AN EBONY AND BRASS NAVIGATIONAL OCTANT Inscribed for W.B. Moralee, North Shields, early 19th century, The 11 inch frame incorporating central T-shaped hand-piece inset with bone signature plate inscribed W.B MORALEE NTH SHIELDS, the pivoted arm mounted with mirror opposing aperture for reading the inset bone Vernier scale with clamp and endless screw adjustment to underside, with pin-hole sight opposing horizon glass, set of hinged filters, backsight and conforming horizon, in tapered mahogany box applied with trade label THOMAS L. AINSLEY, MAKER AND ADJUSTER OF, Iron Ships' and Steamers' Compasses, 86 BUTE STREET, CARDIFF... to the inside of the lid; together with a 1.5 inch two-draw refracting telescope, circa 1875, signed R. & J. Beck, 31 Cornhill, London to final draw, with shuttered eyepiece, sliding brass sun shade, end cap and leather grip, complete with cylindrical leather protective case, (2).The sextant box 32.5cm (12.5ins) high, 29cm (11.5ins) wide, the telescope case 27cm (10.5ins) long. The name W.B. Moralee of North Shields appears not to be recorded as a maker of instruments hence could well be that of the first owner of the octant in the current lot. At some point the instrument was with Thomas Liddell Ainsley of Cardiff and South Shields (whose trade label is pasted to the inside of the lid) who was a maker of precision instruments active between 1858-1886. Ainsley also published numerous works on marine navigation and related subjects with his best known work being A guide book to local marine board navigation. The Ordinary Examination first printed in 1859 with no less than 45 subsequent reprints up to 2018. The telescope I the current lot is by Richard and Joseph Beck who is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as first working from 31 Cornhill 1867-80 and then 68 Cornhill from 1868. They were best known for supplying microscopes and other optical instruments which were presumably constructed in their factory at Lister Works, Kentish Town, Holloway, East London. Banfield further notes that they often signed their instruments 'R & J Beck Ltd' from 1894.Condition Report: The octant is in complete original condition with all fittings present. The mirror has some degradation to the silvering mainly towards the margins and one of the filters has some slight edge chipping where it is fitted into its mount. Both the Vernier in the arm and the main scale each have a single crack bot no losses. Otherwise instrument is a little dirty/neglected but in good order. The box has corner chips to the top and base panels as well as overall age related wear and shrinkage otherwise is in sound original condition.The telescope has some slight discolouration to the margins of one of the internal lenses otherwise optics appear to be in good original condition and the instrument will focus. The draws appear to be free form noticeable dents or cracks as does the sun shade but there is some noticeable discolouration/tarnishing to the brass. The leather grip is in fine condition, the shutter to the eyepiece and the end cap are also in good condition. The leather outer case is also in good original condition although the carrying strap is no longer present. Condition Report Disclaimer
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A VICTORIAN PATINATED BRASS SEXTANT Adie and Son, Edinburgh, mid 19th century The pierced diamond 'lattice' pattern frame with pivoted arm mounted with mirror opposing hinged magnification lens over aperture for reading the fine silver inset brass Vernier scale signed ADIE & SON, EDINBURGH, No. 210 and initialled J.H., with two sets of hinged filters, brass telescopic sighting tube and wooden grip to rear of frame, the fitted keystone-shaped mahogany box with two additional sighting tubes, a telescope eyepiece slider and a eyepiece filter.The box 35.5cm (14ins) wide, 26.5cm (10.5ins) deep, 12.5cm (5ins) high. Alexander Adie is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as born 1775 and dying in 1858. Adie was the nephew of John Miller, one of the leading Scottish makers of Scientific Instruments in the 18th century and was apprenticed to him in 1789. In 1804 they formed the partnership of Miller and Adie which continued until the death of John Miller in 1815. Adie continued the business alone specialising in meteorological instruments obtaining a patent in 1818 for his air barometer or sympiesometer. In recognition of this invention he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1819. He was appointed optician to William IV and later Queen Victoria after forming a partnership with his son, John, in 1835 to form Adie & Son. Father and Son worked together from Princess Street, Edinburgh until 1857 when the business was continued under Richard Adie who relocated the firm to Hanover Street in 1877.Condition Report: Optics are complete with the exception of one small filter and intact however there is some internal condensation/deposits within the tube(s) which affects the clarity of the viewed image. The filters and mirrors appear complete and free from damage. The Vernier is operational with minimal wear to the scale and the magnifier is working. The frame has verdigris spotting coming through the japanning as well as age related wear but is undamaged. The case is generally in good original condition but with some age related shrinkage, bumps and scuffs; there is no key for the box. Condition Report Disclaimer
A BRASS FORTIN-TYPE LABORATORY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERA. Gallenkamp and Company Limited, London, early 20th centuryThe instrument with slender cylindrical case with the upper section fitted with a glass sleeve enclosing silvered scale incorporating vertical slot to reveal the tube and sliding silvered Vernier slide reading against silvered scale calibrated in barometric inches to the right and millibars to the left, the upper margin inscribed No. 6728 and the lower signed A. GALLENKAMP & Co. LTD, LONDON, the shaft with Vernier adjustment disc to right over applied mercury tube FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE thermometer with bulb set behind the scale, the base with cylindrical glass chamber enclosing mercury and incorporating inverted ivory level pointer to interior clamped between horizontal plates over cylindrical cistern and adjustment screw to base, mounted via a brass ring to top and base collar-bracket with triple securing screws onto a rectangular moulded walnut panel.The instrument 108cm (42.5ins) high; the back panel 103cm (44.5ins) high, 9.5cm (3.75ins) wide. