Lewis Walduck
Cataloguer
Lot 60
A fine and rare mid 19th century engraved gilt brass and coromandel "Mortar" timepiece Thomas Cole, London No.1653
Amended
2 July 2025, 13:00 BST
London, New Bond StreetSold for £8,320 inc. premium
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A fine and rare mid 19th century engraved gilt brass and coromandel "Mortar" timepiece
Thomas Cole, London No.1653
The gilt brass barrel engraved with a military trophy including a drum, halberds, swords, bugle, flags and cannon, hinged and secured to a trunnion bracket with heavy straps, further set on a shaped and moulded coromandel base, complete with the original coromandel wedge (with original faded velvet covered base) to effect the angle of display. The silvered dial, designed as a cannonball mounted in the muzzle, with Roman chapter ring and original blued steel hands curved to follow the shape of the projectile.
The signed and numbered movement with going barrel, English lever escapement, and plain three-arm balance. Wound and set from the back. 25cms (10ins) high.
The gilt brass barrel engraved with a military trophy including a drum, halberds, swords, bugle, flags and cannon, hinged and secured to a trunnion bracket with heavy straps, further set on a shaped and moulded coromandel base, complete with the original coromandel wedge (with original faded velvet covered base) to effect the angle of display. The silvered dial, designed as a cannonball mounted in the muzzle, with Roman chapter ring and original blued steel hands curved to follow the shape of the projectile.
The signed and numbered movement with going barrel, English lever escapement, and plain three-arm balance. Wound and set from the back. 25cms (10ins) high.
Footnotes
Thomas Cole (1800–1884) was renowned for his innovative and ornamental timepieces. Born in Nether Stowey, Somerset, he initially trained under his father, a clockmaker, and later worked in partnership with his brother as watchmakers in London. After their partnership dissolved in 1829, Cole worked independently, becoming known for his exceptional designs. His creations were admired for their originality, fine metalwork, and attention to detail. Cole's work gained significant recognition, earning him awards at international exhibitions, including the Great Exhibition of 1851 and the Paris Universelle of 1855. His craftsmanship influenced other clockmakers, though none could surpass the quality of his designs.
Provenance:
Walter Thurston Silk, was a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy, born on the 18th of March, 1877. His naval service spanned two decades, from 1899 to 1919. By the time of the 1911 census, he was recorded as being married to Emily Jane Silk for ten years, and the couple had two children. His life and career are documented in the archives of the Imperial War Museum, including detailed service records of naval officers from this period. His name is also commemorated on war memorials, Walter Thurston Silk passed away in January 1947.
Saleroom notices
Please note that notes Walter Silk was a "Lieutenant Commander" not "Lieutenant" as described in the footnote.
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