Tomorrow, two very different collectible timepieces will lead a stunning range of clocks and barometers at a Bonhams' auction in London.
The fascinating pieces of vintage engineering could hardly appear more different, despite both dating from the 17th century: The first is a walnut longcase clock marked as having been part of the Iden collection.
 Walnut wall clock by Joseph Knibb from the Iden collection |
Attributed to master designer Joseph Knibb, the imposing (seven feet tall) clock utilises a rising hood with overhanging cornice and typical Knibb style fret. It was previously exhibitied at The Treasures of Warwickshire, May 29th-July 23rd 1948.
The other clock is much gaudier, being a very rare and important first half of the 17th Century continental gilt brass automata table clock with geared armillary sphere.
 Gilt Brass Automata Clock |
This piece boasts a 24 hour dial with shaped blued steel hand reading against a Roman scale I to XII twice, geared via the central arbor to an armillary sphere with sun pointer to the centre reading against a calendar dial set at an angle and centred by an equatorial ring.
The sphere, which is engraved with a calendar and zodiac is raised above a platform with a realistic modelling of a lion. The whole clock rests on four more miniature lions. The main lion has a particularly remarkable feature in that its eyes move with the clock's pendulum.
Both lots are estimated at £50,000-100,000, and are just two of the impressive range of 154 lots available at Bonhams on July 14, in London and online.
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