West Sea Company

CLOCKS, BAROMETERS & CHRONOMETERS

Catalog Page 13

---

When no price is shown, use button to request the price.

Click on photos for larger images.

Click for ordering details.

---

13.85 PRISTINE CHRONOMETER. A truly remarkable World War II vintage chronometer which was never used! This finest quality 2-day marine timekeeper is by the very prestigious Swiss firm "Ulysee Nardin, Locale, Suisse 4951" as marked on the white enameled dial. A simply magnificent example which has bold Roman numerals, minute chapter, blackened steel spade hands, subsidiary seconds bit at "VI" and a 56 hour Up/Down indicator at "XII" marked "UP/HAUT" and "DOWN/BAS." This precision machine is housed in its original brass bowl with spring-loaded winding dust cover. It is slung in gimbals with knurled gimbal locking lever on the right. All brass is in its original bright lacquered finish. The entire assembly is housed in its fully brass-bound mahogany box of classic 3-tier construction with folding top lid, glazed viewing window in the second tier and functional box lock with original key in the bottom. The front bears the silvered brass label reading "ULYSEE NARDIN Le Locle (Suisse) Swiss Made, Fabr. Suisse" with matching number disc "4951" below. The original ratcheted winding key is contained in its slot, right rear. The state-of-the-art movement is a thing of beauty with gilded brass plates and turned pillars, large bi-metallic balance with helical palladium hairspring, diamond end stone, spring détente escapement and chain drive fusee. The backplate is impressed with the "Ulysee Nardin Locle" crest and bears the serial number "4951." The movement has just been serviced by a certified AWI (American Watchmaker's Institute) technician, and is in tip top running condition. The inner box is contained within its original outside carrying box with leather strap, brass hook and eye closure and two identification plates with match those on the inner box. The inner box measures 7 ½ inches square by 7 ¾ inches high. The outer box is 12 ¾ inches wide, 10 ¼ inches deep and stands 9 ½ inches high. It is no exaggeration that we describe this chronometer as MINT even though it is 67 years old! It is without question in the best condition of any of the more than 100 chronometers we have handled in our 35 year tenure.    Accompanying this chronometer are the original rating papers entitled "NAVY DEPARTMENT, Bureau of Ships / SHIP'S CHRONOMETER RECORD / U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington, D.C." dated "9-20-45 No. 4931" indicating it was "NEW" as of that date, with an "Average deviation of daily rate 0.23." Ulysee Nardin was born in Le Locale, Switzerland in 1825. He founded his firm in 1846 producing pocket chronometers, repeaters and very complicated watches. His son, Paul David, took over in 1875 and began producing marine chronometers, which won prizes at the Paris Exposition of 1900. Paul died in 1920 and was succeeded by three family members, Alfred, Gaston Ernest and Claude. Interestingly, during World War II Switzerland declared neutrality, and the Nardin firm actually manufactured timepieces for both the Allies and the Axis! Nardin chronometer records indicate that serial number 4931 was manufactured in 1942. However in late 1941 the U.S. government contracted with the Hamilton Watch Company to produce American chronometers for the war effort. Ironically those chronometers were largely copied from the Nardin model. But because military requirements subsequently specified Hamilton, this Nardin was never used and sat on a shelf for over 60 years!