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. Adolf Gallenkamp and Company Limited are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from 2, 4 and 6 Cross Street, Finsbury, London 1880-1900 and continued trading from various addresses in Finsbury, London well into the 20th century.The current lot is made to the principles laid down by Nicholas Fortin (1750-1831) and incorporates a glazed cistern so that the level can be calibrated via the adjustment screw to the base against an inverted conical ivory cone in the cistern in order to obtain consistency in the readings. This particular type of barometer provides an accurate reading hence was generally adopted for laboratory use throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.Condition Report: Instrument is filled with mercury and provides a good reading with no apparent airlocks. The silvering to the scales is in good condition with minor discolouration/mellowing and the Vernier slide is operational. The brass case is in good condition although has probably been polished at some point (original lacquer removed) and the finish is now generally a little dull/oxidised and dirty. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN OAK MERCURY 'ADMIRAL FITZROY'S STORM BAROMETER'Negretti and Zambra, London, circa 1870The arched bevel-glazed single ceramic Vernier scale to the right of the large bore mercury tube calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the lower margins annotated ADD ONE TENTH FOR, EACH HUNDRED, FEET ABOVE, THE SEA over PATENT No. 2809 and with signature NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, INSTRUMENT MAKERS, TO HER MAJESTY, HOLBORN VIADUCT E.C., 122 REGENT ST. W, & 45 CORNHILL E.C., LONDON to upper margin, the apex of the arch further inscribed ADMIRAL FITZROY'S, STORM BAROMETER., the trunk with Vernier setting squares to throat above applied glazed mercury tube Fahrenheit scale thermometer further signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON to upper margin and with ogee moulded crests to the upper and lower rails, the base with rectangular ogee moulded cistern cover over conforming base moulding with level adjustment screw to underside.102cm (40ins) high. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. The firm of Negretti & Zambra are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as being established in 1850 when a partnership between Enrico Negretti and Joseph Warren Zambra was formed. The firm became one of the most prolific makers of scientific instruments and continued trading well into the 20th century.The current lot is an example of a Fishery or Sea Coast storm barometer devised by Admiral Robert Fitzroy in the 1860`s to aid mariners in the forecasting of storms. Interestingly the scale only incorporates one Vernier scale (rather than usual the double scale) hence recording daily change in barometric pressure would have had to be done by taking notes rather than using the second scale. Fitzroy lobbied the Board of Trade resulting in this type of barometer being supplied (at public expense) to many coastal communities for display in a prominent public space. In addition to this The Royal Lifeboat Institution installed these barometers into each of its stations and the Duke of Northumberland (in association with the British Meteorological Society) erected several on the coast of Northumberland. By 1864 over 80 barometers had been installed by the Board of Trade and a further 14 by the Duke of Northumberland with their usefulness fully appreciated in Fitzroy's Meteorological Office Report published that year.Condition Report: The tube is filled with no apparent airlocks and both Vernier slide is fully operational. The scales have some slight overall crazing and the left panel of the scale has a small hairline crack across the top right hand corner. The thermometer is in good working condition however the scale has overall stained crazing. The case is in good original condition with only minor bumps, scuffs and other age related blemishes. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN BRASS BOX SEXTANT PRESENTED TO GENTLEMAN CADET A. JOPP OF THE EAST INDIA COMPANYElliott, London, circa 1857circular top plate with screw for rack and pinion index mirror adjustment against a fine inset silver Vernier scale with magnification arm and signature Elliott, 268 High Holborn, London to outer margin, the circumference with sliding shutter for the pin hole sight, the instrument enclosed by a bayonet secured canister-shaped cover, the original blue velvet lined cylindrical red morocco covered box with brass presentation plaque to top finely engraved with the text Presented at the Public Examination, on the 12th June 1857., to Gentleman Cadet Keith A. Jopp., by the Hon'ble Court of Directors, of the East India Company, as a mark of the Courts approbation, of his attainments in Military Surveying, while at the Military College. Diameter of instrument 8cm (3.125ins); diameter of box 9cm (3.5ins). The current lot is almost certainly by the partnership of the brothers Frederick Henry and Charles Edward Elliott Elliott who are recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as continuing the family business after the death of their father in 1853. The life of Keith Alexander Jopp has been extensively researched by the vendor; a file including scans of original period photographs is included with the lot. Keith Jopp was born in July 1838 at Ooctacamund, Southern India. His father was a Major in the Bombay Engineers of the East India Army. Keith attended Cheltenham College and was nominated to attend the East India Military Training College at Addiscombe. In 1858 Keith Jopp entered into Sappers and Miners of the Bombay Engineers as an Ensign elevating to 2nd Lieutenant by the time he arrived at the HQ of the Bomaby Engineers in Poona, India in May 1859. By December 1969 he had reached rank of 2nd Captain of the Royal Engineers (the Bombay Engineers had been renamed a few years prior) but was on furlough in England. In 1872 he returned to Bombay but was back again in England before the year was out to marry Mary Egerton Smith with whom he had two daughters Leila in 1873 (who sadly died in infancy) and Clara the following year.In April 1874 Jopp was promoted to the rank