VT7 THOS. COLE, LONDON, NO 777.

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The finely chased and engraved gilt-brass case numbered 777 in the form of a Cheval mirror hinged at each side, with swivel foot and folding articulated handle, the rear with captive winder and shutter to access the escapement.

The silvered dial similarly engraved with Roman numerals and blued steel fleur de lys hands.

The eight-day going barrel movement with lever escapement and uncut balance. This is a good early example of the maker’s work with finely detailed engraving.

Height excluding handle: 6″ (15 cm).

Thomas Cole was born in 1800, the son of James, a clockmaker. Thomas went into partnership with his brother, James Ferguson Cole, around 1823 until 1829. The Great Exhibition of 1851 has Thomas listed as ‘Inventor, Designer and Maker’. He was elected to the Royal Society of Arts on 28th June 1861 and was also admitted to the British Horological Institute in which his eminent brother played a leading role. He was awarded a medal for ‘Excellence of Taste and Design’ at the International Exhibition of 1862 and the jury, led by Charles Frodsham, had nothing but praise in their official report. Thomas Cole died on 3rd January, 1864.

Further details can be found in ‘Thomas Cole & Victorian Clockmaking’ by J. B. Hawkins. See item 41 on page 117.