OUTER BOX	IN OUTER BOX	BOX	FRONT	OPEN

DETAIL	DIAL DETAIL	BOWL	MOVEMENT 1	MOVEMENT 2

MARK	CHRONOMETER RECORD	KEYS

---

13.83  EARLY ENGINEROOM CLOCK.  Lovely, old ship’s bulkhead clock with works made by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston and case made by the Ashcroft Manufacturing Company of New York as marked on the silvered brass dial.  The bold dial features Arabic numerals and a minute chapter ring swept by Breguet style moon hands.  The subsidiary seconds bit above the center arbor is divided by single seconds marked by quarter minutes.  The early form Chelsea lever Fast/Slow adjustment is to the right while the winding arbor is above the “6.”  Below it is the Ashcroft trademark shield marked, “THE ASHCROFT MFG CO NEW YORK REG US PAT OFF”.   This finest quality ship’s clock contains Chelsea’s  early form 11 jewel movement with decoratively-engraved platform.  With a movement number of XXXXXX* this clock dates to late July 1925.  The classic hinged ship’s clock case is a thing of beauty being  heavy cast rose bronze in a high luster finish.  The glazed crystal in the bezel is set with plaster of Paris, as was typical of these early “gauge clocks.”  The face is hinged on the left, opening on the right with a lock operated by the original miniature case key marked “Chelsea.”  The original Chelsea-marked winding key is also present.  This handsome maritime clock measures 10 inches in diameter by 3 inches thick and weighs     pounds!  The dial itself measures 8 inches across  It is a faithful timekeeper having just been fully serviced by an AWI (American Watchmaker’s Institute) certified watch and clock maker.  A real bargain priced at  1495 * For the privacy and security of the ultimate purchaser, the serial number of this clock is being withheld. In 1852 Edward H. Ashcroft purchased American rights for the innovative French Bourdon tube pressure gauge, founded the Ashcroft Manufacturing Company and began producing pressure gauges for steam engines.   Ashcroft established his office at 87 Liberty Street in New York with his manufactory in Bridgeport, Connecticut.  The company was well known for producing all manner of high quality pressure gauges, counters, alarms, indicators, and tools for steam engines from its founding up until World War I. Ashcroft was sold to the company’s chief of sales, Charles A. Moore of Manning, Maxwell and Moore (MM&M) in the early 1900’s.  Interestingly, in 1912 MM&M was noted for its illustrious vice president, none other than New York’s notorious Diamond Jim Brady.  For more than 80 years, MM&M produced heavy industrial equipment in America while maintaining the Ashcroft brand.  To this day the vestiges of Ashcroft remain in the form Dresser, Inc.

BACK	DIAL	PERSPECTIVE	CASE KEY

---

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.

BOX	UPPER LID	DETAIL	DIAL

FUSEE	MOVEMENT

 

---

 

13.80  WW II U.S. ARMY AIR FORCES CLOCK.  Scarce, World War II vintage clock made for the U.S. Army Air Forces by the Seth Thomas Clock Company of Thomaston, Connecticut before the advent of the U.S. Air Force!  This rare military timepiece has a large multi-colored dial with unusual markings.  It has bold black Arabic numerals 1-12 within circles on the periphery.  Under these are additional numbers showing military time 13-00 in red.  The dial has a minute chapter ring and is swept by black spade hands.  It has a large sweep second hand and its original brass reflector ring.  It is signed on the bottom “Made By Seth Thomas in U.S.A.”  Known as an “Air Force Sector Clock” this timekeeper is divided into quadrants in the center distinguished by orange, yellow, green and light blue sections.  The outer sectors are marked in 5 minute increments with recurring orange, yellow and green colors.  Presumably the various sectors enabled observers to better monitor flight times of multiple aircraft by using assigned colors.  This high grade clock features Seth Thomas’s all brass jeweled movement made to precise government specifications.  The backplate of the gold-washed movement is marked <ST> with the date of “1-45.”  The inside of the case is marked with the U.S. Government inspector’s mark of a “US” flanking an anchor.  The large hinged Bakelite case with locking thumb screw is marked “GE” (General Electric) on the back and “W.E. Co. (?) KS9” on the bottom front flange.  The bezel screws down tight on the original cork gasket which is still present.  This clock is in excellent original condition.  The movement is pristine and keeps perfect time.  The dial is bright and clear, but does exhibit the effects of exposure to the elements over 65 years.  A rare World War II relic measuring 10 ¼ inches in diameter and 3 inches deep.   Complete with winding key.  595 The U.S. Air Force became a separate military service on September 18, 1947.  On that date the National Security Act of 1947 was enacted creating the Department of Defense and its three major branches:  Army, Navy and the new Air Force.  Prior to 1947, military aviation had been divided between the Army for land-based operations and the Navy, for sea-based operations.  The timeline of early U.S. military aviation is: Aeronautical Division, Signal Corps, August 1, 1907–July 18, 1914 Aviation Section, Signal Corps, July 18, 1914–May 20, 1918 Division of Military Aeronautics, May 20, 1918 to May 24, 1918 Air Service, U.S. Army, May 24, 1918 to July 2, 1926 U.S. Army Air Corps, July 2, 1926 to June 20, 1941 U.S. Army Air Forces, June 20, 1941 to September 17, 1947

DIAL	BACK	PERSPECTIVE	MOVEMENT

---

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

BACK	CASE

---

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.