of Major and was back in Bombay by the end of the year. Over the next decade he travelled back and forth between England and Bombay however in 1879 his wife Mary sadly died in Kensington which led to a period of special compassionate leave. In November 1884 Keith Jopp was furloughed again but was back in Bombay in December the following year having been promoted the Lieutenant Colonel, Royal Engineers. He was by this time Deputy Consulting Engineer, 1st Grade in the Public Works Department at Madras and by time of his retirement in 1891 he had been further promoted to rank of Colonel. In the 1901 census Keith Jopp was recorded as a retired Colonel residing at 69 Eaton Rose, Ealing; by 1911 he had moved to Atheldane, Westgate-on-Sea, Kent and his death was recorded at Thanet in spring 1920. Condition Report: Instrument appears complete and is in working condition albeit with some noticeable wear and light bumps, scuffs etc. The mirror has some noticeable degradation of the silvering to the margins, the Vernier scale has only light rubbing/wear but is still legible when viewed through the magnification lens. The cover is in good condition. The outer case has survived in good original condition although the hinge has been re-attached to the base section. The instrument is a very snug fit and the outer leather covering has some light bumps, scuffs etc. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN CARVED OAK MERCURY STICK BAROMETERW. Aronsberg and Company, Manchester, third quarter of the 19th centuryWith foliate scroll carved concave-hipped break-arch upstand and moulded cornice over leaf-carved surround for the rectangular bevel-glazed double ceramic Vernier scales, each calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the lower margins annotated 10 A.M YESTERDAY and 10 A.M TO DAY, and signed W. Aronsberg & Co., Manchester across the upper margin, the trunk with applied floral motif and Vernier setting squares flanked by scroll-carved corbels to throat above applied glazed mercury tube FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE scale thermometer decorated with further leafy crests to both the upper and lower rails, the base of shaped cartouche outline applied with generous leafy scroll carved domed cistern cover with level adjustment square to underside.108cm (42.5ins) high. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. William Aronsberg (and Company) is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS & RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working first from 3 Lever Street, Manchester 1864-68 then 12 Victoria Street 1868-96.The current lot is provided with two scales to allow change in barometric pressure to be recorded as designed by Admiral Fitzroy for his 'storm barometers' which he devised in around 1857. Condition Report: Instrument is filled with no apparent bubbles or airlocks to the mercury column. The register plates are in fine original condition as is the thermometer; both Vernier slides are operational. The case is in fine original condition with only very minor bumps, scuffs and age related wear. The level adjustment screw to the underside is a little bent. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A VICTORIAN CARVED OAK MERCURY STICK BAROMETERDollond, London, third quarter of the 19th centuryWith foliate scroll carved upstand and egg-and-dart moulded cornice over leaf-carved surround for the rectangular bevel-glazed double ivory Vernier scales flanking the large bore mercury tube, each calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the upper margins annotated 10 A.M Yesterday and 10 A.M To Day beneath signature DOLLOND. LONDON, the trunk with carved shield and Vernier setting squares flanked by scroll-carved corbels to throat above applied glazed mercury tube FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE scale thermometer decorated with further leafy crests to both the upper and lower rails, the base of shaped cartouche outline applied with generous leafy scroll carved cistern cover incorporating twin finials to shoulders and with level adjustment square to underside.114cm (45ins) high. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. Peter Dollond is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1680-1860 as born 1730 and died 1820. He was the son of John Dollond, a Huguenot silk weaver and started business as an optician in 1750. He was joined by his father in 1752 until his death in 1761, and then by his brother, John, until his death in 1804. The family businesss was continued by Peter Dollond's nephew, George Huggins, who changed his surname to Dollond. George Dollond became instrument maker to William IV and Queen Victoria, exhibited at the Great Exhibition in 1851 and died 1856.The current lot is provided with two scales to allow change in barometric pressure to be recorded as designed by Admiral Fitzroy for his 'storm barometers' which he devised in around 1857. Condition Report: Instrument is filled with no apparent bubbles or airlocks to the mercury column. The register plates are in fine original condition with very minimal yellowing/discolouration to the ivory; both Vernier slides are operational. The thermometer is in fine condition. The case is in fine original condition with only very minor bumps, scuffs and age related wear. Condition Report Disclaimer
A VICTORIAN LACQUERED BRASS FORTIN-TYPE LABORATORY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERM. Pillischer, London, circa 1870The instrument with slender cylindrical case pierced with a vertical slot to reveal the tube incorporating sliding Vernier collar reading against a scale calibrated in barometric inches bordering the left hand side opposing signature M. Pillischer, 88 New Bond St. London to the right, the shaft with Vernier adjustment disc to right over applied mercury tube FAHR'T and CENT'E thermometer to front, the base with part-glazed cylindrical cistern and adjustment screw to base, mounted via a brass top and base collar-brackets onto a rectangular ogee moulded mahogany panel with curved top and base.The instrument 103cm (40.5ins) high; the wall panel 112cm (44ins) high, 15cm (6ins) wide. