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Vol. XIII. No. i.]
JULY i, 1887.-—
Subscription ) Post
_5s. per Annum. ) Frbe.
sj.jcy
©ffice :
IMPERIAL BUILDINGS, LUDGATE CIRCUS,
LONDON, E.C.
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 1887.
♦*•■ BOTWRIGHT & GREY,
(Late A. H. BOTWRIGHT. Established 1865.)
MANUFACTURING OPTICIANS,
WHOLESALE AND FOR EXPORTATION ONLY,
13, SPENCER STREET, CLERKENWELL, E.C.,
Makers of every description of Spectacles and Folders, in Steel, Shell, Gold, Silver and Horn ; Solid, Nickel, German
Silver, &c, at the lowest possible prices. Our work is always reliable. We guarantee the quality of our Gold Spectacles
and Folders to be Standard under their various qualities. Specialties in perfect Pebble Spectacles and Folders. Field,
Opera and Marine Glasses. Barometers and Thermometers. Spectacle and Folder Cases, &c. Interchangeable
Spectacles and Folders for the Colonial Markets ; New Patterns in Cork and Indiarubber Placquet Folders. All Materials
and Parts kept in Stock and sold for Repairing. Please write for Samples and compare our Prices. We invite
inspection of our large Stock.
REPAIRS, OF EVERY DESCRIPTION, IN EVERY CASE WE EXECUTE AND SEND BACK BY RETURN POST.
Oculists and Hospital Prescriptions prepared. Sphero Cylinders and Prisms worked to order, and in every case by return of post.
PRESCRIPTION FOH1HS WITH C1TSTOXI EltS' NAMES SVEPLIEO GRATIS.
VENABLES'
HIGH-CLASS
PIANOS
COMBINE
Strength and Durability
with Purity and
Richness of Tone.
C. VENABLES & CO,
ESSEX ROAD, ISLINGTON.
RICHARD & CO.,
French (tloch JTlanufacturers.
LONDON :
24, CANNON STREET, E.C.
PARIS :
Boulevard St. Martin, 32, Rue de Bondy.
THE LARGEST STOCK OF
CARRIAGE and FRENCH CLOCKS (own make).
CARRIAGE CLOCKS (own make) PATENTED.
Vide Horological Journal, July, 1881.
TRewaroeJ) at tbe following jErbiblttons:-
PARIS, 1878. SYDNEY, 1879. MELBOURNE, 1880.
AMERICAN
ALTHAM
ATGH
©OMP/cNY.
A
LL Watches now made for this market, except Plain Steel Balances and the 18-size Plain
Compensation, have hardened Breguet hairsprings.
Particular attention is called to these excellent goods, the simplest in construction and strongest
and most durable of all Chronograph Watches ; also
THE NEW WATCH FOR LADIES,
6-size Key-winding and Keyless Plain Gold and Expansion Balances to Extra Jewelled, all with
Breguet hair-spring, modelled on the famous 14-size Riverside, so well and favourably known
throughout the world.
Price Lists, with full description 0/ all movements manufachired by the Company, on application to
W™ B_s, R0BB "£? * ^ P F P LF T0N '
HOI.BOKN emeus, London, E.C. GENERAL AGENTS.
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Entered at Stationers' Hall.']
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 1.]
JULY 1, 1887.
[" Subscription, 5s. [ Post
|_ per Aunum. j Free.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Editorial ...
1
General Notes
2
Birmingham News. From Ouk Correspondent ...
4
American Items ...
4
The Royal Observatory "Report ...
5
A New Astronomical Clock. Illu.it? ated
fi
A Short History of the Thimble. By
Herman Bush
8
The Albert Medal...
9
Machine for making Watch Cases
.. 10
Society of Arts Conversazione .
.. 10
Silversmithing
.. K)
Skelton's New Fusee-Keyless Work.
Illustrated ...
11
Watch Oils
12
Mayoral Chains ...
12
Mayoral Badge for Wokingham
.. 13
Workshop Memoranda
13
Applications for Letters Patent...
.. 11
Recent American Patents
.. 14
Gazette
.. U
London Bankruptcy Court
.. 15
Meetings of Societies, &c, for the Month
15
Correspondence ...
15
Answers to Correspondents
16
Buyers' Guide
.. 16
Che Watchmaker, jeweller an.6
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements.— The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence.— Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
Imperial Buildings, Ludgate Circus, London, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
HILE the members of the watch trade have been
discussing the clauses of the Merchandise Marks
Bill which relate to watches, and otherwise putting-
forward their views as to a means of bettering the condition of
the English watch trade, a controversy has been going on con-
currently among pawnbrokers that, from an outside observer's
point of view, presents some common features of similarity ; and
(besides being of public, as well as special, interest) affords an
instructive parallel to the first-mentioned question, as it bears on
the subject of trade grievances generally.
Should the debate under consideration serve no other purpose
than that of pointing out the ill effects of legislation having
for its object the restriction, in any form, of free contract in
business, it will not have been without its uses.
Pawnbrokers, in common with other traders, are suffering from
the continued trade depression. The assertion may appear some-
what paradoxical to those who hold the popular belief which
regards them as battening on other people's misfortunes, but it
is nevertheless true ; never were there so inanybusinesses in the
market, with fewer purchasers, as at the present time, and
competent authorities regard the state of affairs as distinctly
discouraging.
The discussion that is just now agitating the pawnbroking
mind is the result of the proposition by a member of the frater-
nity foil shortening the period during which pledges can be
redeemed from twelve months, as at j>vesent, to six months. The
advocates of the proposed alteration (which it is suggested to
bring about by means of an appeal to Parliament) advance
numerous plausible arguments in support of their views, foremost
among which are the larger amounts that could be lent on articles
liable to depreciation from their perishable nature or from changes
of fashion, the fewer forfeits that would be left on their hands,
and the greater facilities that would be afforded for checking
and educating their assistants.
The opponents of the proposed change, on the other hand,
state that it would have the effect of throwing a large amount
A
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 1887.
of idle capital into the tills of the trade, and result in less
business being done, and greater losses incurred on account of the
still further inducements presented to advance the outside value
on articles taken in pledge, with other objections equally cogent.
Without going in detail into the -pros and cons of the case, it will
be sufficiently curious to watch the progress of the discussion from
ih?, abstract point of view as it affects the interest of a trade more or
less intimately connected with those we represent, and not a few of
whose members are numbered among the readers of this journal.
The Pawnbrokers' Gazette, in commenting on the subject,
very pertinently says that this divergence of opinion takes place
in i\\e minds of practical men (not mere theorists), every one of
whom should be able to form, from his own experience, a perfectly
sound judgment upon the point under discussion, and suggests
the possibility of discussion leading in time to that unanimity of
opinion among all parties, without which it would be improper
for a section to take action in that which concerns the whole
trade. While fully endorsing the opinion respecting the benefits
of discussing trade matters on which widely different views are
held, recent experiences do not allow us to be very hopeful of the
result. Nevertheless, we shall attentively observe the course of
the present debate, and, should it lead to a definitive arrangement
being arrived at, carefully note such conclusion for the benefit of
those of our readers who are interested in the agitation previously
referred to, and to which it bears so strong a resemblance.
The announcement of the death of Colonel Croll, a short
notice of which is given in another column, will lie beard with
regret by those who had the good fortune to form part of his
circle of acquaintances. His never-failing amiability and courtesy
to all witli whom he came in contact, and his well-known
energy of character in business matters excited universal respect.
As an esteemed member of the Clockmakers' Co., with which
body he was in his later years more particularly identified,
Colonel Croll devoted much time and attention to matters purely
horological as well as civic, and a good deal of the later action of
the Company in endeavouring to promote the welfare of the
trades of which they are the corporate head may be traced to hi s
influence. Colonel Croll, who was a native of Perth, first came
to London about 50 years ago, where he became connected with
several of the larger commercial undertakings in which his energy
was speedily conspicuously shown. As Chairman of the United
Kingdom Electric Telegraph Co., he was presented by the
shareholders, in 1871, in acknowledgment of his services to the
Company, with a magnificent testimonial in the shape of a
massive silver centre table ornament of the value of 1 000
guineas, which he, a few years since, magnanimously presented
to the Clockmakers' Co. as an addition to their museum in the
City of London Library.
Colonel Croll was a deputy lieutenant and magistrate for several
counties, and member of the Council and Technological Examiner
of the Society of Arts. Taking great interest in and successfully
dealing with questions relating to educational and commercial
subjects, there were few men moving in a similar sphere who had a
more honourable retrospect, and his place will hot be easily refilled.
Seneral Notes.
fpHE PRINCESS OF WALES, on the application of Mr.
1*| J. Jacobs, through the Home Secretary, having consented
to purchase and wear some articles of jewellery with a view
of reviving the Birmingham trade, a case containing a selection
of articles from various manufacturers has been submitted to Her
Royal Highness, by a committee appointed for that purpose.
Thk Jubilee celebrations have not had a very stimulating
effect on trade generally. From Sheffield we learn that the
cutlery and plating trades have been dull throughout the month,
with the exception of a few of the larger firms, with whom
Jubilee orders had been placed ; and the same partial result is
reported from Birmingham, in the fancy industries, and from
other manufacturing centres. As for the London West End
tradesmen, they not only had to shut up shop during Jubilee week,
but were put to considerable expense for decoration ; they will.
however, doubtless be benefited indirectly by the increase of
general business the presence of so many strangers in town is
sure to produce.
The other day a working jeweller named Simpson, in Prince
Albert Street,' Brighton, met with a strange piece of luck at an
auction in that town. A picture of a negro, in an old and
dilapidated frame, was put up as a lot, and was knocked down
to him " for a mere song," amid the jeers of the brokers and
other attendants of the rooms. On the back of the canvas,
however, Mr. Simpson had noted, when the pictures were on
view the previous day, the words " Dr. Johnson's Servant," and
his curiosity being stimulated thereby, he referred to " Boswell *'
and to the " Life of Reynolds," when he found that Sir Joshua
bad painted at least one portrait of John Williams, the black
servant who was so long in the employ of 1 )r. Johnson. The style
of painting struck several amateurs as rather in the style of
Sir Joshua Reynolds, and that view has since been confirmed
by one or two experts, who have given their opinion that the
portrait is either an original painting by Reynolds, or else a
remarkably good copy (possibly a replica) of the portrait which
the great master painted for Sir G. Beaumont.
Mr. John Johnson, of 9, Queen Victoria Street, Mansion
House, London, has been awarded the first premium of twenty
guineas in the design competition for tlie clock Mr. Willing
intends to present to Brighton. Mr. H. A. Cheers, of Avenue
House, Twickenham, has been awarded the second premium of
ten guineas. Mr. Johnson's plan will be adapted to the ideas
formulated by Mr. Willing and the local authorities.
Messrs. Buck & Hickman, of 280, Whitechapel Road, London,
are showing, at the American Exhibition, the specialties of the
following firms : — The Morse Twist Drill and Machine Co.,
New Bedford, Mass.; the Pratt and Whitney Machine Co.,
Hartford, Conn.; Messrs. E. Horton, Son & Co., Windsor
Locks, N.Y.; the Oneida Steam Engine Co., Oneida, N.Y.;
the Cushman Chuck Co., Hartford, Conn.; the Brown & Sharpe
Manufacturing Co., Providence, R.I.; Messrs. W. Coupe & Co.,
South Attleboro, Mass.; the Miller's Falls Co., New York.
Presentation to the Birmingham Art Gallery. — A large
collection of art work Avas formally presented to the town of
Birmingham at a meeting of the Town Council held on June 6.
This gift to the local Art Gallery was made by Mr. John
Feeney, and was procured while he was travelling abroad some
years since. The collection, which fills over twenty cases, com-
prises Japanese and Chinese bronzes, china and enamels, carved
ivories, lacquer armour, Indian metal work and jewellery, and
objects in silver of old Scandinavian and German workmanship.
The death, at the age of 76, of Colonel Alexander Angus
Croll, a former Master of the Clockmakers' Co., took place at
Dunblane, N.B., on the 7th ult.
July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKEB, JEWELLEE AND SILVEESMITH.
No gold was coined during the year 1886, the Mint having
been exclusively engaged on silver and bronze coinage, the value
of the former being £417,384, and of the bronze coins £51,669.
The number of half-crowns coined was 994,752, and of florins
592,020 ; while the shillings struck amounted to 1,774,080, and
the sixpences to 2,724,480 in number. The number of three-
penny-pieces coined was 6,150,408.
The prospectus of the Glasgow 1888 Exhibition of Industry,
Science and Art has been issued by the Committee. Mr. W.
M. Cunningham is the secretary, and Mr. H. A. Hedley the
manager.
Messrs. James Pinder & Co., of the Colonial Works,
Sheffield, have just introduced a useful novelty in the form of an
automatic biscuit box. When closed, it takes the form of a corru-
gated shell. It is opened at either side by pressing one of two
knots at the top, and as the two halves fall gradually open, the
pierced inside linings rise automatically, allowing of access to the
biscuits. In closing the box the linings fall and meet the covers
about half-way, thereby preventing the biscuits from falling out.
It is manufactured of the best white metal, and is strongly
electro-plated ; and as it can be obtained plain or engraved in
various ornamental designs, it will doubtless command a ready
sale, and should engage the attention of the trade.
According to the Paris Messenger, a cabman named Wesle
may consider himself a victim of the Pranzini mystery. He
called at the shop of a watchmaker and jeweller, on the Boule-
vard de Magenta, under the pretence of having a watch repaired,
but in reality to ascertain the value of a diamond, and sell it if
possible. The gem was worth about 2,000 fcs., and the
jeweller being surprised to see a diamond of that value in the
hands of a cab driver questioned the man, and not being satisfied
with his answers jumped at the conclusion that it must be one
of the missing jewels of Marie Eegnault, and called in the police.
The cabman was then forced to admit that he had found the
diamond, an ear-drop, in his cab more than a year ago. It
proved to be one lost by the Princess Zoe de Beauvau-Craon,
while riding in a cab to the Sceaux railway station. The man
has now been sentenced to two months' imprisonment.
Her Majesty's Consul at Batavia reports that in certain
instances unauthorised persons have registered and used in the
Netherlands Indies trade marks, the property of British firms.
To prevent these proceedings, Her Majesty's Consul recommends
British owners to empower their agents in the Netherlands
Indies to register, on their behalf, such trade marks as they wish
protected, and to protest against the registration if it has already
been effected by others. The documents necessary are as
follow : — (a) Power of attorney in favour of the owner's agents
authorising them to' register their trade mark, and to protest
against others registering it. Powers of attorney must first be
legalised by a Dutch consular official in the United Kingdom,
and afterwards by the Foreign and Colonial Ministers at The
Hague, (b) Certificate proving the ownership of the trade mark,
and that it is duly registered in England, (c) Three copies of
any trade mark the owner may wish to have registered, with
particulars of the class of goods on which same is used. Pro-
tests of registration have to be lodged within a year of the
original registration.
Cape Diamonds. — In 1883 the export of diamonds from the
Cape amounted to £2,742,000, and in 1884 to £2,807,000 ; but
in 1885 it had fallen off to £2,492,000, and some of the
companies which had been only moderately successful when the
European demand was largest practically suspended operations..
Last year the export of diamonds for the year reached a value of
about £3,000,000. This is partly accounted for by the larger
production, and partly by the fact of the greater size and
brilliancy of tFe~ stones found in some of the more fully-developed
properties.
A novelty in earrings has just been introduced into the
American market in the form of a so-called " perpetual motion
earring." This device depends upon a double motion : one, a
concealed pivoted movement attached to the setting ; the other,
that acquired from the ring to which the arm of the setting is
attached. Iridium bearings secure the parts against wear ; and
the result is said to be a perfectly safe contrivance, which, never
at rest, shows off the stone to the best advantage. The patentees
and inventors are Messrs. Edge & Sons, of Newark, N.J., and
New York.
Eich gold mines have been found in Eastern Siberia, some
few hundred miles from Yakutsk, extending over a district
hitherto unexplored. Eeport declares that the region is a perfect
new California in its greatest days of the gold diggings.
It is reported that pieces of gold have been discovered by
miners in the bed of the river Mawddach, North Wales ; and
investigation, it is stated, seems to confirm the statement that
the bed of the river is impregnated with gold, which has probably
been washed down from the hills. Some fifteen years ago a great
rush was made to the neighbourhood of Dolgelly and the valley
of Mawddach, where a rich quartz of gold had been found.
Brussels Exhibition of 1888. — The Chamber of Eepre-
sentatives, on the 15th of last month, voted the credit asked for
by the Government for the Grand International Exhibition of
Arts and Sciences to be held in Brussels in 1888. The sum
voted amounted altogether to 2,800,000 fcs., of which the
greater part is to be expended on the buildings. All the facilities
and advantages which the Government proposed to give to the
enterprise were also approved by the Chamber.
The glass beads manufactured in Venice form an important
branch of industry, 6,000,000 lbs. being exported yearly to all
parts of the world.
EOBBERY OF WaTERBURY WATCHES AND JEWELLERY. At
Sheffield, on the morning of the 7th ult., the police found that
the premises of the AVaterbury Watch Co., High Street, Sheffield,
had been broken into. The manager was sent for, and it was
found that the shopbreakers had climbed the iron gate, entered
by the fanlight, and cleared out the silver watches, lockets, chains
and purses from the glass case on the counter and escaped. A
short time ago a jeweller's window on the opposite side of the
street was smashed and valuable property stolen.
The Diamond Market. — No very marked change has taken
place in the Amsterdam market since our last report ; the
slightly advanced movement we noticed, however, has continued,
and the fears as to polishers being thrown out of work have
proved groundless, as the existing factories are fully employed,
and there are three new ones in course of construction.
The prices for rough remain the same, and there is some
demand for finished among the numerous buyers present, but
prices remain unfavourable from the seller's point of view.
There lias been a slight change for the better in the Parts
market since the sale of the Crown jewels, and dealers regard as
a hopeful indication the fact of the said jewels realising more
than their officially estimated values. Towards the end of the
past month the sales have fallen off, and the demand, such as it
is, has been mostly confined to buyers from the United States.
The steamers "Athenian," " Norham Castle," "Spartan,"
" Hawarden Castle" and " Tartar" arrived at Plymouth during the
month from the Cape, bringing large parcels of all round stuff
from the fields, most of which, as prices were somewhat easier,
was speedily bought up by the numerous foreign dealers present.
Latest advices from Kimberley report : market quiet, prices
easier ; yellow at a discount, but good demand for fresh at
reduced prices.
Silver. — The latest quotations are : bars 44d., Mexican
dollars 43d. per oz.
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 1887.
Birmingham Neuus,
From Our Correspondent.
TTTHI'HvE has lici'n a »reat stir here during the last few
1^ weeks anions? the medallists, who have been working day
Cola) . ° o «/
and night, and all the heavy presses in the trade have
been swinging incessantly during the 24 hours, striking Jubilee
medals; very numerous have been the demands upon any manu-
facturer possessing a press heavy enough for the purpose, and it
is no exaggeration to state that they have been turned out in
hundredweights.
* «- *
The makers of mayoral chains, civic badges, maces, &c, have
been employed in a similar manner, and one of them told me
that he was simply tired of working from 5 o'clock a.m. until 12
o'clock midnight (rather a new sensation for a jeweller, these
times). Every newly created borough and every ancient boron, li,
large and small, that were not the fortunate possessors of some
civic emblem wherewith to adorn the person of their mayor, or
otherwise add to their dignity of office, have made vigorous
exertions to collect the necessary sum and go in for the much
coveted decoration ; so that the makers, who are not so numerous
as some brandies, have reaped a harvest such as they will not
see again for some time to come.
* -* *
There is not much activity to report among jewellers or
silversmiths here in general trade goods ; there is every probability
of a considerable falling off during the next month, as a reaction
from the Jubilee work has already set in, and buyers are very
reluctant to place orders until they can see what change is likely
in the fashion for the autumn season. There seems to be a
strong inclination towards enamelled work as the coming thing.
and several makers are already speculating upon new dies for
this purpose ; no doubt a little pushing may make a success
of it.
* * #
If silver continues as cheap as now, or falls even lower still,
as appears quite possible, I think it will widen the field for
makers of silver goods, as a number of articles might lie produced
in silver that hitherto have been excluded on account of juice,
and it is such a beautiful clean metal, that goods made of it
would certainly find purchasers. If some enterprising firm will
give their attention to this, it may prove remunerative and a
blessing to the manufacturing community.
The Temperature of the Atmosphere at "Different
Altitudes. — At the meeting of the Meteorological Society, held
on the 15th of last month, Mr. W. Marriot, F.R.M.S., read a
paper on the " Results of Thermometrical Observations made at
4 feet, 170 feet and 260 feet above the ground at Boston,
Lincolnshire, 1882-86." The observations were made on Boston
Church tower, which rises quite free from any obstructions, in a
very flat country, to the height of 273 feet. A Stevenson screeri
with a full set of thermometers was placed 4 feet above the
ground in the churchyard ; a similar screen and thermometers
was fixed above the belfry at 170 feet above the ground, while a
Siemens electrical thermometer was placed near the top of the
tower, the cable being brought down inside and attached to a
galvanometer on the floor of the church, where the indications
were read off. The results showed that the mean maximum
temperature at 4 feet exceeds that at 170 feet in every month of
the year, the difference in the summer months amounting to : : ;
degrees ; while the mean minimum temperature at 4 feet differs
hut slightly from that at 170 feet, the tendency, however, being
for the former to be slightly higher in the winter and lower in
the summer than the latter. As the electrical thermometer was
read usually in the day time, the results naturally showed that
the temperature at 4 feet during the day hours was considerably
higher than at 260 feet. The author also detailed several sets of
readings which had been made during the night, the results from
which were of a very interesting character.
American Jtems.
fHE "Gladstone Testimonial," a large ornament containing
1,000 ounces of pure silver, is now on exhibition at
Tiffany's. This magnificent and costly work of art is the
gift of many of Mr. Gladstone's admirers in America. It stands
36 inches high, with a width of 22 inches at the base. The
testimonial is crowned with a small bust of Gladstone. The
pose of the head is majestic, the face is stern yet of pleasant ex-
pression, and the design is correct. Immediately below the bust
is a pedestal with the inscription, " William Ewart Gladstone,
Testimonial Presented by his American Admirers." This is in
fancy letters with raised surface and a fancy scroll-work back-
ground. In the centre of this part of the pedestal is a laurel
wreath surrounding njari.s and scales of justice, with the words
" Home Rule " in prominent letters. On the right side of this
pedestal, and standing on the main pedestal, is a female form
clothed in a light garment covered with stars. She holds in her
left hand an Irish harp, and with her right arm lovingly clasped
about the base of the bust, she looks up at the form of Gladstone
with a face fixed with deep admiration. She represents the
American admirers, and they are beautifully represented. Upon
the other side of this pedestal is a large wreath of laurels, and on
the back the date of presentation, 1887, is done in a richly
ornamented style. Below this pedestal is the base. This is a
large oblong block resting upon six feet of Celtic pattern. Its
panels are ornamented with emblems. In the centre is re-
presented the "lamp of learning," with the word " Sapientia " in
block letters. Over this is the coat-of-arms of Christ Church
College, with the words " Double First," which means to the men
of this college that he took the first place both in mathematics and
classics. To the right of this central group is a wreath with the
emblem of justice, and to the left is a similar wreath with the
emblem of kind-heartedness. The head of Homer in relief on the
left side of the base indicates the classical learning of Gladstone,
and that of Demosthenes upon the other indicates his great
power as an orator. Shamrocks and stars and stripes are
patterned into this testimonial with great skill and artistic effect.
The whole piece, which is made solid and of pure silver, is a
remarkable example of workmanship, and a work of art that does
credit to all concerned in its construction.
The Jeioeler's Circular says there is little doubt that the United
States will yet be found to be exceedingly rich in all kinds of
precious stones. The States, now noted for their gold and silver
productions, have been but imperfectly prospected, and their re-
sources are not even suspected. Every little while some miner
accidentally stumbles upon some gem, the value of which he does
not realise, but, because of its peculiar appearance, he holds for
some one to pass upon ; and those who have the greatest familiarity
with the geological formations of the country, predict that all
kinds of precious -tones will yet be found in quantities. We have
recently seen specimens of rough diamonds and rubies that were
picked up by miners in the West, and several jewellers in this city
have experts on the alert to pick up whatever is found in this line,
and to follow up all indications of such dejiosits. The Government
could well afford to encourage its geologists to prosecute this line
of explorations, although experience has demonstrated that private
enterprise usually accomplishes better results than any Govern-
ment prospectors in matters of this kind.
Silver in a Steel Furnace. — A new line of work was
recently taken up by the Edgar Thomson Steel Co., Braddock,
Pa. It was found necessary to repair the foundation of one of
their furnaces, and while excavating the workmen came in contact
with quite a quantity of lead which had worked its way out through
the foundation. The lead came from ore used in making the
best manganese iron, and as the furnace had been working
extensively on this kind of iron, about 50 tons had been de-
posited. It was analysed by the chemist at the works and found
to contain 60 dols.' worth of silver to the ton. In extracting the
silver the Company will be well paid for their trouble.
July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
Che Royal iDbseruatory Report.
fjliW HE Report of the Astronomer Royal to the Board of
<?M? Visitoi'S of the Royal Observatory, which was read at the
1 annual visitation on June 4 last, has been published.
The present Report, which is very complete, refers to the
period of twelve months from May 21, 1886, to May 20, 1887,
inclusive, and is divided into : I. Buildings and Grounds,
Moveable Property, and Library. II. Astronomical Obser-
vations. III. Spectroscopic and Photographic Observations.
IV. Magnetical Observations. V. Meteorological Observations.
VI. Printing and Distribution of Greenwich Publications.
VII. Chronometers, Time Signals and Longitude Operations.
VIII. Personal Establishment. IX. General Remarks.
The extension of the two Computing Rooms has been
sanctioned by the Admiralty, and provision for the work made in
the estimates. The Quadrant Passage is to be included in the
Lower Computing Room, and the Upper Computing Room is
to extend over the Safe Room, witli a central opening and spiral
staircase to establish ready communication between the two
rooms. Above the extended portion of the Upper Computing
Room a dome (18 feet in diameter) is to be erected, in which it
is proposed to mount the Cooke 6-inch equatoreal, the photo-
heliograph tube being attached to the same mounting. The
combined instrument will be carried on a pier to be built on the
top of the old Quadrant Pier, and will command a complete view
of the sun throughout the day (an important consideration, as the
work- of the photo-heliograph in its present position is seriously
interfered with by trees and the Lassell dome). The. 6-inch
Cooke refractor will be available for occupations, phenomena of
Jupiter's satellites and other occasional observations. It is
anticipated that the concentration of the astronomical establish-
ment thus effected will prove of great advantage.
The old instruments and apparatus have been thoroughly
overhauled by Mr. Lewis, and those that appeared to be of
only historical interest have been transferred to the Library
No. 4, the remainder being disposed so as to be readily available
for use.
The two Simms equatoreals, part of the mounting of the
Corbett equatoreal, a photo-heliograph and two photo-heliograph
mountings, two 4-inch detached telescopes (Simms, Nos. 1 and
2), and part of the single prism spectroscope, were lent for use
in the eclipse expedition to Grenada last August. Mr. Turner
proposes to use the telescope of the Simms equatoreal No. 1 and
a small portable equatoreal mounting for the observation of the
total solar eclipse of August next, in Hussia.
No change of importance has been made in the transit circle
beyond the renovation of the recording micrometer apparatus,
which was much worn by constant use since 1873.
The personal equation instrument, which is used to determine
the personal errors made by observers, due to the individual
peculiarity or disposition of each, has not been much used in the
past year — partly owing to pressure of other work, and partly
because it was deemed expedient, before making an extensive
series of observations, to make arrangements for registering the
end as well as the beginning of the contacts made by the
instrument. With this object a small chronograph, by Krille,
has been adapted by Messrs. E. Dent & Co. for electric
registration of make and break contacts. The regular subjects of
observation with the transit circle are the sun, moon, planets and
fundamental stars, with other stars from a working catalogue.
A new list of some 3,000 stars was prepared at the end of
1886, to include all the stars in Groombridge's Catalogue and in
the Harvard Photometry which had not been observed at
Greenwich since 1867. The Annual Catalogue of stars observed
in 1886 contains about 1,665 stars.
The following shows the number of observations made with
the transit circle in the twelve months ending May 20, 1887 : —
Transits, the separate limbs being counted as
separate observations ... ... ... 6,366
Determinations of collimation error ... ... 304
Determinations of level error... ... ... 410
5,983
385
602
Circle observations
Determinations of nadir point (included in the
number of circle observations)
Reflexion observation of stars (similarly in-
cluded)
About 400 transits (included in the above number) have been
observed with the reversion prism, to determine personalty
depending on the direction of motion.
The investigation of personal equations in eye and ear transits,
as well as in chronographic, has been completed for the year
1886, and the results accord well with those found in the previous
year. The practice of observing two clock stars on each night
by the eye and ear method has been maintained.
The sidereal standard, mean solar clocks and the chrono-
graph are in good order. Several auxiliary clocks which had
not been cleaned for many years have been cleaned recently.
Many interesting details are gone into in this section of the
Report which our space will not allow of even enumerating.
In Section IV. the Report states that the magnetical ob-
servations have been continued on the same lines as in former
years, changes in the magnetic declination, horizontal force and
vertical force being continuously recorded by photography and
the absolute values of magnetic declination, horizontal force and
dip being determined from time to time by eye observation.
Earth currents in two directions nearly at right angles to each
other are also photographically registered. For these last the
ordinates have hitherto been measured on an arbitrary scale, and
it appeared desirable to obtain the data for expressing this in
terms of the accepted electrical units. The authorities of the
Post Office Telegraphs have courteously given their assistance in
regard to the requisite electrical measurements, and an electrical
balance for measuring resistance, a standard cell and a
galvanometer of the Post Office pattern have been prepared under
their auspices. In October last, Mr. H. R. Kenipe, of the Post
Office Telegraphs, made some measures of the resistance of the
earth current wires, but the conditions were not then favourable
for insulation, and the wires were subsequently damaged by a
snowstorm ; but it is believed they are now restored to their
normal condition, and arrangements are being made to obtain
the value of the difference of electric potential between the two
earth plates on each line corresponding to a given length of
ordinate en the photographic register.
Under meteorological observations it is stated that the con-
tinuous registers of barometer, dry and wet bulb thermometers,
direction, pressure and velocity of wind, rain, sunshine and
atmospheric electricity have been maintained with the usual regu-
larity. The new sunshine recorder, of Professor Stoke's improved
pattern, was brought into use at the bediming of 1887, the
record with the Campbell instrument being, however, still
maintained for purposes of comparison. Experiments were
made last summer with the new thermograph and the standard
thermometer stand to determine how far it is necessary to screen
the thermometer bulbs from possible effect of radiation from
neighbouring objects, but the results showed that there was no
sensible difference from this cause, and the same result attended
experiments with respect to the radiation from the ground.
The mean temperature of the year 1886 was 48"7°, being - 6°
below the average of the preceding 45 years. The highest
air temperature in the shade was 89'8°on July 6, and the lowest
16 - 5° on January 7.
The number of chronometers now being tested at the
Observatory is 225, and of these 170 (126 box chronometers,
19 pocket chronometers and 25 deck watches) belong to the
Navy, 52 box chronometers are the property of various chrono-
meter makers who have sent them for the special competitive
trial, and 3 deck watches have been placed for trial by Messrs.
E. Dent & Co , with a view to the selection of two of them to be
transferred to the Navy in exchange for some old chronometers.
The first seven chronometers in the competitive trial of 1886
were exceptionally good, the first chronometer being superior to
any previously on trial except the first in 1882.
The time of commencement of the annual trial of chronometers
has been altered to the first Saturday in July, so that the
THE WATCHMAKEE, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 1887.
trial may terminate at a more convenient time for the financial
arrangements of the Admiralty. But as it is desired to
increase the stock of Navy chronometers without delay, a
supplementary trial (for which 52 chronometers have been
entered) was commenced on March 5, the rating to terminate
on June 18, just before the commencement of the ordinary
annual trial.
For the annual trial of deck watches, which commenced last
November, fifteen watches were entered, and of these nine were
purchased for the Navy, the first three being classed "A," or
equal, in performance, to an average box chronometer. A sup-
plementary trial took place in February and March, for which
nine deck watches were entered, and of these seven were
purchased for the Navy, the first two being classed " A."
The watches in each trial were rated for a period of nine
weeks, viz., two weeks (dial up) in the room at a temperature of
50° to 55°, four weeks in four different positions in the oven
(dial up, pendant up, pendant right, pendant left, arranged
symmetrically) at a temperature of about 80°, and three weeks
(dial up) in the room. When the period of rating in any posi-
tion was less than a week, weekly rates were inferred from the
rate for the period by simple proportion.
In order to compare the performances of the several watches,
" trial numbers," representing deviation in weekly rates, have
been formed on the same general principles as for the chronometer
trials. The trials in different positions introduce, however, a new
element, and an arbitrary weight must be assigned to them in
combining them with the trials " dial up." It has been con-
sidered that when the watch is worn in the pocket the pendant
will generally be " up," and that not more than one-third of the
deviation " pendant right " or " pendant left " is likely to have
practical effect. Putting a = difference between greatest and
least weekly rates, " dial up:" b = greatest difference between
one week and the next, "dial up;" c = difference between
weekly rates, " pendant up " and "dial up : " d = difference
between Aveekly rates, "pendant right " and " dial up;" e —
difference between weekly rates " pendant left " and " dial up,"
the quantity c + - + — may be taken as the measure of the
'6 3
deviation in weekly rates due to positions in ordinary wear.
Half weight, lias been given to this quantity in combining it with
the trial number "dial up" (a + 2 b), on the assumption that
the deck watch would be usually lying " dial up," and that it
would not be carried in the pocket more than eight hours a day
on the average. Thus the quantity a + 2 b + -1 ( c + ^ + ~)
has been adopted as the trial number for deck watches. It has
been arranged that for the future all pocket chronometers and
deck watches rated at the Observatory after repair shall be tested
in positions.
'1 he following is a statement of the trials of chronometers and
deck watches for purchase from the beginning of 1886 to the
present time : — Annual trial of thirty-seven chronometers for
the Navy, from January 9, 1886, to July 21, 1886 ; trial of
fifteen deck watches for the Navy, from February 15, 188C, to
March 6, 1886 ; trial of two chronometers for the Navy, from
July 10, 1886, to November 16,1886; trial of eight chrono-
meters for the Indian Government, from September 1, 1886, to
September 31, 1886 ; trial of four deck watches for the Indian
Government, from September 1, 1886, to September 31, 1886 ;
trial of fifteen deck watches for the Navy, from November 27,
1886, to January 22, 1887 ; supplementary trial of nine deck
watches for the Navy, from February 5, 1887, to April 2, 1887 :
supplementary trial of fifty-two chronometers for the Navy, from
March 5, 1887, to June 18, 1887 ; trial of three deck watches
for the Navy, from May 16, 1887, to July 18, 1887.
In addition to the above, three chronometers have been tested
for the Indian Government after being repaired.
The temperature of the chronometer oven has been successfully
regulated by Mr. Kullberg's automatic apparatus to the tempera-
ture of about 80° for the trials of deck watches as well as to the
higher temperature at which chronometers are tested.
In June and July last year, Mr. Lewis spent several days at
the Admiralty in comparing the chronometer books kept there
with those of the Observatory, and after some trouble a complete
accordance was finally secured.
There have been only four cases of failure of the 1 p.m. signal
to the Post Office Telegraphs.
The new contact apparatus of the Westminster clock was
brought into action on May 22, 1886, and the automatic signals
from the clock have been received regularly from that date,
except on three days following the snowstorm of December 26
and 27.
The error of the clock was insensible on 25 per cent, of the
days of observation, 1' on 40 per cent., 2' on 22 per cent., 3' on
11 per cent, and 4' on 2 per cent. On one day the signal was
15' late, and on another day 10' late.
A suggestion has been made that in view of the importance of
the connection of the British and Continental surveys, the tele-
graphic difference of longitude between Greenwich and Paris,
which was originally determined with great care in 1854, should
be confirmed in order to complete the network of telegraphic
longitudes which have been determined of late years by Con-
tinental astronomers. It seems desirable that Greenwich
Observatory, which, under Sir G. B. Airy's direction, took such
an active part in utilising the telegraph for the determination of
longitude, should now assist in completing the cycle. The
necessary exchange of observers and signals could conveniently be
carried out in the summer of next year, when the French
geodetists will, it is understood, be prepared for their share of
the work.
