|
Books > Arts & Architecture > Antiques & collectables > Antique clocks & watches
"The longcase clock has been a part of the Englishman's home for
some 300 years and has gained a place in his heart seldom if every
achieved by any other domestic item. An example of its importance
in family life is that it, with the bed and the house, was nearly
always mentioned specifically in the will." In Derek Roberts's
important new book, readers find a wealth of valuable information
detailing the British origins, evolution, and wide range of
longcase clocks that have been produced since the sixteenth
century. In twenty chapters Mr. Roberts provides a detailed
overview of many facets of these beautiful and useful art works,
including early square dial, rare, astronomical and equation
clocks, walnut breakarch longcase clocks (and those in other
woods), and thirty-hour clocks. Other chapters detail various dial
and decoration forms, precision timekeeping, important makers, and
clocks of the Victorian and Edwardian eras right up to modern
times. A glossary of terms and lengthy index of makers are
included. In British Longcase Clocks, Mr. Roberts share his wealth
of knowledge enthusiastically and presents over 300 black and white
and full-color photographs of details and whole clocks. His book
will interest clock owners and all who love fine furniture.
Wrist chronographs are mechanical wristwatches that, in addition to
their normal clockwork, have a mechanism that allows them to time
short-term events. They are one of the most popular collecting
areas in the broad spectrum of wristwatches because they are not
yet too expensive and are available in large numbers. Until now
they have not been studied systematically. Now Land and Meis offer
this outstanding identification book. The text deals with the dial
of the chronograph and all the indications that can possibly be
read from it. There is also a technical section that shows the
historical development of the chronograph mechanism. With
collectors in mind the authors have arranged the illustrations by
the indications on the dials. Pictures of the movements are always
included with those of the chronographs. This book is a
particularly useful identification book for collectors, dealers,
and auction houses.
The mechanical wristwatch is a cherished treasure. This newly
revised book is designed for the collector, with a historical
survey, a description of how mechanical wristwatches work, and a
glossary. Updated prices for various watches are included, along
with a chapter on fakes, knock-offs, and hybrids. Information on
the preservation, care, and repair of the watch rounds out the
volume, making it an excellent reference for novice and experienced
collectors alike.
This historical overview of the various styles of American shelf
and wall clocks covers the centuries and gives visual pleasure
every step of the way. The original owners of these clocks were
interested as much in how they looked as in how they told time, so
they are quite attractive and are good examples of the cabinet
maker's art. The collector can acquire the majority of these
beautiful clocks at relatively fair and modest prices, which makes
them popular. Gathered from auction houses, museums, and private
collections, over 1250 clocks are illustrated here in this newly
revised and expanded second edition. Approximately one-third of the
photographs are in color, with the remainder in clear black and
white. Each is accompanied by an informative caption that will be
great help to the reader. A newly updated value guide will be of
invaluable assistance to the collector. In illustrating the early
growth of the clock making industry in the United States, Mr. Ball
has captured an important part of our history.
|
|