Clocks, Watches & Scientific Instruments
Description:
Spencer Browning & Rust 10-inch Brass Bridge Sextant, London, 19th century, the pierced frame with an upper bridge, silvered scale from 0-140 and marked Spencer Browning & Rust, London, sliding index arm with vernier and adjustable magnifier, multiple sunshades, horizon mirror, 7-in. eyepiece and three additional eyepieces, turned ebony handle, all housed in a dovetailed mahogany keystone box with paper label reading in part: David Baker Mathematical Instrument maker, New Bedford.
Note: Pencil inscription on inside lid reads in part: "Ship Athens, J.O. Morse Eliza Adams, William Holley," dating presumes it to have been owned by Capt. William Holley c. 1838-1844. A three-page compilation by Patrick J. Slattery from August 1, 1998, accompanies the lot.
Estimate $2,500-3,000
box cover off and shrunk needs re-gluing
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
William Holley, Patrick J. Slattery, New Bedford, Eliza Adams, Spencer Browning, Athens, LondonJonathan Dowling
Director, Clocks, Watches & Scientific Instruments
508-970-3131
Clocks, Watches & Scientific Instruments
From early timekeeping devices to precision regulators, the Clocks, Watches & Scientific Instruments department covers centuries of invention and function with trusted appraisals and world-competitive auctions.