The first that we are going to look at is Lot 199, an early pendulum table (or bracket) clock signed by William Crayle, London. This timepiece was made around 1665, during the magic ‘first twelve years’ of the pendulum clock (1658-1670), and belongs to the Edward East school of clockmaking. Being the only known clock by Crayle it is of documentary importance and has one of the finest engraved dials one is likely to encounter on a clock from this period.

Another particularly notable clock from this period is a scarce thirty-hour longcase clock by Charles Gretton (Lot 201). Relatively few thirty-hour clocks survive from this period and this example has a beautifully engraved dial and is housed in a very well-proportioned ebonised case.

Amongst the timepieces dating from the later period is a fine one-day marine chronometer by John Roger Arnold (Lot 102). Almost certainly completed in 1804, this example marks an arguably pivotal moment in the development of the marine chronometer and is one of only two known by Arnold with transitional silvered brass dial with enamel insert of the seconds.

The sale also includes a very interesting wrought-iron framed quarter-striking turret clock by John Whitehurst (II) of Derby (Lot 150). Signed and dated to the following year, 1805, this clock also has a concealed date for 14 August of that year, as well as a masonic symbol most likely marking Whitehurst’s allegiance to the Order.

Also featuring in the sale is the Dr. Castle collection of barometers. Consigned from a discerning collector based in the home counties, this group was acquired over a fifty-year period and features some very rare examples, including most notably a George II Yew and Walnut mercury angle barometer by Charles Orme of Ashby-De-La-Zouche (Lot 24). It would appear that Charles Orme only made angle barometers, and is perhaps best known for developing the multiple tube angle barometer. Orme is also credited for introducing into England the practice of distilling and boiling mercury in order to remove impurities.

For those seeking a timepiece with serious visual impact, look no further than Lot 207, this impressive George III gilt brass-mounted musical automaton table/bracket clock. Adorned with sumptuous gilt mounts of a military theme, the design suggests that it may have been commissioned by a wealthy member of the military. With its commanding presence and grand scale, it is perfectly suited to the most sumptuous of Georgian interiors.

Finally, if space is at a premium, then one can always choose from the many fine decorative French carriage clocks on offer - with perhaps the most striking being Lot 114, an hour striking and repeating example housed in a very unusual turquoise champleve enamelled simulated bamboo case.

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Auction Details

Tuesday 25 March, 10.30am GMT
Donnington Priory, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2JE

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VIEWING:

• Viewing in Newbury: Donnington Priory, RG14 2JE
  • Friday 21 March: 10am-4pm
  • Saturday 22 March: 10am-3pm
  • Sunday 23 March: 10am-3pm
  • Monday 24 March: 10am-4pm
  • Tuesday 25 March: 9am-10.30am