A review of the work of tin.' past twelve months shows that the
activity of the Observatory has increased in various directions,
and while the continuous trials of chronometers and deck watches
(requiring special arrangements in each case) have made large
demands on the time of the heads of the establishment,
extraneous work in connection with the Navy has also absorbed
a good deal of time that would otherwise have been free for
scientific investigations, respecting which the Astronomer Royal
observes that, while it seems desirable that such directly utilitarian
work should be undertaken by the Observatory as being the only
existing Government establishment where itcan be done efficiently,
the existing staff is inadequate for these extraneous duties in
addition to the well-defined work for which the Observatory is
primarily maintained, and suggests an increase of the staff
together with the delegation of further responsibility to the
present assistants.
In concluding an excellent and most comprehensive Report, he
says : — " Proceeding on the lines which have been laid down by
my predecessor, I believe that the maximum of efficiency at the
minimum of cost would be attained if an increase of work were
met by an increase in the staff of computers, with due recognition
of the position of two or three senior computers, and of the in-
creased responsibility of the assistants."
A jNeuu Astronomical Hlock.
fHE illustration shows a new combination, the recent in-
vention of Messrs. Diette & Hour, of Paris. The
construction of this clock is, according to M. Saunier,
based on the principle of the Mouret Clock, the inventors having
added some accessory indications and modified the disposition of
the whole with the double result of producing a more useful and
ornamental article at a marketable price, which renders its
widespread adoption assured, not only by the chief scholastic
institutions, but by all to whom an observation of the conditions
under which the celestial phenomena are accomplished is of interest.
The following is the explanation of its functions given by the
inventors : — The astronomical clock represents the terrestrial
globe, to which the train of the clock communicates the two
principal movements of the earth in space : the one, its rotation
upon itself in 24 hours ; the other, its different positions in its
course around. the sun in 365 days. The sphere thus driven by
.July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
the train of the clock* enables us to know its position in space at
each moment of the year, and gives us mechanically the
explanation of the seasons, the duration of the days and nights,
the relative hour upon all the points of the globe, the sun's rising
and setting; and, besides, the axis of this sphere carrying a divided
circle, whereon are inscribed the dates and months of the year,
and the clock giving by a little dial above the six o'clock the
days of the week, we have here a complete calendar. A little
sun that may be seen in front of the centre of the sphere shows
the noon upon every point of the globe passing under his disc.
The large arc of the vertical circle separates the sphere into two
equal parts : in front it is day (the light part), and at the back
it is night (the dark part). We have, then, the indication of
day, of night, of sunrise, and of sunset upon all the points of
the globe.
under the sun ; this is the epoch when 1 , from the meridian of
Paris, we receive his rays the most directly. Continuing the
movement we shall arrive at September 21, or autumnal equinox,
and the equator will return to its place under the sun, but in the
contrary sense relatively to the spring time. Placing, then, the
calendar at December 21, or winter solstice, the Tropic of
Capricorn will come in like manner under the sun ; this is the'
epoch in which we receive his rays most obliquely. In executing
this accelerated movement, it may be seen that at March 21 the
superior pole is presented in the bright part, in front of the
vertical circle, and remains there until September 21, the epoch
where this pole goes into the obscure part, or into the night.
The contrary is the case for the south pole; one has thus the
mechanical explanation of the days and nights of six months in
the polar regions.
A New Astronomical Clock.
The large horizontal circle, divided into 24 hours, permits
of the time being ascertained of every country of the globe,
relatively to any given place.
To use the apparatus for purposes of demonstration : — By
turning the button which may be seen under the sphere, the
movement of rotation is obtained. By drawing out the button
at the back, the sphere is disengaged from the mechanism of the
clock, which allows its being shifted quickly and facilitates the
explanation of astronomical phenomena. Thus by bringing
March 21 on the calendar under the index, we have the vernal
equinox, and the equator will be placed under the solar ray ; the
star, figured by the little sun, surmounting the horizontal circle
of 24 hours. Passing to June 21 we shall have the summer
solstice, and the Tropic of Cancer will in its turn be placed
To ascertain the duration of the day at any date, and for a
given town, it is only necessary to bring the point of the calendar
indicating this day under the index, and to count the number of
hours and fractions of the hour which pass under the little sun
during which the said town remains visible in the bright part
from its entrance at the left until its exit at the right. The
hours of sunrise and of sunset for the same town are similarly
obtained ; by observing its entrance at the left in the bright
part (this is the sunrise), and its exit at the right (dark side),
this is the sunset ; the little sun serves as the index upon the
sphere. The sun rises then for each country when it enters at
the left in the bright part, and he sets for those at the right
entering the dark part. The 24 hours engraved upon the circle
are those for the countries respectively passing it.
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1,1!
A Short History of the Chimble.
By Herman Bush.
r 7r'?XKNT:i lii-r ■•iifdiiin- < i *1« ' I > i;i t i< »i i . held in Octobar, 1384. at
Amsterdam, in honour of the inventor of the thimble.
introduced by Nicholas van Benschoten, a gallant young
goldsmith, and made in the first instance for the protection of the
finger of his fair and industrious lady-love, and its origin, like
many other things, attributed to Dan Cupid, a search has been
instituted in " Industrial Old Records " to find a priority of the
existence of this little and useful article, and the following notes
are the result, which are beyond doubt fully authenticated : —
In the year 1568 appeared, at Frankfort-on-the-Maine, a book
entitled " Eygentliche Beschreibung Aller Stiinde auff Erden
Holier und Nidrigor Geistlicher und Weltlicher, aller Kiinsten,
Handwereken und Handeln, etc.," illustrated by the renowned
German artist of the second half of the 16tl) century, Jost
Ammann. and versified by the well-known German national poet,
Hans Sachs, in which we find a direct allusion to the
" Fingerhiiter '" or thimble-maker.
The illustrations of the thimble in this old book arc exactly
like the thimbles now in use and fully known to every person
engaged in sewing by hand. The verses are here produced in the
original old German, with a free translation annexed —
'■ Auss Messing mach icli Fingerhiit,
Blechweiss, werden im Feuer g'liit,
Dann in das Eysen 'nein getrieben,
Danach Lochlein derein gehieb'en.
Gar maneherlcy Art. eng und writ.
Fiir Schuster und Schneider bereit,
Fur Seidensticker und Niiterin,
Des Handwercks ich ein Meister bin."
Translation — Of brass I make thimbles by cutting discs and anneal
in the fire, and then forced hollow into an iron, afterwards provided with
little sinks. I make them of various shapes, narrow and wide, for
cobblers and tailors ready at sight, for silk embroidress and seamstress
and other trades I supply and bless.
As seen in the verse, even various shapes of thimbles were
known at that remote time.
Jost Ammann's masterly "Beschreibung aller Stiinde"
(Description of all Handicrafts) has recently been reproduced in
fac-simile by Dr. Georg Wirth, of Munich, and can bo highly
recommended to all connoisseurs of old industries and curious
manipulations. The noted Amsterdam goldsmith, Nicholas van
Benschoten, and his alleged original invention and manufacture
of the finger protector (thimble) for his sweetheart, can there-
fore have reference only to the thimble made by him in this in-
stance ; and, most probably, more likely to the artistic embellish-
ment of the thimble which the gallant knight of love presented
to his fair affianced on her birthday. Yet a far more remote and
equally reliable record gives the thimble — this little unpretending,
and, for industrious ladies, indispensable auxiliary — an older
existence. In one of Adalbert von Keller's (published Shrove
Tuesday) plays of the 15th century, he makes the jolly hawker
of haberdashery — small wares — announce to the assembled crowd
of youths and damsels, men and women, around him —
" Ich ban gut Schnur fur's Unterhemd,
Audi hab' ich Nadeln. Burst und Katnm',
Fingerhiit, Tascben und Schaclitel viel,
Heftlein and Hiiklein. wie man will."
Translation. — I have good tape for the chemise, and likewise, and
likewise needles, brushes and combs, thimbles, bags and boxes many,
handles and crochets for you any.
This is, however, not yet the oldest record of the thimble,
which, it appears, was already known in the 12th century.
The. Royal Library at Wiesbaden, Germany, contains an in-
teresting manuscript of the 13th century, which brings literary
extracts by the Saincted Hildegauo, composed in the 12th
century. In these curious literary collections we find a compila-
tion of 900 words with a translation in an unknown and lost
language Amongst the words mention is made of Vingerhuth
(thimble), which is called Ziriskanz in the strange translation.
In the recent excavations of Herculaneum and Pompeii, which
in the year 7!) a.d. were overwhelmed by an eruption of the
volcano Vesuvius, tiny metal cups were found, which, judging
from the shapa and size, could hardly be used for any other
purpose than a protection of the finger whilst engaged in sewing.
In England, the thimble must have been known and in use for
a considerable period, and no doubt in great demand, as wo can
trace by " London Statistics of Industries" a certain John Lofting,
a cunning craftsman, who in 1695 seized on the idea to set up
what was then considered a manufactory, consisting of a show-
case in the front window of his house, displaying a variety of
thimbles, and a small workshop for the making of this specialty
at Islington, in the north of London.
Thimbles were readily purchased, not only for use, but for orna-
ment as an emblem of industry and suitable present, and John
Lofting enjoyed an extensive patronage which created envy with
other metal workers, who soon started improved manufactories of
thimbles.
The thimble was first known as a thuiuble, from a corrupted
combination of the words thumb and bell, and old records intimate
that it was originally worn on the thumb, but it appears hardly
conceivable that it could have been of much use there. Thimbles
were made at that time of iron or brass for ordinary use : of gold,
silver, horn and ivory inlaid with gold, mother-of-pearl, glass or
highly-polished steel for ornaments, and richly chased or
engraved. The embellishment of fancy thimbles were frequently
not only highly artistic, but sometimes carried on to such an
extent as to make the article unwearable for use.
Relating to the excess of ornamenting the thimble, the young
King of Siam recently succeeded in outstripping all competitors in
the production of a magnificent thimble as a present to his bride.
1 laving seen the European and American ladies accompanying
the diplomatic and naval officers at his court using this useful
protection for the finger, he was struck with its benefit and
determined to introduce the thimble among his people. Even in
Siam they have fashions : and a female leader for such articles as
these securing the introduction, he solved the difficult) by
ordering a thimble in the shape of the lotus, tin' royal flower of
India. The Queen Consort of Siam owns, therefore, a gold
thimble, not only shaped like a lotus bud of exquisite workman-
ship, but thickly studded with diamonds, which are so arranged
as to form the royal name of tic recipient ami the date of the
marriage of the royal couple. As the Siamese language is by
no means succinct in letters and signs to express word-, it can
therefore be readily understood that the diamonds used for this
purpose are plentiful ; but the use of the present as a thimble is
no doubt impaired by its decoration.
In recent years numerous attempts have been made to
overcome the almost universal complaint that every shop-
keeper is only too familiar with, that silver thimbles are
not as serviceable and durable as desired, by having too
little resisting power when brought into daily contact and use
with the needle. Stone ends have been introduced, and steel ones
also ; each in turn have been condemned as not answering the
proffered advantage, and have, besides, been found to be useless
to the great majority of wearers who use tin' sides of the thimble
only. To meet this objection, and achieve a thorough success
against it, an idea was conceived by a practical manufacturer — an
ingenious jeweller of good repute and standing, Mr. Charles
Horner, carrying on an extensive establishment at Halifax,
Yorkshire — to make a thimble on the principle that may be best
described as an armour-plated silver thimble, which is made of
three separate parts, closely wedged together, the inner and
outer parts being silver and the intermediate part steel. The
three parts are conjointly struck up together by special machinery
made for the purpose, producing a solid resisting power that
fully justifies the expression of "armour plated," and becomes
for durability unequalled.
These thimbles are made in all the different (and every one
plainly numbered) sizes as may b> required for tli3 fingers of
children or adults, and may be had either in plain finish, or
richly chased or engraved in various designs.
This thimble novelty, called "The Dorcas," is protected by
Royal Letters Patent by the inventor and manufacturer, and
handled with decided success by many respectable firms, who
find for the article a continually increasing demand, and requires
only to be submitted for inspection and explained to effect a sale
to ladies frequenting jewellers' establishments.
July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
Che Albert fftebal.
|S|T the meeting of the Council of the Society of Arts on 6th
ult., a letter was read from the Secretary of His Royal
Highness the Prince of Wales (the President of the
Society), informing the Council that Her Majesty the Queen had
intimated to His Royal Highness her willingness to accept the
Albert Medal. It was offered to Her Majesty by the Council,
with the approval of H.R.H. the President, in this the Jubilee
Year, in commemoration of the progress of arts, manufactures,
and commerce throughout the empire during the 50 years of
her reign.
The following leading article on the award of the Albert
Medal appeared in the Times, Tuesday, June 7 : —
The Albert Medal of the Society of Arts, for the year 1887,
has been awarded by the Council of the Society to the Queen ;
and, at a meeting of the Council held yesterday, it was officially
announced that the President, the Prince of Wales, had formally
confirmed the award, and that Her Majesty had signified her
consent to accept the medal. The Albert Medal was founded in
the year 1862 as a memorial of His Royal Highness the Prince
Consort, who was for eighteen years the President of the Society ;
and it is directed by the bye-laws to be awarded annually for
" distinguished merit in promoting arts, manufactures or com-
merce." The recipient may be of any nation ; and it lias always
been the practice of the Society to take a somewhat wide view of
the question, and to look to the indirect, as well as to the direct,
results of individual activity. A precedent for the presentation
of the medal to a reigning Sovereign was early established — the
first award, in 1864, having been made to Sir Rowland Hill
" for his great services in the creation of the penny postage, and
for other reforms of the postal system, the benefits of which have
extended over the civilised world;" — and the second in the
following year, to His Imperial Majesty Napoleon III., for
" distinguished merit in promoting, in many ways, by his per-
sonal exertions, the international progress of arts, manufactures
and commerce, the proofs of which are afforded by his judicious
patronage of art, his enlightened commercial policy, and especially
by the abolition of passports in favour of British subjects." Of
the 21 subsequent awards, eight have been to foreigners ; and it
would be difficult to find any greater names among the men who
in this country have signalised themselves in the arts of peace.
Faraday, Cooke and Wheatstone (jointly), Sir Joseph Whitworth,
Liebig, de Lesseps, Sir H. Cole, Sir H. Bessemer, Chevreul,
Sir VV. Siemens, Michael Chevalier, Sir G. Airy, Jean Baptiste
Dumas, Sir W. Armstrong, Sir VV. Thomson, Professor Hofmann,
Pasteur, Sir Joseph Hooker, Captain Eads, Henry Doultou and
Samuel Lister complete the tale ; and it will be seen that the
principles governing the selection have been of the most com-
prehensive character. The award to Her Majesty expresses the
conviction of the Council that the 50 years of her reign have
been such as to foster art and industry, to elevate taste, and to
establish conditions which have rendered the conquests of science
more accessible to all ranks, from the highest to the lowest, than
they could have been in any less favourable circumstances. The
throne has been so filled as to increase the strength and stability
of the national fabric, and the personality of the Sovereign has
been a potent agency in the promotion of every good and useful
work. The Queen's acceptance of the medal will confer additional
lustre upon it and upon the Society, as well as upon all who in
future years may be distinguished in a similar manner.
The award of the Albert Medal, which, in the nature of things,
can hardly be received otherwise than as the crown of a long
career of usefulness and honour, can hardly be said to exert any
active influence in the promotion of the efforts which it serves to
mark and to commemorate. It is, nevertheless, a fitting thing
that the selection of the recipient should be entrusted to the
Society of Arts, a body which has been active for good during
what is now, comparatively speaking, the long term of its
existence. Many of the m ost important industrial steps of the
century have been first made known at the meeting-room in the
Adelphi, either by those with whom they originated, or in the
many and various lectures which have been delivered under the
endowment of Dr. Cantor ; and the Society has been no less
useful by the manner in which it encouraged technical education
long before the necessity for such encouragement had come to be
recognised by general public opinion. Nor must it be forgotten
that the organisation which it possesses is such as to afford very
complete securities against the neglect of any kind of merit.
The Council, with whom the sebction rests, is itself recruited
from a very wide field, and always contains representatives of
many kinds of knowledge ; while it has been the praiseworthy
custom to ask for the suggestion of names not only from
members of the Society of Arts itself, but also from foreign
academies and institutions, and from the councils and presidents
of English learned societies. In this way it is scarcely possible
for any valid claim to be overlooked ; while an additional
security is afforded by a bye-law which requires the presence'
of twelve members of the Council when the award is made, and
the concurrence of nine of them in the selection. Besides this,
the award must lie confirmed by the President, with whom there
therefore rests, by implication if not explicitly, a power to object,
and to require from the Council a statement of the considerations
by which they have been guided. It can afford no surprise that
a distinction thus safeguarded should be a matter of high
ambition among all who have any kind of claim to aspire to it ;
and the recommendations of both English and foreign learned
bodies have been frequently made with an earnestness which
sufficiently demonstrated their feeling upon the subject. It has
been the custom that the medal should be given by the President
in the presence of the assembled Council ; and a meeting for
this purpose has usually been held at Marlborough House ; but
it will be in the recollection of our readers that the Prince of
Wales conferred upon Mr. Doulton the honour of going to the
works at Lambeth, and of giving him the medal in the presence
not only of the Council, but of the assembled artists and potters
in his employment. Of the ceremonial which will be observed
on the occasion of the presentation to the Queen it would, of
course, at present be premature to speak.
It would be impossible to glance over the list of persons which
we have given above without some consideration of the mighty
advances in human knowledge, and the vast additions to human
welfare and convenience which have been the direct issue of their
labours. The Albert Medal dates only from the last half of the
reign, but what changes does it not commemorate ! Before its
establishment worthy recipients had, so to speak, accumulated ;
and the first awards were to men whose work was already in
great part finished. Rowland Hill, Faraday, Cooke, Wheatstone,
de Lesseps and Thomson collectively represent the changes which
have occurred in the methods of communication between indi-
viduals and countries, or the rise of the present postal, tele-
graphic and telephonic services. Whitworth represents the
accuracy of measurement which has rendered it possible to make
the parts of machinery interchangeable, or to construct from
written descriptions a portion of an engine which may be
conveyed to the Antipodes, and fitted into its allotted place.
Liebig, Chevreul, Dumas. Joule, Hofmann and Pasteur represent
the influence of physical science, sometimes in its most abstruse
forms, upon the actual management of industries which afford
maintenance to thousands of people. Bessemer, Siemens and
Armstrong represent practical metallurgy ; Hooker represents
the utilisation of innumerable vegetable products ; Cole, the
Science and Art Department and the South Kensington Museum ;
Chevalier, the influence of political economy ; Airy, the increased
safety of navigation ; and Eads, the advances which recent years
have witnessed in the maintenance and improvement of water-
ways. There is not one of these great developments which does
not serve to lighten the daily life of every inhabitant of any
civilised country, which does not increase comfort, afford pleasure,
and cheapen necessaries. At the rate of modern progress there
need be no fear but that each recurring period of election will
bring to the Council of the Society of Arts an embarrassing
abundance of fitting claimants rather than a scarcity of them ;
and there can be no doubt but that the gracious consent of Her
10
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1,11
Majesty to add her name to the illustrious list of the recipients
will greatly enhance the future value of the award. While those
who have already received the medal represent, as we have said,
the departments of science or of industry in which they have
become famous, the Queen may be held to be in this case the
personal embodiment oE the nation, and to represent the
aggregate of its work. In her hands the medal will be a fitting
memorial of the beneficial changes which have occurred since she
assumed the sceptre, and of the multitudinous benefits which her
people have received under her sway.
Machine for mahing "UUatch liases.
'ESSRS. KELLER & GRTJRlNG,of Bienne, Switzerland,
*.V:JIE have invented and patented a very ingenious tool for
making tlie different parts of watch cases in gold, silver or
other metals, which is said to execute the work with great rapidity,
without solder, and almost without waste. As the cut shows, it
is very simple. It consists of the following parts : — An arbor
which carries a pulley and a dummy pulley, so that a movement
of the hand throws the arbor into or out of action. This arbor
receives at its hollow end four segments of a circle presenting
exteriorly the exact form of the inside of the band or middle of
a case ; a cylindrical chuck fixes by a vice the exact pressure to
be applied against the side of the hole, and at the same time
holds the disc that has been previously pressed into the roller
and which is destined to form the middle. A wheel, having
the exterior form, but in hollow, of the middle, is carried by a
chariot held in a vice ; and, lastly, another wheel neutralises the
pressure on the arbor of the first wheel.
The disc of gold, silver, &c, is made slightly convex to
facilitate the work, and fixed at the extremity of the arbor;
the last is put in motion, and the chariot approached to it,
which forces the metal to take the form of the moulds. The
form of the band, the snaps for the bottoms, the cover and the
recess for the dial are all made at a single operation. The
interior moulds are composed of many pieces, coming thus
easily out of the middle. A similar machine is used for making
the bottoms and the bezels. A middle is completed in one
minute ; the work being clean and without burr.
Messrs. Keller & Griiring have patented their invention in all
countries.
Society of Arts £onuersazione.
fHE Society's Conversazione was held at the South Kensing-
ton Museum (by permission of the Lords of the Committee
of Council on Education), on Wednesday evening,
June 15.
The galleries containing the Raphael Cartoons, the Sheep-
shanks Collection, the William Smith Collection of Water
Colour Drawings, the Dyce and Forster Pictures, and " The
Chantrey Bequest," were open.
The reception was held in the South Court by Captain Douglas
Galton, C.B., D.C.L.,. F.R.S., Chairman, and the following
Vice-Presidents and Members of the Council : — Mr. R. Brudenell
Carter, F.R.C.S., Mr. Charles Cheston, Mr. Francis Cobb,
Mr. T. R. Crampton, Sir Juland Danvers, K.C.S.I., Professor
Dewar, F.R.S., Colonel Donnelly, R.E.. Mr. VV. H. Preece,
F.R.S., Sir Robert Rawlinson, C.B., and Mr. Owen Roberts.
Promenade concerts were given by the band of the Royal
Artillery (Conductor, Cav. L. Zaverthal) in the North Court,
and by the band of the Royal Horse Guards, Blues (Conductor,
Mr. Charles Godfrey), in the Courtyard of the Museum; and
a vocal and instrumental concert by scholars ot\the Royal College
of Music, by permission of the Director, in the Lecture Theatre.
The number of visitors attending the Conversazione was 3,800.
Siluersmithing.
JSlN an original article written for the American Manufacturing
JL> Ji'ireh'r, this subject is treated in a very able and interesting
manner ; and, as the extent to which the American taste in
the applied arts has been developed of late years is but very par-
tially realised in this country, a reproduction of the principal
part of the article may be useful for purposes of enlightening
our own producers in more than one way : —
Silversmithing and goldsmithing originally comprised the art
of working in all the precious metals, embracing, therefore, jewels
and jewellery as well as the larger pieces pertaining to the table,
instruments, sacerdotal utensils, &c. It is to the larger pieces of
silversmithing proper, however, that we devote this encyclopaedic
monograph. The art of giving rich and beautiful forms to gold
and silver is one of great antiquity. The products of the silver-
smith were extremely remarkable in Asia, Egypt, Phoenicia,
Judea, Greece and Rome. In comparatively recent discoveries
we are furnished with a great number of objects of Egyptian
production which enable us to form a just and nearly correct
idea of this work among them in the most remote times. The
museum of the Louvre contains a beautiful group in gold which
represents the Egyptian Trinity (Osiris, Isis and Horus). Another
remarkable work of this character is a boat found in the tomb of
Aah-Hotep with a quantity of other precious objects in gold and
silver, such as rings, armlets, bracelets, collars, chains, diadems,
pectorals, &c. The boat is of massive gold, and furnished with
its crew : in the how stands the pilot, amidships twelve rowers
with their commander, and in the stern the helmsman : these
figures are all in silver. The museum of Boulac possesses
Egyptian vases of silver of the greatest antiquity, contempo-
raneous perhaps to the great quantity of articles in gold and
silver which the Israelites carried away in their exodus, and
which proves that the art existed in the country at that time.
Sometime after the exodus, the Israelites having demanded of
Aaron that he should give them a peaceful God, they collected
the jewellery of the women and maidens and made the golden
calf. Moses returned from Sinai with the tables of the law, and
indignant at their return to idolatry dissolved the calf in acids —
at least, so says the German savant, Klaproth. After the Jewish
people, we read in Homer that among the rich presents which
Priam gave for the body of his son Hector, there were two mag-
nificent tripods of a work so remarkable that it dazzled the eyes,
and also many vases of great richness, and a cup of infinite price
which was received from the Thracians at the time when he was
sent to them as an ambassador. We see furthermore in Homer
that Menelaus and Helen received from Egypt pieces of silver
work decorated with gold ; and from the same author we learn
that the sword of King Agamemnon had a handle of gold, and the
description of the shield of Achilles gives also decorations of gold
and colours finely chased. The women of Athens at a period of
great antiquity carried in their hair grasshoppers of gold — a
symbol indicating that they were of good birth, and, like that
insect, born on the soil of Greece. There is in the museum of
the Hermitage in St. Petersburg a superb Greek vase of silver,
found near Nicopol, in 18(13, in a tumulus. Its form is that of
an amphora, and its date the 4th century B.C., which was the
most beautiful epoch of Greek silversmithing, as the rich and
exquisite ornamentation clearly shows. Some of the repousse
work is gilded. It was designed for holding the wine mingled
with snow which they served at their feasts.
The Romans borrowed of the Greeks the art of silversmithing
as they borrowed everything else in the line of art. In Rome the
silver work of Delos was very highly estimated, and consequently
very much sought after. Under the empire the table utensils as
well as many articles of furniture were of gold or silver, and they
existed in great abundance. These vases, cups and pateras were
in daily use, and served to emphasise the extravagant luxury that
everywhere prevailed. We get an idea of the merit of these
works of art from the specimens preserved in our museums, such
as the vases of the Cardinal Albani, which represents the atone-
ment of Orestes and the labours of Hercules, and also the two
July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
11
celebrated pieces known as the shield of Scipio and the shield of
Hannibal. It goes without saying that a vast store of these
objects have perished in the wars and in the conflagrations. It
is also known that the great number that Rome had pillaged
from the barbarians and taken to Rome in order to make a
display of booty were retaken from her again by her uncivilised
enemies when she succumbed to their inroads at a later date.
This may explain why certain pieces of Roman silversmithing
have been found far from the Roman territory. For instance,
they have unearthed in Hanover, in the environs of Hildesheim,
about 45 objects of undoubted Roman production, and which
comprise drinking cups elaborately decorated, urns, pateras,
utensils of the table, &c.
The Roman art of silversmithing was perpetuated in Europe
until the 5th century, and that the production was enormous we
may learn from the fact that in the first years of our era, according
to Posidonius, Q. Servilius Capio took possession of the treasures
of the Tectosages preserved in Toulouse, which were valued at
15,000,000 talents (about 17,000,000 dols.). In the 6th
century the most renowned school of silversmithing in Gaul was
located at Limoges, where the art of enamelling had already
become pretty well advanced. Eligius (St. Eloi), who was born
in Chatelac in 588 and died in 659, was a noted artist and also
an excellent caligrapher. He executed not only silversmiths'
work, but also metallic bookbinding. Eligius had been suc-
cessively bishop of Abbon and citizen of Limoges and of Thillo.
He had besides frequent relations with another silversmith,
named Banderic. Of the 7th and 8th centuries and until
the 11th, that is to say under the Merovingians and the Carlo-
vingians, it is granted that all the works of silversmithing are
works of the so-called barbarians. In the meantime our museums
contain specimens of silversmithing of these epochs which testify
of the skill and the style of the artists by whom they were
executed : for example, the Scythian diadem of Novo-Tscherkask,
the objects composing the treasures of Petrossa and of Guarrazar,
the cross said to be by St. Eloi, the crown of Charlemagne, and
all other remarkable and well-known works of Byzantine enamel-
ling. In the 11th century the silversmiths made chiefly objects
which were used in the churches : the sacred vessels and shrines.
Paris and Limoges occupied the first rank in the fabrication of
these articles, the makers — after John of Garland — being divided
into four classes : the coiners, the jewellers, the fermailleurs and
the makers of drinking cups The establishment of the corpora-
tion of silversmiths belongs to a period so remote that its date is
unknown. The most ancient documents which we have tend to
demonstrate that this corporation existed some time before the
reign of Louis IX., about 1260. This body of silversmiths, which
enjoyed certain prerogatives, was also charged with hindering
the progress of the art. During the 12th and 13th centuries
silversmithing was in the ascendant. Limoges produced a great
number of pieces which were called "works of Limoges."
Among the pieces preserved in the cathedrals the works of
Limoges made during the 13th century are very easily dis-
tinguishable from the earlier objects on account of the im-
prints or stamps.
The shrines of this epoch are veritable Gothic boxes, as we may
say, notably in the shrine of St.-Taurin of Evreux, that of St.
Julie, a Jouarre, and especially that of Nivelles. The commence-
ment of the .16th century was a period of great depression in
silversmithing, for the wars which exhausted France at this
epoch forced Louis XII. to sign an edict forbidding all the
silversmiths making any pieces, vessels, shrines, table utensils,
&c, without previous authority; but some years after the acces-
sion of Francis I., about 1528 or 1530, silversmithing, which
was flourishing in Italy, made progress in France by reason of
the patronage of Francis. Painters like Leonardo di Vinci, the
Primatice, the Rossa, and jewellery silversmiths like Matteo del
Xassaro, Benvenuto Cellini, and many others who had been
called to the court, strongly stimulated the emulation of the
French artists. The last named has almost become the patron
saint of the silversmiths to this day. Among others might be
named Pirame Triboulet, Pierre Mangot, Benedict Ramel,
Etienne Delaune, F. Dujardin, F. Briot, Jean de la Haye, &c.
At the commencement of the 17th century, silversmithing
attained its zenith, and realised the greatest perfection in France.
Among the artists of this epoch we find Louis Roupert, of Metz,
but who worked in Paris and made there a reputation. This is
the period also of Ballin, who at the age of 29 made four basins
of silver, upon which figured the four ages of the world. These
basins were bought by Richelieu, who ordered four others of
antique style. The sculptor Sarrasin, astonished at the talent
of the young silversmith, chiselled him divers bas reliefs. Ballin
worked also in enamelled gold the first sword and the first gorget
of Louis XIV., and a mirror of gold for Anne of Austria.
We have followed the art into France because it was the
country that first received it from Rome, but other countries
made a more pronounced progress in the 15th and 16th cen-
turies, particularly Italy. Germany caught the inspiration of
the renaissance a little late, but she retained it longest. Of pieces
produced near the beginning of our era the collection unearthed
in the Bosphorus, and at present treasured in the museum of the
Hermitage at St. Petersburg, gives a good idea of not only the
finer Grecian work, but also the more barbarous styles of the
early inhabitants of Russia. Reproductions of most of these are
now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Xew York.
Shetton's New Fusee-Keyless TJIorh.
m
miFf^ illustrate a new winding arrangement for fusee watches,
which is the invention of Mr. M. W. Skelton, of Park
Place, Liverpool. It is similar in principle to the
Kullberg and Chalfont windings, and seems to have the elements
of a good fusee-keyless work, viz., strength and simplicity.
The intermediate wheel gearing into the winding pinion is carried
on a moveable bar and comes into action with the wheel on the
fusee arbor when the button
is turned in the direction of
winding,
being kept free
from the latter wheel when
not thus in use by means
of a spring pressing against
the bar. Two screws or
studs keep the bar in its
place, the lowermost shown
acting as the pivot of the
rocking bar, while the upper
one, besides preventing the
bar from rising from the
plate when undue pressure
is applied to the winding
mtton, permits of the ad-
justment of a good depth
between the intermediate
and fusee wheels.
The second rocking bar,
which carries the wheel for
Skelton's New Fusee-Keyless Work. Setting the hands, has a
projecting hook, which, on pushing in the push-piece, locks the
first bar in its place and prevents it from going over to the other
side, an,d the wheel from getting out of gear with the set-hand
and motion wheels.
"The European Mail" and "The Colonies and India."
— The success of the " Industrial Supplement " which has for
some years past been published with these allied journals — now
numbering 242 issues annually— has induced the proprietors to
start another novel addition in the form of a " Household Stip-
plement." This will be published for the first time in July, and
the fact that it is to be edited by Mrs. Carey-Hobson and Miss
Buckland is sufficient proof that it will contain all that is latest,
most interesting and most serviceable in matters appertaining to
the family circle. A serial story, specially written for the Sup-
plement by Mr. Percy Russell, will be an additional attraction.
12
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 188?.
Tilatch iDils.
*'Kl CORRESPONDENT of the Deutsch Uhrmacher Zeitung
^P^; writes : — Where can we get a good, serviceable watch oil ?
This question forces itself upon the watchmaker even-
little while, after he has found out, to his vexation, that the oil
which he employed for some time does not comply with the
reasonable expectations made of it ; and the question will be an
ojjen one until we are furnished with an oil that shall answer all
reasonable demands, and is recognised as serviceable by the
majority of watchmakers. Some of the oils found at present in
commerce are open to one objection, the others to some other
one, What with these shortcomings and defects of oils, the
watchmaker is constantly in a " sea of trouble " with his cus-
tomers, who blame him for careless work.
The queries as to some brand of oil are frequently answered in
different manners by colleagues. Its faults are often wittingly
withheld, for reasons of delicacy, and the interrogating watchmaker
who, by the insufficiency of the lubricant he customarily employs,
is forced to change it for some other make, will after ail have to
depend on good luck with the next lot.
But why trust to good luck ? Most surely the oil can be
tested for its quality before it is used, many a watchmaker will
rejoin. He will ever prescribe the "modus operandi" fordoing
it. Place a few drops of it upon brass or copper in small sinks
or gutters upon an inclined plane — a custom universally employed
— and from the result you ,may form a judgment of its different
virtues : whether it is too viscid or too liquid, whether it attacks
the metals, whether it is inclined to volatilising, thickening,
drying or other vexations : whether it congeals in the cold, or
when brought between two metallic plates it becomes sticky. If
none of these evils are visible after the course of several days or
weeks, the oil is deemed to be very good, and is without further
thought taken into use.
Also, I have observed this mode of testing, and deducted my
conclusions therefrom, having at present nine different sorts of oil
under test on brass and copper. But I have recently found
out how unreliable this mode is, and I deem the experience I
gather important enough to be published for the information of
my colleagues, at the same time soliciting them, in case their
observations should coincide with mine, to also publish their
deductions.
I have arrived at the conclusion that one sort of oil which
retains its fluidity for years in brass holes becomes viscid in the
same length of time in the jewel holes of the same watch, and
that another brand of oil possesses the exact opposite properties.
To what purpose, therefore, is a test upon brass by which we do
not obtain information how the oil will behave in the jewel holes ?
I will illustrate by facts. About two years ago our two
shop regulators — which is equal to saying two astronomical
clocks executed in the most careful manner — were cleaned, and
an oil labelled as " Finest Animal Oil for Chronometers and
Watches " was used for lubricating. Both clocks at first
preserved good rates, but gradually retarded to such a degree
that it became at last necessary to take them down. The oil in
the jewel holes (of finest rubies) was completely dried up — it was
as thick and brown as cold carpenter's glue — while in the brass
holes, although being light green, it was perfectly fluid and
capable of rendering good service for years. The pivots working
in the rubies, as well as the shoulders, and even a part of their
arbors, were completely black, while those in brass had preserved
their polish. I would also add that one of the clocks was about
eight months ago oiled again with an oil of a very renowned
German brand. The condition of the oil in both clocks was
exactly the same. I would also state that the temperature in
our shop is very variable ; we have sometimes 10° R. in the
morning and 20° R. in the evening. This, of course, has also a
deteriorating effect upon the oil ; but why to such a degree I
cannot understand.
Another observation with an English oil I made, and found that
it acted in the contrary way, as I have observed in a great many
watches. While the oil in the jewel holes is limpid and fluid, it
becomes thick and black like tar, and attacks the pivots. ( 1
have met with cases where it acted thus in less than six months.)
If a watch came back, I knew that the pivots were to be polished
and the holes bushed. What was the reason of this ? It is
almost unnecessary to mention that the blame could not
be laid to the workman. Our shop employed twenty repairers,
and every one was required to perform his work with the utmost
painstaking.
Although it is sufficiently well known that the quality of the
brass exerts an important influence upon oil, I will nevertheless
mention an occurrence which happened to me lately. I had, as I
said above, nine kinds of oil for testing upon brass. Among
these was also a sort which I have employed for watches for
years, and have often lubricated with it a small so-called French
regulator, which had gone eleven full years before it was cleaned,
and it was then only due to the accident that the spring had
become unhooked. The oil had not thickened in the least, but
was inclined to volatilise, wherefore I re-supplied it every two
years. After cleaning (both the pivots and holes had been
preserved perfectly during this time) I again used the same oil.
The oil tests upon brass I performed four months afterwards,
and imagine my astonishment, when after a few days the same
oil, which I had applied in four little sinks, had turned full
screen. I at once took down the movement of said regulator to
examine its condition, and found that its oil was perfectly clear,
ami did not exhibit the least trace of assuming a green colour.