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. Moritz Pillischer is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as working from 398 Oxford Street 1851-53 then 88 New Bond Street, London 1854-87. He was succeeded by his Nephew, Jacob.The current lot is made to the principles laid down by Nicholas Fortin (1750-1831) and incorporates a glazed cistern so that the level can be calibrated via the adjustment screw to the base against an inverted conical ivory cone in the cistern in order to obtain consistency in the readings. This particular type of barometer provides an accurate reading hence was generally adopted for laboratory use throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.Condition Report: The tube is filled with mercury however the level is reading low (approx. 3ins) and when tipped the column stops short by around this amount indication that there is air in the tube above the mercury column. The Vernier slide is fully operational and the thermometer is in original working condition although the silvered scale is dirty/discoloured. The case retains old (probably original) lacquer finish with light to moderate patchy wear and discolouration. The wooded backboard is in good original condition albeit with a few bumps, scuffs and other very minor blemishes commensurate with age and use. Condition Report Disclaimer
A WILLIAM IV MAHOGANY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERTroughton and Simms, London, circa 1830With concave-sided upstand and cavetto cornice over glazed rectangular canted silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations beneath signature Troughton, and Simms, LONDON to upper margin, the trunk with Vernier adjustment square to throat over applied glazed mercury tube Fahrenheit and Reaumur scale thermometer with ogee moulded crests to the upper and lower rails, the rounded base applied with circular disc cistern cover and with level adjustment screw to underside.105cm (37.5ins) high. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. The partnership between Edward Troughton and William Simms is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as formed in 1826 and operating primarily from addresses in Fleet Street, London. Edward died in 1835 followed by William in 1860; the business was subsequently continued by their successors until 1922 when the name was changed to Cooke, Troughton and Simms.Condition Report: The tube is filled with no apparent airlocks. The scales are in fine condition with minimal discolouration/mellowing to the scales and the Vernier slide is operational. The thermometer is in fine condition. The case is in very fine condition with visible faults very much limited to a very small veneer chip where the trunk meets the rounded section at the base. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A FINE EARLY VICTORIAN MAHOGANY BOWFRONTED MERCURY STICK BAROMETERA. Abraham, Liverpool, mid 19th centuryWith concave-sided upstand and cavetto cornice over rectangular bow-glazed silvered double Vernier scale flanking the large-bore tube each calibrated in barometric inches with the usual observations beneath inscription Yesterday, Noon to upper left opposing signature A. Abraham, Liverpool to upper right, the ebony line-edged trunk of the same bowed profile incorporating twin Vernier setting squares to throat over applied glazed mercury tube Fahrenheit and Reaumur scale thermometer with ogee moulded crests to the upper and lower rails, the base with turned half vase cistern cover flanked by ebony diamond lozenge line strung canted angles over cavetto moulded underside incorporating level adjustment screw.94.5cm (37.25ins) high. Abraham Abraham (and Company) are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from several addresses in Liverpool 1817-75. Banfield describes them as 'important makers' who exhibited at the Great Exhibition at the Crystal Palace in 1851.The current lot is provided with two scales to allow change in barometric pressure to be recorded as designed by Admiral Fitzroy for his 'storm barometers' which he devised in around 1857. Condition Report: The tube is filled, the column will rise when the instrument is tilted but stops just short of the top of the tube indicating that there is a small amount of air present. The silvering to the scales has oxidised hence now have a mellow pewter-like tone otherwise they are in fine original condition with both Vernier slides in working order. The thermometer also has some even overall mellowing/discolouration to the silvering otherwise is in fine original condition. The case is missing three very short runs of mouldings around the top edge of the base moulding to the left just beneath the cistern cover; the cistern also cover has a small hairline crack otherwise case is in fine condition. Condition Report Disclaimer
A WILLIAM IV/EARLY VICTORIAN MAHOGANY MERCURY STICK BAROMETERCrichton, London, circa 1835The arched glazed silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations beneath signature Crichton, 112 Leadenhall St., London to the right hand side opposing mercury tube Fahr't and Reau'r scale thermometer positioned to the left, with arched slender moulded surround over exposed tube to the trunk incorporating Vernier adjustment square to the trunk, the rounded base with hemispherical cistern cover and level adjustment screw to underside. 93.5cm (36.75ins) high. John Crichton is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as working from 112 Leadenhall Street, London, 1834-65.Condition Report: The tube is filled with no apparent airlocks. The scale/register plate has some slight discolouration to the upper left of the arch otherwise is in good original condition with fine clear engraving and even silvering. The thermometer is in good condition. The case is in fine condition with the only noticeable fault being a small section of replaced moulding to the lower left corner of the surround. Faults are otherwise very much limited to minor age related shrinkage, bumps and scuffs. Condition Report Disclaimer