PERSPECTIVE	BACKS	BACK	MOVEMENT

 

---

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

BACK	MOVEMENT	DIAL	PRESENTATION	SIDE

---

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 100+ years of careful use. 1595

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.

BOX	DIAL	FUSE

INBOX	MOVEMENT	TOPVIEW

---

13.46 MOUNTED HYGROMETER. Fine early 1900’s humidity gauge with the silvered dial reading “DUROTHERM HYGROMETER” and signed in script “Luffte.” It is further marked “% relative humidity, usable in temperatures up to 230 oF, Made in Germany.” The solid brass case has perforations around the sides for ambient air flow. A small set screw in the bottom is provided to make adjustments. The 5 inch dial is protected by a thick glass crystal. The instrument itself measures 6 inches in diameter on the flange. It is mounted to a lovely solid tiger stripe mahogany plaque measuring 7 ¾ inches in diameter, complete with flush brass mounting bracket. Outstanding cosmetic and functional condition. Accurate! 139

BACK	PERSPECTIVE

---

 

13.61  CARVED SHIP’s BAROMETER.  Very handsome mid-1800’s Captain’s cabin  barometer undoubtedly from a sailing ship.  This lovely example of a functional yet very decorative shipboard instrument has a hard-fired white porcelain dial calibrated in inches of atmospheric pressure from 27.7 to 31.3.  It also has more unusual weather notations reading:  “GALES, STORMY WET CHANGEABLE, FINE, CALM, and SET FAIR” at the top and “-.FALLS.-”MORE WIND FROM S.WLY., S.E., S.W. ARM, WET (then the trident) and, -.RISE.- N.ELY, N.W.N.E OR LESS WIND. COLD DRY.”   Key words are highlighted in RED.  Of added appeal, and certainly increasing its value as a real ship’s barometer, is the fact that an old fashioned anchor is depicted at the center of the dial and Neptune’s trident is shown at the bottom.  While unsigned, it is our opinion that this barometer was made by Martin of Swansea, a noted English ship’s barometer maker circa 1860.  It has a brass bezel with thick beveled glass through which the brass set needle overlies the black indicator needle.  The body of the barometer is carved in the traditional “ropework” manner out of rich dark oak.  The original heavy brass hanging bracket is countersunk on the reverse.  The entire instrument measures 9 ½ inches in diameter and 3 1/4 inches thick, while the dial itself is 6 1/4 inches across.  Outstanding, pristine original condition throughout!  Fully functional and accurate.  Truly a fantastic example.  569

According to Edwin Banfield in “Barometer Makers And Retailers 1660-1900,” 1991, Baros Books, Wiltshire, England, Felix Martin was a watch and clock maker in Swansea from 1850-1870.  We had and sold a nearly identical barometer with a plain, but signed dial by this maker.

ANCHOR	PERSPECTIVE	TRIDENT

---

13.55 SHIP'S BELL CLOCK & CANDLESTICK SET.  Rare, early 1900's Chelsea ship's bell mantel clock with the added desirability of original matching candlesticks! This fine quality set is solid bronze and retains its original deep greenish-black factory finish with bronze highlights. The silvered brass dial is of convex form with Arabic numerals, blued steel spade hands and is signed "Chelsea Clock Co. Boston, U.S.A. Ship's Bell." It is protected by a convex glass crystal set in a press-fit hinged bezel for easy winding and setting access. The back of the case is equipped with a second hinged door of pierced brass which allows access to the movement and the strike to be heard while affording protection from dust. The case is very heavy solid bronze mounted on four ball feet and measures 10 1/2 inches wide by 7 3/4 inches high. The bottom is fitted with the original wooden "sounding board" which effectively amplifies the lovely tone of the strike. It is marked with the matching serial number on the movement, XXXXXX*, dating this clock to right after New Year's Day 1925! The gilded brass movement also bears Chelsea's patent numbers from 1900. The matching candlesticks are of heavy bronze with wooden bottoms! They each measure 10 inches high by 4 1/4 inches square on the bases. This clock is a perfect timekeeper and strikes the ship's bell sequence with an amazingly loud, deep tone. Complete with original Chelsea-marked winding key.  This is a real Chelsea rarity!  Precious few of these "Tambour" model clocks with matching candlesticks were ever produced by Chelsea, and then only very early in the company’s history.  In fact, no example of this model is shown in Demeter's comprehensive book, "Chelsea Clock Company, The First Hundred Years."

