Much of his output was pocket watches (he made an estimated 5500 watches against 700 clocks). As a general rule they represent the most affordable way to acquire a timekeeper by the most famous of all Golden Age clockmakers.
The Luxury Watch sale at Fellows (23/25% buyer’s premium) in Birmingham on February 15 included this early 18th century open face pocket watch signed Thomas Tompion and Edward Banger, London.
Towards the end of his career, Tompion partnered with Banger, who was married to Tompion’s niece, for six years from 1701-07.
Tompion pocket watch – £4800 at Fellows.
Housed in a gilt-metal consular case, this watch features a key-wind full-plate fusee and chain movement with pierced balance cock, verge escapement and Egyptian pillars and a later white enamel dial.
The estimate of £4500-6500 proved accurate: it sold at £4800.