A JAPANNED AND LACQUERED BRASS FORTIN-TYPE MERCURY STICK 'MOUNTAIN' BAROMETER Pasterelli and Rapkin, London, early 20th centuryThe instrument with slender cylindrical case pierced with a vertical slot to reveal the tube incorporating sliding Vernier collar reading against a scale calibrated in barometric inches ranging from 20 up to 32.5 inches to the right hand margin opposing millibar scale to the left, the shaft with Vernier adjustment disc to right and engraved signature PASTORELLI & RAPKIN, 46 HATTON GARDEN, LONDON to centre over applied mercury tube Fahrenheit and Centigrade scale thermometer with canted scale and enclosed bulb to front, the base with cylindrical glass chamber enclosing mercury and incorporating inverted ivory level pointer to interior clamped between horizontal plates over cylindrical cistern and adjustment screw to base, mounted via a brass ring to top and base collar-bracket with triple securing screws onto a rectangular moulded mahogany panel with curved top and base.The instrument 102cm (40ins) high; the wall panel 105cm (45.5ins) high, 9cm (3.5ins) wide. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. The firm of Pastorelli and Rapkin are recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as being established in 1872 as a prolific maker of barometers of all types of barometers who worked from 61 Hatton Garden and 7 Great Warner Street, London in 1872 and then 46 Hatton Garden from 1873. The firm was incorporated as a Limited Company in 1901 and was still trading (in various guises) until 1988.The current lot is made to the principles laid down by Nicholas Fortin (1750-1831) and incorporates a glazed cistern so that the level can be calibrated via the adjustment screw to the base against an inverted conical ivory cone in the cistern in order to obtain consistency in the readings. This particular type of barometer provides an accurate reading hence was generally adopted for laboratory use throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The scale of the present lot is unusual in that it ranges from 20 up to 32.5 inches rather than the usual circa 26.5 to 32 inches. The facility of being able to read particularly low pressures is indicative of an instrument intended for use at high altitudes hence instruments that incorporate this feature are sometimes referred to as 'mountain barometers'.Condition Report: Instrument is filled with mercury and provides a good reading with no apparent airlocks and the Vernier slide is operational. The brass case is in sound condition but has patchy strong discolouration and wear to the original lacquered finishes. The back panel is in good condition. Condition Report Disclaimer
Y A VICTORIAN CARVED ROSEWOOD MERCURY STICK BAROMETER WITH VISIBLE CISTERNJ. Franks, Manchester, third quarter of the 19th centuryWith a scallop and leaf scroll carved upstand and two-tier cavetto moulded cornice over conforming surround for the rectangular bevel-glazed double ivory Vernier scales flanking the large bore mercury tube, each calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the lower margins annotated 10 A.M YESTERDAY and 10 A.M TO DAY and with signature J. FRANKS, 44 MARKET STREET, MANCHESTER to upper margin, the trunk with Vernier setting squares flanked by scroll-carved corbels to throat above applied glazed mercury tube FAHRENHEIT and CENTIGRADE scale thermometer decorated with stylised leaf carved ogee mouldings to both the upper and lower rails, the rectangular base with inverted corbels to upper corners over bevel-glazed panel bordered by carved lappet leaf surround enclosing visible bulb cistern, Bunten air trap and restriction damper within an ivory lined recess, the underside with inverted swan neck-shaped pendant crest. 105.5cm (41.5ins) high. Provenance: The Selwyn Demmy Collection. A J. Franks is not recorded as working in Manchester during the latter half of the 19th century in the usual sources however a Ben Franks is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working from Market Street, Manchester circa 1880-1900 as well as at Hull and 39 Piccadilly, Hanley.The current lot is provided with two scales to allow change in barometric pressure to be recorded as designed by Admiral Fitzroy for his 'storm barometers' which he devised in around 1857. The feature of visible cistern of the current lot is unusual as is the use of a bulb cistern (rather than a sealed diaphragm arrangement).Condition Report: The tube is in good condition and filled with no air traps and only slight 'greying; to the tube at the damper restriction and air trap. The Vernier scales are undamaged but have overall greyish staining/discolouration to both panels; the Vernier sliders are both operational. The thermometer scale has some slight scratching around a securing screw to the left hand corner of the ivory scale otherwise is in fine original condition. The ivory lining to the glazed cistern recess has noticeable staining to the base panel and mush lesser discolouration to the other panels. The case is in sound original condition with relatively light bumps, scuffs, shrinkage and age related wear; the carved shell crest is probably a later addition. Condition Report Disclaimer
William IV mahogany stick barometer signed �Torre & Co, London�, with an architectural broken pediment above a glazed door, exposed mercury tube with glass bulb cistern behind a turned mahogany cover, engraved register plate with a scale from 27� to 31� with a manual vernier and spirit filled thermometer from zero to a hundred degrees fahrenheit, engraved with the makers name and weather predictions. Torre & Co are recorded as Barometer manufacturers, Leigh Street, Red Lion Square, London c1830.Dimensions: Height: 99cm
A GEORGE III MAHOGANY STICK BAROMETER BY G. & C. DIXEY LONDON, C.1800 the silvered dial with an adjustable vernier scale, signed 'G. & C. Dixey, Opticians to the King, 3 New Bond St. London', the flame veneered case inset with a thermometer with a silvered dial, with a bone adjuster and a swan neck pediment centred with an urn 103.6cm high
A Mahogany Stick Barometer, signed R.Harper, Liverpool, circa 1840, swan neck pediment, concealed mercury tube with a single vernier scale silvered dial signed, thermometer box, urn cistern cover, 101cm high 10.06.21 Both sides of the wooden vernier dial surround is loose, bottom left hand corner of the vernier dial surround with a piece of veneer missing, mercury is visible in the main tube, and thermometer tube, vernier dial is discoloured in parts, case with small scratches and minor dents in parts.
A 19th century mahogany mercury stick barometerSigned on the silvered scale Carey, London, with broken arch pediment above a Vernier scale, the moulded trunk with turned bone adjuster knop and a circular cistern cover, 98cm high.Condition report: Case is fair with some signs of age including splits to the top right and lower right corner of dial area. Turned adjuster knop turns and functions. Mercury appears intact and free of air bubbles. Case back is sealed and so not possible to view full tubing.
