Description

A fine pair of bulkhead instruments (clock and barometer) by Benzie of Cowes, Isle of Wight c.1890.

Untouched and in perfect condition (cosmetically and functionally), these instruments exhibit popular Victorian/Edwardian barley twist (wheat ear/rope) mahogany bodies of a depth of 3 inches. Both the barometer and clock have wonderful engraved (untouched with minor oxidation) silvered dials with minimum wear and are signed “BENZIE, COWES”. Six inch diameter, brass wall brackets (interchangeable top or bottom). Key included for clock (runs flawlessly). French clockwork (8 day) with blued steel hands. Barometer is compensated and measures from 26-31 inches of mercury. Hinged cover to clock. Very minor scratches to one bevelled glass (nothing of note). Heavy brass bezels. These are a step up from the normal brass bulkhead/cabin instruments. A Benzie pair once resided on the Royal yacht Britannia. 

Simpson Benzie set up shop in Cowes, Isle of Wight near the Solent for obvious financial reasons. The jewellry store ran under his watch from 1862-1891 at which point his son took over and business flourished. Royal warrants from Victoria, George V, the Prince of Wales and three Queens (spanning the two decades from 1885-1912). The shop still exists today.