Consequently the fault was due to the brass I had chosen for
instituting the tests. It is very possible in this manner to
pronounce an oil as usd.'-s while it possesses good, useful
qualities.
T reiterate the solicitations to my colleagues to publish their
experiments and experience in this line. The subject is of too
grave a nature to be treated slightingly or silently.
jTlayoral Chains.
N important chain and badge for the borough of Bridgwater
has just been manufactured by Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, ol
Birmingham. It is in gold of 18-carat quality, every
| link being Hall-marked, and connecting links, formed of the
initial of the name of the town, are joined to larger links with
mural crowns and escutcheons. These escutcheons, eighteen in
number, contain the names in succession of as many mayors and
magistrates or officials of the borough, dating from an early
period. The centre link- has in circle the monogram of Mr.
Alfred Peace, J. P.. the present mayor, in gold letters upon a
crimson enamelled field with the dove crest over it. anil motto,
"Memor et Jidelis" below. The badge, which is of a circular
form enriched by graceful scrolls, lias the cognisance of the
borough (the triple-towered castle upon a bridge of three arches),
as in the old civic seal. The town, whose first charter is dated
a. ii. 1 z(M), carries us back to the castle period of corporate history,
and is, with- the legend, rendered in a very interesting manner.
Over this is the corona muralis, signifying a walled tower, and
the national wreath of oak and laurel. The civic fasces and the
mace, as municipal symbols, are placed crosswise beside the
borough seal, and the whole work is carried out in a thoughtful
and artistic style.
A very superb chain, royal medallion and badge of office has
just been manufactured by the same firm for Pembroke. It has
been subscribed for by the ladies of the town and district as
a Jubilee gift to the corporation. The chain has a double
link connection, giving a particularly rich effect in wear, the
larger divisions being occupied with crusader shields, in reference
to the period of incorporation of the borough. These shields
are surmounted by civic coronets having a significant relation
to the mayoral office, so that the shields will become an ap-
propriate and continuous record of successive occupants of the
civic chair. As Henry VII., styled Henry of Pembroke, was
born in the castle which then defended the town, his coat of
July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLEE AND SILVERSMITH.
13
arms in enamel blazon, surmounted by the beautiful British
crown of that age, forms an excellent centre link to the chain ;
the crossed leeks of Wales, in correct colours, beside it com-
pleting this portion of the decoration. Beneath this depends a
charming gold oval medallion with a border regarding the pre-
sent year of the Royal .Jubilee, and having in centre an enamelled
painted miniature portrait of Queen Victoria. From this is
suspended the large badge of the borough itself, in massive gold,
most elaborate in detail. The general form is circular, the arms
of the corporation and legend, as on borough seal, enamelled in
centre, round which four sportive dolphins, in open repousse work,
are arranged, giving much lightness and beauty to the effect.
The civic mace and fasces in saltire are carefully wrought, being,
as to the second circle, a framed border of British oak and laurel.
On this border are four subsidiary medallions facing the points of
the compass, and giving, in as many coats of arms, the periods of
the historical charters of the town. First comes that of Gilbert
Strongbow, Earl of Pembroke ; next that of King John ; again,
that of Henry VIII.; and, lasfly, the modern one, indicated by
the arms of the reigning sovereign. Foliated terminals give a
graceful line to the border. The work is carried out with artistic
fidelity, and has given the highest satisfaction to the Committee.
As the Royal year of Jubilee is, in the case of Llanidloes, the
Jubilee of the incorporation of the borough under the Reformed
Corporations Act, a very handsome Mayoral Chain has been
subscribed for, and the work has just been completed, also by
the same firm. It is of gold, Hall-marked; and the larger
links, of rich renaissance form, each bear gold tablets on
which may be engraved at each election the names of successive
occupants of the civic chair. The centre link, which is larger
and supported by maces, bears in an enamelled escutcheon, in
centre, an elaborate monogram recording the Borough Jubilee.
The badge, of large proportions, has the Corporation arms in
centre : lion rampant argent, on a field ermine with a bordure
gules. Over this is the name of the borough, in gold letters
on a ground of blue enamel, and surmounted by the mural
coronet. The Welsh leeks crossed below the shield are admirably
rendered, and on a riband entwined about them it is recorded
that the town is a borough by prescription. Beside the shield
are two croziers relating to Llanidloes as a seat of ecclesiastical
authority. A long inscription on reverse of badge completes
the decoration, which will be a worthy and fitting memorial of
the occasion.
Jftayoral Babge for Tftohingham.
fHE celebration of the Royal Jubilee has led to the acquire-
ment by many corporations of permanent records in the
form of civic insignia, and the pretty badge made by
Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham, for Mr. Thomas M.
Wescott, Mayor of Wokingham, is one of the most interesting.
It is in general outline a heart shape, and the place of honour is
given to the beautifully painted miniature portrait of the Queen
in enamel colours upon fine gold. Surrounding this is an oval
border also enamelled, with words recording the Jubilee.
Wokingham (or Oakingham, as it is believed to have been origi-
nally named) has for its borough device a spray of oak ; therefore
the designer has arranged a continuous wreath of oak at the
sides of the royal portrait, and by a happy mixture of alloy the
gold, which is of 18-carat quality throughout, is so combined in
the leaves of the oak as to give a greenish effect as compared
with the yellow tint of the remaining portion. Over the Queen's
miniature is placed the royal crown, surmounted by the British
lion, also crowned — the crest of England. The sceptres come
in at the sides, the name of the borough on a riband in enamel ; a
rich border completes the ornament, which depends from an
appropriate gold centre with mural 'crown over, and the initials
of the mayor given in gold letters on an enamelled field. Several
additional gold links lead to the wide ribbon of royal blue by
which the decoration is suspended. The whole has been finished
in best style, and will form a memorial of the year in every way
worthy of the event.
Workshop Ittemoranija,
Powder for Silver Plating. — Mix 1 part chloride of silver
with 3 parts pearlash, \\ part common salt, and 1 part whiting,
and rub the mixture on the surface of brass or copper (previously
well cleaned) by means of a piece of soft leather, or a cork
moistened with water and dipped into the powder.
An alloy of copper, 15 parts ; tin, 2 - 3-t parts ; lead, 1*82 parts ;
antimony, 1 part — forming a bronze with the addition of lead
and antimony— practically resists the attack of most acids and
alkaline solutions.
Gilding Solution. — A gilding solution is thus described in
La Monde de la Science: Crystallised phosphate of soda, 60
parts; bisulphide of soda, 10 parts: cyanide of potassium, 1
part ; chloride of gold, '2\ parts ; distilled or rain water, by
weight, 1,000 parts. To prepare this bath properly the water is
divided into three portions, namely, one of 700 and two of 150
each. The sodic phosphate is dissolved in the first portion, the
chloride of gold in the second, and the bisulphide of soda and
cyanide of potassium in the third. The first two portions are
gradually mixed together and the third is afterwards added.
With this solution the artisan uses a platinum anode — a wire or
strip — adding fresh portions of the gold salt as the solution
becomes exhausted.
Simple Method of Silvering. — The following, given in an
American journal, is an expeditious way for silvering metallic
articles. Freshly precipitated chloride of silver, after it has been
thoroughly washed with hot water, is mixed with equal parts of
table salt and cream of tartar, transforming it into a thin paste
by adding water, if necessary. The article to be silvered is first
well washed with a hot soda solution and soap and a stiff brush,
in order to remove all dirt, and it is next to be rinsed thoroughly
in hot water. A second day cleaning with fine washed chalk,
pumice powder or quartz powder, is to be recommended. After
having been well rinsed with cold water, and before drying, it is
coated with finely pulverised table salt, so that the article is
covered with a thin layer; a little of the silver paste is next
rubbed on, whereby its surface to be treated is well and uniformly
silver-washed. This treatment is quickly followed by rubbing in
a little cream of tartar, which is also to be applied with the same
kind of ball, and it is finally washed. The coating is very hand-
some, clear, and as white as snow.
A solution of hyposulphite of soda, applied with a soft
brush, is said to be one of the best means of cleaning silver or
silver-plated goods. No powder being necessary, there is no fear
of filling the chiselling or other intaglio ornamentation. When
powders are not objectionable, tripoli may be employed with or
without ammonia. In place of tripoli, the fossil silica (found in
this country and sold under a variety of names) serves an
excellent purpose.
Distillation and Purification ' of Mercury. — It is
generally accepted that mercury cannot be fully purified by
distillation, and by earlier observations the author of an article
on the subject in a Berlin journal had found that these distillations
left crude mercury quite impure. Some experiments have now
been made to ascertain whether the foreign metals are vaporised
with the mercury, as water vapour carries over other substances,
or whether they are carried off mechanically. The mercury was
mixed with lead, bismuth, tin, sodium and copper, and then
distilled, first from porcelain, afterwards from glass retorts. As
long as the metal is very impure, the glass retorts are destroyed,
hence the necessity of distilling first in porcelain. After twelve
distillations, the retorts contained no residue, and the mercury
was perfectly pure, as was proved by dissolving about two
grammes in nitric acid, evaporating in a weighed platinum
capsule and igniting ; the weight of the capsule was unchanged.
H
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 1887.
To restore the original white colour of silver filigree jewellery
when tarnished by wear or shop- worn, first wash the articles in a
solution of one fluid ounce of liquid potassa in twenty of water,
rinse, and then immerse in a mixture of salt one part, alum one
part, saltpetre two parts, dissolved in four parts water. Let
them remain for five minutes. Wash in cold water, and dry
with chamois leather.
The best lacquer for articles of brass, such as mountings for
optical instruments, &c, depends somewhat on the colour of the
brass. For a light brass a dark lacquer is required, and vice
versa. The following are some receipts given by an American
exchange: — 1. Seed-lac, dragon's blood, annatto and gamboge,
each 4 ozs.; saffron 1 oz., spirits of wine 10 pints. 2. Turmeric
1 lb., annatto 2 ozs., shellac and gum juniper each 12 ozs.
3. Gamboge ^ oz., aloes 1^ oz., shellac 8 ozs., spirits of wine
1 gallon. See that the finished articles are clean, heat them as
hot as the hand will bear, and distribute the lacquer quickly with
a brush or rag at one operation over the surface. When the
articles are very small, they require to be heated in an oven to
harden the lacquer. Several coatings of a thin lacquer give the
best results.
Cyanide Sores. — According to Mr. Alexander Watt, these
painful sores may arise from two principal causes : first, from
dipping the hands or arms into cyanide baths to recover articles
which have dropped into them — a very common practice, and
much to be condemned ; and second, from the accidental contact
of the fingers or other parts of the hand, on which a recent cut
or scratch has been inflicted, with cyanide solutions. In the
former case, independent of the constitutional miscbief which
may arise from the absorption by the skin of the cyanide salts,
the caustic liquid acts very freely upon the delicate tissue of the
skin, but more .especially upon the parts under the finger-nails.
Instances have been known in which purulent matter has formed
under the nails of both hands from the cause, necessitating the
use of the lancet and poulticing. Again, when cyanide solutions
come in contact with recent wounds — even very slight cuts or
abrasions of the skin — a troublesome and exceedingly painful
sore is sure to result, unless the part be at once soaked' in warm
water ; indeed, it is a very good plan, after rinsing the part in
cold water, to give it a momentary dip in a weak acid pickle,
then soak it for a few moments in warm water, and after wiping
the part dry with a clean rag or towel, apply a drop of olive oil
and cover up with a strip of thin sheet guttapercha.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
7,512.
7,559.
7,686.
7,797.
7,834.
7,891.
7,909.
8,210.
8,245.
8,334.
8.427.
8,589.
following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeureller mid Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn, London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Row, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
. G-. Pritchard, Birmingham, for " Improvements in solitaires, collar
and shirt studs, cuff links and other like dress fasteners and
ornaments." (Complete specification.) Dated May 25, 1887.
W. P. Greaves, Birmingham, for "An improved collar stud attach-
ment device." Dated May 25, 1887.
E. Morin, a communication from T. Walther. Germany, for " Im-
provements in bracelets and other articles of jewellery." Dated
May 27, 1887.
G. E. Walton, Birmingham, for " Improvements in fastenings for
solitaires, sleeve links, studs, scarf rings and other similar
articles." Dated May 28, 1887.
H. Edmunds, London, for "Improved means for controlling,
transforming, regulating, synchronising and registering electric-
currents. Dated May 28, 1887.
George Edwin Hart." London, for " Improvements in Watches "
(Complete specification.) Dated May 31, 1887.
W. G. Harris, Birmingham, for "Improvements in adjustable
watch keys, entitled 'The Simplex Adjustable Watch Key.'"
Dated June 1, 1887.
N. Federgreen, London, for " Improvements of precious stones and
jewellery. ' Dated June 8, 1887.
K. H. Jones and T. Lee', Birmingham, for "Improvements in
bracelets." Dated June 8. 1887.
J. Nicholls, Sheffield, for "Improvements in 'silver cleaning'
paste. Dated June 10, 1887.
J. B. Thompson and W. White, London, for " Improvements in
the manufacture of aluminum and its alloys, and apparatus for
the purpose." Dated June 11, 1887.
F. K. Baker, Birmingham, for "Improvements in watch keys,"
Dated June 15, 1887.
S.614.
8,750.
S.754.
S.764.
8,788.
8,872.
J. L. Garsed, Halifax, for ••Improvements in timekeepers ami
time indicators." Dated June 15. 1887.
T. White, London, for " Improvements in the application of the
electric light to watch stands, clucks, ships' compasses, and for like
purposes."' Dated June 17. 1887.
A. J. Ready. London, for " A new or improved mode ami aus
for indicating time and for other purposes." hated .June 17. 1887.
S. Smirke. London, for "An improved stud, chiefly designed for
use with shirts, collars ami similar articles." Dated June 17. 1887.
A. Lovekin. Birmingham, for "An improved spring clip for
attaching coins, medals or stones to brooches and other articles of
jewellery." Dated June I s . 18N7.
J. F. Clasen. London, for" Improvements in safety screw fastenings
for studs, solitaires and other purposes." (Complete specification.)
Dated June 20, 1887.
Recent American Patents.
Aluminum and Aluminum Bronze, Production of. R. Gratzel
Bracelet. A. Williams
Button, Sleeve. E. J. Coombs
Button. Sleeve. F. W. Richards
Castings, Making Metal. J. Walker
Chuck. Stearns & Waterstreet
Clock Cover. W. 0. Camp
Clock Movement, Secondary Electric. C. D. Warner
Clock, Night. C. C. Adams
Clock, Primary Electric Pendulum. J. Zeiner
Clock System, Pneumatic. P. G. Puttemans
Clocks. Electric Striking Device for. S. C. Dickinson
Cuff Holder. E. S. Smith
Cuff Holder. C. H. Tappan
Cutlery Show Case. ELDechent
Cutter Head. J. B. Mahaffey
Cyclometers, Mechanical Movement for. M. H. Downes
Electrolyte. A. C. Tichenor
Emery Wheels. Tool fur Dressing. A. E. Convers
Eyeglass. M. C. Brackett
Eyeglasses. Manufacture of Cases for. W. B. White
File-Cutting Machine. A. Weed
Gem Settings, Construction of. O. 'J'. Smith
Initial Ring, Interchangeable. W. Meerbott
Lathe. Watchmaker's. B. Rivett
Metal Articles, Machine for Dressing the Surfaces of. T. Baum
Metal Plates and other Metal Surfaces, Cleaning. Preparing
and Coating. F. J. Clamer
Metals by the direct application of the Electric < lurrent, Process
of the Apparatus for working. De Benardos & Olszewski
Micrometer Gauge. A. E. VVhitmore
Micrometer Gauge. A. H.Emery
Musical l'.ox. C. H. Jacot
Rolling Mill. J. M. Price
Screw-cutting Die. W. Murchey
Sheet Metal, Ornamenting. T. W. Burger
Spectacles. L. Hanimel
Spectacles. P. S. Reid
watch Mainsprings, Manufacture of. F.Sedgwick
362.441
363,309
3112.426
362,315
31:2.337
363.431
3,;2,!I32
363.440
362,140
363,498
362,462
363,215
363,691
363,699
362.207
368.753
363.735
3';:s.:,i;2
3;i2.3i;o
863.201
363.2 .7
363,492
363,556
363,076
363,000
362,054
363,593
368.320
363.709
362.149
362,087
363,482
363,754
363.2115
363,«32
363,484
363.550
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in tbe American list, also of any American patent issued since
18Gf>, will be furnished from this office for 2s. Gd. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, Imperial Buildings, Ludgate Circus, E.C.
gazette.
Partnerships Dissolved.
W. & E. Mimpriss, Davies Street, Berkeley Square, jewellers. Paulson &
Co., Nottingham, pawnbrokers, so far as regards F. Paulson. J.
Sew ill ami M. R. Sewill (trading as J. Sewill). Cornhill, chronometer
makers. Green & Fuidge, Stratford-on-Avon, actinometer manu-
facturers. John Wragg & Son, Sheffield, cutlery manufacturers.
Bailey Brothers, Market Terrace. Wood Green, and elsewhere, watch-
makers. Sturla & Monday, Liverpool, pawnbrokers.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender in London. — William Van Walwyk, Clerkenwell Road,
diamond merchant. F. Hummell, Montpelier Street. Knightsbridge,
watchmaker. Exuperious Turnor. Broadway, Hammersmith, jeweller.
To surrender in the Country. — Joseph Joseph and Maurice Joseph
(trading as J. Joseph & Sons, and as Scott & Co.), Birmingham and
elsewhere, jewellers and export merchants. Henry Simon Anscll.
Birmingham, jewellers' case maker. _ Rosina Ash, Birmingham,
pawnbroker. George Whitehouse (trading as G. Whitehouse &. Co.),
Birmingham, electro-plate manufacturer. James Sutton (trading as
J. P. Cuffs. Sutton & Sons), Sheffield, optician. James Henry Smith.
Birmingham, ornamenter in gold.
Amended Notice.
Edward Welbourne, Ilkley, Yorkshire, jeweller.
July 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
15
Public Examinations.
In London. — W. Van Walwyk, Clerkenwell Road, diamond mounter ;
July 12, at 12.30.
In the Country. — G. Whitehonse (trading as G. Whitehonse & Co.), Bir-
mingham, electro-plate manufacturer : July 7, at 2.
Adjudications.
In London. — S. Lazarus, Hatton Garden, optician. F. Hummell. Mont-
pelier Street, Knightsbridge, watchmaker. E. Tumor, The Broadway,
Hammersmith, jeweller.
In thr Country. — R, H. Cheetham, Southampton, cutler. H. S. Ansell,
Birmingham, jewellers' <-,isp maker. M. Baum, Coventry, watch
manufacturer, G. Whitehonse (trading as G. Whitehonse & Co.).
Birmingham, electro-plate manufacturer. J. Sutton (trading as J. P.
Cutts. Sutton & Sons), Sheffield, optician. J. H. Smith. Birmingham,
ornamenter in gold.
Notices of Dividends.
In the Country. — J. F. Bayfield (trading as J. F. Bayfield & Son),
Lowestoft, watchmaker : Is. 10|d., first and final : July 1, 77, Colmore
Row, Birmingham. J. H. Wood. Northampton, watchmaker: 3s. (Id.,
first and final ; June 27, 6, St. Paul's Square, Bedford. W. S. Jones,
Bolton, watchmaker ; 3s. (ifd.. first and final ; June 29. Official
Receiver. Bolton. H. A. Dightam, Armley. Yorkshire, jeweller ; 7id.,
first and final : June 25. Official Receiver, Leeds. T. A. Hockaday.
Rochester, watchmaker: Is. 2|d., first and final : July 6. 5. Hatton
Garden, E.C.
Scotch Sequestkations.
J. O'Mahoney. Dundee, pawnbroker. W. Lumsden (deceased), Alford,
watchmaker.
Lonbon Bankruptcy Itourt.
In re Lund & Blocklev.
/£%|N the 9fch ult. this case came before Mr. Registrar Hazlitt,
\*y} at the above Court. The debtors, Messrs. George Lund
and Frederick M. Blocklev, carrying on business as watch
and chronometer makers in Pall Mall, and also at Bombay,'
petitioned the Court on February 28 last. Their liabilities were
returned in the statement of affairs at £15,8 10, with assets
estimated to produce £8,511. The case was now brought before
the Registrar on an application to confirm a scheme by which
the debtor Blockley agreed to pay all preferential debts in full,
and a composition of 5s. in the pound to the unsecured creditors by
instalments extending over a period of twelve months, in exchange
for the assets of the business in England. — Mr. Aldridge
appeared for the Official Receiver, and Mr. F. C. Willis for
the debtors. — It would appear that Messrs. Lund & Blockley
commenced business in 1869, each partner introducing £1,000
as capital, and they attributed their failure to losses on the
trading, excess of expenditure over profits consequent upon
competition by co-operative stores, and to general depression in
trade. The Official Receiver reported that, having regard to the
nature and actual value of the assets in England, the proposed
scheme did not appear unreasonable. For the debtors' interest
in the Bombay business an offer of £2,000 had been made, which
would suffice to pay a further composition of 8s. in the pound.
It was stated that by the failure of Messrs. Grant & Peake the
firm incurred a loss of £1,700. No creditor appeared to oppose,
and the Registrar made an order confirming the scheme.
In re Walter George.
On the 10th ult,, before Mr. Registrar Brougham, this
bankrupt, who was a wholesale jeweller, carrying on "business in
King Square, Clerkenwell, applied to pass his examination.
His liabilities were returned in the statement of affairs at £7,668,
of which £5,949 will probably rank, with assets £1,750.—
Mr. Aldridge appeared for the Official Receiver, Mr. Norman
for the trustees, and Mr. Hermann Myer for the debtor. — The
debtor commenced business about twenty years since, with
borrowed capital, in partnership with his brother, as W. & S.
George. In April, 1883, they filed a liquidation petition, under
which a composition of 7s. 6d. in the pound was accepted by the
joint creditors. S. George retired in January, 1884, and the
bankrupt attributed his present failure to financial difficulties,
originating from the payment of too large a composition under
the former proceedings, and to falling off in his trade, owing to
want of capital, depression and other causes. He stated in the
course of his examination that he was not aware of his insolvent
position until the present year. His Honour allowed the debtor
to pass his examination.
Jfleetings of Societies, &c, for the Jflonth.
Societies. July.
Geologists' Association, University College ... ... 1
Queckett Microscopical Club, University College ... 8,22
The Annual Dinner of the Horological Club will take place
on Saturday, the 9th inst., at the Cock Hotel, Epping. Tickets
can be obtained on application, from the Hon. Secretary, Mr.
Henry Bickley, 33, Half-Moon Crescent, N., before July 6.
lorresponrjence.
All Letters for Publication to be addressed to the Editor of The
Watchmaker. Jeweller and Silversmith, Imperial Buildings,
Ludyate Circus. E.C.
All communications must bear the name and address of the sender, not
necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.
To the Editor of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith.
[PRIZES FOR ART WORKMANSHIP.]
Dear Sin, — The Council of the Society of Arts will be much
obliged if you can assist them in bringing the enclosed particulars
of a competition for Art Workmanship under the notice of any
persons interested in the subject.
Yours faithfully,
11. Trueman Wood, Secretary.
[The particulars of the competition referred to were published
in full in our last issue. In compliance with the above request
we beg to direct our readers' attention to them. — Ed.]
[KEW CERTIFICATES.]
Sir, — -I think the questions raised by your correspondent,
Mr. Arnold, as to the relative merits of Swiss and English
watches, and the value of Kew certificates, deserve consideration
by those interested in English watchmaking. Mr. Arnold asks
in his last letter, as the point of his question, " Do the Swiss
watches give better results in the pocket than English ones ? "
But his question which follows seems to me to be the one he is
most desirous of obtaining information upon ; that is, "Are
the Kew trials a measure of the probable performance of the
watch in use ? " Mr. Arnold seems a little confused, as, although
he has evidently made up his mind as to the proper answers to
his questions, he quotes the results of the late Melbourne
Exhibition and the opinions of Mr. Whipple against his own
convictions. The Melbourne Exhibition proves nothing : in the
first place the Swiss watchmakers formed a syndicate and ex-
hibited under one head, and the first prize was awarded to the
best of all the Swiss watches exhibited, while the second best
was a Clerkenwell-made watch which gained 95 out of a possible
] 00 marks — -the maker of this watcli being unaware of the fact
that it was to be exhibited, and other English exhibitors at that
Exhibition were not informed and were in ignorance of the manner
in which the watches were to be tested ; and it was notorious that
the jury who awarded the prizes at that Exhibition gave the
greatest dissatisfaction to the English exhibitors. Mr. Whipple's
opinion is based entirely on the results of the Kew trials wdiich
are published, and therefore no special importance can be
attached to it.
Although your remark in the May number of the journal,
" That none but a good watch can fulfil the requisite conditions
for obtaining an A certificate " is quite true, still I think I can
show that a watch that would not fulfil these conditions would go
better in ordinary wear for a long period than one that may have
obtained an A certificate ; and I am not relying on theory alone,
as I have more than one example of watches, which, having
obtained that coveted prize, have gone very badly afterwards.
1G
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[July 1, 1887.
It is shown by the Kew rates, and is well known to watch
springers, that there is little difficulty in getting good results in
the temperature trials, and that timing in positions is the real
trouble. It is not difficult to get equal time in the hanging and
lying positions, but the quarters or one of them will generally
be out. Now if the balance lias a sufficiently great arc of
vibration to overcome the cbange in the condition of the oil, dirt
or other obstructions for a long period, it would be useless to
attempt to manipulate the balance screws with the object of
rectifying the difference in time in the quarter positions, as, if the
balance vibrates more than a full turn, putting it out of poise
would not have the desired effect. Therefore, the balance arc
must be reduced to one turn by the application of a suitable
mainspring, and then any very little additional weight to one
side of the balance, by drawing out the quarter screw, will
cause the watch to gain when that side is downwards and will by
this means equalise the time in positions ; and if all the other
conditions are satisfactory, the watch will have an excellent rate
while the oil is fresh and the watch clean during the interval of
the Kew test, but at the end of a few months every change that
shortens the arc of vibration of the balance intensifies the evil of
putting the balance out of weight, and a short arc of vibration
(an evil in itself) soon results in bad timekeeping if the balance
is out of poise.
If this watch had only been made with a view to giving a
wearer satisfaction, instead of being prepared for a Kew trial, the
balance arc would (or should) have been sufficiently large to
enable it to disregard a slight change in the oil ; and as the
balance would have been perfectly in poise, a slight alteration in
the arc would not affect the time in positions ; and, therefore, this
watch, which might not have obtained an A certificate, would
certainly be superior to the one timed on the lines I have
described. I do not say that all watches sent to Kew are
prepared in this way, but I know many of them are ; and many
timers defend the practice by saying it was the common way
of adjusting, or rather timing, pocket chronometers. But the
comparison is not relevant : pocket chronometers rarely had a
vibration of over a full turn of the balance, as it is not safe to
give them a larger arc of vibration without some provision to
prevent their tripping ■ and as the chronometer impulse requires
no oil, the rate does not vary as does that of a watch with a lever
escapement, which will not go without oil. If the Kew trials
were to extend over six months, the results would be different
and of more use to the public.
As to the good these trials have done watchmakers, I believe
there are few of us who have not been disappointed. An in-
dependent trial seemed at first to be nothing but a gain to men
who had been labouring all their lives to make the name and
fame of others, as it was thought that it would be a means of
bringing the makers of high-class watches before the public and
the buyers of watches who hitherto had no means of doing so
themselves ; but when it was announced that the Kew authorities
were ready to give a duplicate copy of a certificate, and to alter
the name of any depositor or maker "of the watch to that
of enterprising tradesmen who call themselves watchmakers
for the trifling cost of one shilling, it became a discouragement
to good men, as it only helps the quack and ceases to be an
honourable distinction to be sought after or prized.
Yours, &c,
" A London Watch Manufacturer."
June 24, 1887.
Answers to fcorresponbents.
W. Morris. — Plate Licences. — The licence would be un-
necessary in your case. '1 lie clause (33 & 34 Vict., cap. 32)
reads : " On and after the sixth day of July, one thousand eight
hundred and seventy, it shall not be necessary for any person
to take out a licence as a dealer in plate, in order to enable him
to sell watch cases which shall have been made by him."
3n tbe 1btgb Court of Justice,
CHANCERY DIVISION.
between DRUIFF & DRUIPP . . Plaintiffs
(Trading as WILLIAM HERBERT & GODFREY)
and JOHN TAYLOR. . . . Defendant
In consideration of your withdrawing the proceedings you have
instituted against me for infringing your Trade Mark for Spectacles,
registered as William Herbert & Godfrey's "Aqua Crystal," by
advertising myself as a maker thereof, I hereby apologise to you
for so doing, and undertake to discontinue all use of such words
and empower you to advertise this apology once in four newspapers.
Witness,
GEORGE T. SMITH, Solicitoi
Birmingham.
To Messrs. Druiff & Druiff.
JNO. TAYLOR,
May 28, 1887.
R. FREDERICK HILL & Co.,
24, Chancery Lane, W.C.
Plaintiffs' Solicitors.
Buyers' $uibe.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield. Sell Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Birij all materials containing Gold and Silver.
F. W. Powell (now Fowler & Powell), Colonial Buildings, Hatton
Garden, E.C. Wholesale only for Gold and Silver Jewellery ; Silver
Cigar, Cigarette and Card Cases, Match Boxes, Salt Cellars ; Silver
and Glass Smelling Bottles ; Sovereign Purses.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an aecount open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
< ustomers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden,
London, E.C.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen, send to Alexander Edwards,
Watch Material and Tool Dealer, 88 & 89, Craven Street, and 2. Holy-
head Itoad. Coventry. Lists : all Horologieal Literature.
M. W. Skelton, Inventor and Manufacturer of Fusee Keyless and
other Watches, Liverpool. Manufactory : (>. Park Place. New
Wheels and Pinions. Conversions and Jobbing done in general for
the trade. Country orders promptly attended to.
W. Scott Hayward & Co., 59, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipl
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool, Leipzig and Paris.
WANTED.
\ VERY Experienced SPECIALIST MANUFACTURER
1\_ seeks some GENUINE FACTORS for a NEW CHRONOGRAPH
which defies all competition as to price, soundness and efficiency. The
Chronograph acts as a simple chronograph, counter and fly-back. Offers
to be addressed in writing to H. 730 Q, a Messrs. Haasenstein &
Vogler, Bale, Switzerland.— [Ad vt.]
REQUIRE!) by JEWELLER'S DAUGHTER, a
SITUATION in the above Business. Experienced and good
Saleswoman. Can give estimates for Repairs. &c. — H. Rudkin, High
Cross Street, Leicester. — [Advt.]
TO BE LET.
MANUFACTURING JEWELLERS, WATCHMAKERS
and others.— TO BE LET, most Desirable PREMISES, No. 15,
Albemarle Street, Clerkenwell. Newly built, with every convenience.
Capital Shop and Eight good Rooms, in perfect repair. Rent £60 per
annum. — Wag-staff & Warman, Highbury Corner, N. — [Advt.]
TO BE SOLD.
WATCHMAKER'S and JEWELLER'S BUSINESS,
established 17 years, in busy manufacturing city ; stock moderate
and will be reduced. Excellent opening for a young man starting
business. For particulars, address The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith Office, London. — [Advt.]
WATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
of Superior Goods only, WITH OR WITHOUT the PREMISES.
Extensive additions can be made if required. The present Owner no
objection to remain two or three years to Superintend and Instruct Work-
people, to part Assist in Office, or Travel. Address Manufacturer,
Office of this Journal.— [Advt.]
eT'fu
Entered at Stationers' 'Hall.']
Vol. XIII.— No. 2.]
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
AUGUST 1, 1887.
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
' Subscription, 5s. ( Post
per Annum. ) Free.
CONTENTS.
Editorial ... ...
General Notes
Birmingham News. From Ouh Correspondent ...
British Horological Institute
Mr. Cave Thomas On Applied Art
Jubilee Fountain and Clock Tower for Stratford-on-Avon
British Association ... ...
The Merchandise Marks Bill
The Ruby Mines of Burmah
The Birmingham Jewellery Trade
The New Gold Jubilee Medals
The Princess of Wales and the Birmingham Jewellery Trade
Kashmir. Bv William Simpson, E.T., F.R.G.S., Hon. Assoc
R.I.B.A. Illustrated .... >
American Items ...
The Gold Supply
Note on the Temper of Steel and the means of obtaining it
The Use of the Eyeglass ...
Jem Carney's Belt
A Casket for Hi r Richard Moon, Bart
The Koh-i-noor ...
Isochronism in Flat and Breguet Springs. By M. Sandoz
Horological Club ... ...
Workshop Memoranda ... ..
Applications for Letters Patent... ...
Recent American Patents
Gazette
Buyers' Guide
page
17
IS
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21
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25
27
27
28
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29
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31
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32
32
(the Ulatchmaker, jeweller anb
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence.— Correspondence is invited on ail matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
Imperial Buildings, Ludgate Circus, London, E.C.
. Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade. Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
ITH the finish of the Jubilee preparations manufac-
turers might naturally have expected a return to
what has been, unfortunately, of late years, the
ordinary jog-trot output ; but that such a complete stagnation of
trade should have come about as at present exists was certainly
never anticipated by the most confirmed pessimists.
We have lately had to bewail the condition of the English
watch trade, but from all accounts the jewellery and plating
industries are in even a worse plight. Never since what may be
termed its renaissance (which is said on good authority to date
from the Great Exhibition of 1851) has the former trade been in
such a depressed state. Reports from Birmingham show a con-
dition of things amounting to almost a panic ; while from other
manufacturing centres the state of business, if not equally bad, is
sufficiently serious to afford matter for anxious contemplation.
Without going any length with the uncomfortable alarmists,
the constant iteration of whose chronic grumblings has begotten
the inevitable resultant of familiarity, it would be wilfully foolish
to disregard the present aspect of affairs. It is estimated that
the failures during the past twelve months represent an aggregate
loss of upwards of £300,000 to the Birmingham manufacturers
alone, and doubtless statements from other quarters would show
proportional amounts.
Although the universal business depression is unquestionably
the prime cause of the slackness in the jewellery trades, which
are a kind of reflex index to the general prosperity of the country,
it is not in itself sufficient to account for the altogether abnormal
condition of those industries, and other elements are, therefore,
to be looked for by those interested in their amelioration. As in
other trades during periods of depression difficult to account for,
numberless suggestions have been made of. means for infusing a
healthier tone into business, and one of the best recently thrown
out seems to us to be embodied in the letter of Mr. S. Wall
Richards, published in another column.
No doubt Mr. Richards has hit the mark when he says
jewellers take no measures to educate and stimulate public taste
18
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[August 1, 1887.
through the medium of suitable organs of the press, as is done
in almost every other business wherein changes of fashion are
desirable.
But, after all, the distributers should deal with the public ; and
we go a step farther than Mr. Richards and say that, other
considerations apart, in order that the retailers shall be able to
do so successfully, it is necessary that they be brought into
closer relations with the manufacturers by the elimination of the
factor element. This result is certain to be brought about,
soon?r or later, by the increasing keenness of foreign competition,
which will not allow of the third profit of a middleman between
the producer and the distributer.
We are glad to see that the obvious advantages which would
accrue to the trade by getting rid of an unnecessary anomaly,
that has hitherto hindered business and absorbed so large a share
of the results, is at last wisely being recognised on all sides.
Seneral Notes.
flrf HE Merchandise Marks Bill passed through Committee of
1
^1
the House of Commons on the 8th ult., after having been
considered by a Select Committee. The Bill was read a
third time in the House of Commons on the 12th, and afterwards
was read a first time in the House oE Lords.
The story is going the rounds of the society journals that a
young lady visited a West End jeweller and told him that her
father was going to buy her a pair of diamond earrings, and that
she would like to look at some. The jeweller, knowing her
father by reputation, spread out a number of costly gems before
her. She looked them over critically and, having selected the
most handsome pair, asked if she might take them home and
examine them more at her leisure. The permission was promptly
accorded, and the next day the young lady brought back the ear-
rings and said that she was not quite satisfied with them, and
she thought that after all it might be some time before her
father would indulge her taste for diamonds. " That's a great
pity," replied the jeweller ; " I was at reception last night,
and I thought them very becoming to you."
The German papers continue to publish numerous anecdotes
of the late Herr Krupp. The Vienna Kxtrablatt gives the fol-
lowing interesting incident which marked the visit of the
Emperor William to the Essen Works. The Eurperor displayed
great interest in the working of the steam hammer, and Heir
Krupp took the opportunity of speaking in high jn'aise of the
workman who had special charge of it. " Ackermann has a sure
eye," he said, "and can stop the falling hammer at any moment.