A brass compound microscope, Ross London, No 5389, c1885, the limb on trunnions supported by twin columns, the tilt mechanism locked by a tap lever, focusing by rack work with fine focus, eyepiece, nose piece with two objectives, circular rotating Zentmayer type stage with silvered degree scale and vernier, stage forceps, substage condenser and plano/concave mirror, on flat A-shaped tripod, fitted mahogany case Retaining most of the lacquer where scratched and lost mainly confined to the foot, rack work operating, mirrors in good condition, typical wear from use on the stage and rather dirty
A Victorian carved oak mercury stick barometer, J.H Steward, London, third quarter 19th century, with foliate scroll carved arched upstand and moulded cornice incorporating corbeled projections to the sides over rectangular bevel-glazed double opaque glass Vernier scales calibrated in barometric inches and with the usual observations, the lower margins annotated 10 A.M YESTERDAY and 10 A.M TO DAY, and signed J.H. STEWARD, ...Strand, London to upper left hand corner, the trunk with triangular rosettes, cavetto side mouldings and Vernier setting squares to throat above applied glazed mercury tube Fahrenheit and Centigrade scale thermometer decorated with fan carved crest to upper rail, the base of shaped cartouche outline applied with shield-centred scroll carved shaped cistern cover with level adjustment square to underside, 109cm high James Henry Steward is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as a maker of all types of barometers who worked from several addresses in London including; 406 Strand (1857-1900 and beyond), 67 Strand (1867-8), 63 St. Pauls Churchyard (1867-80), Cornhill (1867-92), 66 Strand (1869-88), 456 Strand (1879-88), 474 West Strand (1886-1900 and beyond) and 7 Gracechurch Street (1893-1900 and beyond). He advertised as maker of the celebrated Lord Bury telescope and maker of the Fitzroy barometers, as in use at all railway termini and principal hotels in London.The current lot is provided with two scales to allow change in barometric pressure to be recorded as designed by Admiral Fitzroy for his 'storm barmeters' which he devised in around 1857.
An early 19th century brass mounted mahogany ship's stick barometer,signed H.Hughes, 59 Fenchurch Street Londonthe arched ivory dial with brass suspension loop, with scale marked from 27-31' with vernier and mercury thermometer, the plain shaft with brass turned cistern, 99cm high overallThis lot is subject to the following lot symbols: TP Y ФTP Lot will be moved to an offsite storage location (Cadogan Tate, Auction House Services, 241 Acton Lane, London NW10 7NP, UK) and will only be available for collection from this location at the date stated in the catalogue. Please note transfer and storage charges will apply to any lots not collected after 14 calendar days from the auction date.Y Subject to CITES regulations when exporting items outside of the EU, see clause 13.Ф This lot contains or is made of ivory. The United States Government has banned the import of ivory into the USA.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com
A Mahogany Stick Barometer, signed R.Harper, Liverpool, circa 1840, swan neck pediment, concealed mercury tube with a single vernier scale silvered dial signed, thermometer box, urn cistern cover, 101cm high 10.06.21 Both sides of the wooden vernier dial surround is loose, bottom left hand corner of the vernier dial surround with a piece of veneer missing, mercury is visible in the main tube, and thermometer tube, vernier dial is discoloured in parts, case with small scratches and minor dents in parts.
A Watson Edinburgh Compound Microscope,English, c.1900, signed to the rear of the foot 'W. WATSON & SONS 313 HIGH HOLBORN, LONDON 6533' on typical tripod base with plano-concave mirror focusing substage with Abbe-type cndenser, fully mechanical sage with vernier scales to X-Y movement and engraved scale around the edge, body tube with single drawer, with two eyepieces and single Watson 1in objective, in original French polished mahogany case.
λ AN EARLY VICTORIAN ROSEWOOD STICK BAROMETER BY ALEXEXANDER ALEXANDER EXETER the arched ivory dial with thermometer and vernier scale signed 'Alex'r Alexander Optician to her Majesty', with a circular moulded reservoir cover 93cm high Provenance From the Estate of the late Barbara Humble, Bradford-on-Avon.
A German surveyor's cross head, late 19th century, with silvered vernier scale and compass dial, slotted hairline sights and staff head attachment, later case, height 18cm.From the collection of the late Ron Hooper M.V.O., A.C.S.M, C.Eng., F.I.M.M., formerly Senior Lecturer in Surveying at Camborne School of Mines.
~ A Victorian Carved Oak Stick Barometer, circa 1850, swan neck pediment with a central carved urn shaped finial and swag decoration, case with carved floral and scroll decoration, concealed large mercury tube, twin vernier scale dial, thermometer box, carved cistern cover, 118cm high CONDITION REPORT: 29.04.21 Case surfaces are faded in parts, minor scratches and minor dents to the edges, thermometer enamel dial with one hairline crack to the top right hand corner, visible mercury in the main tube and also in the thermometer tube.
GEORGE III MAHOGANY STICK BAROMETER, NAIRNE & BLUNT, LONDON LATE 18TH CENTURY with a hygrometer above an engraved backplate with adjustable vernier scale and a mercury-filled bayonet tube, signed 'Nairne and Blunt London', above a covered ball cistern(107cm high)Provenance: From the collection of Mary, Duchess of Roxburghe, sold Sotheby's May 2015, lot 61
MAHOGANY & BOXWOOD STRUNG STICK BAROMETER, Charles Aiano signed silver dial with vernier scale, 100cm high Auctioneer's note: Charles Aiano is recorded in Banfield, Edwin BAROMETER MAKERS AND RETAILERS 1660-1900 as working in London circa 1790-1820; he is believed to have moved to Canterbury in around 1825. Condition: mercury not settled in tube.
A Substantial Laboratory Spectroscope, English, c.1950, on large cast-iron base with support to collimator, telescope on rotating arm with large counterweight, arm with two vernier scales to horizontal circle, prism table with engraved scale and two vernier scales, on a large polished mahogany base with mahogany case, instrument width 60cm
A RARE 2¾IN. RADIUS SURVEYING SEXTANT BY C.A. SCHMALCALDER, STRAND, LONDON, CIRCA 1820 constructed in lacquered brass, signed Schmalcalder across the T-bar and numbered 399, diagonal silvered scale divided to 160°, vernier with fine screw adjustment and magnifier, two mirrors, six shades, threaded mounting tube, with threaded wooden handle behind, contained within fitted keystone pocket case with maker's label inside lid -- 5½in. (14cm.) diamCondition report: Fine overall condition with much original lacquer still evident with no apparently missing parts, box in good condition, no splits or cracks etc.
