An English subminiature gold mounted ambrolite travel clock, Comyns & Sons, 1906.

Description

Ambrolite

In the late 19th century, a type of plastic was invented to imitate amber and was therefore called ‘ambrolite’. In addition to its soft color, it is also transparent, causing it to change hue when the light intensity fluctuates. This miniature clock was made in England by the renowned firm William Comyns & Sons, famous for their silver and luxury objects. We know this because the 9-carat gold mounts carry the company’s hallmark. The combination of the unusual material, the gold mounts and the elegant decoration make this small clock a beautiful object.

Enamel dial

The 1.8-cm enamel dial has Roman numerals. The spade hands are made of blued steel.

Swiss made

The small movement is driven by a spring barrel and is of eight day duration. It is regulated by a club tooth lever escapement in combination with a balance wheel.

Gold handle

The rectangular ambrolite case is surmounted by a 9-carat gold handle. The bezel, feet, and hinges of the back door are also made of 9-carat gold. The handle and hinges are hallmarked with the year letter ‘O’ and the ‘W.C.’ mark of William Comyns & Sons.

William Comyns & Sons

William Comyns & Sons was a renowned company founded in 1859 by William Comyns. In 1885, his sons Charles and Richard joined the company, after which the company name was changed to & Sons. Their range was expanded and was characterized by beautiful design and finish.