A hand might be placed on the anvil without fear, and he would
stop the hammer within a hair's breadth of it." " Let us try it,"
said the Emperor, "but not with a human hand — try my watch,"
and he laid it, a splendid specimen of work richly set with bril-
liants, on the anvil. Down came the immense mass of steel, and
Ackermann. with his hand on the lever, stopped it just the sixth
of an inch from the watch. When he went to hand it back the
Emperor said kindly, "No, Ackermann, keep the watch -in
memory of an interesting moment." The workman, embarrassed,
stood with outstretched hand, not knowing what to do. Krupp
came forward and took the watch, saying, "I'll keep it for you if
you are afraid to take it from His Majesty." A few minutes
later they again passed the spot, and Krupp said, " Now you can
take the Emperor's present from my hand," and handed Acker-
mann the watch, wrapped up in a thousand mark note.
The Technical Education Bill. — Writing to a contem-
porary, Mr. Edward J. Watherston says : — Every effort should
be made to get the Government to reduce the standard to which
it is proposed to limit facilities for technical handicraft instruc-
tion. Standard VI. is absurdly too high. It would limit the
number of children to 128,151 (roughly ,"80,000 boys and 50,000
girls), scattered throughout 19,173 elementary schools. In many
schools, in districts where the necessity for manual instruction is
most apparent, there are but few, if any, sixth and seventh stan-
dard scholars, and those that are are being technically trained
already as pupil teachers or for walks of life other than
mechanical. Standard IV. is quite high enough, opening the
door of handicraft instruction to 848,041 children. I would go
lower, to Standard III., permitting 1,400,000 children to have
such instruction as may be possible, commencing at ten years of
age, as in Continental schools. However, do not let us be con-
tented with any higher standard than the fourth. In point of
fact, it should be left to the discretion of the school managers.
It will be most unwise to tie their hands by an Act of Parlia-
ment. Depend upon it, nothing will do more to get regularity
of attendance than manual workshop half-time schools — literary
work in the morning, workshop in the afternoon ; only children
who have been at the morning school to be allowed to go to the
afternoon workshop school.
The American testimonial to Mr. Gladstone, a description of
which was given in our last month's issue, was presented to the
right hon. gentleman on Saturday, July 9, at Aberdeen House,
liollis Hill, Willesden.
The Manufacture of Artificial Ruisies. — In a paper
recently read by M. Fremy before the French Academy of
Sciences, the author, in describing the successful researches made
by him, with the assistance of M. Verneuil, for obtaining arti-
ficial rubies, stated that he discovered the first method of
producing rubies some years ago, but that all the specimens
obtained were pasty, and wore away in scales. He adopted
another process, and by letting alumina dissolve in fluoride of
calcium, he obtained crystals of alumina — that is to say, perfect
rubies, which defied the closest scrutiny, of even higher value
than natural stones. By the latter process, according to M.
Fremy, stones of almost any size can be produced.
The first stone of the Imperial Institute was laid by Her
Majesty the Queen on the 4th ult.
The Proposed International Exhibition in Glasgow. —
The guarantee fund for the proposed International Exhibition, to
be held in Glasgow during the summer of next year, already ex-
ceeds £240,000, and is being increased. The objects of the
Exhibition, as stated in the prospectus, are "to promote and
foster industry, science and art, by inciting the inventive genius
of our people to still further development in arts and manufac-
tures : and to stimulate commercial enterprise by inviting all
nations to exhibit their products, both in the raw and finished
state." Examples of the manufactures of Glasgow and the sur-
rounding districts — chemical, iron and other mineral products,
engineering, shipbuilding, electrical and scientific appliances, and
textile fabrics — will be shown; and similar and more varied
exhibits may be expected from other parts of Great Britain and
from the Continent. Promises of support have also been received
from America, India, the Canadian, Australian, Cape and other
Colonies. The site, which has been granted by the Glasgow
Corporation, extends to 60 acres, and the buildings will cover
about 10 acres.
A New Unit for Absolute Time. — Mr. Lippman (Comptes
Rendu.?, 104, 1,070) proposes a unit of absolutely invariable
time, which, as independent of every astronomical hypothesis,
would serve as a check on the universally adopted unit, the
second. The proposed unit of time is the specific resistance of
mercury in absolute electro-static units. The constancy of this
resistance, the fact that it is indifferent what units of length and
mass are used, and the high degree of accuracy that the available
experimental methods for its determination promise, are cited in
its favour in detail.
August 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
19
Brussels International Exhibition. — A complete pro-
gramme of the " Grand Concours International des Sciences et
de l'lndustrie," in connection with the Exhibition, to be held at
Brussels in 1888, has been prepared by M. Leon Somze'e. It
contains a series of questions proposed in connection with the
different divisions of the Exhibition. The classification consists
of 50 "Concours," commencing with professional and industrial
instruction, and ending with the ornamentation of the galleries.
A communication has been received from the Foreign Office,
through the Science and Art Department, containing a copy of
the circular letter addressed by the Prince de Chimaz to the
Belgian Consuls, in which he asks for their assistance. The
Comte Adrien d'Oultremont, member of the Belgian Chamber
of Representatives, has been appointed Commissioner-General of
the Government at the " Grand Concours." The Moniteur Beige
of the 3rd ult. contains a royal decree nominating Vice-Presi-
dents, Secretary-General and Secretaries.
The Melbourne Exhibition. — We learn on going to press
that the date of receiving applications for space at the Centen-
nial International Exhibition, to be held at Melbourne next year,
has been extended to October 31 next.
Hobbs, Hart & Co. — The prospectus has just been issued of
Hobbs, Hart & Co., Limited, the capital of which is £100,000,
with debenture stock for £20,000. The company has been
formed for the purpose of taking over as a going concern, and
working and extending the business of Hobbs, Hart & Co.,
manufacturers of locks, safes and strong-rooms. The firm com-
menced operations in 1851, and now their locks are in use in
first-class hotels in London, Government departments, museums,
hospitals, workhouses, prisons and asylums, while their carriage-
door locks and handles are used on the principal railways. Safes
and strong-rooms have been constructed by the firm for Her
Majesty's gold and silver plate and jewels, and for a number of
banks, including the Bank of England. According to the pro-
spectus, medals were awarded at the International Exhibitions,
London, 1851 and 1862; and Paris, 1855 and 1867; the grand
medal for progress, at Vienna, 1873 ; gold medals, Paris Exhi-
bition, 1875, and Melbourne, 1881 ; and Edinburgh International,
1886. The reason assigned for the conversion of the business
into a joint-stock enterprise is the recent death of Mr. Hart, the
sole proprietor. An investigation of the books of the firm has
been made by a well-known firm of chartered accountants, and
the directors are of opinion that the result fully justifies them in
placing the business before the public as a sound investment.
The capital is divided into 30,000 preference shares of £1 each,
bearing 6 per cent., and 70,000 ordinary shares of £1 each.
Aluminum Co., Limited. — This company has been formed
to acquire the patents and work and develop the inventions
of Mr. James Webster for the manufacture of pure alumina
and certain metallic alloys and compounds, together with the
business now carried on by Webster's Patent Aluminum Crown
Metal Co., Limited, in Birmingham, Sheffield and London ; and
also to acquire the patents and work the invention of Mr. H.
Y. Castner, for the manufacture of sodium and potassium. The
processes are stated to have been made the subject of exhaustive
examination by Sir H. E. Roscoe, M.P., F.R.S., Mr. George
Gore, LL.D., F.R.S., and Mr. James Mactear, F.C.S., F.I.C.
The first-named gentleman will join the board after allotment.
The share capital is £400,000 in £5 shares, and the debenture
capital £100,000. These debentures will bear interest at 6 per
cent, per annum. Applications are invited for the debentures
and 53,334 A shares.
Professor Tyndall was entertained at dinner on June 29,
on his retirement from the Chair of Natural Philosophy at the
Royal Institution, and, in replying to the toast of his health, he
alluded to- the advance made with scientific education, remarking
that schools, colleges and universities were now rising in our
midst which promised to rival those of Germany.
Marie Antoinette's favourite pearl necklace, consisting of
sixteen rows of pearls, formerly belonging to the Crown Jewels
of France, is now to be seen in the shop of Berlin's chief
jewellers, Herren Friedberg und Soehne.
Messrs. Uibel & Barber, of 576, Hatton Garden, Loncloi.
E.C., are manufacturing a new and beautiful line of goods — of
sea beans and alligator teeth. They work them up into
bangles, brooches, scarf pins, charms, &c, the workmanship on
which is perfect ; and as they employ steam power in their
factory they reach the highest perfection in the polishing of the
sea beans and alligator teeth. The sea beans, which are of
varied and beautiful colours, are gathered on the coast of Florida,
where they wash ashore from the Coral Islands on which they
grow. Being of an exceedingly hard nature, they are susceptible
of an extremely high polish. The alligator teeth are from
alligators hunted in the bayous of Texas and everglades of
Florida, where they are sought for their teeth and hides.
The Diamond Market. — The Amsterdam market has been
comparatively quiet throughout the month ; prices for finished
goods remain low, and only the smaller stones go off. There is,
however, a hopeful tone pervading ; manufactories are fully going,
and a change for the better is expected to take place in prices
shortly. Few foreign buyers are in town.
The Paris merchants are in the midst of their holiday season,
and very little local business is being done, but a few unimportant
transactions are being effected with strangers who are visiting
the city.
The steamers " Drummond Castle," " Pretoria," "Pembroke
Castle," "Moor" and "Garth Castle" arrived at Plymouth
during the month, bringing large consignments of current goods
from the fields. But, although considerable business was done,
the high quotations ruling restrained speculation, the buyers
saying that, as finished goods are so difficult to sell this season,
they have to exercise unusual caution. A good many parcels are
on hand, and, as the market is well stocked, a fall in prices may
be expected shortly.
Latest from Kimberley report more buoyancy ; prices better
for yellow ; all goods very firm, with a tendency to advance.
Silver. — The market has been comparatively unchanged
throughout the month, which has been marked by unusual quiet-
ness. When the Mint orders were completed a fall in prices was
expected, but this did not seem to make much difference, and the
order by the Chinese Government for coinage presses, which we
noticed in our June issue, has left the market equally undisturbed.
Some of the latest arrivals from Chili were disposed of at
44ld. per oz. Mexican dollars are quoted at 43^d.
The Technical Education Bill. — In the House of
Commons on Tuesday, July 19, Sir W. Hart-Dyke, in moving
leave to bring in a Bill to facilitate the provision of technical
education, justified the introduction of a new question so late in
the session by the fact that the subject had for a long time
excited considerable interest among the artisan class. Other
nations had secured to themselves the advantage of special
industrial training for their youth, and had, in consequence, out-
stripped us in some branches of industry. This Bill would enable
the local authorities to make provision for the establishment of
technical schools, or for assisting in the establishment of technical
schools, and it would give them power to supplement existing
teaching in elementary schools by technical instruction. The
ratepayers would be consulted before the Bill came into operation,
and would have a power of veto, and it was proposed that it
should be administered by the Science and Art Department,
The rating authority would be the School Boards, where they
existed, and in other places the Town Councils. He believed the
measure would be essentially popular among the working classes,
and that it would do an enormous amount of good. — Mr. Mundella
deprecated discussion till the Bill was in the possession of members,
but promised assistance in its progress. — Leave was given to
brine: in the Bill.
2<)
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[Au..rsT 1. 1887.
Birmingham News,
From Our Correspondent.
British Horological 3nstitute.
FjFfHE watch trade still remains in a very depressed condition,
'^f' both here and at Coventry : and there are a number of
Coventry watch case makers seeking employment in
Birmingham, but the makers here are already overhanded.
* # #
One of the foremen of the English Watch Co., Villa Street
(Mr. I, own), committed suicide last week by jumping from a
railway bridge in front of a passing train. The cause is said to
be a notice of reduction in wages of the employes of the firm,
and this so affected the deceased as to cause this sad result. He
leaves a widow ami one child.
* # #
When the leading evening paper (The Birmingham Daily
Mail ) has two articles in one week upon the deplorable state of the
jewellery trade, and calls attention to the rotten system of trading
now pursued, it certainly means a black outlook. But it was as
C'.rtainly a great mistake on the part of the writer — if he wished
to assist the trade — to attempt to do so by those means. My
advice is. do not advertise to the public that jewellery is out of
fashion, by writing leaders such as those referred to : do not
complain to the public that the trade is conducted upon a " rotten
system." The public cannot alter this : in fact, the public in
general do not care a rap about it. Why should they ? It only
makes the trade a laughing-stock for other business men, who
conduct their affairs upon more rational principles. Let the
manufacturers combine and place a limit upon the approbation
system and long credit. Take Wall Richards' advice and show
the public that jewellery must be worn at certain times and places.
Do not tell them not to wear it, as has been done in the Daily
Mail. Was ever anything seen that was more shortsighted than
those articles ? ^ #
As to the abuse of the "appro." system, here is an instance
in the affairs of Sclmler, Warstone Lane, Birmingham. At
the time of calling his creditors together he held a number of
goods on " appro.," returns from which should have been
made in order to enable the owners to charge in sales to the
estate, and thus prove their debt. But in this instance the
debtor refuses to return parcels in the usual way, but sends to
each creditor a statement of his sales to be charged to the
account. If any creditor accepts this arrangement the trade will
have him to thank for a new opening for risk and loss which
might be avoided by a little common sense, which, to be candid,
appears to be a very scarce commodity in bankruptcy cases
among the jewellers. # # #
The new transparent lacquers introduced here from America
are being used by several Birmingham firms, and they find them
a great preventive against oxidisation, and as it is colourless it
is suitable for gold and silver as well as commoner metals. A
manufacturer here showed me some silver articles to which it had
been applied that were perfectly white and good as new after
hanging in the fumes of their pickling vat for some three
months — a tolerably severe test. I think it has a promising
future, the only drawback being the cost, which is £1 per gallon.
* * *
A novel and useful article, just got out by a Birmingham
firm, is a cyclist's companion in the shape of a watch case, with
a place in front for the club ticket and a set of dials to record
the distance made, backed by a purse to contain the necessary
cash for touring purposes : it will be in the market shortly.
The dials may also be used as a whist marker.
* * *
Medallists still report a fair amount of business, but the
general trade is still far from active. Out-workers, such as
engravers, enamellers, setters, &c, are working very short hours.
* * *
The gilding and plating branch is quite overdone here, several
new works having opened lately, and the competition is most keen.
>f the members of the British Horo-
in union with the City and Guilds
flM'HE annual meeting
f^ 1 logical Institute
Institute) was held on Tuesday, 19th ult., at the offices,
Northampton Square, Clerkenwell ; Mr. D. Glasgow presided.
The report submitted by the Council for the half-year ended June
:'»!> Ias1 stated that though, taken as a whole, the balance sheet
For the first half of the year might be said to be satisfactory, it
\\a> a matter of grave concern that even the modest sum received
on account of the annual subscriptions of members ami associates
in the corresponding period of last year hail not been maintained.
It must, of course, be expected that this item would continue to
be in some measure a reflex of the general prosperity or otherwise
of the horological trades: still the Council ventured to believe
that any considerable shrinkage in the .-1111011111 mighf be avoided.
even in times of depression, if 1 he members who believed in the
work of the Institute, and had its welfare at heart, would briny-
its claims before the notice of their friends.
The progress of the educational work was set forth in various
reports, and. as the Council anticipated, a considerably improved
tone bad resulted from the introduction of the new rules for tin-
conduct of the classes. The ( llass Visiting Committee, in a reporl
io the Council, testified to the continued efficiency ami excellence
of the educational work. They said that on the whole the Council
of the Institute might congratulate themselves on the work of the
year, and feel that their efforts had added to the sum of the skill
of horological interests. The theoretical work had, concurrently
with the practical, been carried on with considerable energy. The
t 'lass Visiting Committee, in concluding their report, observed that,
while being in full sympathy with the principle of teaching the
student to rely on his own ability, rather than be dependent on
the excellence of tools of precision not always accessible, they
thought that the teaching would be profitably augmented by
instruction in the use of some of the advanced lathes now produced
for watchmakers, to thos • students who had already acquired
manipulative skill. This Committee also suggested that it would
be desirable if the Council would provide a transit instrument, the
use of which might be taught as a portion of the instruction to
all students advanced sufficiently to profit by it.
The report of the Council proceeded to state that a Select
Committee of the House of Commons had been engaged in
taking the evidence of watchmaking experts iii reference to the
Merchandise Marks Amendment Bill of the Government, but
beyond sending to the Chairman of the Committee the previously
formed opinion of the Council, to the effect that no remedy for
the prevention of the sale of foreign watches as English would be
efficacious unless the Hall-marks of the British assay offices were
confined to such cases as were of British make, the Council has
taken no part in the matter, in deference to a section of the
trade who desired to place certain restrictions on manufacturers.
Fourteen members and two associates had been elected during the
half-year. There were at present on the books 452 members and
fifteen associates.
The Chairman moved the adoption of the report, remarking
that he thought that more support should be giren to the
Institution by the members. He held that it was not the business
of this Institute to provide machine tools to teach the young men
in their classes, though expressing the opinion that this country
would be able to go as far as it was profitable to go in the use of
machine tools.
The motion was seconded by Mr. H. Gannev, who thought
that the pupils should learn something about the use of machine
tools.
Mr. Corke suggested the establishment of a factory where
watches could be made on a lanj-e and cheap scale to meet foreign
competition.
The report was adopted after a discussion, and the meeting
proceeded to formal business.
The following officers were elected : — President, The Rt. Hon.
Lord Grimthorpe ; Vice-Presidents, Daniel Buckney, David
Glasgow, Julien Tripplin, F.R.A.S.; Treasurer, Thomas Mercer;
August 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLEE AND SILVERSMITH.
■21
Members of Council, Richard Atkins, Charles Bacon, William
Barnsdale, Thomas Baxter, James Bray, Richard Bridgman,
Daniel Buckney, Lewis Donne, Charles Dunn, Robert Gardner,
John Hammersley, G. H. Harwood, James Haswell, Thomas
Hewitt, H. P. Isaac, Ami Jaccard, E. D. Johnson, F.R.A.S.,
Victor Kullberg, James Oliver, Edward Perrett, Edward Rigg,
M.A., J. B. Smith, Richard Strachan, F.R.M.S., Julien Trip-
plin, F.R.A.S., F. W. Troup, Joseph Usher, F. R. Warman,
A. W. Webb, T. J. Willis, Philip Woodman.
Jftr* £aue Chomas on Applied Art.
fjffHE terms "Applied Art" and "Applied Arts'' may pos-
sibly be suificiently understood by painters, sculptors and
architects, but the classification adopted by the late Sir
Henry Cole, the "Fine Art Manufactures," would be better
understood by the many ; moreover, " Applied Art " is not a
sectional, but a general term. All fine art is applied art, art
applied to painting, to sculpture, to architecture, to mural decora-
tion, &c. We should recollect, too, that the word "art" is
applicable to the mechanical as well as to the fine arts, and the
question naturally arises whether there be any great generalisa-
tion that formulates the aim of all art, that of the fine arts as
well as that of the mechanical ? There is — and it may be thus
concisely expressed — adaptation to purpose, that adaptation to
purpose which, in its complete fulfilment, constitutes perfect
fitness. The exaltation of the beautiful, to the disparagement of
of the fit, is the demoralising art tendency of modern asstheticism.
The good old English practice of aiming at perfect fitness would
have led the fine arts, and the art manufacturers, into the right
path. The Greeks recognised the principle of adaptation to
purposes as the true art-motive, hence the chaste simplicity that
characterises all their works. The beauty of the oviform was
shown to be an accident of the organic fitness of the egg, the
mere coincidence of its appositeness to taste — the form itself
may be separated, or divorced, from the natural fitness of the
organism to which it belongs, and may be used in a number of
different ways for the gratification of the eye, and for many
purposes with which it had originally nothing to do. Now this
separation or divorcement of the beauties of nature from the
organisms of which, scientifically speaking, they were the acci-
dents, is an important function of fine art. We not only
separate the oviform, but the human form, and other beautiful
forms from the organisms, the organic fitnesses in nature to
which they belong, and emjiloy them in fine art' productions.
How, then, it may be asked, are we to reconcile the fine arts with
the principle of adaptation to purpose ? In this wise, every work
of fine art has some purpose of its own to subserve, a purpose
determined chiefly by its subject, and in proportion as it fulfils
this end is it successful, and if the end be great, is it fit and
excellent. The satisfaction of the critical judgment, of good
taste, is an end and purpose in itself. The greatest works of
fine art now existing have been rated excellent from their adapta-
tion to their purposes as works of art. Moreover, when we come
to apply fine art to utilities, the critical taste demands that it
have some consistent relation to them, although the forms of the
utilities themselves be merely used as pegs, or pretences, on
which to hang fine art, as in the case of Flaxman's Achilles
Shield, the Portland Vase, &c. The principle of adaptation to
purpose is as applicable to works of literature as it is to the
plastic arts. Let societies and individuals, however, strive as
they may to promote good taste, little or no progress will be
made towards a higher development of the fine arts, and of the
art manufactures, till a consensus of educated opinion be brought
to bear upon them. A discriminating demand by the titled and
by the wealthy for their continuous production has ever proved a
most potent and effective stimulus to excellence. In default of
such a demand, any attempt to force art by technical procedure
will, in n great measure, prove abortive, as well as a waste of
time and a wast? of money. — Journal of the Society of Arts.
]ubilee Fountain ano itloch Cower for
Stratforb-on-Auon.
|X| LOFTY, spire-like and highly ornamental drinking
<^^> fountain, with clock tower, is now being built in the
Rother Market, Stratford-on-Avon, at the expense
of Mr. George W. Childs, of Philadelphia, who, by this
munificent and noble gift to the birthplace of Shakespeare,
supplies the inhabitants of the town with what has long been
felt to be one of its most pressing needs. It will be a durable
and beautiful memorial of the friendly feeling existing between
the two nations in this Jubilee Year.
The base of the tower is square on plan, with the addition of
boldly projecting buttresses placed diagonally at the four corners,
terminating with acutely pointed gablets surmounted by a lion
bearing the arms of Great Britain alternately with the American
eagle associated with the stars and stripes. On the north face
is a polished granite basin, having the outline of a large segment
of a circle, into which a stream of water is to flow constantly
from a bronze spout ; on the east and west sides are large
troughs, of the same general outline and material, for the use of
horses and cattle, and, beneath these, smaller troughs for sheep
and dogs. On the south side is a door affording admission to
the interior, flanked by two shallow niches, in one of which will
be placed a barometer, and in the other a thermometer, both of
the best construction. Immediately over the basins and the door
are moulded pointed arches, springing from dwarf columns, with
carved capitals. The tympanum of each arch is filled by
geometric tracery, profusely enriched with carvings of foliage.
In the oblong spaces between the margins of the basins and
the opening of the arches are the following inscriptions, cut into
the stone : —
i.
The gift of an American citizen, George W. Childs, of Philadelphia, to the
town of Shakespeare, in the Jubilee Year of Queen Victoria.
II.
In her days, every man shall eat, in safety
Under his own vine, what he plants ; and sing
The merry songs of peace to all his neighbours.
God shall be truly known ; and those about her
From her shall read the perfect ways of honour,
And by those claim their greatness, not by blood.
Henry VIZ, Act V., Scene 4.
III.
Honest water, which ne'er left man i'the mire.
Tinum of Athens, Act I.. Scene 2.
IV.
Ten thousand honours and blessings on the bard who has gilded the
dull realities of life with innocent illusions. — Washington Irri?ig's
" Stratford-on-Avon."
The next story of the tower has on each face a triple arcade
with moulded pointed trefoiled arches on slender shafts. The
arches are glazed, and light a small chamber, in which the clock
is to be placed. At the corners are cylindrical turrets, terminating
in conical spirelets in two stages, the surfaces of the cones
enriched with scale-like ornament. In the next story are the
four dials of the clock, under crocketed gables, with finials
representing " Puck," " Mustard Seed," " Peas Blossom " and
" Cobweb." The clock faces project slightly from a cylindrical
tower flanked by four other smaller three-quarter attached turrets
of the same plan ; from the main central cylinder springs a spire
of a slightly concave outline, and the four turrets have similar
but much smaller spirelets, all five springing from the same level,
and all terminating in lofty gilded vanes. Immediately below
the line of springing is a band of panelling formed of narrow
trefoiled arches. The central spire has on four opposite sides
gableted spire-lights, and, at about one-third of its height, a
continuous band of narrow lights to spread the sound of the
clock bells. The height from the road to the top of the vane is
50 feet. The clock will be illuminated at night.
The materials of which the monument is being constructed are
of the most durable kind — Peterhead granite for the base and
troughs, and for the superstructure a very hard and durable
stone, of a delicate grey colour, from Bolton Wood, in Yorkshire,
The architect is Mr, Jethro Cossins, of Birmingham,
22
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[August 1, 1887.
British Association.
fHE fifty-seventh annual meeting of this Association will be
held at Manchester, and will commence on Wednesday,
August 31, 1887. The first meeting of the General
Committee will be held on Wednesday, August 31, at 1 p.m., for
the election of the president and sectional officers, and the despatch
of business usually brought before that body. The General Com-
mittee will meet again on Monday, September 5, at 3 p.m., for
the purpose of appointing officers for 1888, and of deciding on the
place of meeting in 1889. The concluding meeting of this Com-
mittee will be held on Wednesday, September 7, at 1 p.m., when
the report of the Committee of Recommendations will be received.
The first general meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 31,
at 8 p.m. precisely, when Principal Sir William Dawson, C.M.G.,
M.A., LL.D., F'.R.S., will resign the chair, and Sir H. E.
Roscoe, LL.D., M.P., F.R.S., President-elect, will assume the
presidency, and deliver an address. On Thursday evening,
September 1, at 8 p.m., a soiree ; on Friday evening, September 2,
at 8.30 p.m., a discourse on "The Rate of Explosion in Gases,"
by Professor H. B. Dixon, M.A., F.R.S.. F.C.S.; on Monday
evening, September 5, at 8.30 p.m., a discourse on " Explorations
in Central Africa," by Colonel Sir Francis de Winton, K.C.M.G.,
R.A.: on Tuesday evening, September 6, at 8 p.m., a soiree : on
Wednesday, September 7, the concluding general meeting will be
held at 2.3J p.m.
The following is a list of the sectional officers : — .1. — Mathe-
matical and Physical Science — President, Professor Sir R. S.
Ball, M.A., LL.D.. F.R.S., Astronomer Royal for Ireland :
Secretaries, R. E Baynes, M.A (Recorder) : P. T. Glazebrook,
M.A., F.R.S.: Professor H. Lamb, M.A. . F.R.S.; W. N. Shaw,
M.A. B. — Chemical Science — President. Edward Schunck,
Ph.D.. F.R.S.; Secretaries, Professor P. Phillips Bedson, D.Sc.
I Recorder) ; H. Forster Morley, M.A.. D.Sc: W. Thomson,
F.R.S.E. €.— Geology— President, Henry Woodward, LL. I >.,
F.R.S.: Secretaries. J. E. Marr, M.A.: J. J. H. Teall, M.A.;
W. Topley (Reorder): W. VV. Watts. B.A. D.— Biology-
President, Professor A. Newton, M.A.. F.R.S.: Secretaries. C.
Bailev, F.L.S.: F. E. Beddard, M.A.: Walter Heape (Recorder) ;
W. L. Sclater, B.A.: Professor H. Marshall Ward, 31. A. E.—
Geography — President, Major-General Sir Charles Warren,
R.E., G.C.M.G, F.R.S.; Secretaries. Rev. L. ('. Casartelli,
M.A.. Ph.D.: J. S. Keltie : H. J. Mackinder : E. G. Ravenstein
(Recorder). F. — Economic Science anil Statistics — President.
Robert Giffen, LL.D.: Secretaries. Refc W. Cunningham, B.D.,
D.Sc (Recorder): F. Y. Edgeworth, M.A.; T. H. Elliot:
Professor .I.E. C. Munro, LL.D. G. — Mechanical Science —
President, Professor Osborne Reynolds, M.A. , LL.D.. F.R.S.;
Secretaries. 0. F. Budenberg, B.Sc: W. Bayley Marshall : E.
Rigg, M.A. (Recorder). H. — Anthropology — President, Pro-
fessor A. H. Sayce. M.A.: Secretaries. G. W. Bloxam. M.A.
(Recorder) ; J. G. Garson, M.D.: A. M. Paterson, M.I).
Che Jfterchanbise fflarhs Bill.
fjIjfHE following are the amended clauses of the Bill which
^M 1 relate to watchmakers, to which, for the purpose of com-
partson, we append the original clauses.
8. Where a watch case has thereon any words or marks which
constitute, or are by common repute considered as constituting.
a description of the country in which the watch was made, those
words or marks shall prima facie be deemed to be a description
of that country within the meaning of this Act; and the pro-
visions of this Act with respect to goods to which a false trade
description has been applied, and with respect to selling or
exposing for or having in possession for sale, or any purpose of
trade or manufacture, goods with a false trade description, shall
apply accordingly.
9. (1.) Every person who sends or brings a watch case,
whether imported or not, to any assay office in the I T nited
Kingdom for the purpose of being assayed, stamped or marked,
shall make a declaration declaring in what country or place the
case was made ; if it appears by such declaration that the watch
case was made in some country or place out of the United King-
dom, the assay office shall place on the case such a mark (differing
from the mark placed by the office on a watch case made in the
L nited Kingdom) and in such a mode as may be from time to
time directed by Order in Council.
(2.) The declaration may be made before an officer of an assay
office, appointed in that behalf by the office (which officer is
hereby authorised to administer such a declaration), or before a
justice of the peace, or a commissioner having power to administer
oaths in the Supreme Court of Judicature in England or Ireland,
or in the Court of Session in Scotland, and shall be in such form
as may be from time to time directed by Order in Council.
(3.) Every person who makes a false declaration for the
purposes of this section shall be liable, on conviction on indict-
ment, to the penalties of perjury, and on summary conviction to
a fine not exceeding twenty pounds for each offence.
Original Clauses.
N. Where a watch case lias thereon any words or marks which
constitute, or are by common repute considered as constituting, a
description of the country in which the works of the watch were
made, those words or marks shall prima facie be deemed to be a
description of that country within the meaning of the principal
Act and this Act ; and the provisions of the principal Act and
this- Act with respect to goods with a covering to which a false
description relating to the goods has been applied, and with
respect to selling or exposing for sale goods with a false descrip-
tion, shall apply accordingly.
9. Whereas the marks placed upon watch cases bj the assay
offices in the United Kingdom have been frequently treated as
indications of the British origin of the cases so marked, and also
of the works contained therein, and for the purpose of preventing
fraud in connection with watches it is expedient to make further
provision respecting the marks to be placed on watch cases : be
it therefore enacted as follows : —
(1.) When a watch case imported into the United Kingdom
is sent to an assay office in the United Kingdom for the
purpose of being assayed, stamped or marked, the assay
office shall place on the case such a mark (differing from
the mark placed by the office on a watch case made in the
Dinted Kingdom) and in such a mode as may he from
time to time directed by Order in Council.
(2.) Every person who semis a watch case, whether imported
or not, to any assay office in the United Kingdom shall
make a declaration as to the country of origin of the works
which, according to the best of his information and belief,
the case is intended to contain : and where such a declaration
is made, the assay office shall mark on the case, in addition
to any other mark, such words indicating the country of
origin of the works, ami in such mode as may be from time
to time directed by Order in Council.
(3.) Any person who makes any such declaration falsely shall
be liable to punishment for perjury.
(4.) In this section " country of origin " means the country
where the works are made.
In the House of Lords, on the 26th ult., Lord Stanley of
Preston moved the second reading of the Bill.
Lord Herschell expressed his satisfaction that there was
now a prospect of a Bill dealing with the important subject of
fraudulent trade marks passing into law.
The Lord Chancellor observed that, as the Bill tended to
reverse the principle of the criminal law by throwing the onus of
proof on the accused, the principle would require to be somewhat
safeguarded in Committee.
The Bill was read a second time.
August 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
23
Che Buoy Jflines of Burmah.
JN the House of Commons last month, Sir J. Gorst, in
]*L reply to Mr. Bradlangh, said : — The position of Messrs.
Streeter in reference to the Burmah Ruby Mines is at
present one of expectancy. They have offered an annual
payment of four lakhs of rupees for a licence to work the
Ruby Mines under certain conditions in a certain defined
area. Their offer is now before the Secretary of State in
Council. Their first application was received by the Government
of India in February, 1886. The negotiations were conducted
by the Chief Commissioners of Burmah. No tenders for working
the mines were invited by the local authorities, but the willingness
of the Government of India to receive tenders was well known
at the time when Messrs. Streeter's first application was received.
No person other than a Mr. Ungar applied for permission to
visit the Ruby Mines, and was refused by the local authorities.
His application to visit the mines was made in December, 1886.
No engineer and staff in the employment of Messrs. Streeter,
together with machinery for working the mines, has ever been
escorted to Mojok. Despatches have recently been received from
India on the subject. The Secretary of State lias directed these
despatches to be laid before Council in the usual way, and the
question of the best mode of disposing of the mines will be in
due course considered by the Secretary of State in Council. As
soon as any final decision has been arrived at, the Secretary of
!r-tate will bejiappy to communicate it to Parliament, and he will
willingly present such papers on the subject as can, with advan-
tage to the public service, be laid upon the table of the House.
Later on Sir J. Gorst stated that he wished to be allowed to
amplify an answer he gave last week to the hon. member for
Northampton respecting the Ruby Mines in Burmah. The
Secretary of State had received the following telegram from the
Viceroy : — " I find the statement that Streeter's people are not
at work on the mines requires qualification, for Crosthwaite has
just informed us that he had authorised his Deputy-Commissioner
to permit persons who wished to dig for rubies to do so under
the old system and without the use of machinery, as provisional
means of enhancing revenue until final decision can be arrived at
in regard to the disposition of the mines, and that a written
permit had been issued to Streeter's son, as it might have been
to any or similar applicant. Crosthwaite adds that he con-
sidered this an ordinary act of the local Executive, and not of
such importance to be reported to the Government of India. It is
quite a distinct matter from leasing of Crown monopoly right, on
which action is suspended pending your decision" — that was the
Secretary of State.
Mr. Bradlaugh would hardly call that an amplification, for it
was rather a contradiction ; and said that in view of the absolutely
contradictory answers which he had received during the past
twelve months with reference to the Burmah Mines, he begged to
ask the First Lord of the Treasury whether he would take care
that papers dating from February, 1886, were laid on the table
forthwith, so that the House might form a judgment on the subject.
Mr. W. H. Smith said there would be no delay in laying the
papers on the table.
On the 26th ult. Sir J. Gorst, replying to a series of questions
on this subject by Mr. Watt, said :— The Secretary of State can,
after careful inquiry, find no trace of any assurances being given
to Mr. Streeter, Jun., before he left London, that he would get a
permit to work the Ruby Mines. He had no information about
Mr. Streeter's arrangement for a staff. The Secretary of State
has no information as to the third member of the syndicate.
The inquiry now instituted by the Secretary of State has reference
solely to the best mode of disposing of the Ruby Mines. The
allegation that certain Government officials were interested in
the syndicate Is now heard of by the Secretary of State for the
first time. If any such allegation is made by a responsible
person and supported by prima facie evidence, the -Secretary of
State will cause inquiry to be made. I could not state to the
House, in answer to a question, the nature of recent despatches
without unduly trespassing upon the time of the House.
£he Birmingham ]eojeUery Urabe.
jfPN a letter to the Birmingham Daily Post, Mr. S. Wall
JiL Richards says : — I am deeply interested in all that pertains
to my native town, good old Brum ; and as I see the Daily
Post every morning I keep in touch with all that is going on,
rejoicing in its triumphs and sympathising with its misfortunes.
Having been engaged for many years as a manufacturer in one
of the branches of the jewellery trade, I should like, if you would
permit me, to offer a few suggestions in reference to this
industry, and what I consider its probable future, for I do not
for a moment think that it is going to die, though it is sick.
Just for a moment we will consider the jewellery trade " a
fashion trade," pure and simple. Compare it with other fashion
trades and then see how it stands. Do we hear of prostration in
the millinery and dressmaking branches and the trades that are
adjuncts to the filling in of the many divisions of a lady's
wardrobe ? Do we hear of such depression in the fashion brandies
of the tailorins- or outfitting, or the hatters' or hosiers' ? On
the contrary, 1 maintain that all of these are growing in im-
portance, are flourishing in fact. And if so, how is it ? My
answer is this, that when the jewellers collectively (individually
it is almost impossible) do for their industry what is done for
those fashion branches I have mentioned, the jewellery trade will
be a steady and prosperous branch of industry. I shall at once
be asked : What do the fashion trades do that the jewellers
omit ? My answer is that they deluge the country with fashion
literature. Look at the weekly fashion journals and magazines,
the press notices that are constantly appearing in every con-
ceivable and imaginary form ; even ordinary weekly newspapers
have their " Ladies' column" devoted to the same end — namely,
educating and stimulating the public wdiat to wear, what to
appear in, what is most becoming, and how to look nice, which
every woman will do, or strive to do, to the end of time. If
all of these mediums suddenly ceased their teaching an I
preaching, what a collapse ! What a widespread depr. ssion there
would be in every fashion trade I have referred to. Writers who
like to dwell upon the progress of the age, not unfrequently refer
to the improved taste in dress as now worn by both sexes —
thanks to the teaching of the fashion journals.