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

 

BACK	CLOCK	DIAL DETAIL	MOVEMENT

---

13.56  YACHT WHEEL CLOCK.  Certainly one of the most recognizable and most sought after clocks ever made!  This impressive ship’s bell clock was manufactured by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston for the retailers “BROCK AND COMPANY” as engraved on the silvered brass dial.  Known as the “Mariner,” this clock contains Chelsea’s high quality jeweled ship’s bell movement with a 6 inch dial, Arabic numerals, minute chapter, blackened 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 with flared bezel hinging open with a spring-loaded button latch.  That solid brass case is then encircled by a massive bronze “ship’s wheel” with ten turned brass spokes.  It sets atop a graceful heavy bronze plinth mounted to a solid mahogany backboard and base.  The entire presentation weighs an astounding 25 pounds and measures 17 ¼ inches high overall!  The bezel of this clock is 7 ¼ inches in diameter and it measures 14 inches wide from spoke to spoke, while the base is 12 ¼ inches wide by 5 3/8 inches deep.  With a serial number of XXXXXX* this clock dates to 1956.  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 is in excellent cosmetic condition, exhibiting only minor wear to the dial, well expected after more than a half century of use.  Complete with original Chelsea-marked brass winding key.    

Brock and Company was a prominent, nationally recognized jewelry firm, certainly the most important jewelry store in Los Angeles. Brock's was founded by George A. Brock in 1903. In growing the company, Mr. Brock merged a number of other established Los Angeles jewelers into Brock & Company, including S. Nordlinger & Son, which had operated in Los Angeles since the late 1800's. In the 1920's, George Brock obtained a 99-year ground lease on the property at 515 West Seventh Street, and soon the custom-designed structure (now housing Seven Grand) was built.

With son George C. Brock at the helm, the company continued to grow. A second store was opened on Wilshire Boulevard, in Beverly Hills. At that time Tiffany and Co. even proposed the merger with Brock of "Tiffany-Brock & Co." However Brock's valued their independence and the merger did not take place.

In the early 60's, George C. Brock decided to retire. Ben Weingart, a young real estate broker in the 1920s, had been involved in the 99-year ground lease for the Brock & Co. parcel on Seventh Street. He approached Brock about purchasing some land owned by the company. Mr. Brock told Weingart that the only way he could acquire the land was to buy the company.

Mr. Weingart did just that, purchasing the single remaining Brock & Co. store downtown in 1964. Thereafter Mr. Weingart brought in a liquidator who operated the business for a few years, gradually selling off its inventory. The jewelry business ended, and some of the store fixtures were sold. Clifton's rented the building installed a cafeteria. George C. Brock died in 1967.

Originally offered as the “Yacht Wheel Clock with Base” in 1906, Chelsea gave this configuration its own identity as the “Mariner” in 1928.  The model was ultimately discontinued in 1984.

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

  

BACK	DETAIL	DIAL	SIDE

 

---

 

13.77 SHIP'S CLOCK. Very early 1900's ship's pilothouse clock of German manufacture. 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, early, and very unusual ship's clock in truly great original condition. 995

PERSPECTIVE

---

13.41 ENGINEROOM CLOCK. Large, especially handsome ship's clock made by Seth Thomas for the Southern California heavy industrial company, "WARREN & BAILEY CO., LOS ANGELES, CAL." as boldly engraved in Victorian lettering on the silvered brass dial. Below the winding arbors the clock is additionally marked "The Ashton Valve Co. Boston, Mass." The dial bears large Arabic numerals with a minute chapter ring, a seconds bit marked in 5 second intervals below the 12 and has blued steel spade hands. The double winding arbors operate the huge all brass Seth Thomas No. 10 movement within. This clock is an accurate timekeeper and runs for more than 8 days on a winding. The substantial solid bronze case is in the classic ship's clock style with flared bezel which hinges open to the left with a button latch. The entire unit measures 10 3/4 inches in diameter and is 3 1/2 inches deep. It weighs a hefty 14 pounds! The back of the clock retains an old paper label from the "Electric Clock Repair Co." Los Angeles.

