Record price for a Clock in Yorkshire

Tennants saleroom in North Yorkshire achieved their highest price ever made for a longcase clock today as part of its Summer Catalogue Sale which made over £1 million.  It was an exceptional Burr Walnut Longcase Clock with original numbered winder by George Graham of London, No.772, circa 1740.

A number of serious collectors and London dealers were competing over the telephone to purchase this exceptional Longcase Clock made by the master craftsman, George Graham, one of the leading clockmakers of his time. It was eventually sold to a London dealer for the exceptional price of £135,000 (hammer price) (estimated at £70,000 to £90,000) at Tennants today. One of the under-bidders who attended the sale and is highly regarded in the trade said that this original clock was in exceptional condition with its original winder (which is only one of nine recorded with a numbered winder).  Its stunning proportions and fine quality cabinet work made it stand out from other longcase clocks.

Adam Wasdell, Head of the Clock and Watches Department at Tennants, said “The saleroom was full with a great atmosphere of excitment, with everyone anticipating the sale of this important clock.  I was delighted by the interest it created and the price it made”.

The clock was being sold by a lady from Yorkshire and had been well kept in a large country house since 1960, when it was bought for £425.

For more information on clocks or horological items contact Adam Wasdell, BHI, WOSTEP, Head of Clocks & Watches at Tennants on 01969 623780.

Silver Shines Brightly At Tennants

Tennants largest and most valuable collection of silver has made exceptional prices today during their Summer Catalogue Sale.  The top lot was a magnificent pair of George III Soup Tureens by John Houle of London dating from 1818 (lot 223).  Estimated to bring £10,000 to £15,000, the pair sold to private buyers for £21,000.

A collection of fine 18th Century Irish Silver was also in great demand and a rare 18th Century Chocolate Pot by Henry Daniell of Dublin circa 1715-1720, (lot 251) estimated to bring £3,000 to £5,000 went for £16,000 to a London dealer. A fine pair of Irish George II Salvers by William Williamson, Dublin circa 1740 (lot 247), estimated at £1,000 to £1,500 sold for £4,000 and an important George I Punch Bowl by Thomas Folkingham of London dating from 1723 (lot 250), estimated at £8,000 to £10,000 sold for £11,000.

Furniture & Paintings

A pair of Victorian Gothic Revival Oak Library Tables (lot 882) estimated at £1,000 to £1,500 sold for £6,000 and an oil painting by Dorothea Sharp (1874-1955) entitled “The Cup and Saucer Pool” (lot 623) estimated at £10,000 to £15,000 sold for £17,000

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Lot 808. Sold for £135,000

Lot 223. Sold for £21,000

Lot 247. Sold for £4000

Lot 250. Sold for £11,000

Lot 251. Sold for 16,000

Lot 623. Sold for £17,000

Lot 882. Sold or £6,000