To me, Sir, it is remarkable that so little effort has been made,
so little done, with reference to developing a taste for jewellery —
how to buy it, and how it should be worn. It may be ungallant
to say so, but I am afraid that very few know how to wear
jewellery properly. A lady would be shocked if she were told
that the same kind of dress she wore at breakfast would do to
appear in at dinner, or that a walking costume would do for a
ball, or that it would be in order to pay a visit of condolence to
a bereaved friend in the attire in which she would attend a
concert. She has been taught differently by the fashion journals,
and that a suitable costume is required for each occasion. But
how about the jewellery to be worn with each ? There would be
minute particulars about the trimming of each bonnet, the colour
of the gloves, &c. ; but whoever sees a paragraph about jewellery —
how that should be worn ? The probability is that half a suite
of coloured gold would be made to do duty on three of the
occasions I have enumerated, and a mutilated suite of bright gold
jewellery on the others. Till ladies are told, and told often, that
it is bad taste to wear jewellery only according to certain rules
and canons, they will continue to wear it as they do now — and
that is anyhow. When ladies are taught to be as careful in
selecting their jewellery as they are in selecting their wardrobes,
they will be as proud of one as of the other, and then a bright
future is in store for the "trade." I could enlarge upon this,
but your space forbids until some future occasion.
What is the immediate remedy ? Why, the jewellers of
Birmingham should combine and originate a fund so that the
fashion journals could be subsidised, and a column (more or less)
be devoted to their trade every week, in which well-written articles
should appear and notices in every form. The public have yet
to be educated, the demand has to be created as well as supplied.
I do not know an industry which has such resources for producing
U
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[August 1, 188?.
articles of beauty and novelty as the jewellery trade, and I speak
with knowledge when I say that the jewellers of the continents of
Europe and America are nowhere in the race, compared with
Birmingham, in the variety and elegance of their productions.
But many, very many, of the choicest novelties, for the want of
publicity, are in vain, and with the poet one may say —
" Full many a gem of purest ray serene
The dark unfathomed caves of ocean bear,"
for beyond being seen by a few capricious middlemen, the public
know them not ; whilst an enterprising maker of a pretty garter
or a hideous "dress improver"' can, by advertising and judicious
advocacy in fashion journals, stimulate demand and make a
market.
Hhe Hew $olo jubilee Jftebals.
sTpT the Trial of the Pyx, at Goldsmiths' Hall, the new gold
tJ&k Jubilee Medals were privately shown to the jury of the
S_G ^ Company, and they are now being issued from the Mint.
With regard to the crown, as is observed by a contemporary, the
same objection will probably be taken as has already been raised
with respect to it in the coins. This "round and top of
sovereignty," like the other, looks rather unbecomingly small,
and does not poise so securely on the head as it might do. The
artist, it may be presumed, depicted accurately what was placed
before him for the purpose. He is not to be held responsible for
the shape or relative dimensions of the crown, or for the position
it holds upon the head. But neither the shape nor position is
nearly so satisfactory as in the beautiful medal struck to com-
memorate the proclamation of Her Majesty Empress of India.
Nevertheless, Mr. Boehm's large medallion, of which this obverse
is a reduced copy, is an exquisite work of art. It has undoubt-
edly suffered somewhat in the process of translation from a
large plaster cast to a small steel die. For this translation Mr.
Boehm is also responsible, and it may be presumed, therefore,
that whatever deterioration may be detected in the second phase
of the work has occurred in spite of the most painstaking effort,
and must be considered unavoidable. In the medal there is a
certain hardness of feature not to be found in the medallion, and
in the veil and bust are one or two stiff and awkward lines
entirely the work of the steel die. The back edge of the veil,
scarcely perceptible in the original work, comes out from the die
a strong, straight line, very objectionably forming a right angle
with the lower extremity of the bust, and doing much to impart
the tilting appearance to the crown. The elaboration of the lace
in the veil has also, unfortunately, come out in two or three hori-
zontal lines, which to a large extent destroy the idea of lace. The
tool marks beneath the bust are moreover unpleasantly empha-
sised, though quite unobjectionable in the plaster. These
awkward little details are to be especially deplored, because,
though each is slight in itself, together they seriously detract
from an otherwise admirable work of art. This obverse of the
gold medal is almost a thing of beauty. In the original work, as
we have said, it is quite so. But after all criticism, the wonder
really is that such a work as Mr. Boehm has produced as a
medallion can be reduced to so small a size and reproduced in a
steel die with so little loss of its original artistic merit. On the
bust are shown the Victoria and Albert Order and the Imperial
Order of the Crown of India.
The reverse of the medal is from a design by Sir Frederick
Leighton, P.R.A. This is not open to the same kind of criticism,
partly no doubt from the nature of the design, which consists of
an allegorical group of small figures. For a description of it we
may quote from what we take to be the artist's own account : —
"In the centre, the British Empire sits enthroned, resting one
hand on the sword of justice, and holding in the other the symbol
of victorious rule. A lion is seen on each side of the throne. At
the feet of the seated figure lies Mercury, the god of Commerce,
the mainstay of our Imperial strength, holding up in one hand a
cup heaped with gold. Opposite to him sit the geniuses of Elec-
tricity and Steam. Below, again, five shields banded together
bear the names of the five parts of the globe — Europe, Asia,
Africa, America and Australasia — over which the Empire
extends. On each side of the figure of Empire stand the per-
sonified elements of its greatness — on the right (of the spectator),
Industry and Agriculture ; on the left, Science, Letters and Art.
Above, the occasion of the celebration commemorated is expressed
by two winged figures representing the year 1887 (the advancing
figure) and the year 1887 (with averted head), holding each a
wreath. Where these wreaths interlock, the letters V.I.R.
appear, and over all the words 'In commemoration.'" This
elaborate group was first designed by Sir Frederick Leighton in
a medallion about eleven inches across, and it will be easily
understood that when a medallion of this size, comprising so
large a number of figures, comes to be reduced to the size of a
crown piece or so, there can be no very great minutia; of detail.
Its beauty must consist mainly in the grouping and posing of
the figures, and in these respects we think the general verdict
will be that this reverse is a work of consummate skill.
Of course the work has involved consultation between the
respective artists and the Deputy Master of the Mint, the Hon.
C. W. Fremantle, C.B., who, with the superintendent of the
operative department, Mr. Robert A. Hill, is responsible for the
actual production of the medals, which in point of workmanship
fully sustain the high reputation of the English Mint for first-
rate execution. So far as the mechanical production is concerned,
these medals probably cannot be surpassed.
Che Princess of lilales anb the Birmingham
jewellery iTraoe.
COMMUNICATION has been received by Mr. J. Jacobs
from Colonel Stanley Clarke, private secretary to the
Princess of Wales, to the effect that Her Royal Highness
had been pleased to inspect the whole of the specimens of
jewellery submitted to her by the deputation of Birmingham
jewellers appointed for the purpose at a meeting recently held at
the Grand Hotel. The Princess expressed herself well pleased
with the work and selected several articles for purchase. The
class of work selected by Her Royal Highness is of the heavy
filigree description, which gives greater employment to working
jewellers than any other. Among the articles selected are
brooches and earrings, and it is earnestly hoped that the action
of the Princess will revive a fashion in the wearing of jewellery
which will be of the utmost benefit to the trade. If this class of
work can be successfully introduced by the shopkeepers through-
out the country to the customers, a large amount of employment
will be found for hundreds of men who are at present existing
under most depressing circumstances. Councillor Charles Green,
one of the committee of jewellers appointed to submit the speci-
mens to Her Royal Highness, returned on the 23rd ult. to Bir-
mingham, taking with him the remainder of the. articles.
The Birmingham Daiij/ Gazette understands that, at an early
date, it is intended to call a meeting of the whole trade in Bir-
mingham to consider the primary cause of the great and almost
unparalleled depression, and also certain grievances which have
long been talked over amongst jewellers, but which have not yet
been definitely dealt with. Among other matters to be discussed
will bi the extremely low prices obtained for such articles as Hall-
marked alberts in silver and gold, and Hall-marked bracelets. The
retail prices of these, it is said, bring scarcely any remuneration
to the manufacturing jeweller or to the working men. Other
matters which will be brought up are the excessively long terms
in vogue in the trade and the ruinous system of "appro.," and it
is hoped that the outcome of the meeting will be some arrange-
ment between merchants and manufacturers, and, if possible,
retail dealers, by which prices may be adjusted on more equitable
terms. It has become painfully apparent to everyone that some-
thing must be done to relieve the trade of the heavy depression
which exists, the failures of late having been of alarming
frequency.
August 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
25
Kashmir.
By William Simpson, R.I., F.R.G.S., Hon. Assoc, R.I.B.A.
KASHMIE i
If "woman can make the worst wilderness dear,
Think, think what a heav'n she must make of Cashmere ! "
now the official form for the word we have so
long known as " Cashmere." The Indian Government
have adopted a new spelling for most of the names of
places, and this will explain why the quotation from " Lalla Rookh"
differs from the word as given at the head of this article. The
description of Kashmir as a " valley " is accurate enough, but
the term does not quite convey the character of the locality. It
is agreed on all hands that it was at one time a lake, and that
as the waters of the Jhelum slowly wore away the opening at
Baramula, the level of the lake fell, and in time the bed became
dry land ; even yet much of it is jeel or marsh, besides which
there are lakes : among them is the celebrated " Lake of Cash-
mere ; " near to Baramula is the Wulur Lake, a large sheet of
water — it is ten miles in one direction and about six in the other
— which might be described as part of the original lake not yet
dried up. Instead of being like a valley, this old lake bed has
the appearance of a great plain, for it is stated as being about 100
miles in length, and that in its widest part it extends to 60
miles. Being surrounded by high mountains, like a rampart all
round, which are white with snow the greater part of the year,
it is a perfect realisation of the "Happy Valley'' of Rasselas.
By all it is familiarly known as the " Happy Valley," and Moore
calls it the " Valley "of Bliss." Being about 6,000 feet above the
sea, these descriptive terms require no arguments for their
acceptance to those who reach its grateful coolness from the
plains of India when the summer sun is blazing.
The visitor to Kashmir will find himself on his first arrival
surrounded by a crowd of boatmen, and the mode of escape from
their presence is to hire one of them. The engagement includes
boat and men as well, at so much a month : they attend upon you
at all hours, for the boat takes the place of a horse or carriage ; by
means of the river, the canal and the lakes, your boatman can
take you to almost any spot. The first point of attraction is
generally the dull or lake ; this lies close to the town of
Grinugger, and is reached by the "Apple Tree" canal. That
part of the lake nearest the town is shallow, while the opposite
shore skirts the base of the hills, where there is more depth of
water. The shallow side is covered with aquatic plants, which
grow in such profusion that the boats can only pass along narrow
channels kept open for the traffic. Among the vegetable growths
are many flowering plants with bright tints ; but the queen of
flowers here is the lotus. Great stretches of space are covered
with it ; its large green leaves float on the surface, and the
flowers are in such profusion, that the eye as it gazes along the
distance catches bright gleams of a beautiful rose tint. It is
this ample crop of leaf and flower which justifies Moore's
description of the lake as being " like a garden " —
" With the rich buds that o'er it lie,
As if a shower of fairy wreaths
Had fallen upon it from the sky ! "
The seeds of the lotus are not unlike green peas ; they are
very pleasant to eat, and ate supposed to produce the feeling of
forgetfulness. Moore realised the beauty of the spot from the
accounts of others, and it is surprising to find how accurate he
has been. " Lalla Rookh " is a. perfect guide-book to the lake of
Cashmere, and the reader may be referred to it if he desires
further information ; although tempting it might be to describe
such a spot, and recall the many memories of my visit, 1 must
refrain, as I have other things to describe which may be of
some interest to the readers of this journal.
Whoever reads "Lalla Rookh" — and I refer more particularly
to the last tale in that book, winch is called " The Light of the
Harem," where the scene is laid in Kashmir — he will find that
although there is so much minuteness of detail, Moore gives not
the slightest hint in relation to the personal ornaments or the
jewellery worn by the fair creatures of his fancy ; his authorities
had evidently overlooked such information, or, more probably,
they had not had the opportunities of seeing how the Kashmir
ladies decked themselves. In former times, visitors to the
Happy Valley were few, but now this is all changed, and every
summer sees a crowd of people who are glad to escape from the
plains to the less fervent climate of the hills. My visit took
place as far back as the summer of 1861, when I spent about
six weeks in the valley. I had the advantage of visiting the
different localities with General van Cortlandt and his family, he
being the Resident for that year. The event which enables me
to write this article resulted from the visit of two friends, who,
knowing that my object was to see and sketch whatever was
characteristic of the country, proposed that they would try, for my
benefit, to realise the days of " Lalla Rookh." To do this, they
proposed to have a Nautch, and some of the most noted dancing
girls were engaged ; and to carry out the idea fully, it was to
take place in the Shalimar Gardens, and in the very building,
described by Moore, where Noor Mahal had sung —
" And, oh ! if there be au Elysium on earth,
It is this, it is this."
Moore (in a footnote) calls it a " saloon " — a term not very
Oriental in its associations, and in this case not very accurately
descriptive — it is a class of erection common in Indian gardens,
and is called a baradurreh, which means twelve doors. It is a
summer house, with three doors on each of its four sides, to allow
the air to come in from any quarter it may chance to blow.
This particular one in the Shalimar is very handsome, being
constructed of black marble, and very beautifully carved. A
small stream, flowing from the hills, has been led through the
gardens, and the water surrounds the baradurreh'; small cascades
have been formed, and jets of water can be made to play around,
giving a touch of beauty along with the feeling of coolness to
the spot.
Our party was to be a very small one ; if I remember right
there were only three invitations, among which was the General,
with whom I went, crossing the lake in a boat, reading " Lalla
Rookh" as we were paddled along. The programme included a
dinner, which we sat down to about sunset ; the fountains were
playing, and a cascade had been turned on where there were
small niches in the wall : lights had been placed in these and the
water fell in front of them, producing a very beautiful effect.
While we were at dinner the men had been busy lighting chirags;
these are small earthen cups containing oil and a wick, with
which illuminations are produced : they were put in rows along
the edge of the water. When we had finished dinner and moved
into the other verandah, where coffee and cigars were to be
enjoyed, the whole place was bright with the illuminations, the
fountains were murmuring, and we found the Nautch girls had
arrived, each with her baji- wallahs or musicians, and were ready
to begin. I forget now what the first song was, most probably
it was " Taza be taza — Now be now" — a very beautiful song :
the words are by Hafis, and it is a great favourite in Kashmir.
The effect was wonderful. I had been to nautches* before, but
they are performances which no one cares to see a second time ;
in this case everything was different. The beauty of the spot may
be imagined from the description already given : it was purely
Oriental, the word " enchanting " might be used to describe it,
but that was only a small part of the influence. We knew it was
the scene as pictured in " Lalla Rookh," and which we had all
been reading — page by page we had gone over the book, often on
the very spot described — if Moore's descriptions were all faithfully
true,, the fair creatures before us were equally so. We had all
become " lotus eaters," and had forgotten the outer world entirely.
While the dance went on our thoughts only turned to the times
of Jehanguire and jSToor Mahal. The illusion was complete;
for the moment we seemed as not belonging to the 19th century.
Had a jin or a giant appeared amongst us, or a peri from
paradise, such an appearance would not have been thought out
of place ; we had reached such a state that none of us would, for
the time, have doubted a single tale in the "Thousand and One
Nights." On comparing notes afterwards, this was the condition
we all admitted ourselves to have reached. A very slight incident
*Nautchna is the verb " to dance."
26
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[Adgust 1, 1887.
at the end of the dance showed how perfectly we had been
entranced. When the two girls had finished the first performance
and sat down among their followers, hookahs or pijjes — better
known perhaps as " hubble-bubbles " — were ready for them ; the
gurgling sound produced by the smoke as it is inhaled through
the water is so familiar to everyone in connection with the
natives, and more particularly with one's own servants at the
present day, that the first gurgle of the smoke at once produced
the disenchantment, and we were brought back instantly to the
usual life of to-day as it is in India. The transition back to
reality was thorough, but it showed how strong the spell upon us
Goolee. The first impression will be that the two are entirely
different in style, but this is more apparent than real. Goolee
wore a small cap of rich khin-khobft and the ornaments are
attached to this ; but these ornaments, it will be noticed, have
a marked identity with those worn in the other case. This
resemblance consists in both being in the form of crescents, with
small pendants round their outer edge ; the Delhi lady wore
hers irregularly grouped, while Goolee had them symmetrically
arranged — a large one in the centre and two smaller ones on each
side — only two of these last are seen in the portrait, as the
chuddar hid the others : the stones within the crescents were
Fig. 1. — Goolee, a Nautch Girl of Kashmir.
had been. The sensations of these few minutes were in them-
selves an ample reward for the pilgrimage to Kashmir.
Luckily, in addition to a general sketch of the scene, I took
portraits of some of the girls, and as these include the ornaments
they wore, I am able to give some details. It may be mentioned
that some of the Kashmiris are so fair that they have a touch of
red in their cheeks. This was the case with Goolee (fig. 1), the
principal performer of the evening : her name means rose or rosy.*
To understand her head-ornaments it would be as well to look back
to the number of this journal for October last, where there is a
sketch of a Delhi lady, and compare it with the portrait of
* Gi ol, or gul, is Persian, and means generally a flower.
emeralds and rubies. A Nautch girl could not be expected to
have the same wealth of jewellery on her person as that worn by
a rich lady, still she had a heavy necklace of gold with stones in
it, and a smaller one with pearls. There was a third, with a
large pendant attached ; this was of gold with rubies, and con-
tained an emerald of considerable size. It need scarcely be
repeated here that the nose ornament in the left nostril is common
to all Indian women, rich or poor. In some cases it is a small
jewel, often a pearl, but oftener it is a gold wire ring, which
varies a good deal in size (sometimes it is quite three inches in
diameter). (To be continued.)
f Kltin-khob is a kind of cloth made of silk and gold.
August 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
27
American 3tems.
fljf HE Waltham Tribune says the Waltham factory is making
<alg 1,232 watches per day, and that the hands average a
(sTq)
monthly earning of 52 dols.
The New York correspondent of the American Manufacturing
Jeweler says that fashions remain about the same in that city,
with the exception, perhaps, of a resuscitation of the pendant
earrings. Almost all of the retail jewellery stores in the city
report a demand for these, but the manufacturers do not seem to
be aware of it. Why they should be called for no one knows.
It is one of the caprices that the public sometimes enjoys, but it
will be a good thing for the makers of gold jewellery, and enable
them to get some of the patronage which the precious stone
dealers have enjoyed so long. The gem-set objects still find
favour, however, and insect pins appear to be as fashionable as
ever. Silver belts, either in plain bands or in massive links, are
much worn, the bands appearing to have the preference. This
display of the precious metals in articles of raiment, which we
have been accustomed to look for among Oriental and barbaric
peoples, appears to be steadily growing among our ladies. Even
the parasol finds room for jewels incrusted in its stick and for
yellow gold effects elsewhere that enhance its value to three or four
hundred dollars each. These, however, cannot be called staple
articles, and few have them except the newly rich and ostenta-
tious folk. Both brooches and bar pins have a continued demand
without apparent interference one with the other. Pendant
settings for jewels are assuming a strong leadership, for the
reason probably that the swinging motion shows to best advan-
tage the brilliancy of the stones, and we may expect soon to see
the fair sex with earrings of this description as well as other
objects. Some years ago it was deemed bad taste for a lady to
wear diamonds when on the street, but now one can hardly meet
a well-dressed woman who has not diamonds in her ears, upon
her breast and arms, or in the shape of rings which one ungloved
hand gives an opportunity for display. Silver jewellery also, while
in no way competing with the gold, is greatly worn, and in
all the forms which its white colour allows. In fact, nearly
everything which ingenuity can invent, whether artistic or
not, seems to find some person whose taste is gratified by
possession. The difference in forms is regulated solely by the
difference in tastes.
The strike of the New York silversmiths is nearly over.
Most of the men, with the exception of the chasers, have returned
and agreed to sever their connection with the arbitrary and dicta-
torial unions. Too much credit cannot be given the manufac-
turers for their firm stand in the undoubted right which they
possess of managing their own business without outside inter-
ference. So far as they are concerned, it has settled the question
for a lone; time to come.
The Jewelers' Weekly says that as an example of the way
fashion leaves no stone unturned in her unwearied search for
novel effects, the present rage for antique and quaint jewellery
conspicuously presents itself. Tired of the elegant ornaments
with which her dressing-case is replete, seemingly because they
are all in good taste and therefore present no striking peculiarity
to the eye, my lady starts in quest of something odd — something
that will arrest the attention. She delights in Indian moon-
stones cut into hideous, leering demons' heads, with deep-set
diamond or ruby eyes. She orders opals in heavy, rude settings,
as they are made by Indian smiths with no other tools than a
charcoal brazier and a hammer. A heavy silver belt, fashioned
generations ago by village artisans, is her special delight. She
decks herself with these quaint suggestions of barbarism and
simplicity and feels satisfied that she is a la mode. Surely fashion
is a wilful and capricious mistress.
Che 1B0I6 Supply.
lectur
WN a recent
■J1L, graphical Society,
at the meeting of the Manchester Geo-
Mr. Thomas Cornish, after observing
that he had had the opportunity of acquiring a large and
varied experience of many of the gold fields of the world, said the
great benefits derived from gold mining, or the production of
new gold, appeared to him not so well understood as they should
be. It had become, he considered, one of the important, if not
the most important, industries of the day. It created new wealth,
or purchasing power, of a fixed value. It was the direct-acting
means of opening up new avenues of industry, which but for it
would not be known or required. It had a similar effect on the
finance, trade and commerce of the world as steam had on loco-
motion. All the trade of London for a year would not add an ounce
of new gold or four new sovereigns to the coin currency or actual
capital of the world. Any party of gold miners, producing any
given quantity of gold from the earth, did more real good to the
community than did business transactions of any similar body of
men engaged in other operations, because the gold so raised
became an addition to the working capital of the community by
affording additional means of extending its credit and securing
its liabilities. The great wave of depression felt in this country
during the past few years, and the scarcity of money and
remunerative labour which had been and was now so severely felt
by our industrial classes, must in a great measure be accounted
for by the decreasing supply of new money from our gold-producing
Colonies. This had arisen not from want of plenty of auriferous
country for exploration and profitable investment, but more from
the fact that the gold-mining industry had been neglected and
virtually ignored by the general public, and especially by those
who had derived the greatest benefits by the production of gold.
With the vast mineral resources of the world there need be no
fear of exhaustion of the gold supply. What was wanted was
increased attention to the industry, the greater use of improved
appliances, and a more judicious direction of capital and labour
in the development and practical working of the mines and
extraction of the gold. There was no reason why the gold supply
could not be largely increased and permanently maintained to
meet the increasing requirements of nations and individuals.
The rapid strides of material progress in wealth, population,
finance, trade, commerce, and industries in America in conse-
quence of the discoveries of gold had been of a massive and
wonderful character. The lecturer instanced Denver, Colorado,
as a city whose marvellous growth had been built on the
prosperity of gold and silver mining. After reviewing at length
the gold fields of the Western States of America, of British
Columbia, the Central States of America, Guiana and Brazil,
the Gold Coast of West Africa, the Transvaal, New Zealand
and Australia, he said that gold was also being produced in
Russia in considerable quantities, and the Ural Mountains and
other districts no doubt contained large tracts of auriferous
deposits and quartz reefs. In Transylvania and other parts of
Europe gold was also found, and we should probably ere long
hear of the Welsh gold mines being set to profitable work. Gold
had also been got in Scotland and Ireland, and in all probability
further discoveries would yet be made there. He was satisfied that
there was ample scope for the profitable employment of _ tens and
hundreds of thousands of extra miners for gold and silver, and
would prove more remunerative than any other form of labour.
Professor Boyd-Dawkins said: So far as he could form an
opinion, gold seemed to be valuable because it was so hard to
get, and the question of putting money into gold mining was
exactly the question whether it would pay us or not. In many
cases where gold mining had been entered upon, most of the gold
obtained came out of the shareholders' pockets. Reef mining
was very costly, and prevented us from getting gold where it was
undoubtedly plentiful. While we had too little gold, it seemed that
we had too much silver. From his own examination of vast areas
of silver-producing country in America, he believed there was any
amount of silver there almost as yet unworked. He agreed with a
remark by the lecturer that it would be well if we had gold mining
conducted more scientifically and without a swindling element,
28
THE WATCHMAKER. JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[August 1, 1887
Note on the {Temper of Steel an6 the means of
obtaining it.
1»E know that tempered steel loses little by little (in
>-.1l\./ ; '' proportion to tin- degree to which it is re-heated) the
^^ properties the temper had given it. Up to about 21")°,
the effects of the annealing are hardly perceptible, but between
215° and 325° they become very marked and allow of the required
quality being given to the steel.
The essential point for obtaining always the same effects is to
heat to a determined temperature. The colours the metal takes
accordingly as it is heated aid us in this determination, but we
may also readily ascertain the temperature directly in a bath or
stove by means of a suitable instrument. Mercury boiling at
357°, the thermometer constructed with this liquid can be easily
read up to about 330°.
For these high temperatures, the makers furnish thermometers
in which a small quantity of azote is introduced above the
mercury, which prevents the rupture of the mercurial column and
regulates the readings. It is only necessary to take into account
the fact that the glass of thermometers exposed to rather
extensive variations of temperature itself varies : the capacity of
the reservoir changes, and results in a lowering of the zero. The
readings given by the thermometer are then too small : but it is
easy to determine the correction by plunging the instrument
into melted ice, and noting the degree marked : the figure of
the degree shows the correction to add to the indications of the
thermometer. It is well to repeat this test from time to time,
the displacing of zero being often very slow end being able to
remain so a loner time.
From the practical point of view it is unnecessary to know
exactly the temperature other than that to which we are working,
provided that the same can always be certainly reproduced : and
it is easy to manage with a thermometer of any kind, by making
preliminary experiments upon object- of the same nature as those
we wish to temper. For heating the objects, we may employ a
hot air stove, or better still — especially if it is large enough — a
liquid bath in which can be plunged an iron receptacle capable
of being closed, containing the objects to be tempered. The
thermometer is not plunged in the bath, but in an iron tube
immersed in the liquid ; this facilitates getting it out and lessens
the chance of breaking it. With regard to the liquid, the best
is a mixture of lead and tin : the more tin it contains, the more
it is fusible. Oil is not suitable, on account of the bad odour it
gives off at high temperatures : but paraffin may be used, which
has not this" inconvenience. If a bath of somewhat large
capacity is employed, it is relatively easy to maintain its tem-
perature constant"; the objects are thus submitted to the same
temperature and tempered uniformly. The temperature not
varying, they may also be left a longer or shorter time in
the bath.
In the above remarks, gas is indicated as the heating agent ;
if that cannot lie used, petroleum furnaces are recommended for
the purpose, provided other conditions allow of an easy and
prompt regulation of the temperature. In the case of an air
stove, where the variations of temperature are many more
to fear, it would be well to have an automatic regulator of
the temperature. There exist many models of such among
the makers of instruments for the use of chemists. — Journal
Suisse (CHorlogerie.
Accorui.no to the correspondent of Industrie*, the export of
machine-made Swiss watches is still on the increase. This is
specially the case as regards the consular district of Chaux-de-
Fonds,'where the value of exports in round figures was as follows :
1886 'April £12,000, May £12,900, June £12,000, total
£36,900 ; 1887, April £16,700, May £18,700, June £16,500,
total £51,900.
Che "Use of the Eyeglass.
TATJJILE in the opinion of Mr. Brudenell Carter and other
■•Ik-IL' 5 eminent ophthalmists, the judicious use of the magnifying
glass is by no means injurious to the eye, it is as well to
point out that this opinion is but conditional and does not apply
to its abuse. On this subject a correspondent of the Deutsche
Uhrmacher Zeitung says that a watchmaker more often than
not thinks to make use of his ordinary sight. It is then the
duty of a master to make the pupil appreciate from the beginning
of his apprenticeship the advantages he will find in the employ-
ment of the eye, and how much time and pain he will by that means
avoid, especially in measurings and rough work. Want of habit
in the estimation of sizes, or rather, in their exact comparison ;
inexperience, vanity or convenience; perhaps also the idea of
giving more rapidly to the eye the necessary dexterity — all much
induce beginners to use the eyeglass which they see employed by
the more advanced apprentices. They do as the clown who, not
knowing his alphabet, thinks that by putting on spectacles he
will be able to read immediately. The responsible master should
absolutely interdict the eyeglass to beginners, and, later, not
authorise its use until that is necessary. That which at first was
only due to vanity or inexperience, becomes in time a necessity
and cannot lie done without. Bui what a grotesque and at the
same time deplorable effect. Only certain pieces are produced,
the thick pieces hardly roughed out. when made by the aid of
the glass. It i- no excuse to say the work has been badly done
because the executor has bad i-yvs ; if he has Hot a good sight,
let him put on suitable spectacles. I know a good many watch-
makers who rarely use the eyeglass, and only for fine work.
What can be done by one can be done by others : nothing is
requisite but a firm will. Those who are not able to dispense
with the eyeglass, commit also from habit the unpardonable fault
of using glasses too stroDg, which leave an interval of only two
or three centimetres between the work and the ghiss. This is
pernicious for the eyes, because in using short focus glasses the
eyes become pained, and if they are continued an enfeeblemeni of
the sight is produced, and in consequence of the excitation of the
optical nerves headaches result which in some circumstances may
become chronic. The eyeglass for ordinary uses should be weak
and allow of an interval of from six to eight centimetres between
it and the work. It is quickly got used to and will not produce
tiredness of the eyes : this shows that no inconvenience will
result. Besides the weak glass, it is necessary to have a strong
pebble eyeglass, but the latter is required very exceptionally.
With use it sometimes happens that when the eyeglass is held
a long time near the eye. the glass becomes blurred, which is
very disagreeable. This proceeds from the vapours which emanate
from the eye and become condensed upon the glass. It is easy to
prevent this by making two holes opposite one another to make
the interval between the eye and the glass communicate with the
exterior air. These holes are made just above the glass, so that
the current of air circulating touches it lightly and prevents the
condensations. The glasses of eyeglasses are wiped ordinarily
with an old piece of linen or with the leather. These two
means are bad, because in proceeding thus the glass is covered
with imperceptible rays. It is preferable to make use of
silk, or still better, of unglazed porous paper that is not frayed,
or filtering paper. Tt is necessary to breathe on the "las-, before
wiping it.
Perry & Co., Limited, Steel Pen Makeks. — The Directors
of this Company have resolved to pay on September 1, out of
profits, an Interim Dividend on the Ordinary Shares for the first
! six months of this year, at the rate of 6 per cent, per annum, free
of Income Tax, being at the same rate as for the corresponding
period last year. The half-yearly Dividend on the Preference
Shares will be paid as usual at the fixed rate of 5 per cent, per
annum.
Ai-.a-M' 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
29
]em karney's Belt.
vT!EM CARNEY, the light-weight pugilistic champion of the
02 world, arrived in Birmingham on the 11th ult. Tlie belt
he has brought back with him has excited a great deal of
interest. In design and solid value it is far superior to many
of the English belts. At the Victoria Hotel, Liverpool, it has
been inspected by hundreds of persons, and in Birmingham it lias
likewise attracted large numbers of the curious. The trophy,
which is of silver and gold studded with diamonds and emeralds,
was made in Boston and scales 6^ lbs. [t is 38 in. long : the
shield or centrepiece is 9 in. deep and 6 in. wide. The upper
portion represents a star, and in the centre is set a diamond.
There are two plates on each side neatly enamelled and raised
from the surface, representing America. England, Ireland and
France. On the top of a golden globe are the initials of the
donor of the belt, '• E. C. H.," studded with diamonds. On
both sides are raised laurel leaves. Directly across the face and
attached to the lower portion of the globe is a streamer bearing
the inscription, " Holske International Challenge Belt."' Each
side of the medallion is a gold border holding a streamer on
which are the words " Light weight." Under the medallion is
a large gold eagle holding from its mouth a streamer with the
inscription, " Champion of the world." The shield has a neatly
engraved border to set off the raised work. Each side of the
centrepiece are fourteen gold rods connecting the side plates.
The plates each side of the centre are 6 in. deep and 4 in. wide.
A photograph of Holske is fixed prominently on the belt, and
there are two gold figures, one of Harry Gilmore, and the other
of -Jack McAuliffe, in fistic attitude. Other adornments are in
the shape of a good-sized gold thistle, an emerald, a wreath of
oak leaves, and an eagle with wide-spread wings. There are
three plates bearing records — one of the contest between Gilmore
and McAuliffe, one of the forfeit bj r McAuliffe to Carney, and
the third of the victory of Carney over Jem Mitchell. The belt,
as originally ordered, was made for 800 dols., but additional
labour has been added, bringing the actual cost up to 965 dols.
Carney is very proud of his trophy, and perfectly confident of his
power to keep it against all comers.
A £ashet for Sir Bicharb Jftoon, Bart.
Wf HE ceremony of inaugurating a few days ago one of the
Qm^ many benefactions of the London and North- Western
Railway Co. to the town of Crewe was marked by an
interesting personal incident. Sir R. Moon, the Chairman of
the Company, whose energy and ability in this post had marked
him out for one of the Jubilee distinctions conferred by the
Queen, was presented with a valuable casket enclosing an illu-
minated scroll constituting him the first honorary freeman of
the borough of Crewe. The casket was manufactured by Messrs.
T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham, commissioned by Mr. J.
Blackhurst, of Crewe, whose local knowledge enabled him to
furnish a series of details which have been turned to excellent
account in the design. The shape is severe, with justly balanced
lines, and mouldings as befitting the great engineering centre of
the London and North-Western system, and above a border
decorated with British oak leaves and acorns, is a miniature
representation in a series on the four sides of the casket of steel
rails and the new patent steel sleepers, one of the latest inventions
of Mr. Webb, the present Mayor, which have been produced at
Crewe Works. The body of the casket, which is richly decorated,
has the obverse and reverse divided by caryatide ornaments,
indicating respectively Industry, Commerce. Prudence and
Progress. The arms of Crewe in enamel, with the motto,
" Never behind." occupy the centre in front, while a series of
enamel plaques, carefully arranged with the ornament, go entirely
round the box. These plaques, carefully painted in colours, have
a very brilliant effect against the decorated gold surfaces. The
subjects are illustrative of the progress in locomotion which has
resulted in the present railway system. First, canal traffic is
J ry.D
illustrated, the boat being slowly towed by horse along the bank,
in a pretty country landscape ; next, coaching, as in the old
days. After that comes a correct rendering in enamel painting
of the old " Rocket " engine, the badge of the London and North-
western Railway Co.: and, finally, Mr. Webb's most recent
locomotive engine — a copy of the 3,000th example turned out
at Crewe Works. Enamelled views of the old Crewe Works
and of the Mechanics' Institution — the gift of the railway com-
pany to the town — occupy the sides. The lid bears, amid other
decoration, the crest and monogram of Sir R. Moon, a view of
Euston Station in 1837, and of the magnificent tubular bridge
over the Menai Straits. The inscription is on the reverse slope
of the lid, and the whole work has been carried out to the
satisfaction of all concerned.
iUhe Koh-i-noor.
'CCORDING to Burnham, the Koh-i-noor is the oldest
known diamond in the world. No diamond has probably
had a more romantic history, or has figured more largely
in the affairs of nations and individuals. Tradition assigns it an
exceedingly great antiquity, it having been found in the Godavery
river, Southern India, between 4,000 and 5,000 years ago,
previous to the Indian war celebrated in the great epic, the
"Makabharata," and was worn by one of the chiefs who fell in
battle on that occasion.
ft came into possession of the family of one of the ancient
native princes, the Rajah of Malwar. and was transmitted to his
successors through many generations, until it passed into the
hands of the Mohammedan conquerors of India, at the beginning
of the 14th century. It constituted one of the most valuable
gems of the Imperial treasury of Delhi, until it was carried off by
Nadir Shah, the Persian conqueror, in 1739. After the assas-
sination of Nadir, this gem became the property of the Afghan
monarchs, and from them was transmitted to Runjeet Singh, the
Sikh hero of the Punjaub, who had it set in a bracelet, and just
before his death, in 1839, he was advised to devote it to Juggernaut,
but the act was not consummated, and it was left among his other
treasures.