Ø A 15½IN. RADIUS VERNIER OCTANT BY THOMAS RIPLEY, LONDON, 1785 the mahogany T-frame with inset ivory scale divided to 90°, signed and inscribed on inset plate to T-bar ‘Made by Thos Ripley LONDON’, vernier scale in central ‘0’, clamp and plain brass arm, pinhole sights, set of three interchangeable shades and mirrors, brass feet and note plate, contained within original stepped keystone case with securing hooks -- 19in. (48cm.) wideCondition report: Owner's name obliterated, scales good and good overall condition to octant and case, pencil missing
Ø A 9½IN. RADIUS OCTANT BY BATE, LONDON, CIRCA 1840 the ebony T-frame, signed as per title, with inset ivory scale divided to 100°, vernier with clamp and fine screw adjustment, braced index arm, sighting tube, mirrors, shades and pin feet --12in. (30.5cm.) overallCondition report: Sighting tube later update, index mirror repaired, lacking pencil, note plate and case.
Ø A 16IN. RADIUS VERNIER OCTANT BY SPENCER, BROWNING & RUST, CIRCA 1790 ebony T-frame with inset ivory scale divided to 95° with FBR mark stamped by 50°, plain brass index arm with clamp, pinhole sights, mirrors and three interchangeable shades, with brass pin feet -- 18in. (46cm.) high overallCondition report: modest shrinkage to main scale, vernier cracked with ragged edge, T-bar lacking pencil, note plate missing, mirror and lens assembly with 5½in. crack through shade and mirror assembly
A 6½IN. RADIUS VERNIER SEXTANT BY CRICHTON, LONDON, CIRCA 1920 with polished brass ladder-frame, arc signed as per title and numbered 3029, inset silvered scale divided to 150° vernier with clamp, fine screw adjustment magnifier, braced index arm, siting tube shade mirrors, wooden handle and pin feet, contained within fitted wooden box, with trade label for IVER C. WEILBACH --11in. (28cm.) diamCondition report: Good overall condition, frame has been polished, case maybe a later replacement
A 7½IN. RADIUS BRASS OVAL PATTERN SEXTANT, CIRCA 1860 unsigned, with oxidised brass frame, polished brass arc with polished scale divided to 150°, vernier with clamp and fine screw adjustment, seven shades, two mirrors, wooden handle, contained in fitted keystone box with retail label for F. Martin, Swansea inside lid and cabinet photograph of a young bosun -- 10in. (25.5cm.) wide
AN 8IN. RADIUS DOUBLE-FRAMED ‘PLATINA’ SEXTANT BY TROUGHTON AND SIMS, LONDON, CIRCA 1820 the oxidised brass T-frame with brass arc signed as per title and inscribed Platina and numbered 2507, with platinum scale engraved to 145°, braced index arm with swivel magnifier and clamp, mirrors, shades and wooden handle -- 10in. (25.5cm.) high overall; together with a 7½in. radius oxidised brass vernier octant by Janet Taylor, London, contained in wooden box (2)Condition report: T&S: spotted verdigris to frame, lacks case and all accessories including sighting tubes; Janet Taylor: frame dirty, case fittings loose, no accessories save telescope fitted on instrument
Y A fine Regency mahogany bowfronted 'flat to the wall' mercury stick barometer Bate, London, circa 1825 With swan neck pediment and cavetto cornice over silvered Vernier scale calibrated in barometric inches and annotated Very Dry, Set Fair, FAIR, Change, RAIN, M'ch Rain, Stormy beneath signature Bate, London to upper margin, behind bowed glass within moulded surround above ebony line edged trunk of the same bowed profile incorporating vernier setting screw to throat, the base with turned half vase cistern cover flanked by ebony line strung canted angles over cavetto moulded underside incorporating level adjustment screw, 100cm (39.25ins approx.) high excluding brass finial. The current lot is almost certainly by Robert Brettell Bate who is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as working from Poultry, London 1808-42 and then 33 Royal Exchange 1846-47. Bate was known as a maker of all types of instrument however was celebrated for his nautical instruments including marine barometers and latterly was appointed Instrument-maker to Her Majesty s Honourable Boards if Excise and Customs.Condition Report: Tube is filled with mercury with no apparent air locks. The silvered scale exhibits a very slight even mellow appearance but are free form patchy areas of discolouration or other faults and the rack-and-pinion Vernier adjustment is operational. The case is in good condition with the only noteworthy fault being the loss of a small section of top moulding from the right hand side (approx. 1 ins in length). The surface finish of the case has slightly aged/mellow appearance.Condition Report Disclaimer
A Victorian patinated brass sextant Potter, London, late 19th century The pierced 'ladder' pattern frame with pivoted arm mounted with mirror opposing hinged magnification lens over aperture for reading the fine silver inset brass Vernier scale signed Potter, Tower Hill & Poultry, London, with two sets of hinged filters, brass telescopic sighting tube and wooden grip to rear of frame, the fitted rectangular mahogany box with two additional sighting tubes and a telescope eyepiece slider, the inside of the lid with applied trade label ...HENRY HUGHES & SON, Optical, Nautical, Mathematical, Instrument Makers, 59 Fenchurch Street, London... the exterior with shaped brass name plate to lid, the box 26.5cm (10.5ins) wide. John Dennett Potter is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as succeeding the role of Admiralty chart agent from the business of Thomas Brettell Bate from circa 1847. He worked in London from 31 Poultry 1851-82 and 11 King Street 1854-82 and was succeeded by his son Septimus C. Potter.Condition Report: Optics appear complete however there are two vacant apertures in the case suggesting that two other accessories were present at some point. There are a few spots of dirt to the lenses within the tube(s). The filters and mirrors are complete and are in good condition. The Vernier adjustment is operational and the scale is clean but divisions etc. are still clear when sighted through the magnifier. The frame retains its original finish in good condition; the lacquered brass elemnts show some slight wear/discolouration. The box has some shrinkage cracking and a slight warp to the lid otherwise is in good original condition with a few minor age related bumps, scuffs etc. There is no key for the box. Condition Report Disclaimer
