shield on the lid, large blank ivory nameplate on the front and shield-like key escutcheon on the bottom.  As an added touch both the escutcheon and shield in the top are decoratively engraved.  Complete with original ratcheted winding key and functional box lock key.  This impressive early navigational timekeeper measures 7 ¼ inches square by 7 ½ inches high.  Excellent original condition in all respects.   A stunning example!

According to Tony Mercer in “Chronometer Makers of the World,” 1991, N.A.G. Press, Colchester, England, Danish-born Asmus Johannsen, set up business in London in 1859.  Mercer states that Johannsen “Consistently figured in the Greenwich trials and took two first places.”   Mercer refers to him as “A great maker, supplying many “makers” (sic) with chronometers.”  From extrapolation of listed numbers and dates this chronometer can be dated to circa 1870.

13.79  POCKET BAROMETER/ALTIMETER.  Lovely, highest grade early 1900’s traveler’s packet barometer of unusually large size.  This precision instrument  measures 2 1 /2 inches across – nearly twice the size of average pocket barometer.  The fine silvered dial is calibrated in inches of mercury from 21 to 32 in tenths and again in 5/100th increments.  It is marked “Compensated” (for temperature) and is signed “ATCO Made In England.”  Surrounding the outer perimeter is a knurled rotating ring calibrated in “Feet” from 0 – 10,000 divided to hundreds of feet and again in 50 foot increments.  In use the observer stands at a known altitude (such as sea level) and sets the outer ring to the corresponding reading.  Thereafter, any decrease or increase in altitude will be registered with the corresponding rise or fall in barometer pressure.  The face is protected by a beveled glass crystal.  The body of this handsome instrument is in its original gilt-washed finish which is absolutely perfect.  A stout suspension loop is provided at the top.  It is complete with its original diptych wooden case lined with purple velvet and blue satin and covered in rich Moroccan leather.  A push button latch assures a press fit closure.  3 ¼ inches in diameter and 1 ¼ inches thick.  Without a doubt the nicest instrument of its type we have ever handled, being pristine in every respect.  595

13.76  U.S. NAVY DECK CLOCK.  Genuine World War II vintage ship’s clock made for the U.S. Navy by the Chelsea Clock Co.  The black composition dial is signed “MARK I DECK CLOCK, U.S. NAVY DECK CLOCK (N) 50262 CHELSEA”. This beautiful ship’s timepiece has bold Arabic numbers, white spade hands, a minute chapter, and seconds bit below the “12.”   It is the Navy’s classic “backwind” bulkhead deck clock with Bakelite case and convex crystal.  A knurled thumbscrew on the right secures the back to the mounting flange on a watertight O-ring. The clock body opens forward on a bronze hinge exposing the back which has 5 apertures.  They are: Fast/Slow, Winding, Set, and Stop. This latter feature is unique in that it actually allows the clock to be set to the exact second without stopping the movement -- necessary in coordinating fleet movements, shore bombardment and amphibious assaults.  A 5th aperture is a small button which covers the openings when not in use. The mechanism is Chelsea’s finest quality 11 jewel movement with solid brass components featuring a bi-metallic balance and lever escapement.  The backplate is marked, “CHELSEA CLOCK CO., BOSTON U.S.A.” and is serial numbered XXXXXX* dating it precisely to April 14, 1944.   As configured, the sturdy Bakelite case can also be removed from the hinged bulkhead mounting plate.  The clock is a precise timekeeper in fine, original cosmetic condition.  5 ½ inch dial and 8 ½ inches in diameter overall. Complete with original “Chelsea” marked winding key.   795

* For the privacy and security of the purchaser the serial number of this clock is being withheld.