The story is told that Nadir Shah possessed himself of the
diamond by artifice. He believed that it was concealed in the
turban of the dethroned emperor, since it could not be found in
the treasury at Delhi, and on the pretext of restoring the con-
quered ruler to his dominions, which the wily Persian made the
occasion of a grand display, he artfully proposed, as a mark of
friendship, to exchange turbans with his Imperial guest, an act of
courtesy the prisoner did not deem it politic to refuse, and the
famous diamond came into the hands of the conqueror, who, on
beholding it, exclaimed : " Koh-i-nur," Mountain of light !
On the fall of Nadir Shah's extensive empire Ahmed Hiah,
the Afghan chief, who established a new dynasty, became the
fortunate, or the unfortunate, possessor of this ill-omened treasure
— a stone of fate — and from him it descended to his heirs. The last
of the line, Shah Soujah, kept this one cherished treasure during
his imprisonment and exile, until Runjeet Singh compelled him
to sell it for 150,000 rupees. After the subjugation of the Sikhs
by the English, and the annexation of the Punjaub to British
India in 1.849, the civil authorities took possession of the treasury
at Lahore, under the stipulation that all the property of the State
should be confiscated to the East India Co., and that the
Koh-i-noor should be presented to the Queen of England: thus
the talisman of Indian sway passed from the land of its birth to
the royal treasury of Windsor Castle.
Whitehall. July 28. — The Queen has been pleased, by
Warrant under Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual, dated 26th
inst., to place the name of Samuel Montagu, Esq. (in lieu of
that of Lionel Louis Cohen, Esq.. deceased), upon the Royal
Commission appointed to inquire into the recent changes in the
relative values of the precious metals. — Gazette.
30
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[August 1, 1887.
3sochronism in Flat and Breguet Springs.
By M. Sandoz.
T) Y the won] isochronism, which is derived from the Greek,
aM^| meaning equal time, is indicated the property possessed
by the pendulum and balance spring of accomplishing their
arcs of vibration of different amplitudes in the same space of'
time. In a pendulum, the only condition required is that its
length be such as to make the centre of gravity move according
to its cycloid curve ; but in the balance spring the means change
with the form of the spring. In the spherical or conical springs
the extreme curves, constructed after the mathematical rules
discovered by Professor Philipps, of the Polytechnic School of
Paris, will produce an isochronism very nearly perfect. In the
flat springs these curves cannot exist ; therefore other means
must be resorted to. I shall now give the results of several
years of experiment and study embodied in the following
theorems :
1. In the flat spring every coil has, theoretically, a point
where the vibrations are isochronal. 2. That point of isoch-
ronism is determined by the relative position of the two points
connecting the balance spring with the collet and stud, called
points d'attache.
These two propositions form the base of isochronism in the
flat spring ; therefore the idea generally accredited among
watchmakers that the isochronal properties of a flat spring depend
on its length is incorrect, since the tenth as well as the twentieth
coil of the spring is able to produce isochronism, the only limit
being .such size of springs as would perfect the freedom of its
action.
Freedom of action being necessary for the isochronal properties
of the spring to develop themselves, the spring must be bent to
the centre. If the first coil is too near, or the curve too flat, so
that even a minute part of the spring touches the collet, it will
hinder isochronism. Next, the spring must be pinned perfectly
tight in the collet and stud, and move freely between the
regulator pins.
These conditions being complied with, the watch is run three,
six or twelve hours with just strength enough to keep it going ;
the result is compared with a regulator and set down. Next,
the watch is fully wound up, and after a space of time equal to
the first trial, the result is again set down.
The watch will generally run slower in the short vibrations
than in the long ones, and consequently lose time in the pocket
in the last twelve hours of its running. Having set down as a
principle that every coil has an isochronal point, we have now to
determine that point, remembering that, as a general rule, every
increase of length of the spring over that point will cause the
watch to gain in the shortest vibrations, and every decrease back
of that point will cause it to gain in the long vibrations. This
rule is correct only for certain limits, as I shall explain. Sup-
posing that a balance spring of fifteen coils is perfectly isochronal,
with the two points d'attache just opposite each other, the
fourteenth and sixteenth coil, as well as the fifteenth, will produce
the isochronism very nearly at the same point. Suppose that we
increase gradually the length of that balance spring of fifteen
coils, pinned up so that the two points d'attache are placed
opposite each other, so that its length will now be fifteen-and-a-
half coils, the two points d'attache are now in a position where
they are said to be pinned to the half-coil. The result will be
that the balance spring will cause the watch to gain in the short
vibrations in the very same proportions in which it has been
gaining by the increase of the length of the first half. That
change will continue until we reach the same point on the
sixteenth coil that we started from on the fifteenth, and the two
pins are opposite to each other, at which point we shall again
have isochronism. The same method is applicable to the four-
teenth coil, with the same results.
Now, it is immaterial whether we take half the coil to the
centre or to the outside of the spring, because both of these
operations will produce the same results, viz., the change of the
relative places of the points d'attache of the spring. Therefore
the workman has his choice, and is guided by the size of the
spring and the weight of the balance ; for, taking half a coil to
the centre of the spring will not much affect the rate of the watch,
but taken outside, the difference will be great. On the other
hand, a very short cut to the centre will greatly affect the
isochronism, and at the outside a full half-coil will generally
produce from fifteen to twenty-five seconds' difference in twenty-
four hours. If, then, the watchmaker would produce the greatest
possible changes of isochronism in a watch, the change of position
of the two points d'attache of the spring of one coil around will
give him the two highest degrees of gaining and losing in the
short vibrations.
It follows from the foregoing remarks that if a watch loses in
the last running (short vibrations), the first thing to do is to
increase the length of the balance spring from the outside : if
the result is good, but not yet sufficient, give still more length ;
if the result is still worse, it shows that you are too far on the
coil. Take back the whole length that you had given in the
first operation and draw more length, so as to affect the spring
the other way; or, if your spring is already small, or your balance
pretty heavy, cut to the centre, so as to come around to the
required positions.
Some springs cannot produce the isochronism because of a
defect in their make, or on account of a want of homogeneity in
the metal. The only remedy for this is a new spring.
In the Breguet spring the isochronism is produced in the same
manner as in the flat springs ; but great care must be taken in
making the curve, for if it is not made in conformity with the-
principles of Philipps, the isochronism will be disturbed.
Few watchmakers understand the art of adjustment in positions,
and those few make it a regular business. It requires of the
operator considerable manual skill and reflective powers. The
great principle is to equalise the frictions, so that the pivots will
offer to the action of the spring the same resistance in the four
positions generallv required, viz., dial up, XII. up, cock up and
III. up.
After having inspected and corrected the train, so that the
motive-power is transmitted uniformly to the balance, the pivots
and jewels of the lever should be polished and shortened, so as to
have very little friction : next, the lever should be poised as
perfectly as possible, the notch in the fork where the ruby pin
acts should be polished, and the balance jewels made short enough
to have the holes square, rounded inside and perfectly polished,
the balance pivots well burnished, their ends half-rounded, and
the balance poised very carefully. The English method of
throwing the balance out of poise, to obtain the same rate in
different positions, is not generally accepted, and is considered a
bad practice by the most eminent watchmakers. The balance
spring is put in its position without the balance, and bent so that
the collet of the cock jewel will have the same centres.
The watch being now in good running order, is put on trial
for twelve or twenty-four hours, and the rate in each position
carefully noted. If there is any difference in the running with
the cock up or dial up, this slight defect can probably be remedied
by making the ends of the pivots even and equally polished.
If the watch loses with XII. up, which is generally the case, and
the friction on the balance jewels is reduced as. much as possible,
the remedy is to increase the friction when the watch is either
dial up or cock up. This is done by throwing the balance spring
a little out of the centre of the cock jewel, thereby adding to the
friction on the pivot end a lateral pressure against the balance
jewels. If the watch is well regulated with XII. up and loses
with III. up, throw the spring a little toward the figure III.;
this operation lifts up the balance when the watch is in losing
position, and diminishes the friction of the pivots in the par-
ticular case. Making the ends of the pivots perfectly flat has a
tendency to cause the watch to gain with dial up or cock up.
The sound of the watch must be clear in all positions, or else
friction is indicated, such as is due to rough jewels or pivots and
the rubbing of the safety pin against the roller.
August 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
31
Horological (Hub.
fjljf HE Annual Dinner of the Horological Club took place at
|Jt| the " Cock " Hotel, Epping, on Saturday, July 9. The
Chair was filled by Mr. J. Oliver, and the Vice-Chair by
Mr. H. Bickley, Honorary Secretary of the Club. Among those
present were Mr. D. Glasgow, Mr. W. Evans, Mr. A. Jaccard,
Mr. T. J. Willis, Mr. L. Donne, Mr. H. P. Isaac, Mr. G. Cotton,
Messrs. C. Curzon, W. G. Schoof, F. W. Knight, Willis, Jan.,
Newbold, Bromley, Robinson, &c. After dinner the loyal toasts
were given from the Chair and duly honoured.
In proposing " Success to the Horological Club " Mr. Glasgow
observed that the Club was now in the eighth year of its ex-
istence — a sufficient proof, if any were needed, of its necessity.
Of course, during that time there had been changes in the mem-
bership, though many then present had been members from the
beginning. As Treasurer of the Club he could assure them —
thanks in a great measure to the exertions of their Honorary
Secretary — of its sound financial condition, and thought it might
now be regarded as a permanent institution of the trade.
"The Benevolent Institutions of the Trade" was proposed by
the Chairman and responded to by Mr. Bickley. The toast of
" The Club Committee " having been proposed by Mr. Cotton
and duly acknowledged by Mr. Evans, Mr. Glasgow, in eulogistic
terms, gave the health of the Honorary Secretary. Mr. Bickley,
in responding, remarked on the value of social intercourse as a
factor in the world's progress. An American philosopher had
said that civilisation culminated in bringing a few men round a
table ; and it was astonishing to think how much art, science
and literature were indebted to social intercourse and good
fellowship.
In proposing the health of the Musical Director, the Chairman
said that the members were much indebted to Mr. Knight and
his able coadjutors for their very enjoyable musical evenings,
which had become quite a feature of the Club.
Mr. Knight acknowledged the compliment in graceful terms.
The remaining toasts were " The Chairman," proposed by Mr.
Willis and duly responded to, and " The Visitors," for which
Mr. Donne returned thanks.
"Workshop Jttemoran&a,
SIMPLE method of making emery wheels, which could also
be utilised for making grinding discs or sticks of various
shapes, is described in the Guide Scientifique. Gelatine
of good quality is dissolved in its own weight of water, the opera-
tion being conducted in a dark room. To the solution one-and-
a-half per cent, of bichromate of potash is added, which has been
previously dissolved in a little water. A quantity of very fine
emery, equal to nine times the weight of the gelatine, is intimately
mixed with the gelatine solution — pulverised flint may be substi-
tuted for emery. The mass is moulded to the desired shape and
then consolidated by heavy pressure. It is dried by exposure to
strong sunlisrht.
156 parts
For Plating the better qualities of German Silver,
cyanide of silver is dissolved in a solution of carbonate of
ammonia. The proportions used are : —
Sulphate of silver
Carbonate of ammonia (dissolved in distilled
water) 70 .,
Or, Cyanide of silver ... ... ... ... 134
Carbonate of ammonia ... ... 70
The silver salt in each case is boiled with the solution of the
carbonate of ammonia until it is dissolved. Sulphate of silver
is formed by adding a solution of sulphate of soda (Glouber's
salt) to a solution of nitrate of silver, or by boiling silver with
its weight of sulphuric acid.
For coating- common German silver, Tuck adds half-an-ounce
of sulphate of silver to a solution containing 107 grains of
bicarbonate of ammonia.
To Remove Soft Solder from Gold and Silver Work. —
The following method is given by Mr. A. Watt: — Place the
soldered article in a hot solution of perchloride of iron — made by
dissolving crocus or jewellers' rouge in muriatic acid — diluting
the solution with four times its bulk of water, and there leaving it
until the solder is removed. A formula recommended by Gee
for this purpose is composed of protosulphate of iron (green
copperas), 2 ozs.; nitrate of "potassa (saltpetre), 1 oz. ; water,
10 ozs. Reduce the protosulphate of iron and nitrate of potassa
to a fine powder, then add these ingredients to the water aird
boil in a cast-iron saucepan for some time ; allow the liquid to
cool, when crystals will be formed ; if any of the liquid should
remain uncrystallised, pour it from the crystals and again
evaporate and crystallise. The crystallised salt should be dis-
solved in muriatic acid in the proportion of 1 oz. of the salt to 8
of acid. Now take 1 oz. of this solution and add to it 4 ozs. of
boiling water in a pipkin, keeping up the heat as before. In a
short time the most obstinate cases of soft solder will be cleanly
and entirely overcome and the solder removed without the work
chansina; colour.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller and Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn, London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Bow, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
W. A. Murray, Loudon, for " Improvements in solitaires and
studs." Dated June 24, 1887.
F. Nockold, London, for "An improved method of cutting-
diamonds and other precious stones." Dated June 25, 1887.
J. Kobinson, London, for "A new or improved sliding stop for
watches." Dated June 28, 1887.
J. G. Lorrain, London, for '■Improvements in chronoscopes."
Dated June 29 ; 1887.
H. Bush, Hull, for ' ; Improvements in combination lamp and blow
pipe for gasfitters. jewellers, &c. Dated June 30, 1887.
M. F. L. Ehrlich and C. T. Storek, Berlin, for "Improvements in
a method of producing a bright printing gold, silver or platine."
(Complete specification.) Dated June 30, 1887.
9,292. M. F. L. Ehrlich, Berlin, for "Improvements in the method of
producing dead gold (silver, platine) decorations on china,
crockery ware, glass, enamelled metals, &c." (Complete specifica-
tion.) Dated June 30, 1887.
A. Mann, London, for " Improvements in alloys of aluminum
with other metals." Dated June 30, 1887.
C. A. Burghardt and W. J. Turning, Manchester, for " Improve-
ments in the production of aluminum." Dated July 2, 1887.
T. D. Harries, Aberystwith, for " A watch key." Dated July 4,
1887.
F. K. Baker, Birmingham, for "Improvements in sleeve links,
solitaires and other like dress fasteners." Dated July 4, 1887.
F. Price, London, for " An improved fastener for attaching and
detaching pencils, whistles, scent bottles and pendants to watch
guards or chains." (Complete specification.) Dated July 6, 1887.
A. Mann, London, for "Obtaining aluminum and alloys of
aluminum with other metals." Dated July 7, 1887.
A. N. Contarmi, D. Forbes and R. Matthews, London, for "A
novel means and apparatus for the extraction of platinum from
any ore containing same, and also gold from auriferous, ferru-
ginous sand." Dated July 9, 1887.
8,995.
9,063.
9,151.
9,264.
9,287.
9,291.
9,313.
9,389.
9,430.
9,436.
9,550.
9,586.
9,681.
Recent American Patents.
364,015—:
Cuff Fastener. D. Stone
Earring Fastening. T. \V. F. Smitten
Barring. H. Knickman
Jewellery, Mounting for. G. W. Byan
Metal Drawing Machine. W. A. McCool
Watch. G. E. Hart
Watch Balances, Manufacture of. G. E. Hart ...
Watch Case. C. K. Giles
Watch Case Pendants, Manufacture of. G. E. Hart
Watch Dial. G. E. Hart
Watch Movement Plate. G. E. Hart
Watch, Stem Winding. G. E. Hart
Watches, Transparent Dial for. C. Humbert, fils
Eyeglasses. Ga Nun &; Parsons
Quicksilver, Apparatus for Saving Floured. J. H. Rae
Watch Barrel. F.Parker
Watch Safety Guard. J. Lehr
Wheels, Manufacture of Metal. J. P. Little
Barometers. Rotary Indicator and Dial Scale for Aneroid.
H. S. S. Watkin
Clocks, Street. A. Staib
Clocks, Electric, Synchronising Apparatus for. Ramel & Dean
Micrometer Guage. A. H. Emery
Watch. F. B. Von Wechmar
364.143
364,140
364,179
363,915
364,126
364,105
364.107
363,817
364,108
364,109
364,110
364,106
363,959
364,340
364,372
364,370
364,528
10,843
364,692
364,971
365,023
364,193
365.032
32
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[August 1, 1887.
Files, Making. C. M. Fairbanks
Spectacle Frame. J. L. Newell
Clock. Electric Alarm. M. Steelier ...
Cuff Holder. C. A. Howell
Cuff Holder. A. S. Pattison
Eyeglasses, Bow Spring for. J. F. White ..
File Cutting Machine. PI. J. Gosling
Metal. Machine for Cutting. L. L. Hazen
Watch Regulator. C. E. Jones
Watch. Stem Winding. \V. W. Hastings ..
365,249
3<i5,090
365,493
365,685
365,626
3h7).49h
365,4«9
365,517
hi;:,. ess
365,595
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
1860, will be furnished from this office for 2s. Gd. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, Imperial Buildings, Ludgate Circus, E.C.
tBazette
Partnerships Dissolved.
Tuck & Godfrey, St. James' Street. Clerkenwell. manufacturing jewellers.
Briggs, Bennett & Newton. Sheffield, cutlery manufacturers.
Waterfall & Habgood. Wimborne Minster, watchmakers. Allcard >.v
Co., Sheffield, electro-plate manufacturers. Flavelle Brothers &
Roberts. Ely Place. Holborn and elsewhere, jewellers. John Swain
i: Co., Bristol, watchmakers. Henry Nicholls & Co.. Liverpool,
wholesale jewellers. Gourdel, Vales t v Co.. Old Change, City,
importers of French jewellery. Wertheini cV Hirschhorn. FTatton
Garden, goldsmiths. Collett ^ Co.. Birmingham, wholesale jewellers.
Faraday & Davey. Hatton Garden, jewellers.
To
FOWLER & POWELL,
COLONIAL BUILDING, HATTON GARDEN, E.C,
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
surrender in London. — Edwin Henrj Watts. Carnaby Street. Regent
Street, goldsmith.
surrender in the Country. — John Sharpe (trading as J. Sharpe ..v Co.),
Birmingham, wholesale jeweller. Robert James Dick. Birmingham,
jeweller. Henry Nathan Owles. Ipswich, watchmaker. William
Smith Wigg, Great Yarmouth, jeweller. John Jennings. Ewell Road.
Surbiton, watchmaker. Samuel Hyani Weingold and Maurice Levy.
Manchester, wholesale jewellers. Albert Chesterton. Nottingham,
watchmaker. William Hayward. Christchurch. Hampshire, watch-
maker. William Henry Stokes. Birmingham, manufacturing jeweller.
Thomas Marson (trading as T. Marson i: Co.). Birmingham, jeweller.
Frederick George Baker. Shanklin. watchmaker.
Receiving Order Rescinded.
W. H. Peake (trading as Grant & Peake), Gerrard Street. Soho, manu-
facturing jeweller ; June 30.
Public Examinations.
/;/ the Country. — W. S. Wigg. Great Yarmouth, jeweller : August 15, at 11.
J. Fletcher (trading as John Fletcher & Co.), Birmingham, jeweller.
&c; August 3. at 2. S. H. Weingold and M. Levy, importers of
foreign fancy goods ; August lo. at n. W. Hayward. Christchurch,
Hants., watchmaker : August 10, at 12. J.Jennings, The Pavement,
Surbiton. watchmaker : October 14. at 3.-30. A. Chesterton. Notting-
ham, watchmaker ; August 9, at 10.
Adjudications.
In London. — W. Van Walwyk. Clerkenwell Road, diamond mounter.
In the Country. — J. Sharpe (trading as J. Sharpe & Co.), Birmingham,
wholesale jeweller. J. Joseph and M. Joseph (trading as J. Joseph «!c
Sons, and as Scott & Co.), Birmingham and elsewhere, jewellers and
merchants. J. Wragg (trading as J. Wragg & Son). Sheffield, spring
knife manufacturer. W. S. Wigg. Great Yarmouth, jeweller. R. J.
Dick, Birmingham, jeweller. S. H. Weingold and M. Levy, Man-
chester, wholesale jewellers. Rosina Ash, Birmingham, pawnbroker.
A. Chesterton, Nottingham, watchmaker.
Notices of Dividends.
In London. — C. Marx (trading as C. Marx & Co.). New Bond Street and
Regent Street, jeweller : 1 r ! ; d . , second and final ; July 2."). W. Hurlbatt,
8, Old Jewry. G. E. Welsman. Fenchurch Street, metal merchant :
84d., first and final : anv day except Saturday, Chief Official Receiver.
33, Carey Street.
In the Country. — W. Ellison. Bradford, working jeweller ; 3s. 4d.. first
and final : July 4. Official Receiver, Bradford. G. H. Smith (trading
as G. H. Smith ..V Co. ). Walton and Liverpool, pawnbroker; 6£d.~,
second and final : any day. T. T. Rogers & Co., Liverpool. T.
Wheeler. Preston, watch manufacturer : r>s. 7id., first and final ; July
16, .">. Winckley Street, Preston. T. Prescott, Prescot, watch material
dealer ; (id., first and final ; July 19, Official Receiver, Liverpool.
T. Harrison. South Stockton, pawnbroker ; 3s. 10d., first : July 27,
Official Receiver. Middlesbrough. A. J. Cotton. Great Yarmouth,
silversmith : 4s. 2fd., first and final : July 22, Official Receiver.
Norwich. F. J. Braund, Banbury, jeweller ; ^d.. first and final : July
21. 120, Colmore Row. Birmingham.
Amended Notice.
.1. F. Bayfield (trading as J. F. Bayfield & Son ), Lowestoft, watchmaker ;
Is. I0fd., first and final : January 31. 77. Colmore Row. Birmingham.
Scotch Sequestkation.
N. A. Myers (trading as N. A. Myers & Son). Edinburgh, jeweller.
IRicfcd, plain
(55. (3D.
EtniravcC* 7s. 6&.
Manufacturing
Jewellers and
Importers of
Fancy
Jewellery.
Gold.
Silver.
Steel.
Gilt.
Jet.
Black Glass.
Oxydised.
Paste.
Ac, &c.
Wholesale-
Buyers' (Buioe.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield, Sell Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Buy all materials containing Gold and Silver.
F. W. Powell (now Fowler & Powell). Colonial Buildings. Hatton
Garden, B.C. Wholesale only for Gold and Silver Jewellery ; Silver
Cigar, Cigarette and Card Cases, Match Boxes. Salt Cellars ; Silver
and Glass Smelling Buttles: Sovereign Purses.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
< lustomers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden.
London, E.C.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen, send to Alexander Edwards,
Watch Material and Tool Dealer. SS & 89, Craven Street, and 2. Holy-
head Road, Coventry. Lists : all Horological Literature.
W. Scott Hayward & Co., r>9, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool. Leipzig and Paris. »
WANTED.
A VERY Experienced SPECIALIST MANUFACTURER
J\ seeks some GENUINE FACTORS for a NEW CHRONOGRAPH
which defies all competition as to price, soundness and efficiency. The
Chronograph acts as a simple chronograph, counter and fly-back. Offers
to be addressed in writing to H. 730 Q. a Messrs. Haasensl'EIN &
Vogler. Bale, Switzerland.— [Ad vt.J
w
TO BE SOLD.
ATCHMAKERS and JEWELLER'S BUSINESS,
established 17 years, in busy manufacturing city ; stock moderate
and will be reduced. Excellent opening
business. For particulars, address The
Silversmith Office, London. — [Advt.]
for a young man starting
'iitchmaltcr. Jeweller and
WATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
of Superior Goods only, WITH or WITHOUT the PREMISES.
Extensive additions can be made if required. The present Owner no
objection to remain two or three years to Superintend and Instruct Work-
people, to part Assist in Office, or Travel. Address Manufacturer,
Office of this Journal. — [Advt.]
/\LI)-ESTABLISHED WATCHMAKING and JEWEL-
\ / LERY BUSINESS for DISPOSAL, through death of Proprietor.
Incoming low. Capital opportunity for energetic young man. Good
position. Excellent premises. — Apply, Dawson & Sons. Accountants.
Grimsby. — [Ad VT.J
AUNIER'S MODERN HOROLOGY for •
1 "condition. Published at
Street. Birmingham. — [Advt.]
ft
SAL JNIlliKS MUDUKJN riOltULULr V tor ZOS., in per
^condition. Published at 42s. Address W. Hall. 60, Albion
S-fi^
atel^akcr, jeweller
Entered at Stationers' Hall.']
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 3.]'
SEPTEMBER 1, 1887.
I" Subscription, 5s. ( Post
per Annum. I Free.
SPECIAL NOTICE.
Our correspondents are kindly requested to note that the
Office of this Journal has been removed to more com-
modious premises at No. 7, St. Paul's Churchyard.
CONTENTS.
By Herman Bush
Illustrated
Editorial
General Notes
Trade Notes. Illustrated
London Watch Trade Association
The Merchandise Marks Bill
Birmingham News. From Our Correspondent
American Items ...
A Relic of Old London
Local and Universal Time.
An Improved Trial Frame.
The Burmah Ruby Mines
Kashmir. By William Simpson, R.I., F.R.G.S.
R.I.B.A. Illustrated
Magnetism in Watches and Chronometers. By
^Toppin, U.S.N
The Times are Out of Joint ...
Tempering Steel with Electricity
Workshop Memoranda
Correspondence ...
Answers to Correspondents
Applications for Letters Patent...
Recent American Patents ...
Gasrette
Buyers' Guide
, Hon.
Lieut.
Assoc.
F. W
PAGE
. 33
. 34
. 35
. 36
37
. 37
. 38
. 38
. 39
. 40
. 40
41
43
46
46
46
47
47
48
48
48
48
tChe Watchmaker, jeweller an6
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence. — Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, St. Paul's Churchyard, London, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES.
Hunter JStreet and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W,
Editorial.
HE Bill usually styled the Merchandise Marks Bill,
but which, to give it its full title, should be called
the Merchandise Marks Law Consolidation and
Amendment Bill, has at length passed the Upper House and
will have by the time this article appears in print received
the Royal sanction ; and it is not too much to say that the
members of the watch trade especially are to be congratulated
on the large share they have had in its induction, and the
valuable additions since made to it which are the outcome of
their suggestions.
In our previous comments on the Bill we animadverted some-
what strongly on certain clauses that rendered the measure as
then contemplated generally inoperative, and unduly interfered
with the principle of freedom of trade ; and these, we are pleased
to note, have been for the most part either omitted altogether
or so far modified in the necessary direction as to make their
retention comparatively unimportant. As it stands, the Bill,
although by no means perfect, is likely to prove of immense
benefit to English manufacturers in their competition in this
country with foreign producers, and the replies of Sir Henry
Holland and Lord Cross to the deputation from the Manchester
Chamber of Commerce hold out hopes of its provisions being
extended to the Colonies ; as to foreign markets, nothing but
private energy can prevent damage to English trade and repu-
tation by fraud and misrepresentation. Meanwhile the gratitude
of the whole trading community is due to Baron de Worms,
Mr. Attorney-General and Mr. Stuart- Wortley for introducing
it, and for their unremitting attention during its progress through
Parliament. The Bill as passed errs more from faults of omission
than commission. Its weak points, as it affects watchmakers,
are the too general character of the clause referring to the place
of origin of the movement, and the confusion and litigation the
absence of any definition concerning the same may possibly give
rise to.
With regard to the succeeding clause and paragraphs, minor
exception might perhaps be taken to the method therein indicated
34
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887.
of making declarations as to the make of the case ; but this is a
matter of detail which the Council, after taking the opinion of
officers of the Assay offices, may safely be trusted to arrange
with the least amount of vexation to the casemaker.
The difficulty of drawing the line between what is allowable as
a trade puff and what amounts to a fraudulent mis-description
of goods was never more clearly manifested than throughout the
course of the present Bill, and it says much for the sound
judgment of those who have carried it through that they should
have produced a measure which is as moderate in the one direction
as it is workable in the other. There are, of course, various points
of view to every question, and objections are now to be heard
that the Bill is a manufacturers' Bill, and that the public require
protection from the home manufacturer quite as much as the
latter does from his foreign competitors. But, after all, legis-
lation of this kind can only go a certain way, and an Act of
Parliament that should undertake to deal with every species of
fraudulent ingenuity would be both endless in its ramifications
and of questionable utility in its results. Advertisers have a
prescriptive right to indulge in descriptive flights of fancy, any
attempt to check which would assuredly end in failure. In our
opinion the Act, in dealing with trade marks, has gone as far
as is within the scope of practical legislation ; the further
regulation of trade ethics can only be left to the common sense
of purchasers.
general Notes.
;7]nS will be seen from the special notice on the first page,
jEXs the address of this journal has been changed from
s-iah 9
.1
Imperial Buildings, Ludgate Circus, to No. 7, St. Paul's
Churchyard.
The Mappin Art Gallery, which has been built at a cost of
£15,000, and provided with pictures valued at about £50,000 —
a bequest to the town of Sheffield by the late Mr. John Newton
Mappin — was opened on Friday, July 29. Sir Frederick
Mappin, Bart., M.P., nephew of the donor, made the presenta-
tion, and a collection of paintings, valued at £20,000, given by
himself, was presented on his behalf by Mr. Mundella. The
Mayor, Sir Henry Stephenson, accepted the gifts on behalf of
the Corporation.
The Cutlers' Co. held their annual meeting at Sheffield
on the 2nd ult., when Mr. James Dixon, of the well-known firm
of Messrs. James Dixon & Sons, was nominated as Master for
the ensuing year. Although Mr. Dixon is one of the youngest
members of the Company, he is particularly well qualified for the
office to which he has been called, having travelled extensively
and being generally a well-informed and able man. His firm is
the oldest and largest in the trade. The senior warden for the
year is Mr. S. E. Howell, and the junior warden Mr. S. G.
Richardson. The Cutlers' Feast is to take place on the first
Thursday in September, when Mr. Dixon will be installed
according to the quaint and picturesque ceremonial of this
ancient corporation.
The various Chambers of Commerce of the country have been
informed by the Foreign Office that Mr. Frederick Witty,
British Vice-Consul at Barcelona, a local commission agent and
broker, is well qualified to supply information to persons who
may wish to obtain particulars respecting the International
Exhibition to be opened in that city next spring, and to act as
agent for persons who may desire to avail themselves of this
opportunity to bring their goods into public notice in Spain.
The case of Short, Short & Deykin came before the Court of
Bankruptcy on August 16, upon an application for the approval
of a scheme of arrangement agreed to by the creditors at the first
meeting. The debtors filed their petition on May 17 and
furnished accounts showing joint liabilities £63,461 and assets
£20,776. It was agreed that the pnmerty should vest in and be
administered by Mr. A. O. Miles, accountant, as trustee, under
the supervision of a committee of inspection. The executors and
beneficiaries under the will of the late Mr. Thomas Short
(creditors for nearly £20,000) also agreed to postpone their
right to a dividend until the other creditors should have received
5s. in the pound, after which they were to receive 4s. 6d. in the
pound ; and the residue of the assets were to be distributed
rateably among all the creditors. His Honour considered that
the scheme was a beneficial one, and made an order for its
approval.
A new Company, under the designation of the New South
Wales Bingera Diamond Fields, Limited, has been formed to
purchase and work diamond fields in the locality named. The
capital is £90,000, in £1 shares, of which 30. (HID arc reserved as
fully paid up in part payment to the vendor ami 60,000 are
offered for subscription. Mr. Sewill, of 30, Cornhill, states that
his name has been inserted in the prospectus of the Company
without his knowledge or consent, and that the statement that
diamonds from the property that the Company has agreed to
purchase are on view at his address is without foundation.
Metallic alloys form the subject of four patents issued in
the United States to Mr. Charles Auguste Paillard, of Geneva.
The materials composing the alloys are palladium, copper, nickel,
gold, platinum, silver, steel and iron, some of the alloys having
only a few of these ingredients, and all of them being in varying
proportions, with special methods for their combination. The
object sought by this invention is to make metallic alloys espe-
cially adapted for different parts of clock, chronometer and fine
watch work, which shall be neither oxidisable nor magnetic, with
small capabilities of dilatation, and having hardness and elasticity
and more or less of the properties of steel, according to the
• particular use to which the alloy is to be put, and the grade of
watch, clock or chronometer to be made therewith.
The Emperor William's Jubilee gift to the Pope is a
magnificent gold mitre, profusely studded with diamonds, rubies
and emeralds.
Technical Education. — In the House of Commons, on
August 16, Sir W. Hart Dyke, questioned by Mr. Howard
Vincent and Mr. Stanley Leighton, said it was intended to give
freedom to localities, on the sanction of the Science and Art
Department, in respect of technical instruction. Grants were
not made at present for manual instruction in the use of tools.
Brussels Exhibition of Science and Industry, 1888. —
The Executive Committee of this Exhibition are offering prizes
for designs for bills, diplomas and medals to be used by the
Committee, also for designs for small buildings to be erected in
the Exhibition gardens, and for a method of constructing and
arranging the water closets, &c, in the Exhibition. The
Secretary of the Society of Arts has received a supply of the
conditions for the various competitions, and these he will be
happy to send to any person requiring further information.
The ruby was called by the Greeks anthrax, or live coal, from
its brilliant blood-red colour and exquisite beauty, which, like
the diamond, is rather improved than diminished when seen by
artificial light. From the intense blaze of blood-red, the colours
of the ruby pale down, by admixtures of blue, through rose-red
to lilac. Exposed to the rays of the sun, or heated, the ruby,
like the diamond, becomes phosphoric. In the Middle Ages it
was supposed to be an antidote to poison, and to warn its owner
of misfortune by a darkening of its colour until the danger was
past.
September 1, 1887.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
35
lUra&e iNotes.
The Airedale Harriers' Championship Cup. — -The cup
we illustrate below is a handsome massive vessel of solid silver,
60 ozs. in weight, standing 19 in. high, and valued at £10.
Poised on the top of the cover is
the representation of a fleet "hare"
dashing along with his bag of "trail."
Below, an elegant monogram is made
of the letters A. H v intertwined,
this being on the neck of the cup,
which is beautifully chased and
ornamented. Below again, on the
body of the cup, the Bradford arms
with crest and motto appear. The
handles are appropriately formed of
five-barred gates. A large elongated
panel stretches across the front of
the vessel, and on this is engraved
a pack of " hounds " in full cry ;
two swift runners are in advance
scudding along at full speed, a third
leaps a fence, and the remainder
are hurrying up in the rear. A
wooded landscape, in which the old
ruined tower of Kirkstall Abbey is
a conspicuous object, forms the back-
ground. A similar panel adorns the
back of the cup, on which is
engraved the following inscription,
" The Airedale Harriers' Cham-
pionship Cup, Three Miles Steeple-
chase, Bradford, Yorkshire, 1887."
These panels are surrounded by
richly chased arabesques, whilst bands
of floral ornaments complete the
decorations. The stem on which the
cup stands is formed of a chased
fluted column, bearing round it a
bulky ring of finely embossed shields
making provision for inscribing names
of winners, further accommodation
for the same object being made
beneath each handle. A broad richly-
decorated foot completes the whole,
which, whilst being solid and com-
pact in appearance, is also singularly
free and graceful in effect. It is a
piece of silverware of which the
Airedale Harriers and such fortunate
ones as may become its holders may
be deservedly proud. It is the work-
manship and design of Messrs.
Fattorini & Sons, of Bradford.
Mr. John Jefferys, the well-
known specialist for solitaires and
studs, has just introduced what he
calls his " Omega." This is a one-
piece eccentric round-back solitaire,
having all the advantages of the
popular " Bi-Climax." The eccentric
movement of the shank is effected
by the ingenious and simple arrange-
ment of turning the top, the perfect action of which is ensured
by the manufacturers, Messrs. Hammond, Turner & Sons,
and Messrs. Perry & Co., Limited, both of Birmingham, before
it leaves their works. This novelty, which is likely to become a
public favourite, is made in a variety of designs, and can be
obtained of the wholesale and fancy goods warehouses generally.
It is patented in America, Germany and elsewhere abroad.
In the window of the Moorgate Street showrooms of Messrs.