According to the book entitled "A History of California and an Extended History of Los Angeles" by James Miller Guinn, published in 1915, the short lived partnership making up the Warren & Bailey Co. began in 1897 when James Garfield Warren purchased one half share in A. A. Bailey's manufacturing business. The firm was engaged in the manufacture of steam packing, boiler compounds, babbit metals and lubricating oils used in the production and maintenance of shipboard boilers. Mr. Bailey retired from the company the following year and the firm was incorporated in 1902 under the name of the Warren & Bailey Manufacturing Co.

The Ashton Valve Company was begun in Boston during the Civil War producing steam valves, gauges and fittings for the emerging Industrial Revolution. Located at 271 Franklin Street, Boston, the company received a gold medal at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893.

PERSPECTIVE	DIAL	MOVEMENT	BACK

---

13.40 CHELSEA MARINER. The classic ship's bell mantel clock made by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Company of Boston as marked on the silvered brass dial, "CHELSEA SHIP'S BELL." This impressive timekeeper has Arabic numerals with blued steel Breguet-type "moon" hands and a minute chapter. The perfect 4 inch silvered brass dial is encircled by its original reflector ring and has a hinged bezel with button latch opening from the left for easy winding and setting access. The heavy brass case is surrounded by a brass and bronze "ship's wheel" with 10 spokes and is mounted on a bronze pedestal affixed to its full length mahogany back with sub-base. The pedestal retains its original factory statuary bronze patina. The all brass jeweled movement is Chelsea's finest. With a matching case and movement number of XXXXXX* this clock dates to 1948. 14 inches high, 10 1/4 inches wide and 5 inches deep. Outstanding condition in every respect. It is hard to believe that this clock, in such fine condition, is over 60 years old! It is rare to find these old clocks in their original factory finish. Complete with Chelsea-marked winding key.

According to Andy Demeter, author of "Chelsea Clock Company The First Hundred Years," 2001, Demeter Publications Ltd., Chelsea, Mass., on page 202, Chelsea first produced this design as the "Yacht Wheel Clock" in 1906. In 1928 the model name was changed to the "Mariner." The Mariner line was discontinued in 1984.

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

DIAL	SIDE	BACK

---

13.38 EARLY SHIP'S ENGINEROOM CLOCK. Magnificent late 19th century American ship's clock made by Seth Thomas with the case and dial made by "Ashton Valve Co, Boston Mass." as decoratively-engraved on the silvered brass dial below the winding arbors. The dial, with engraved Arabic numerals, has a very bold minute chapter ring, large blued steel spade hands and a seconds bit below the 12. This combination makes for an exceptionally handsome clock! The dial is additionally marked "S.T." and dated "1891" below the 6. This most impressive ship's timekeeper has a solid bronze case with classic flared bezel measuring 10 1/4 inches in diameter by 4 inches deep and weighs an amazing 16 pounds! The glazed bezel with its original old wavy glass is hinged on the right, opening from the left with a secure button latch. Speaking of its age, the glass is sealed within the bezel with plaster of Paris. This handsome clock is a good timekeeper and is 117 years old! Very rare in this size, of this age and in such superb condition! Complete with its original brass winding key! Amazing!

The Ashton Valve Company was begun in Boston during the Civil War producing steam valves, gauges and fittings for the emerging Industrial Revolution. Located at 271 Franklin Street, Boston, the company received a gold medal at the Chicago World's Fair in 1893.

Interestingly, an Internet competitor sold a similar clock a few years ago, for a very large, but undisclosed sum of money. Their write-up goes to great lengths extolling the superb quality and rarity of that clock, which clearly was not nearly as nice nor as early as the example offered here! What's more, this clock is now being offered for far less years later! The link is: http://landandseacollection.com/id191.html