13.67  LARGE WALL BAROMETER.  Impressive late 19th century Victorian wall barometer of English manufacture.  This handsome architectural barometer is ornately carved of solid oak with a colorful porcelain dial, brass bezel and beveled glass crystal.  The small diamond-shaped  mark at the bottom reads “O.C. Son LONDON MARK” with an anchor, the well-known trade mark of the famous firm O. Comitti & Son.  The precision aneroid movement is connected to the large blued steel indicator needle sweeping over the dial which is calibrated in inches from 28 to 31 in 1/100th increments.  The dial is marked with the standard weather indications, “Stormy, RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR,” etc. and bears a very fancy starburst design at the center.  The indicator needle is overlaid by a brass set needle connected to a knurled brass knob running through the crystal to register readings.  The massive oak case is a thing of beauty with columns, pillars, urns, finials and scrollwork.  The original heavy brass bracket is provided on the reverse for hanging, as is a small aperture for setting the barometer reading.  25 ½ inches tall by 16 ½ inches wide.  The perfect porcelain dial measures 8 inches in diameter.  This barometer is in absolutely outstanding original condition in all respects.  Fully functional and accurate.  975 

O. Comitti & Son worked in London from 1878 as philosophical instrument makers.  They began at 24 Great Warner Street, Clerkenwell, moving to 19 Hatton Garden in 1879.  After 1890 their address was 67-69 Mount Pleasant.  Comitti advertised as “Patentees of the visible aneroid dial barometer and sole manufacturers of the Torricelli barometer.”

13.37  ALABASTER PRESENTATION CLOCK.  Fine, mid-19th century French mantel clock made for the English speaking market.  This 8-day spring wound pendulum clock has a circular brass movement stamped “243.”  It is housed within a lovely solid alabaster case with gilded brass fittings.  The pristine porcelain dial is hand-painted with blue Roman numerals and a minute chapter swept by Breguet style “moon hands” in gold.  The top is adorned with a classic Grecian urn and both sides contain gilt lion heads holding rings.  The clock rests on 4 gilt metal feet which are height adjustable to level the clock.  The bottom front bears the hand-engraved presentation on sterling silver reading, “PRESENTED TO Miss J. Jardine BY Mess’rs Stark & Son ->TAILORS<-.”   11 ¼ inches high by 8 ¾ inches wide and 4 inches deep.  Absolutely outstanding, near mint, original condition, and a very accurate time keeper.  It has just been thoroughly serviced by an American Watchmakers Institute-certified technician.  Complete with winding key.  795

13.64 CHRONOMETER. Third quarter of the 19th century 2-day marine chronometer by the noted nautical instrument and chronometer maker "John Bruce 26 Wapping Liverpool” as fancily hand-engraved on the silvered brass dial. This handsome chronometer has Roman numerals, a subsidiary seconds bit and 56 hour UP/DOWN indicator on the 3 3/4 inch dial. It has solid gold spade hands and is engraved with the number "1065" within the seconds bit.  This matching number is also engraved on the inset silver name plate on the front of the box which reads “John Bruce Liverpool 1065.”  The highly finished movement with blued steel screws and decoratively engine-turned spotted brass plates is of the spring détente type with chain fusee. The early form blued steel helical hair spring encompasses the balance staff which pivots within its diamond end cap. The pillars and plates are highly finished in the finest traditional manner. This chronometer is housed in its original brass bowl and gimbal which are in a bright brass lacquered finish. The bottom of the bowl is fitted with a spring-loaded rotating dust cover to protect the winding arbor. The entire unit is contained within its original fancy box of classic 3 tier construction with glazed viewing lid. It is fully brass-bound in rich mahogany with an inlaid brass shield in the lid, “sunburst” inlay around the button latch and classic 8-sided “shield” escutcheon on the box lock. The box is equipped with inset folding brass drop handles on both sides.  This chronometer is complete with its original ratcheted winding key and even its original box skeleton key! It measures 7 1/8 inches square by 7 5/8 inches high and is in outstanding original condition in all respects. The mechanism has just been totally serviced by an AWI (American Watch Maker’s Institute) certified clock and watch technician and is in top running condition.  Circa 1870.  An excellent marine chronometer by a very well known 19th century English nautical instrument maker. Absolutely original and totally complete condition! 

Tony Mercer, author of “Chronometer Makers of the World,” 1991, N.A.G. Press, Colchester, England, notes that John Bruce began business in 1867. The 26 Wapping address was his earliest, where he resided until moving to 20 Wapping in 1881. The number of this chronometer, 1065, predates any listed in Mercer’s book; the earliest being 2001 dating to 1881. Accordingly, this chronometer is very likely one of Bruce’s first production, dating to the late 1860’s.