Elkington & Co. is now to be seen an elaborate specimen of the
silversmiths' art manufactured by them, which is to be presented
by the Hop Bitters Co. to the National Rifle Association
for annual competition. The base of the trophy is of an
octagonal form with two projecting divisions, having semi-circular
ends, each end supporting a figure,
one representing Hygeia and the
other Panacea, the daughters of
iEsculapius, each figure accompanied
by their classic attributes, viz., the
staff, serpent, globe, cup, &c. The
base is further beautifully decorated
and enriched with mouldings of a
Grecian character, and at regular
intervals are depicted four shields,
bearing the national emblems in
enamel of England. Ireland, Scotland
and Wales. A running frieze of the
hop plant, elaborately embossed,
chased and pierced, decorates the
whole of the exterior of the base,
whilst prominently placed in the
centre is an enriched shield with the
symbols of iEsculapius and Mars,
and a conventional arrangement of
the sun's rays indicative of curative
powers. Rising majestically from the
base is a second platform of a circular
form bearing on one side a group
illustrating the various volunteer
corps in the United Kingdom, and
on the opposite side a handsome
shield for inscription, and on the
other two shields facing the ends of
the trophy are bas reliefs with
representative groups of military and
medical appliances. Between these
bas reliefs are suspended wreaths of
hops, &c. Above the bas reliefs are
four emblematical figures of the
nationalities supporting shields en-
amelled with the insignia of their
patron saints. From the centre
rises a canopy or temple enclosing a
magnificently modelled statuette of
iEsculapius, the temple being en-
riched and supported by four pillars
elaborately decorated with the hop
plant, flags, wreaths, &c. The base
of the temple is in the form of a
square, and is embellished with four
scenes of important events in the
reign of Queen Victoria, viz., the
Coronation, the opening of the
1851 Exhibition, the inauguration of
the Volunteer Camp at Wimbledon,
and the proclamation of the Queen
as Empress of India. The whole is
surmounted by a winged figure
carrying an escutcheon with the
well-known green hop cluster and
words " Hop Bitters," the former
enamelled in green and the latter
in black, exactly as appears on the
labels of the Company's bottles. The trophy weighs upwards of
2,000 ozs., and is of the value of 1,000 guineas.
A new patent safety catch for brooches, the invention of Mr.
W. T. Brahani, of 392, Stratford Road, Manchester, supplies
such a universal want and is of such obvious utility, that the
wonder is it has never been thought of before. The innumerable
36
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887
cases in which valuable articles of jewellery fastened with the
conventional pin have been lost, owing to the insecurity of this
mode of attachment would, one would think, have stimulated
enterprise in this direction, but, as far as we are aware of,
nothing of the kind has ever been attempted before. The device
under notice consists of a small spring which comes against the
catch, and while allowing of the pin entering freely, effectually
prevents it from becoming unfastened until released by the wearer,
which can readily be effected. Its further recommendations are
its extreme simplicity and the fact that it can be applied to any
kind or form of brooch.
The new alloy which is placed on the market under the name
"Afghan silver," and the registered trade mark C. T. & S., is
experiencing a ready sale, and the manufacturers now find it
necessary to issue a circular to the trade in which jewellers are
cautioned against the number of spurious imitations which are
put forward. as "Afghan silver," but which are in most cases
either brass or German silver thinly plated with nickel. The
"Afghan silver" on the other hand is an alloy, which, while
always retaining its brightness in wear, is of the same whiteness
throughout, and has without doubt a future before it, being well
adapted for many uses besides those to which it is at present
applied, which have hitherto been confined to articles of jewellery
for personal wear. As the manufacturers claim to be able to
produce it as cheaply as German silver can be obtained, it
should quickly supersede the latter as soon as its merits become
generally appreciated.
We have received from the designers, Messrs. Mitchell &
Cooper, of Northampton Street, Clerkenwell, a specimen sheet
of their " Designs for Engraving," which is just published.
The work, which must have cost the authors much time and
trouble, will supply a want long felt by engravers and others,
to whom a variety of well-executed and original designs is a
desideratum ; and as the book, to judge from the sheet before us,
fulfils this condition — comprising all kinds of armorial bearings,
monograms, ciphers, club and hotel badges, &c. — and its price
(2s. 6d.) brings it within the reach of all, it should quickly reach
a second edition.
The Diamond Market. — The Amsterdam trade has been very
quiet during the past month, although the factories are reported
to be fully occupied with work, and several are increasing their
premises.
The continued dulness is not likely to last much longer, and
is not of much moment, as this time of year is always the slack
season. No change is expected, however, until after the great
Russian fair of Nishni-Novgorod, which, if successful, usually
brings in large numbers of Polish and Russian buyers to replenish
their stocks.
Complaints are still the rule as to the high price of rough,
and hopes are expressed that the amalgamation going on among
the different companies at Kimberley may result in easier prices.
Paris trade in finished goods is very quiet. This being the
summer vacation, most of the speculative merchants are still
holiday making, and the prices obtainable are in consequence low
through want of competition. A few foreign buyers are pur-
chasing small parcels, but the local demand is insignificant.
The steamers " Garth Castle," " Trojan," " Roslin Castle,"
" Spartan " and "Warwick Castle " arrived at Plymouth bringing
plentiful consignments, which generally went off well, numerous
foreign buyers being in the market. The best business was done
for the American account.
Latest advices from Kimberley report the market as continuing
very firm, as although the official returns show an increased
production in comparison with those for the corresponding period
of last year, shippers are generally complaining of scarcity of stuff.
The De Beers Co. are going to buy out the French Diamond
Mining Co. for about £950,000, giving the option to the French
shareholders to take payment in cash or in shares of the De
Beers Co., a new issue of which will, if necessary, be created for
the purpose. Messrs. N. M. Rothschild & Sons are at the head
of the syndicate which is at the head of this business.
According to Mr. Crump, of the Times " City article," the
value of raw diamonds exported annually from Kimberlev is
considerably over three millions sterling, and so far this enormous
output has not depressed the diamond market, as the consump-
tion has increased considerably.
Silver. — The market has continued most unusually steady
throughout the month, showing increased strength after the
Indian Council allotments on the 24th. Latest quotations are
bars -14-j-Sd., Mexican dollars 43^d. per oz.
London TJJatch Crabe Association.
fjjMHE monthly meeting of members of the London Watch
^| Trade Association was held on August 3, at the Martyrs"
Memorial Church Schoolroom, St. John Street Road,
Clerkenwell. There was a numerous attendance, Mr. S. A.
Brooks in the chair.
Mr. Newman, the secretary, read the minutes of the previous
meeting.
The Chairman said he had told them at the last meeting he
hoped he should be able, at this meeting, to congratulate them
on the final success of the Merchandise Marks Bill. He was
sorry he could not do that, but he had ascertained frcm their
president, Captain Penton, that the final reading in the House
of Commons of the Lords' amendments would take place on
Thursday evening, so his promise was very near fulfilment.
They had not long to wait for the law which he hoped would help
to restore to Clerkemvell her staple trade. The clauses of the
Bill would not permit foreign work being sold in an English
Hall-marked case, unless the vendor specified in writing the
foreign works to the vendee at the time of the purchase.
Neglect of this would render the vendor liable to a charge of
fraud any time within three years of the sale. It would be well
for manufacturers to face the position at once, and determine on
using only English material and English work in their manu-
facture, if they desired the English Hall-mark in the case. Of
course, if they could sell their watches with the foreign or dis-
tinctive mark, they could continue to make a bastard watch ; but
all agree that the English watch, pure and simple, is still the
favourite timekeeper, and for a sound, knockabout, useful time-
keeper, none excel the full-plate, capped and jewelled watch : it
is less expensive to wear, because stronger, and less liable to get
out of repair. Since the last meeting the secretary had been in
correspondence with associations at Birmingham, Coventry,
Liverpool and Prescot. Every amendment of the Bill had been
watched by the committees, and the interests of the watch trade
cared for. He (the chairman) was sorry to see that the
Horological Institute had rejected Mr. Chapman and placed Mr.
Glasgow at the bottom of the list of vice-presidents. As one of
the founders of the Institute, he felt the old love, and was sorry
to see the ingratitude exhibited towards men who had rendered
some service to the Institute. He had not always agreed with
the gentlemen named ; he did not think the Institute had done
for the English watch trade what it might have done. The
success of the London Watch Trade Association was a proof it
had not. Still the council were not wholly to blame ; they had
to consider their subscribers, many of whom were interested in
upholding the foreign watch, and this was the stumbling-block in
the way of those who desired that the Institute, originally founded
as the British Horological Institute, should represent English
interests. The London Watch Trade Association had avoided
the error of the Institute. No man was eligible for membership
in the Association unless born under the British flag ; nor unless
a manufacturer, or engaged in some branch of watch or clock
manufacture. They were no longer taunted with disunion.
Their interests being identical, they were all agreed, and he
believed there was a great future for the society.
Mr. Andrews enjoined upon all present to advocate the
interests of the London Watch Trade Association, and add to
the already large list of members.
Votes of thanks to the chairman and secretary closed the
proceedings.
September 1, 1887/] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
Che fflerchan&ise Jftarhs Bill.
"fjjjf HE above Bill passed the House of Lords and received the
^| Boyal Assent last month. The second reading of the
measure was agreed to in the House of Lords without a
division ; but, when the House went into Committee, Lord
Stanley of Preston, who had a number of amendments on the
paper, said that the purport of the Government amendments was
this — it had been found that selling goods with fraudulent marks
bad been placed amongst those offences which were obviously
committed with intent to defraud, while a -man might sell goods
marked with forged trade marks quite innocently. The proposal
now was to take out the first part of the clause and make a
separate matter of it. On Clause 2 several amendments would
be proposed, and he would move the omission of the words re-
ferring to the sale of articles marked with forged or fraudulent
trade marks. These were agreed to.
Lord Stanley of Preston next moved to insert, as a
separate paragraph in Clause 2, these words : —
(2.) Every person who sells or exposes for or has in his
possession for sale or for any purpose of trade or manu-
facture any goods or things to which any forged trade mark
or false trade description is applied, or to which any trade
mark or mark so nearly resembling a trade mark as to be
calculated to deceive is falsely applied, as the case may be,
shall — unless he proves (a) that, having taken all reasonable
precautions against committing an offence against this Act
he had at the time of the commission of the alleged offence
no reason to suspect the genuineness of the trade mark or
trade description ; and (J) that on demand made by or on
behalf of the prosecutor he gave all the information in his
power with respect to the persons from whom he obtained
such goods; or (c) that otherwise he had acted innocently —
be guilty of an offence against this Act.
This was agreed to.
Lord Macnaghten moved to insert in Clause 3 the following
new paragraph : —
The provisions of this Act respecting the application of a false
trade description to goods shall extend to the application to
goods of any such figures, words or marks, or arrangement
or combination thereof, whether including a trade mark or
not, as are reasonably calculated to lead persons to believe
that the goods are the manufacture or merchandise of some
person other than the person whose manufacture or merchan-
dise they really are.
This was agreed to, and Clauses 2, 3 and 4, as amended, were
agreed to.
After some further verbal amendments the Bill passed through
Committee, and on Tuesday, the 2nd ult., the Bill was read a
third time and passed.
Fraudulent Marking of Goods. — A deputation from the
Manchester Chamber of Commerce waited upon Lord Cross on
Thursday, the 4th ult., at the India Office, to urge the necessity
before the present Merchandise Marks Act Consolidation and
Amendment Bill, now before the Lords, should come into force,
of extending its provisions to India. Lord Cross said he entirely
agreed in the views placed before him, and he had anticipated the
views of the deputation to a great extent by writing a strong
despatch to the Viceroy, pointing out the difficulties of the whole
matter, and inviting the Government of India to consider the
expediency of early legislation upon this point. The moment the
Bill passed the House of Lords in its final shape it would be sent
to India for consideration. He should be glad to do all he could
to stop falsification. Subsequently the deputation proceeded to
the Colonial Office to ask Sir H. Holland to urge upon the
Colonial Parliaments the advisableness of passing a similar
measure to that which is now before the House of Lords. Sir
H. Holland promised that as soon as the Bill passed he would send
a circular to all the Crown Colonies asking them to take such
measures as may be necessary to give full effect to the Act.
Birmingham Neuis,
From Our Correspondent.
fHE Birmingham metal work at the Art Gallery, which has
been purchased with the balance from the Exhibition
funds, is the most unfortunate selection that could have
been made, and has caused an enormous amount of dissatisfaction,
and not without cause. The jewellery part of it is, with few
exceptions, especially weak, and, instead of raising the fame of
the Birmingham jewellers, it will actually tend to decrease it.
Who is responsible for this I am not in a position to say; but I
will guarantee that if any jeweller's apprentice, who is also a
student at the School of Art, had been called in as judge, that
he would have made a more artistic selection. The whole of the
articles, with the exception of a brooch with a damascened centre,
are below criticism as art work. This is certainly " a little more
than kin and less than kind" that the "little hardware village"
which lias fought its way bravely to the front, and has succeeded
in producing artistic works in metal in which she is unrivalled,
should be " sat upon " by the bungling of a few gentlemen who
thought they were judges of art, and who have exhibited their
own ignorance and done a great injury to the fame of the town
by their injudicious selections.
* * *
Solitaires, especially the various spring arrangements, still
keep in fair demand, and they are the only " steady line " that I
know of. General jewellery is worse than bad, and that Art
Gallery exhibit will not " help the lame dog over the stile.'* The
almost daily failures of wholesale houses are shaking some of the
manufacturers seriously, and a rush out of the trade has already
commenced — a large stock of a manufacturer being brought to
the hammer this week, which realised miserable prices. Well,
during this " panic," so to speak, the weak are going to the wall
in the natural course of things ; history repeats itself, and this
is not the first time this state of things has hajjpened in the
jewellery trade, and it will not be the last until the unlimited
credit, approval, and accommodation bill system has been ex-
terminated root and branch. In the meantime, those strong birds
who can keep at the top must thank God and pay their debts.
* * *
I suppose the trade, from what I hear, is going to accept a
dividend of 12s. in the pound from a large wholesale house who
held a private meeting last week, instead of investigating affairs
and letting daylight into the otherwise obscure and curious
balance sheet submitted. Well, all I can say is, they must not
be surprised if they are called upon to accept a few more
dividends if they will be weak and disunited.
* * *
As manufacturers are running short time and short handed,
the question is often asked, what has become of the workpeople ?
I find a srreat number have arone abroad — some of them findine
good situations as jewellers, others taking any work they can get.
One of the shipping agents has booked over 300 jewellers to
America this year from Birmingham alone.
* * #
I hear some complaints from Canadian buyers that they come
year after year to England to replenish their stock, and that
manufacturers show them the same or similar patterns. This
may, of course, apply to a few, but, generally speaking, makers
leave nothing unturned in order to produce novelties ; and it is
to be regretted that this rage for novelties has acted against the
production of really artistic work — for if makers find that an
idiotic arrangement of a tennis net with a hat soldered in the
middle will sell, while a good piece of wrought and decorated
work will remain in stock, they are almost compelled to produce
the saleable one: but please to give the blame to the right
persons, namely, the public, and not the makers. A good deal
of this could be remedied if the factors had a better and more
artistic education. They all have a good knowledge of what
will sell, but as a rule their ideas of art are nil; and I
could give numerous instances where an artistic and enthusiastic
: J >8
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887.
maker has been quite discouraged by the sarcastic criticism of
an ignorant buyer. I can vouch for the truth of the following :
— A maker was showing a Jew factor some very high class work
of the Pompeian style, and recommended it to him as Pompeian
art work. "Vat!" said the Jew; "Vat! Oh, pump on de
Devil." The maker " took a back seat" and sold the Jew some
of his most atrocious "novelties," which were more to his taste.
Well, in spite of this, we must not cry " Ichabod," but the
public must be educated up to a better standard. No doubt this
is being gradually done, and the wholesale houses might help to
do it ; but that unfortunate Art Gallery exhibit will certainly
retard it.
American Jtems.
npHE counsel for a trade organisation of workmen recently
1JM 1 sent a letter to the American Walthatn Watch Co.,
in which he protested against the importation by the
Company of alien workmen under contract, and further stated
that, if the practice was continued, the association would
prosecute. A representative of the Jewelers' Weekly waited
upon Major F. R. Appleton, of Robbins & Appleton, agents
for the Company in New York city, to inquire into the truth of
the story. The major said that he had received the letter
referred to, and that in it the Company had been accused of
importing alien workmen in direct violation of the law. "All I
have to say," continued Major Appleton, " is that we are innocent
of the charge, and that I should be pleased to be waited upon by
representatives of the association which accuses us." " Have
you recently hired aliens to work in your factories ? " asked the
scribe. " Yes. You see there is a scarcity of good engravers in
this country, and as a good many foreign experts are coming
here, they find plenty of employment. It was some of these men
who came to us and asked for work, and we gave it to them.
We did not go to the other side, nor was a representative sent to
make contracts with the men. They came here without solici-
tation, and scattered over the country looking for work. Some
came to us and we hired them. That's all there is in the
matter."
The Providence correspondent of the same journal says : —
Thus far the season has been more profitable to the manufacturer
than any for several years past, and at present the demand for
plated goods by the jobbers throughout the South and West is
very large, and the outlook for fall trade is excellent. Shops are
running full time and with all the hands that can be hired, while
in some of the factories the help is required to work until 9 and
10 o'clock in the evening five days of the week. Advertisements
for help are appearing daily in the local papers.
The San Francisco correspondent of the Jewelers' Weekly
writes : — " A reaction in the diamond market seems to have set
in on the Pacific Coast," said a leading diamond merchant to your
correspondent, " and it is much better than it has been for five
years past. These goods were at a discount here several years
ago, but of late they have become very saleable. The gem most
in demand now is the ruby. It is greatly sought after and its
popularity seems to be on the increase. Pearls are not in large
demand on this coast. The European capitals seem to be
the great centres for them. The demand for sapphires and
emeralds is about the same ; but while opals were until very
recently a drug in the market, they are now largely looked for
and command good prices."
The Jewelry News says the American watch factories are
producing so few key-winding movements that large dealers have
resorted to the importation of Swiss key winders. Notably
among these are Messrs. Henry Ginnel & Co., who are showing
the trade a Swiss key winder, bearing the trade mark of
" Newport," which has jumped at once into public favour, if then-
orders for them are indications of their popularity.
Probably the most productive industry in the jewellery line
in this State is the manufacture of California quartz jewellery.
This finds its best market among Eastern tourists, who not only
prize it as a souvenir, but for its novelty. .The work of the
manufacturing jewellers of San Francisco in this line is not to be
excelled, as all who visit their establishments can attest.
A Costly Diamond Necklace. — According to Harper s
Weekly, the costliest necklace of diamonds ever owned in
America was worn by the late Mrs. Mary Jane Morgan. She
had a real passion for diamonds, and wore them in hairpins,
brooches, bracelets and rings as well : but her special pet was a
necklace, a riviere of diamonds, which cost her originally perhaps
£7,000, and to which she has made various additions until its
total value was £50,000. One day she astonished a clerk at
Tiffany's by buying a diamond for £12,000 and ordering it to be
set in her riviere as the centre stone. Diamonds that once
glistened in her brooches, hairpins or bracelets were transferred
In tliis necklace, and diamonds that no longer pleased her in the
necklace were reset in the brooches, hairpins or bracelets. To her
it was a perpetual pleasure to see the magnificent necklace
increasing its magnificence. When she died the largest of the
stones were sold singly ; but the necklace without them was so
valuable that Messrs. Tiffany bought it for £15,000. Soon
afterwards they broke it up, and for many months it has ceased
to exist.
A Belie of iDlo Lon6on.
R. J. W. BENSON, of Ludgate Hill, has just finished
s=j the repair of a very interesting clock. When old St.
Dunstan's, Fleet Street, was pulled down, in 1831, the
clock was sold by public auction to the late Marquis of
Hertford, who had it re-erected in the grounds of his villa in
Regent's Park, a residence designed by Decimus Burton. By
the courtesy of Mr. Benson we are enabled to give the following
particulars of this interesting relic of Old London : — The clock
frame is of the ancient bedstead pattern, all the wheels in each
train being fixed in perpendicular bars, so that if it is necessary
to remove any part for cleaning or repair, the wdiole train must
be taken to pieces. The escapement is a dead-beat with a slight
recoil, the pallet arms being differently arranged to the modern
style, one is at top and the other is at the side of the scape wheel.
The clock has a locking-plate with " ting-tang " quarters, the
hammers being raised from pins on the main wheels.
The peculiarity of the. clock is, that instead of striking with
hammers in the usual manner, two automaton giants, armed with
clubs, deliver the blows alternately on the bells ; and the wdiole
apparatus was exposed to the view of an admiring public, and
used to be one of the sights of London to country visitors. The
pendulum beats 1^ seconds, the whole of the wheels are brass,
the barrels are very large to carry hemp ropes, the movement is
above the dials, and there is a lead down to a pair of bevelled
wheels and a further lead to two copper dials, six feet in diameter,
fitted with a drum, which is supported by a massive oak beam
and brackets.
In the grounds of the modern villa the old clock appears pre-
cisely as it did in the City, and the giants still go through their
performances. Although the clock is over 200 years old it
goes well now and keeps good time ; no maker's name appears
on the movement. The present repairs are new brass bushes
throughout, new fans and springs to striking fly, repairs to bevel
and motion work, the entire movement being taken to pieces,
thoroughly cleaned, the brasswork re-lacquered and the iron
painted.
Considerable interest is attached to this clock ; Cowper refers to
it in his "Table Talk" in lines that are certainly complimentary: —
" When Labour and when Dulness, chib in hand,
Like the two figures at St. Dunstan's stand,
Beating alternately, in measured time,
- The clockwork tintiunabulum of rhyme,
Exact and regular sounds will be ;
But such mere quarter-strokes are not for me."
September 1, 1887.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
It may be remembered that Mr. Frith, R.A., in last year's
Exhibition at the Academy, introduced the old clock in his
picture, "Dr. Johnson's Tardy Gallantry."
The ancient timepiece now belongs to a private gentleman,
for whom it has been faithfully restored on the original model,
no alteration of any kind being made.
The following further particulars of this clock are from Wood's
" Curiosities of Clocks and Watches :" —
This remarkable clock, that projected over the street in the
manner of those of several of the City churches at the present
time, was set up in the year 1671. Thomas Harrys, or Harris,
received for his work the sum of £35, and the old clock. It
appears, from the parish books, that on May 18, 1671, Thomas
Harrys, who was then living at the lower end of Water Lane,
LondoD, made an offer to build a new clock with chimes, and to
erect two figures of men with poleaxes to strike the quarters.
This clock was so constructed as to afford one dial plate at the
south front and another at the east end of the church. All this
he proposed to perform, and to keep the whole in constant repair
for the sum of £80 and the old clock ; at the same time
observing that his work should be worth a hundred pounds. He
further adds these woi'ds : "I will do one thing more which
London shall not show the like ; I will make two hands show
the hours and minutes without the church, upon a double dial,
which will be worth your observation, and to my credit." It
appears that the vestry agreed to give to Harrys the sum of £35
and the old clock for as much of his plan as they thought proper
to adopt ; and on October 28, in the same year, 1671, his task
being completed, he was voted the sum of £4 per annum to keep
it in repair. We find that the idea of chimes was given up, as
well as the dials at the east end. Originally, in 1737, this clock,
with its large gilt dial, was within a square, ornamented case,
with a semi-circular pediment, and the tube from the church to
the dial was supported by a carved figure of Time, with expanded
wings, as a bracket. In 1738 it cost the parish £110 for repairs.
Above it, in an alcove and in a standing posture, were two life-
sized wooden figures of " savages or Hercules," as Strype
describes them, or "two wooden horologists," as Ned Ward calls
them, with clubs in their right hands, who struck the quarters of
every hour on the two suspended bells, moving their heads at the
same time. These figures much excited the interest of the
passers-by, especially provincial visitors to London, who would
stop in crowds to see these automata strike the quarters with
their clubs. Leigh, in his " New Picture of London," calls them
the " pets of cockneys and countrymen." They were one of the
sights of London, and many a gazer at them has unwittingly
enriched the pickpockets and cutpurses who used to mix with the
crowd of gaping idlers assembled under this clock, to the no
small obstruction of the foot and carriage-way. One historian
tells us that they were " more admired by many of the populace
on Sundays than the most eloquent preacher from the pulpit
within." A writer in the Mirror, 1828, says, " It would be
needless to describe the two brazen striking Saracens who attract
the gaping multitude ; when they perform operations one would
really suppose they were in league with the pickpockets, who are
below striking into the pockets of their admirers sans ce're'monie."
The author of " London Scenes and London People," an eye-
witness of the old clock, says, " The giants stood in front of the
building, about 30 feet from the road, on a covered platform,
each wielding a club — the bell being hung between them, which
at the quarters, as well as whole hours, they struck, but so in-
dolently, that spectators often complained that they were not well
up to their work. The mechanism, too, was rough and clumsy;
you could not help noticing the metal cord inserted in the club, to
which its motion was due." Sir Walter Scott speaks of the
savages in his " Fortunes of Nigel ;" but he places them in
position before they were known to the gaping cockneys. When
the old church was pulled down the clock and figures were
purchased by the Marquis of Hertford and removed to his villa
in Regent's .Park, where the clubbers still do their duty every
quarter of an hour. We read, under date October 22, 1830,
"Mr. Creaton, auctioneer, sold by private contract to the Marquis
of Hertford the clock-tower, with its two figures, for £210."
Local an6 "Universal iUme.
From the German by Herman Bush.
"W N an interesting and lengthy article on " Chronology and
jILi Calendar," just finished in the Allgemeines Journal der
Uhrmacherkunst, the author concludes with the following
sentences : —
The earth rotates, within 24 hours, on its axis from west to
east ; it exposes every part of the globe during the diurnal
culmination to the rays of the sun, and has all places situated
on the line between north and south so exposed at noon or
midday, generally called the geographical meridian.
The circumference of the earth in the centre between north
and south, called the equator, is, like every other circle, divided
into 360 degrees; and every one of these degrees passes the sun
once in 24 hours and remains exposed the 360th part of 24
times 60 minutes = 1,440, or an equivalent of 4 minutes. When,
for example, it is noon or midday at Greenwich, the next degree
eastwards has had noon 4 minutes previously, whilst the next
degree westwards will have noon 4 minutes later ; and at the
180th degree from Greenwich eastwards and westwards, the 4
minutes for each degree will accumulate to 12 hours. The
Antipodes will have midnight when the meridian of Greenwich
indicates midday, and vice versa; and the same phenomenon will
manifest itself at any opposite degrees of the globe. We have,
therefore, midday and midnight, and all intermediate parts of
day and night, simultaneously represented on the face- of the
globe, and this variation of time at each place is called local
time.
The different local times cause, in the continually increasing
international intercourse, many drawbacks and confusions for
defining the time of the day and even the date of the month
between the despatch and arrival of telegrams to or from distant
places, or for establishing a uniform time table for railway
traffic in countries of extensive territory. This existing and
unalterable state of confusion has induced the Governments and
astronomers of civilised nations to establish an antidote, for the
object of which International Conferences were held at Rome
and Washington, where the subject was ably discussed by the
delegates, who recommended the adoption of a universal time
for the whole of the civilised globe, by establishing the prime
meridian at Greenwich to start the world's time and cosmopolitan
date ; and, in order to effect this, it was suggested and
unanimously accepted, to abandon the twice twelve hour calcu-
lation of time for the day and night, and substitute a 24 hours'
system for the world's time.
The notation of local time may still remain for local use until
the inhabitants of the various parts of the globe get properly
accustomed to the comparing of the two notations, when all
obstacles will be removed for universally adopting one time for
the whole of the earth.
The middle of the vertical spider threads in the tube of
the transit instrument at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
indicating and representing the plane of the renowned prime
meridian, which forms the guide for calculating distances east
or west from Greenwich to nautical and seafaring men, by con-
verting the difference of local time at sea with the Greenwich
time of the marine chronometer on board into space, would, by the
establishment of universal time, assume a higher importance, as
the transit of noon before these fine threads would form the base
for the calculation of universal time.
The astronomical regulator at the Royal Observatory,
Greenwich, which commands in England the dropping of the
time-balls for transmitting Greenwich time — the adopted time
standard — would, in another direction, mediate an international
unity by initiating the elevated promotion of the lofty reali-
sation of universal time, and pave the way for the adoption
of universal money, universal weights and measures, and
universal language, thereby affording to the human aspiration
for universality the means of celebrating an international
triumphal feast.
4(t
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887.
An 3mproue& Urial Frame.
MjWHE accompanying illustrations show a new trial frame for
|^g the use of oculists and opticians that has several points of
excellence not found in others. It is the invention of
the Geneva Optical Co., of New York. Fig. 1 is a front view,
fig. 2 a side or sectional view. The steel rods P P P P are
fastened rigidly in the metal block M and make the backbone of
the frame. The screw B B governs the distance between the
temples and the lens holder, carrying them towards or away from
the centre by the right and left-hand thread. The nose rest is
faced with shell and is easy to the wearer, and has an up and
down and in and out motion, and can be placed in any desired
position with reference to the lenses. The lenses can be adjusted
to the pupillary distance quickly. The lens holders K K are
attached to steel shanks / I which pass up into tubes H H, and
are held there by cap, nut and spring, but free to rotate on their
axis as shown in fig. 2.
The cumbersome rotation rings are omitted, and the operator
finds the method of holding the lenses is practically easier to
manipulate than with the concentric rings. The principal points
of superiority ai"e that it is but about half the weight of the
Nnchet or other ordinary frame. It is made of steel where
possible, and is therefore more rigid and durable. It allows
three lenses for either eye, or, after a combination of spherical
and cylindrical is made, it allows that they may remain in position
while testing the other eye, a solid disc being placed with them
to shut off vision.
The frame does not have to be taken from the face to exchange
the lenses or to test improvements made by the lenses, as either
eye can, by a touch, be swung on its shank outwards. This
frame allows the lenses to be brought about half-an-inch nearer
together to get pupillary distance on children or narrow-faced
people than any other, a point frequently of great value.
The nose rest is much easier than any other as it is faced with
shell. The vertical adjustment to nose rest is excellent, and the
horizontal movement in and out to throw lenses away from or
towards the eyes is a great improvement.
Jubilee Clock Tower at Basingstoke. — The ceremony of
unveiling the new clock tower, presented to the town as a Jubilee
memorial by the Mayor (Major May), was performed on July
28 by the Hon. Diana Sclater- Booth. The ancient clock,
nearly a century-and-adialf old, has been thoroughly restored by
Benson, of Ludgate Hill, the dials enlarged from 4 ft. diameter
to 5 ft. 9 in., and a new train of wheels and two bells added, to
chime the four quarters. Numerous visitors, besides the Town
Council, were afterwards entertained at luncheon by the Mayor.
Che Burmah Ruby 3¥Une$.
fP'IIE correspondence on the subject of the Ruby Mines in
!^| Burmah was published on the 16th ult. The Viceroy
telegraphed to the Secretary of State for India, on
February 25, 1886, that it was proposed to lease the mines pro-
visionally to Messrs. Gillanders & Arbuthnot, of Calcutta and
Rangoon, on condition of an annual payment of two lacs and free
examination by the Government. The Secretary consented : but
on March 27 Lord Dufferin again telegraphed that a syndicate,
formed by Messrs. Streeter, had offered three lacs per annum, and
again, on April 14, that the local house offered three lacs, while
Messrs. Streeter 's agent offered four. The Secretary of State
telegraphed, leaving the matter to the decision of the Viceroy,
but asking that the value of the mines and the rights of the
Government should lie carefully ascertained before pledging the
Government. The matter there rested until May last, when, on
the 19th, Lord Cross telegraphed asking whether it was true
that a contract on behalf of the Government had been signed, and
that an application to visit the mines had been refused. Lord
Dufferin replied that the terms under which the ruby mines were
to be worked was still under consideration, but a memorandum
had been signed which did not bind the Government, indicating
tlie terms which the Government representative would recommend
the Government to offer, and this had been communicated to
Messrs. Streeter. At the same time the Viceroy in Council was
of opinion that should the ruby mines regulation and terms of
agreement finally decided on prove acceptable to Messrs. Streeter,
they were entitled to be granted a lease in consideration of having
sent in the highest tender. The Viceroy subsequently forwarded
a statement of the proceedings in the matter of the ruby mines
since the occupation of Upper Burmah, showing that the agree-
ment on lease with Mr. Streeter had still to be settled by the law
officers of the Government, and that it was not to commence
until November 1 next. They had been careful to protect the
rights and interests of the native miners. As to an agent named
Lnger, who had complained that he had not been allowed to
inspect the mines, the Viceroy said he had never made a definite
offer, and he never mentioned that Messrs. Rothschild, of
London, were connected with the syndicate of which he was the
agent. The Chief Commissioner did not consider his proposals
sufficiently serious to justify him in postponing his decision in
regard to the specific offers of two firms, especially as, when
pressed to produce his credentials, Unger had declined to respond
to the invitation. Lord Cross telegraphed to the Viceroy on
June 6 asking his Excellency to make no arrangement with
anyone without sanction from home. Replying on July 8 to
a telegram from Lord Cross, the Viceroy said that Mr. Streeter's
son had been granted a licence to dig for rubies under the old
system, without machinery, but it was quite a distinct matter
from the leasing of the Crown monopoly right, on which action
remained suspended. Lord Cross finally wrote, on August 4,
to the Viceroy that he had not sufficient information before him
as to the value of the mines, or the effect of using machinery on
them, and that before sanctioning any lease or agreement he
proposed sending out experts to scientifically examine the mines.
This decision was also communicated to Messrs. Streeter and to
Messrs. Ogilvie, Gillander & Co.
A new monthly comic contemporary has just been started in
New York under the title of the Waterbury, for circulation
among the jewellery trades. It is very comprehensive in its
scope, and alternates in style between the serious gravity, almost,
of the Jewelers' Circular and the humorous levity of Stuff and
Nonsense (a very funny page from which latter is reproduced in
the number before us) in a way well calculated to dissipate the
most stubborn secretions superinduced by occupations of a
sedentary nature.
After a trial extending over three days, Robert Felton was
found guilty at the Middlesex Sessions, on the 19th ult., of
stealing a quantity of jewellery belonging to Louisa, Dowager
Lady Meux, and sentenced to five years' penal servitude.
September 1, 1887.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
41
Kashmir.
By William Simpson, R.I., F.R.G.S., Hon. Assoc, R.I.B.A.
(Continued from page 26.)
^jtNDIAN ear ornaments have a peculiarity which may he worth
J1L describing. It will be noticed that in Goolee's case these
ornaments are in the form of a rosette which does not hang,
but preserves a position with its outer surface parallel with the
wearer's face. The Delhi lady has a similar ornament ; but in her
case it is smaller, and is not so noticeable from the profusion of
gems around it. This position of the ornament is attained by
means of a large hole in the ear. The lobe is first bored, and a
small piece of bamboo is inserted; the bamboo is regularly changed
for larger pieces, till the hole is widened to nearly half-an-inch in
diameter. On the back of the ornament is a small tube which
fits into this hole, and it is thus held in its place — exactly in the
same way that the small jewel is held on the side of the nostril.
I give a drawing of this tube (fig. 1) from an ear ornament I
appeared to me to be made of tinsel, gold wire and pearls. In
my former account of a visit to a Delhi zenana, I mentioned that
it was the custom with the women of India to have their ears
bored with a number of holes for smaller rings ; Goolee was no
exception to this rule — she had three or four gold rings, but they
are concealed behind the rosette.
I give a sketch of another Kashmiri dancing girl (fig. 4),
as it shows a variety in the head ornaments : instead of the
crescent forms we have here triangles. She also has rosettes in
her ears, and the necklaces with the large pendant are similar in
style to Goolee's.
It must be remembered that jewellery is not confined to the
gentler sex in India. Men in that country, if they have the
means, decorate their persons quite as much as the women.
Rajahs, Avhen they appear on state occasions, are often covered
with an extraordinary amount of wealth. I remember the late
Maharajah Holkar appearing at a durbar held in Jubblepore by
Lord Canning, and it was whispered round that he carried on his
body something like a million sterling. This high value often
results from some celebrated gem being worn, the worth of which
Fig. 1. — Back part of an Earring.
Fig. 2 — Head from a Painting in the
< ^T~> 1 Ajunta Caves.
MoV-vc? ,,.
Fig. 3. — Heao of Buddha, Ajunta.
brought home with me ; its length is exactly three-eighths of an
inch, and its diameter is between that and half-an-inch. In some
parts of India this hole in the ear is made still larger : in the
Madras Presidency I have seen them quite an inch in diameter.
In ancient India this practice of making large holes in the lobe of
the ear was more prevalent than it is now. I give the copy of a
man's head (fig. 2) from one of the old Buddhist caves of
Ajunta, in which this will be seen. In the figures of Buddha
(fig. 3) this peculiarity is one of the conventional points which
the sculptors always represent ; the ears are in every case shown
as elongated — often as far down as the line of the shoulder — and
with a long opening in the lobe. Buddha being an Ascetic, he
has no ornaments on his person ; but in the old sculptures we
see other persons with large rings and ornaments, whose weight
at once explains the elongation of the lobe. Goolee had large
pendants to her ear ornaments, but these were not heavy : they
F4G. 4. — MuTTEE, A KASHMIR NAUTCH GlRL.
may cover the largest part of such a high estimate. When the
Prince of Wales went to India, I was allowed the privilege of
making a sketch of the Guikwar of Baroda ; he was then a mere
boy, and on this occasion he wore the celebrated necklace of
diamonds, said to be worth two millions sterling. Rajahs are
animated by the strongest desire to possess stones that are unique.
The story is well known how Runjit Singh managed to get the
Koh-i-noor ; all his offers to Shah Soojah for this purpose had
failed, and at last, during an interview, he forced an exchange of
puggrees or turbans, which is a mark of great friendship in India :
but in this case the Koh-i-noor was in Shah Soojah's puggree.