PERSPECTIVE	DIAL	BACK

---

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. 595

BACK

---

13.24 CLOCK and BAROMETER SET. Charming, near miniature clock and matching barometer pair made by the prestigious Chelsea Clock Co. of Boston. This matched set is absolutely of the finest quality to be found. Known as the "Manhattan" model it consists of Chelsea's high grade, jeweled time only clock having a silvered brass dial with Arabic numerals and blued steel spade hands. With a serial number of XXXXXX* this set can be dated to precisely to November 9, 1939. The matching barometer, made by Paul Naudet of Paris is marked "Made In France PNHB Compensated, Holosteric Barometer." It features a very high quality movement with an open face silvered dial calibrated in inches of mercury from 27.7 to 31.3 in 5/100th increments. It bears the standard weather indications, "RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR," etc. and is equipped with a delicate blued steel indicator needle and a brass set needle attached to a knurled knob running through the crystal. The bottom of the dial is fitted with a gracefully curving Fahrenheit thermometer calibrated in 2 degree increments from -6 degrees to 156! Both units are housed in their original heavy solid brass cases with10 decorative ship wheel "spokes" and knurled screw-on bezels. Each unit measures 4 3/4 inches in diameter overall with a 3 3/4 inch diameter mounting flange. The dials are 2 5/8ths inches across each. Outstanding functional and cosmetic condition throughout!

According to Andy Demeter in his book "Chelsea Clock Company The First 100 Years," 2001, David D. and Andrew C. Demeter, Chelsea, Massachusetts, the Manhattan set was, "introduced in 1937 for suggested use on motor boat instrument boards. These matching clock and barometer/thermometer models were available individually or as a set. This pair is essentially the Viking model with the addition of spokes around their circumference and like the Viking set, the Manhattan enjoyed a long life on the production line."

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

CLOCK DIAL	BAROMETER DIAL	BACKS

---

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. 795

PERSPECTIVE	BOTTOM

---

13.20 SHIP'S WHEEL BAROMETER. Very nice mid-1900's German-made barometer in a handsome ship's wheel presentation. The high grade barometer has a colorful open face porcelain dial which reveals the precision movement within. The dial is signed "Forecaster, Made in Western Germany" at the bottom. It is divided from 27 to 31 inches of mercury in 2/100th increments and is marked with the standard weather indications "Rain, Change, Fair," etc. in fancy script. The blued steel indicator needle is overlaid by the brass set needle connected to a knurled knob running through the beveled glass crystal. The crystal is housed in a polished brass case mounted within the hub of a ship's wheel. This well-made wheel is constructed out of solid walnut with the unusual feature of having 5 spokes instead of the typical 6 or 8! It measures approximately 16 1/2 inches from spoke tip to spoke tip and is 2 inches thick. A substantial hanging bracket is provided on the back of the center spoke. The barometer is in perfect working order. 295

DIAL	BACK

 

---

13.09 CHELSEA "COMMODORE" MANTEL CLOCK. Classic early 1900's bell clock made by the prestigious "Chelsea Clock Co. Boston, U.S.A." as marked on the silvered brass dial. This model, also known as the "Base and Ball," has a 4 1/2 inch dial with Chelsea's "fancy" raised Arabic numerals, minute chapter, and ornate pierced hands. The hinged bezel opens for access to winding and setting with a button latch. The flared cased is of heavy bronze mounted to its original bronze plinth with ball feet and wooden sounding board. This clock retains its original factory patinated statuary bronze finish which remains in excellent condition. 7 1/2 inches wide by 7 1/2 inches tall. The clock strikes the hours 1-12, and sounds a single strike on the half hour. It has just been professionally serviced and is an excellent time keeper. With matching serial numbers of XXXXXX*, this clock dates to July 1925. Complete with original Chelsea-marked winding key.

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

DIAL	SIDE	BACK	BOTTOM

 

---

13.88 AMERICAN CHRONOMETER. Lovely very early 1900's 2 day marine chronometer with the silvered brass dial signed in fancy engraved script "Thos. G. Medinger New York No. 1001." This fine ship's timekeeper has the traditional 12 hour dial with Roman numerals, minute chapter, 56 hour UP/DOWN, solid gold hands and seconds bit at the 6 o'clock position. The chronometer movement is in its heavy brass bowl (tub) slung in gimbals, both in their original lacquered finish showing age. These are housed in the original fully brass-bound African mahogany box with recessed drop handles, brass corners, box lock and key, and the ivory maker's nameplate engraved "THOS. G. MEDINGER. 1001 NEW YORK" on the front. Inside the box are three trade labels documenting this chronometer's servicing during the last century. The first is that of "Eugene F. Medinger, CHRONOMETERS, 115 Broad Street, New York," then "John Bliss & Co., Nautical Instruments, New York," and "Baker Lyman, Nautical Instruments, Metairle, LA." Two important aspects of this chronometer make it particularly unusual and desirable. The magnificent damascened all brass, jeweled movement with diamond end stone is the work of the Victor Kullberg workshop and is serial numbered on the back plate "8478" with matching number inside the tub. It has a spring détente escapement and "signature" reverse fusee for which Kullberg was famous. It also has a very complex middle temperature auxiliary compensation feature on its large balance. The helical hairspring is made of the state-of-the-art material (for its time) Palladium alloy. The second point of interest is the fact that this chronometer is numbered "1001." More likely it is actually Medinger's number 1! (see below). This lovely example of a very early 20th century American marine chronometer is in an outstanding state of original preservation and measures 7 1/4 inches square by 8 inches high. Complete with original ratcheted brass winding key.