A rare Regency mercury balloonist's stick barometerCox, London, early 19th centuryWith brass suspension ring above hinged long rectangular door enclosing canted silvered Vernier register plates calibrated from 20 to 31 inches divided into tenths and annotated with the usual observations to the upper left section over signature Cox, London, the inside of the door now applied with mercury Centigrade and Fahrenheit scale thermometer, the rectangular section trunk with slightly bowed sides above stepped moulded ebonised cylindrical cistern cover, 91.5cm (36ins) high; with a brass wall mounted suspension hook. The current lot was almost certainly made by James Cox who is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as an optician, mathematical and philosophical instrument maker working in the Parish of St. Giles, Cripplegate, London from 1810. He is subsequently noted as working from 3 Beach Street, Barbican from 1816 and several addresses including 5 Barbican, 51 Banner Street (St. Lukes) and 85 Lombard Street from 1822 until 1855. A related instrument (also by Cox) was sold at Bonhams, London Fine Clocks 17th June 2008 (lot 13) for £3,600. The scale ranging down to 20 inches would allow the balloonist to take readings up to just over 10,000 feet in altitude. Condition Report: Tube is filled with mercury with no air locks. The silvered scale is in good condition with only a few very light/small belmishes. The thermometer is probably later in good condition with the silvering matching that of the register plate. The case is in fine condition with no visible significant faults other than probable attention to the areas around the hinges for the front cover. Condition Report Disclaimer
A William IV/early Victorian mahogany bowfronted mercury cistern tube marine stick barometerJames Bassnett, Liverpool, circa 1840With concave moulded surmount and cavetto cornice above bow-glazed canted ivory Vernier register plates annotated with the usual observations and signed JAMES BASSNETT, LIVERPOOL to lower left hand corner, the trunk with Vernier adjustment screw and brass gimbal pivots above glazed ivory Fahrenheit scale mercury tube thermometer, the base with moulded cylindrical lacquered brass cistern cover incorporating brass level adjustment screw to underside, 94cm (37ins) high. James Bassnett is recorded in Clifton, Gloria Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851 as an optician, clock and chronometer maker working from 4 Barnes Court, Shaws Brow, Liverpool 1829-34 and then from several addresses in Robert Street until 1857 when the firm became known Bassnett and Son.Condition Report: Tube is filled with mercury with no apparent air locks. The ivory scales have some localised patchy discolouration to the lower angles (around the brass securing screws), otherwise appear free from faults; the rack-and-pinion Vernier adjustment is operational. The thermometer tube is undamaged and the scale has a slight crack to the left hand margin (through the 100 numeral). Both the curved 'glasses' for the thermometer and barometer scales have been replaced with polycarbonate with the latter having some adhesive fogging to the upper margin. The case has been cosmetically restored with the moulded pediment block being re-attached slightly off-centre and the timber re-polished. The brass cistern cover has been apart and put back together with the cylinder being slightly off-centre in relation to the upper collar, the lower collar has a small crack in the brass to the leading edge and the underside has been slightly pushed-up. The gimbals are modern replacements. Condition Report Disclaimer
λ A MAHOGANY MARINE STICK BAROMETER BY G. STEBBING, PORTSMOUTH, EARLY 19TH CENTURY brass mounted, the top with a suspension ring, above a hinged door revealing ivory dials signed 'G. Stebbing Portsmouth', with an adjustable vernier scale, the inside of the door a thermometer, with a gimbal with later dolphin mounts, the base with a turned reservoir 96.5cm high
Late 19th Century lacquered brass spectrometer by Townson and Mercer with 12 inch telescopes, push-pull focusing, the bed plate with silvered scale and vernier, all within a fitted mahogany box with carrying handle to the top, the box 36cm high without the handle. Included with this instrument a prism and Rowland replica diffraction grating. Height of instrument: 28cm (11in).
A Late Victorian Rosewood and Brass Cased Ships Barometer, Thermometer and Improved Sympiesometer, with ivory scale and twin vernier, mercury thermometer and Sympiesometer with silvered scale, contained in rosewood case with moulded cornice and enclosed brass cylindrical reservoir, 36ins high, (lacking brass gimbal)
A George III Mahogany Stick Barometer and Thermometer, by Thomas Knight of Thaxted, with bayonet pattern exposed tube with silvered scale and vernier, alcohol thermometer with silvered scale and with hydrometer above, contained in mahogany case inlaid with oval leaf and fan motifs with broken scroll pediment and turned cistern cover, 42ins high Note: Thomas Knight recorded born 1745, died 1812. A Watch and Clockmaker of repute.
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