The Medinger family were nautical instrument dealers in New York from the second half of the 19th century. Tony Mercer in "Chronometer Makers of the World," 1991, N.A.G. Press, Colchester, Essex, England, lists Thomas Medinger as a nautical instrument maker in New York, indicating that he purchased Kullberg chronometers. The very first serial number Mercer lists for Medinger is Kullberg's number 8478. This is THE chronometer! Again, substantial proof that this was indeed Medinger's FIRST chronometer! It dates 1911.

Chronometer maker Victor Kullberg needs no introduction to those familiar with the history of chronometers. Britten ("Clock Makers of the World") describes him thusly: "One of the most brilliant and successful horologists of the 19th century." Mercer goes on to laud him, "His workmanship was without doubt of the highest quality. He was a chronometer maker for the Admiralty, the Indian, Portuguese and Italian governments, as well as for Sweden and Norway. Medals gained at Besançon, Greenwich, Sydney, Paris, Le Havre, Philadelphia, Vienna and London. He received 9 gold medals, the Cross of Legion of Honour in 1889 and the Grand Prix in Paris in 1900. He also supplied many retailers and nautical opticians with complete movements."

The serial number "1001" almost certainly equates to "number 1" simply because no chronometer maker or retailer would consider marketing a chronometer as being their first. No self-respecting tradition bound sea captain would ever accept a chronometer he considered to be unproven by precedent!

 

DETAIL	DIAL	MOVEMENT	SUPER DETAIL	LABEL	BOX

---

13.75 CAPTAIN's CABIN CLOCK and BAROMETER SET. Genuine 19th century ship's clock and barometer set consisting of a handsome 9 inch diameter clock together with a 9 1/2 inch diameter barometer/thermometer -- both in beautiful "rope" carved wooden cases. The quality clock has a white enameled zinc dial, bold Roman numerals, steel spade hands, large inset seconds bit and two winding arbors. The hinged brass bezel opens and closes with a press fit affording easy access for winding and setting. The all brass 8-day movement is stamped "Ansonia Clock Co., U.S.A." and keeps good time, having just been professionally serviced. The back of the clock case bears the remnants of the old Ansonia label. The equally handsome barometer has an ornate white dial calibrated in inches from 27.8 to 31.2 in 2/100th increments and bears the standard weather indications "STORMY, RAIN, FAIR,' etc. Below is a curved mercury thermometer calibrated in both Fahrenheit and Centigrade. The barometer bears a large black indicator needle overlain by a brass "set" needle attached to a knurled brass knob. The dial is protected by its original thick beveled glass crystal set in a brass bezel. Both the barometer and thermometer function properly. Telling of this set's use aboard ship, both the clock and barometer have their original brass hanging brackets at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions to firmly secure them to the bulkhead. In addition, the barometer has wind indications marked on its dial, as expected of an instrument used at sea. This is a very elegant 19th century set that likely graced a Captain's cabin.

CLOCK	BAROMETER	CLOCK BACK

---

5.18 LIGHTHOUSE CLOCK. Rare, highly sought after early 1900's American clock made by the Seth Thomas Clock Company for the United States Lighthouse Service. This high quality clock features a silvered brass dial with Arabic numerals and spade hands over a minute chapter with subsidiary seconds bit below the "12." The dial is prominently marked "U.S.L.H. SERVICE" above the winding arbor and is further marked "Made by Seth Thomas in U.S.A." on the bottom. The Fast/Slow lever adjustment is just below the "12" and the silvered brass reflector ring is present. This clock contains a diminutive Seth Thomas movement with jeweled lever escapement and decorated platform. The all brass movement measures only 2 5/8ths inches in diameter! The backplate is signed below the winding arbor "Seth Thomas, Thomaston, Conn." It is fitted in its original solid brass "ship's clock" type case with flared screw-on bezel in original nickel finish. The clock measures 5 1/2 inches in diameter and 2 1/2 inches deep. Excellent original condition throughout. This clock is a strong runner and a good time keeper. Complete with winding key. Circa 1910.

PERSPECTIVE	DIAL	MOVEMENT	BACK

---

10.76 SUBMARINE CLOCK. Genuine deck clock from a Cold War era Soviet nuclear submarine! This fine quality, precision timepiece has a white enameled dial with Arabic numerals, simple black steel hands, minute chapter and large seconds sweep. The 12 o'clock position is marked by the distinctive Red Star and the 6 o'clock position is marked by the classic Naval symbol, a fouled anchor. The dial is decorated with the image of a nuclear submarine conning tower and dive planes and the word (translated) "Komandirskie." This indicates the clock was made for officers (kommanders), and was a prominent fixture in the Officers' Quarters. The bottom of the clock is signed in Cyrillic, "Made in U.S.S.R." The high grade movement was built in typical Soviet style -- like a truck! The heavy stainless steel plates house a large brass spring-barrel with a classic overwind protection feature known as a "Geneva stop" and a jeweled lever escapement. A Fast/Slow lever is present at the 12 o'clock position, concealed when the bezel is closed. The hinged bezel is nickel-plated brass affixed with 6 screws and when closed it seats on a rubber gasket with an airtight fit. The contoured clock case is cast aluminum with the bezel opening on the right. It incorporates a clever locking device which is operated by the winding key. The back of this clock is complete with it original bulkhead mounting plate which allows it to be easily removed using the spring-loaded tab seen at the top. The mounting plate is 9 inches in diameter. The clock itself is 8 1/4 inches in diameter and 3 inches deep. Outstanding original condition showing actual use but no abuse. An excellent timekeeper. Complete with the original winding key! 895

Upon the demise of the former Soviet Union in the 1990's a number of so-called "Russian submarine clocks" came onto the commercial market. Those clocks were newly made to be sold for profit. They were not designed for, nor did they ever see actual use in the Soviet Fleet. This earlier example is an actual Soviet submarine clock that has seen military service, dating from the 1960's.

PERSPECTIVE	DIAL	COMPONENTS

---

19.45 IDENTIFIED YACHT BAROMETER. Highly collectible turn-of-the-last century yacht barometer with the back beautifully hand-engraved "N.Y.Y.Y.C. Secret" in fancy script. This quality aneroid barometer is of solid brass with a white enameled dial reading from 25 to 32 inches in .02 inch increments, marked with the standard weather indications "Rain, CHANGE, Fair," etc. The dial is signed "WILLIAM SENTER & Co. PORTLAND Me" and is further marked "HOLOSTERIC BAROMETER PNHB" at the bottom. It has a delicate blued steel indicator needle under the original old wavy glass which has a brass set needle with knurled knob. The body of barometer is housed within a period, custom-made mahogany mount with suspension loop for attachment to the yacht's bulkhead and measures 7 1/4 inches in diameter overall. The dial itself measures 4 1/2 inches. The entire presentation is in outstanding original condition with a great old age patina on all surfaces. The finish of the wooden case is original with the old variegated surface so sought after by collectors. The back of the case has been lightly cleaned to enhance the inscription.  Fully functional.  A rare, identified American yachting relic. 895

The New York Yacht Club Yacht SECRET was a 32 foot sloop built in 1907, designed by the famous yacht builders and designers, Burgess & Packard of Marblehead, Massachusetts. As late as 1927 she was still active, owned by J.P. Story of Washington, D.C. (Lloyds Register of American Yachts, 1927 Ed.)

Paul Naudet, Holosteric (aneroid) Barometer maker, "PNHB," was France's premier maker of quality aneroid barometers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Until his death in the 1920's, the prestigious Chelsea Company used only barometers made by Naudet for their world renowned clock/barometer sets.

DIAL	BACK	INSCRIPTION	ABSTRACT

---

---

© 1998-2012 West Sea Co. All rights reserved.

---