The main objects of a Rajah's existence are to possess a splendid
elephant, to ride upon on state occasions — the elephant must be
large, and have all the points which are considered to form the
perfect type of that animal — a larger gun than any of his neigh-
bour Rajahs ; and the largest and finest gems he can procure,
42
THE WATCHM AKER, JEWELLER AtfD SILVERSMITH. [Se.-tkmkek 1, 188?.
Fig. 5. H.H. Runbir Singh, Maharajah of Jummoo and Kashmir.
September 1, 188?.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
43
historical ones if possible. Since the British Raj has introduced
salutes, to the above must be added a burning ambition to increase
his right to an extra couple of guns. Anyone who could gratify
these royal tastes may command all that the Rajah's exchequer
contains.
I do not know if Runbir Singh, the late Maharajah of Jummoo
and Kashmir, had any celebrated jewels, or if he appeared in his
richest gems when he sat to me for his portrait. I had to visit
Jummoo, his capital town — this is the capital of the State of
Jummoo, a territory between Kashmir and the Punjaub, the
name of which comes first in his title. I spent a week there
as his guest, and took portraits of him and' his son, Pertab
Singh, who is now the Rajah, as Runbir died about two
years ago. I give a rough copy of the late Maharajah's
portrait (fig. 5). The aigrette on the puggree* is the same
as that usually worn by Rajahs. I did not learn the name of
the material in the central parts of this ornament : it was white
and transparent ; the upper portion was too large for one piece,
and the small leaflets which ornament the sides were filled with
what I take to be the same substance. Around the square
central panel are four large rubies, and below are three pendant
emeralds ; the pendant from the top of the aigrette is also an
emerald. He wore a tuft of heron's feathers in the puggree; the
heron is a sort of royal bird in Kashmir, and it is a capital crime
to kill one of them. The Rajah's ears must have been bored, for
he wore gold rings, to each of which were attached three emeralds,
one large and two small. He seemed to have a penchant for
emeralds, for in addition to these he had a collar formed of them,
and he also wore a necklace of two or three strings of pearls.
The gold ornament in front of these had in its centre what
seemed to be the same whitish substance which is in the aigrette.
The circular form which is seen behind is his shield; it is held in
its position by a belt of cloth of a deep yellowish brown. The
other belt on the left shoulder with an ornamental buckle is the
sword-belt ; the buckle is of gold with six rubies, three above
and three below. The dress was of plain white cotton, with a
scarf of the same material over the left shoulder.
[NOTE.— Owing to a misprint in the first part of this article, Srinugger, the capital of
Kashmir, appears as " Urinugger."]
Magnetism in "Watches anb Chronometers.
A Paper presented to the New York Electric Club by
Lieut. F. W. TopriN, U.S.N.
TIMEPIECE for the determination of a ship's longitude
was unknown at the beginning of the 18th century ;
ships went to sea with the most primitive means for
laying their course to distant ports, sailing by day and furling
their sails by night, lest they might strike some unknown shore.
Sea voyages were long, tedious and extremely perilous. In
consequence, the maritime nations, and England especially,
keenly felt the want of an instrument or timepiece for the
determination of the longitude at sea. In the year 1711, during
the reign of Queen Anne, the English Parliament passed an
Act constituting a Board of Longitude, with certain powers.
This Board found it expedient to offer three prizes of £10,000,
£15,000 and £20,000 for the production of a good timekeeper,
which would be the means of enabling mariners to find the
longitude at sea within 60, 10 and 30 miles respectively. For
fourteen years the offer remained fruitless, when one John
Harrison, a self-made man from Yorkshire, presented himself
with the offer to solve the problem ; he had experimented on
pendulums and invented the gridiron compensation.
His experiments on the effects of temperature on various
metals suggested to him the principle of compensation to watches,
in order to counterbalance the variation in rate by the expansion
and contraction of the balance spring in heat and cold.
Harrison's compensation was effected by a laminated j)iece
fixed to the plate at one end, and at the other carrying curb or
regulator pins, between which the spring acted, and it was by
* Turban is a word unknown in India., puggree is the name alwaya used.
the movement of these pins, to and from the stud, into which the
terminal end of the spring was pinned, lengthening or shortening
the acting portion of the spring, that the watch was regulated,
this curb acting in the same manner as a watch regulator is
moved by hand.
But, notwith standing Harrison's suggestion that the com-
pensation should be effected by the balance, the honour of
constructing the first compensation balance is acknowledged to
belong to Julien le Roy, the famous French watchmaker.
Harrison, having satisfied himself of the satisfactory per-
formance of his timepiece by trials on board a barge, proceeded
in one of the Government vessels to Lisbon. On this voyage he
was able to correct the reckoning to within one degree and thirty
minutes, and the Board of Longitude granted him £500 to
enable him to improve his timekeeper.
After laborious exertions he was enabled to ascertain the
longitude to within ten miles, or twenty miles less than the
distance required by the Board of Longitude — but he did not
obtain the full amount of the prize, set upon his accomplishment,
till the year 1757, nine years before his death. Harrison was a
man of extraordinary genius and perseverance, as he had a great
many disappointments to encounter, and the present perfection of
the ship's chronometer is greatly due to his exertions.
From this time forward to the present day unremitting
exertions have been made to perfect the chronometer ; both the
English and French Governments have encouraged, by rewards,
the improvement of the instrument. For a number of years the
English Government has paid premiums of three, two and one
hundred pounds yearly for the three best chronometers sent to
Greenwich for competitive trial, knowing that there remained
serious defects to be eliminated. But, as it was finally' de-
monstrated that these premiums bore no fruit, they were
withdrawn, and a Government purchase is the only stimulus given
to individual effort beside the privilege, that the fortunate vendor
may assume the title of " Maker to the Admiralty."
The defects still existing in our timepieces of precision
appertain mainly to the adjustment for temperature and to such
errors as are produced by the tendency of the metals, used in
construction of certain parts, to influences which cannot be
controlled. Harrison found that the adjustments for changes of
temperature ought not to be made by a device acting on that part
of the machine which was the principal cause of the error, namely,
the balance spring,, as such adjustments totally destroyed its
isochronous properties, which were already unavoidably impaired
by the balance spring losing its elasticity in changes of
temperature. This adjustment had to be made on the balance
by causing its lamina?, free at one end, to move to and from the
centre. By this means, the momentum of the balance was
changed in a direction to counteract the evil effects of the change
of temperature on the length and elasticity of the spring balance
pin. But all the corrections attained have failed to accomplish
what was needed.
Astronomers, scientists and men of the greatest mechanical
genius have grappled with the problem and report no progress,
except the conclusion reached, that the employment of steel and
brass in the manufacture of the spring is not desirable, moreover,
failing as it does to meet the causes of disturbances, which cannot
be controlled.
One of the most prominent of these uncontrollable causes of
disturbances is magnetism. Until within a few years the only
errors sought to be eliminated were those principally due to the
changes of temperature. But a new problem has now presented
itself, and that is, to meet the evil effects of magnetism.
The earliest scientific records notice the operations of a subtle
natural agency, peculiar in many repects to bodies containing iron
and acting more especially on iron and steel. By this agency
ferruginous particles are drawn together and frequently in
opposition to the force of gravity.
Notices of such phenomena are found in very ancient manu-
scripts, especially in those of China, and also in the writings of
the Greek and Roman philosophers.
The existence of this subtle agency was first observed as a
property of a mineral substance of a greyish black colour. The
44
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887.
Greeks obtained it from the province of Magnesia, and termed it
" magnes," from whence the term magnet and magnetism, the
one designating the mineral substance itself, the other the peculiar
agency supposed to reside in it.
In a celebrated philosophical poem by the Roman poet
Lucretius, who flourished about 60 B.C., we find the magnet, with
illustrations of its power, very beautifully treated.
In the translation of this poem by Dr. Busby, he thus renders
the passage : —
" Now. chief of all. the magnet's power I sing.
And from what laws the attractive functions spring :
The magnet's name the observing Grecians drew
From the magnetic region where it grew ;
Its viewless potent virtues men surprise,
Its strange effects they view with wondering eyes.
When, without aid of hinges, links or springs.
A pendant chain we hold of steely rings
Dropt from stone — the stone the binding source —
Ring clings to ring, and owns magnetic force :
Those held superior, those below maintain,
Circle ,'neath circle downward draws in vain,
Whilst free in air disports the oscillating chain."
The earth is a great magnet, and currents of electricity are
induced in all conductive material in which motion takes place at
its surface. Consequently every piece of metal capable of
polarity must be " magnetised," or in a magnetic state.
There are secular, periodical and irregular changes, to which
the earth's magnetic force is subjected. Secular changes are such
as are slowly progressive, and which run through a certain course
in a very long period of time, returning finally to their original
value. Periodical changes are certain regular changes or
variations, happening in short periods of time, such as a day, a
month, or even a year. Irregular changes are such as cannot be
traced through any uniform course, and which are apparently not
subject to any given law.
Magnetic storms come under the head of this latter class of
perturbations, and it is to the illustrious Humboldt that we owe
all our first knowledge of these facts. Being engaged at Berlin,
in 1806 and 1807, in examining the changes in the declination
of the compass needle for every half-hour, his attention was called
to certain capricious agitations in its position, not referable to
any accidental or mechanical cause, and which occasionally caused
so great an oscillation as to lead him to refer it to a sort of
magnetic reaction propagated from the interior of the earth. He
accordingly designated those disturbances as " magnetic storms,"
as being analagous to the sudden changes of electric tension,
which ensue in the electric storms of the atmosphere.
Magnetism meets us at every step, because steel and iron have
entered largely into the process of construction and manufacture.
Ships built of iron must not only be strongly magnetic, because
of the vast quantities of this metal, which is subject to the action
of terrestrial induction, but that by reason of the hammering of
hundreds of thousands of rivets as well as from the bending of
plates and bars during the process of construction, there must be
an extremely high development of permanent magnetism. Each
iron ship must have a special individuality of the magnetic
distribution, depending essentially on the position of the keel and
head whilst building, such a distribution having in each individual
case a polar axis and equatorial plane conformable to those of the
earth at the place where the ship is built. An iron ship may be
looked upon as in itself a large permanent magnet.
Changes of condition of polarity are continually going on in
all moving metals — the iron in a ship as well. Every time the
ship pitches or rolls the polarity changes and has an influence
on the compass needle and on the chronometer. Every time the
direction of the ship is changed its magnetic condition is changed,
and will have a consequent influence on the metal.
Magnetism is a condition, and it is the natural condition of
the molecular atoms composing iron and steel. This condition
may be made more or less "intense" by causes; the balance
wheel of the chronometer is "polarised " and is a good compass
needle in itself, as you will see by floating it on water, and is as
sensitive to polar conditions and surroundings as the compass
needle, although it does not show it to the eye, because the
mainspring is driving it through these lines of polarity so rapidly ;
but it will show the result in its "rating." These variations in
rating will show in every degree, from the fraction of a second an
to the point of stopping, according to the strength of the
magnetic force applied. The force of the influence exerted on
a chronometer is exactly the same as on a compass needle. The
same polarity which causes the needle to lurch one way or the
other will have a corresponding effect on the chronometer
balance, and a consequent change in " rate," or irregular time.
The practical application of electricity has made giant strides,
and electricity applied mechanically means magnetism in some
form. The appliances for generating electric light and motive
power are pregnant with magnetism, contaminating the whole
atmosphere surrounding dynamos, motors and wires.
The chances of injury to chronometers and to watches especially
by magnetism, have been greatly multiplied by the development
of the dynamo and its extensive application to electric lighting
and other purposes ; so it is very common to find magnetised
watches in the hands of persons having no connection whatever
with electrical appliances. A watch readily becomes sufficiently
magnetised to derange its action and render it entirely unreliable.
If the regulating part of a chronometer or watch — that is to say,
a balance, together with the hair spring — should be badly
affected by magnetism, which happens very often, it is clear that
the timejiiece will suffer more or less, according to the fineness of
construction and delicacy of adjustment.
All these changes herein referred to have their influence upon
magnetic metals, and, as I have before stated, those metals
entering largely into the construction of the balances and balance
springs of chronometers and watches, can we wonder why our
timepieces are found inaccurate and unreliable ?
The greatest case of error, as maybe inferred by the foregoing,
is our present compensation balance and our steel balance spring.
Little did John Harrison imagine, when trying to provide a
corrective for the expansion and contraction of the balance and
balance spring in changes of temperature, that, as shown by
Berthoud, the changes in the elasticity of the balance spring were
the real evil, and the expansion of the metal was really an
insignificant factor compared to the former, as the combined
expansion or contraction of the balance and balance spring is
about one-fifth in effect, demanding compensation, while the
changes in the elasticity of the balance spring demand the other
four-fifths of the compensation needed.
The invention of the compensation balance is rather the result
of inventive genius and practical experiment than a contrivance
based on well defined mathematical and scientific principles. But
without entering further into this part of the subject, it can be
stated as a fact that, having a steel compensation balance and
hardened steel balance spring, and our present annular com-
pensation balance, the laminae of which are made of steel and
brass, we can obtain compensation for changes of temperature
approximating accuracy for a change of 30° Fahrenheit only,
unless the auxiliary compensation device is used, when we can
obtain compensation for a wider range of temperature.
Makers of compensation balances are very particular about the
quality of brass they employ for melting on the steel rim of their
balances. Unsound balances frequently result from the quality
of the brass ; but it is not an uncommon occurrence that even in
the best balances the laminae separates when exposed for a long
time to a very low temperature. Chronometers used in whaling
ships stationed for a year or more at Behring Straits often meet
with such a mishap. A sliding of the brass on the steel may be
the cause. The unequal progression of the ratio of the two metals
is a source of error, for steel has a decreasing ratio of expansion
in heat, and brass has an increasing ratio.
Some English chronometer makers have demonstrated by
experiment, without any practical result, however, that the
necessity for compensation for temperature can be reduced to
nearly one-tenth by employing glass balance springs ; but these
springs have to be made of great length and require much room,
aside from the difficulty of making and applying them ; they
certainly never could be employed in watches.
In a competitive trial of a number of chronometers at the
Bureau of Navigation at the Navy Department, Washington,
during the first six months of the year 1886 three chronometers
September 1, 1887.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
45
were withdrawn from the trial on account of rust having developed
on the balance springs. Now, if rust is liable to show itself so
early as that, may I ask how many chronometers at sea are likely
to be afflicted with this malady, particularly in the tropics ?
May I ask how many ships have been out of their reckoning on
account of rusty balance springs ? — for nothing destroys 1 the time-
keeping of a chronometer or a watch so effectually as the most
diminutive speck of rust on the balance spring. The deep-seated
conviction of this fact has induced watch manufacturers doing
business with tropical countries to fit the better grade of watches
with gold balance springs, but the life of the elastic properties of
these springs was found to be short ; and in observatory trials
chronometers fitted with gold springs stood low on the list, and
did not compare favourably with those having steel springs.
By the foregoing remarks and by some subsequent references
emphasising the high and growing importance of possessing
portable machines for accurate timekeeping, and the difficulty of
attaining them, I desire to acquaint the members of the Club with
what Mr. Paillard, a celebrated adjuster of Geneva, Switzerland,
has really accomplished, and to show how far Mr. Paillard's
efforts have contributed in eliminating or reducing the errors
enumerated ; for if he has succeeded, and bulletins from the
Government Observatory at Geneva would indicate that he had,
then to him belongs the credit of having made a most decided
improvement in our portable timepieces and rendering a great
service to modern horology.
Various metals have been suggested to take the place of steel,
but it seems to have been left to Mr. Paillard, after fourteen
years of experiment, to finally succeed in producing, in an alloy
of palladium, a metal which is uninfluenced by magnetism or
corrosion, and still retains those properties necessary to obtain
the finest adjustment for changes of temperature.
Balances and balance springs made of this alloy are of an
expansive property, and a specific gravity slightly in excess of
steel, but possessed of the very important qualification that they
retain their elasticity in heat in a high degree, as verified in
observatory trials in various countries, thus reducing one of the
worst errors inherent to a steel balance and spring, aside from
its magnetic and oxidable properties ; giving us a material which
enables us to get a compensation approximating accuracy for a
wider range of temperature.
Palladium is a metal of the platinum group, and was discovered
by Woldston in 1803. Its specific gravity is 11-3, that of gold
being 19, steel 7*7 and palladium alloy 8 - 5. It is more fusible
than platinum and melts easily before the oxyhydrogen blowpipe
at 2,840° Fahrenheit. In its pure state it is not so ductile as
platinum.
In producing his balance Mr. Paillard used two different alloys
of palladium having a differential expansive ratio in similarity to
that of steel. In so doing he at the same time gave us a superior
balance ; for the two metals composing the laminaj of his balance
are congenial, both being made of a palladium alloy and being
fusible under different degrees of heat, having the necessary
hardness and other qualifications. Numerous searching tests
with balances in connection with the palladium alloy springs have
given the most flattering results, and we have had in chronometers
and watches containing these balances and springs superior time-
keepers uninfluenced by the hygrometric condition of the at-
mosphere or any spasmodical electrical condition of the same,
and excelling all j'revious attainments with the steel and brass
balance and steel balance spring.
This question of magnetism and the' necessity for protection
of chronometers and watches against magnetic influences has
called forth inventions of machines and devices for demagnetising
timepieces that had become affected ; also a sort of soft iron
shield or armour for enveloping the watch movement, as a defence
preventive against magnetic influences. These are mostly cures
after harm has been done. There would be no need of these
devices if those parts of the chronometers and watches which
control the timekeeping qualities were made of metal absolutely
unaffected by magnetism, and yet possessing the other necessary
qualifications.
In the face of the certain fact, that electrical appliances shall
become wider and wider in their range, and the aggressive
tendency of electricity for lighting and as a promotive power,
both at sea and on shore, we must be prepared to meet its
magnetic influence at every step in our industrial occupations.
In the discovery of this alloy of palladium, a timepiece has been
produced that is non-magnetic and non-oxidable, and possessing
those requisite and necessary qualities for fine and accurate
adjustments to temperature and isochronism and will take rank
among inventions of the highest order in horological science.
Discussion.
Mr. C. J. H. Woodbury, of Boston : Although the paper
naturally refers to the greater interest of life and property in
navigation, as far as magnetism in the balance of a ship's
chronometer is a factor in the question, yet it is doubtful whether
there is a single watch in the room whose steel portions are not
magnetised, attended with all the interferences with the rate which
magnetisation causes, unless the balance and hair spring is free
from steel. The first palladium hair spring which I ever saw
was shown to me by Mr. Charles F. Brush, at Cleveland, in
January, 1882. Of course it was absolutely unaffected by
the magnetic fields of the electrical apparatus, but possessed
physical properties equivalent to those of steel, as it was an
excellent timepiece.
One of the morning papers to-day contained a telegram from
Chicago stating that the North- Western Railroad were to inaugu-
rate a quarterly inspection of watches carried by their men, and
one of the requirements was that the watches should be provided
with an anti-magnetic shield. Now, if this be correct it shows
that the matter is receiving deserved attention, although the
attempt at annulling the effects of magnetism, by either placing
a magnetic force larger than the irregular and disturbing magnetic
forces, or by applying magnetic forces in opposite directions,
must in the nature of things be approximate methods, and
inferior to those which carry the portions of watches beyond
the pale of magnetic influence by the use of non-magnetic
material.
The method of adjusting the compasses of iron ships by placing
masses of iron, such as cannon balls, near to the compass, in such
positions as may be determined by experiment to act with equal
force and in opposite direction to the vessel's component of
magnetism, is a similar process.
This invention of Sir William Thompson has been of great
value to the interests of commerce by rendering the use of the
compass practicable in iron vessels. But this method of adjust-
ment is confessedly approximate, remaining correct after once
applied, only so long as the local attraction which the masses of
iron counterbalance remain constant.
The steamship " Pavonia," while making the port of Boston last
March, had sailed for 500 miles by dead reckoning on account of
foul weather, and approached the shore near to Duxbury, while
the captain is reported to have said that the vessel must be
somewhat north of Boston. The cause of this error of some
30 miles was due to the change in the component of the ship's
magnetism, which may have been produced by the buffeting of
the waves, an unusual distribution of the cargo, or by some other
cause, making changes in the stresses applied to the vessel.
One of the earliest experiments in magnetism set forth in
text-books on physics, shows how a bar of steel can be mag-
netised by striking it a few sharp blows ; while we have a more
homely illustration in the fact that steel drills are universally
magnetic after being used.
I have with me a realistic example of the effect of electricity
upon watches, showing you this watch which I wore when struck
by lightning in the Pacific Mills, at Lawrence, six years ago
this week. I had been thoroughly drenched by the shower
before reaching the shelter of the mill office, and experienced no
personal effects from the shock, which destroyed my watch,
beyond a paralysis of the throat, which passed away after a
few minutes.
[The watch was passed around the table for examination and
showed on the back two straight black stripes, each about half-
an-inch in width, extending across the back, and joining each
other at one end, like a letter V. Three of the arbors in the
46
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887.
movement were broken by the lightning ; but there was no
discolouration inside.]
Mr. W. C. Kerr said he had gained some very interesting
information by being present. A few years ago he had a watch
sent him from Switzerland. It was not affected by electricity,
had been worn among dynamos and electric generators generally,
and it always kept perfect time, and the conclusion he had come
to was that there was not this general danger in electricity to
timepieces that was imagined. This evening he had discovered
that the reason his watch had not been affected was because it
was one containing the non-magnetic parts mentioned in the
paper of the evening — was, in fact, one of the early watches in
which Mr. Paillard's invention had been used. This was a
surprise to him, and he was pleased to now be informed why his
watch had always been such a satisfactory timepiece when others
so often failed.
Lieut. Toppin stated, in response to Mr. Woodbury's remarks
about the " Pavonia," that between Patchogue and extending up
the Atlantic coast towards Rockaway there was an outlying ledge
of rocks consisting almost entirely of magnetite. There was a
deposit of black sand on the beach from this ledge when there
was a south-easterly storm, which, on being tested, proved to be
95 per cent, pure magnetite. Can we wonder that ships go
ashore off this coast on account of such magnetic influences on
their compasses ?
In reply to the statement of Mr. Woodbury that he had
noticed in the daily press that an order had been issued by the
management of a Western railroad to require improved time-
pieces to be carried by all its trainmen, Mr. A. Conkling stated
that such a proposition was under consideration by the road, but
had not been adopted.
Che ilimes are iDut of joint.
the above heading a correspondent of the New
York Jewelers' 1 Weekly writes : — Every day in the year
this question — " What time is it?" — is asked a thousand
times, either of those who. carry watches or of the public clocks.
The latter, however, so far as New York is concerned, are by no
means reliable. This fact was first brought to the writer's
attention by a gentleman from a suburban town, while on a visit
to New York. He was a man of punctilious habits, and was for
ever adjusting the hands of his watch in order to bring them to
an exactness in time that might be counted by seconds.
He had set his watch in the morning by the clock in front of
the Fifth Avenue Hotel, where he was stopping, and during his
peregrinations about town had found occasion to change it back
and forth at least a dozen times. He became bewildered. Finally
he came to the logical conclusion that either his watch was
worthless or the public clocks wrong. Investigation proved that
the latter surmise was the correct one.
A number of local reporters recently made a tour of the town,
having set their watches by the Western Union time-ball on a
day when it dropped precisely at noon, and, taking that as a
standard, they compared it with the principal public clocks of the
city, with the following result: —
Gilsey House clock ... 12.05.00
Fifth Avenue Hotel clock 12.02.00
Tiffany's clock 12.00.00
Con. Ch., Twentv-ninth
Street and Fifth Avenue 12.00.30
Brick Church. Murray
Hill ' 12.00.00
Grand Central Station ... 12.01.00
Barrett House clock ... 11.59.00
St. George's Church ... 12.01.00
Western Union time-ball... 12.00.00
Trinity Church clock ... 11.58.30
Benedict's time 11.59.30
St. Paul's clock 12.00.30
Tribune clock 12.01.00
Thurber's clock 12.01.00
St. John's clock 12.00.00
Jefferson Market clock ... 11.59.30
Union Dime clock 11.59.30
Parker House clock ... 12.01.00
The greatest difference, in time lies between Trinity Church
clock and the clock on the cupola of the Gilsey House. This
difference amounts to 6 minutes 30 seconds. Of all those
examined, only three clocks in the city coincided with the Western
Union time — namely, St. John's, Tiffany's and the Fifth
Avenue Brick Church.
tempering Steel with Electricity.
\T the shop of the Sedgwick Mainspring Co., 19 and 21,
South Canal Street, Chicago, can be seen a very in-
teresting application of electricity to the arts. It consists
of tempering watch springs by means of the electric current. In
one part of the room stands what is known to the trade as a one-
light dynamo. The conductors from the dynamo lead to another
part of the room, to a bench on which stands an ordinary oil
tempering bath. One of the conductors connects with a point
within the oil bath, and the other to a point without. The piece
of flat soft steel wire that i? to be tempered to the blue colour is
fed under the contact point on the outside of the bath first, and
then under the one on the inside. When it reaches the latter
the circuit is complete, and the wire immediately and uniformly
becomes heated. No means have been taken to measure the
current exactly for the purpose of doing the whole work mechani-
cally. The variation in the percentage of carbon in different
pieces of steel forbids the delicate process of tempering from
becoming a purely mechanical piece of work. Therefore, with the
electric current as with a fire, the colour of the steel determines
the length of time that it shall be heated.
Several advantages are claimed for this process of tempering.
The chief one is that the steel does not have time to oxidise
after it has been heated to the proper colour before it is under
cover of the oil, and consequently that the steel wire is of the
same thickness when it is tempered as it was before it entered the
process. The heating is uniform throughout the length of the
spring, and there is less liability of defective spots. The process
is a rapid one, the springs being heated and passing into the
bath at the rate of four inches a second.
The large watchmaking concerns look with great favour on
the new process, and the Sedgwick Mainspring Co. are just
about to double their capacity for the purpose of keeping up witli
their orders.
lilorhshop ITlemoranba.
To Temper small Drills. — Mr. Charles Riess,in the American
Jeweler, says : — The tempering of small drills for drilling holes in
arbors, staffs, &c, which we find are very hard and difficult to be
perforated, may be effected in the following manner. After
having filed the drill to its proper size (being careful not to
flatten the cutting face), you then warm it moderately, avoiding
its becoming red, and run it into borax. The drill is thereby
coated over with a crust of borax and secluded from the air.
Now it may be hardened by heating it only cherry red ; after this
it is inserted into a piece of borax, or what is better still plunged
into mercury ; care should be taken not to breathe the mercury
fumes in the latter case. By the heat of the drill the borax
accommodates itself to it as it melts and cools off. Experiments
made in various ways, by cooling in water, petroleum, &c, after
the drill had received its coat of borax, were not followed by as
favourable results as if the drill had been plunged into borax or
mercury ; without being brittle it will become exceedingly hard,
and the watchmaker will be enabled to drill articles which could
not otherwise be perforated with a drill tempered in the ordinary
way. The use made by many watchmakers of broken broaches
for making these small drills, with the belief that the broaches are
made of the best steel is not always the case, because the steel used
for them is frequently burned, which, of course, renders it
thereby unfit for such small tools. Now, in order to make
the quality of your drill a certainty, always take a new piece of
round steel for that purpose.
To restore the lustre of dead silver-work, gild clock-cases, &c,
dissolve one ounce of cyanide of potash in one quart of pure
water, empty it into a bottle, and label it "poison." When to
be used, place the article in an earthen vessel, cover it over with
the solution, and in five minutes the lustreless appearance will
be removed ; preserve the fluid for future use.
September 1, 1887.] THE WATCHMAKEE, JEWELLEK AND SILVERSMITH.
47
Fine silver jewellery or filigree work can be cleaned and
re-wliitened in the following manner : — Take one ounce of borax
and dissolve in eight ounces of water, put the articles to be
cleaned into a porcelain dish with the solution, placing it over a
lamp for about ten minutes and letting it boil. A clean pickle
composed of one part of sulphuric acid to twenty parts of water,
should be kept in a clean copper or porcelain dish, and when
ready for use should be hot. Take the articles from the boiling
borax and place them on a piece of charcoal, and with the spirit
lamp and blow-pipe bring them to a dull red heat. Having
satisfied yourself that the articles have been thoroughly and
equally heated, let them drop into the hot pickle, being careful,
as soon as the article whitens, to remove it from the pickle into
hot water, immediately washing it with a soft, clean brush, using
aqua ammonia and soap, and drying in boxwood sawdust. The
parts required to be bright should be touched up with a burnisher.
Great care must be taken that everything you use is clean and in
good order.
lorresponbence.
All Letters for Publication to be addressed to the. Editor of The
Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Church-
yard, E.C.
All communications must bear the name and address of the sender, not
necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.
To the Editor of The Watchmaker,
Silversmith.
Jeweller and
[TRADE MARK LEGISLATION.]
Sir, — The Merchandise Marks Law Consolidation and
Amendment Bill having now passed its final stage, the Board of
Trade are entitled to the thanks of the mercantile community,
and Lord Stanley of Preston and Baron de Worms, personally,
to the fullest recognition of the perseverance and tact with which
the measure has been piloted through both Houses of Parliament.
Exactly 25 years have elapsed since the passing of the
Merchandise Marks Act of 1862, which, as a Bill, together with
the Trade Marks Bill introduced in the same session, had been
referred to a Select Committee, over which the late Mr. Roebuck
presided. I remember how generally it was then felt that so
great a change in the commercial dealings of the country as
would be enforced under the new law should not, without ample
notice to those concerned, be brought to bear adversely against
the trading community.
Representatives from Provincial Chambers of Commerce and
of those Committees on which I had previously been acting, with
the object of securing increased legal protection for Trade Marks
generally, and the establishment of a Government system for
their registration, met in London. In the result, the Government
Bill, to which the Royal assent was given on August 7, 1862,
so far as concerned its most stringent clauses against dealers and
factors, and in some respects manufacturers also, was so framed
as not to come into operation until January 1, 1864. An
interval of one year and five months was thus placed at the
disposal of all concerned to prepare themselves for the great
change about to be inaugurated.
The late Mr. Samuel Morley, on his own premises in
Wood Street, pointing to the shelves by which we were there
surrounded, told me at the time that he feared it would be im-
possible for any warehouseman or dealer, howsoever honestly he
conducted his business, to avoid occasional, if not frequent,
liability under the penal sections of the Act. That which applied
to Manchester heavy goods and small wares, such as those to
which Mr. Morley was referring, in no less degree affected the
food and drink and tobacco industries, together with most others
included within the 50 classes into which, for the purposes of
the Registration Act of 1875, goods have since been divided.
The earliest proceedings taken of which I have any record were
by Messrs. Broadwood and Messrs. Guinness, and were in both
instances successful ; but the value of the Act has always been
rather of a deterrent than of an active character ; and this in all
probability for the reasons that transpired during the recent
debate in the House of Lords on the second reading of the
new Bill.
What was equitable in 1862 is no less so in 1887, even were
the further legislation less severe in its bearing on traders. But,
on the contrary, it is more severe, as has been throughout the
avowed intention of the Government, and approved by Parliament.
It is thus that I am emboldened to ask the aid of the public
Press, in order that by the giving of publicity to this letter the
Government may be induced to devise, by the aid of the law
officers, some means of suspending the coming into operation of
the new law until, say, January 1, 1888.
The intervening period would then in no way prove more than
sufficient for exhausting the stocks in the hands of retailers or in
warehouses ; and at least partially to consume what manufac-
turers, in some instances at very considerable cost, have still
under their own control. In pressing for the delay asked, I am
giving expression to the wishes of those who desire to conform,
but are at the same time naturally anxious to minimise the
financial loss involved ; and, above all, to save their factors and
retail agents from the annoyance and attendant risk of proceed-
ings taken under the Act.
Henceforth, when their labels, &c, have been remodelled so as
to comply with the requirements of the Act, manufacturers will
secure the full protection obtainable under registration. Illusory,
in many instances, heretofore, have been the rights believed to be
gained in respect of certain marks (mostly as labels) placed on
the Register. As has been recently held by the Courts, no
exclusive property can be maintained in that which embodies
statements which are untrue in fact. There is no protection in
equity against, nor possibility of obtaining damages in respect of,
imitations of trade labels of this character, so that the misrepre-
sentation made by any one trader could be repeated ad libitum by
any number of other traders, and the public deceived, or not, as
the case might be, by all or none.
Manufacturers who for the moment may be under the impres-
sion that their interests are likely to suffer by the enforced
system of truthfulness that must prevail in the statements in
future attached to their goods will in the end discover that the
contrary is the result.
The public here when buying British manufactures, honestly
draped in native garb and described in plain English words, on
finding the goods purchased — whether tobacco, clothing, articles
of food or drink, or aught else — identical with what has been
hitherto put forward under foreign plumage with fictitious names
and addresses, will experience no regret that the petty deceptions
too long sanctioned by trade usage are now brought to an end.
Similar will be the result in our Colonies ; whilst in foreign
countries the fair repute for commercial honesty long claimed
by the United Kingdom will be re-established, and the best of
examples set to all the other trading nations of the world.
I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
Edmund Johnson,
Hon. Secretary of the London Trade Marks
Committee, and Manager of the Trade
Marks Protection Society.
1, Castle Street, Holborn, London, August 13.
Answers to Horrespon&ents.
Ignoramus (Leeds). — The only useful mode of giving the
technical instruction you suggest would be in combination with a
practical course such as is given at some of the institutions you
mention. If the latter cannot be obtained, the next best thing
for a beginner to do is to read up the numerous standard works
applicable to his craft, and to experimentally put in practice the
theories therein dealt with. Want of necessary space only allows
us to deal summarily with the many subjects of interest to our
various readers, and the course you propose is beyond our scope.
We are afraid you are only one among a great, many who have
afterwards had to find out for themselves what should have been
taught them during the period of their apprenticeship.
48
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [September 1, 1887.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller and Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn, London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Eow, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
10.2(17. W. H. Sheldon and G. Mason, Birmingham,- for " Improvements in
jewellery and articles connected therewith."' Dated July 22. 1887.
10.289. W. Greenwood, York, for ■•The protection of watches." .Dated
July 23, 1887.
10,812. A. R. Wilson, London, for ••Improvements in the method of
securing the bows of keyless and other watches to their pendants."
Dated July 25, 1887.
10,588. F. Fenton, a communication from J. Woolford, France, for
'■Improvements in extracting gold from simple, re impound and
refractory ores, or slags, wastes, cinders of ores or metals con-
taining gold or gold blends.'' Dated July 30, 1887.
10,59-1. J. Vautin. London, for "An improved method of extracting geld
from the various auriferous ores." Dated July 30. 1SS7.
10.742. H. Duboulet, London, for " Improved mechanism for winding up
clocks, watches and the like." Dated August 4, 1887.
J. G. Lorrain. London, for " Improvements in self-winding
clocks/' Dated August 5, 1887.
10.792. J. G. Lorrain. London, for "Improvements in self-winding
clocks.'' Dated August 6, 1887.
10.930. P. Brimelow, Bury, for " Improved automatic clock indicator for
measuring any required length of fibrous materials, such as
cotton, worsted, silk, <fcc." Dated August 10, 1887.
J. Coombs, London, for " Improvements in ore separators or gold
extracting machinery." Dated August 12. 1887.
11.134. H. O. Stauft'er. London. for " Improvements in repeating watches."
Dated August 15, 1887.
11.191. H. Steinheuer, J. Steinheuer. H. Rabe and E. Rabe. London, for
" Improved apparatus for winding up the driving mechanism of
clocks." Dated August 16, 1887.
11.27S. H. N. G. Cobbe. Birmingham, for ••Improvements in self-winding
clocks." Dated August 18, 1887.
10,785
11,025.
Becent American Patents.
...307.159
purposes.
Alloy. C. A. Paillard ...
Alloy, Metallic. C. A. Paillard
Burglar Alarm. Wade & Burras
Chuck. G. L. Jones
Clock-winding Mechanism. A.Robinson
Dead Centres, Device for overcoming. S. T. Shortess
Dial Figuring Machine. A. T. Westiake
Drilling Machine. J. Bailey
Emery Wheels, Tool for Dressing. H. K. Forbis
Engravers' Tool or Scraper. A. Bonniol
Eyeglass Holder. M. Riggs
Eyeglasses or Spectacles. I. Fox
Metals, and utilising the same for Metallurgical
producing Silicious. C. Hensler (»•) ...
Music Box. A. Junod
Ore Concentrator. H. F. Learnard
Pendulums, Electric Controlling and Regulating Device for.
W. S. Scales
Ratchet Drill and Die Stock combined. A. Loehner
Rolling Mill Appliance. C.H.Morgan
Scarf or Necktie Holder. G.S.White
Sheet Metal Bending Machine. P. Kinimel
Sheet Metal, Ornamentation of. J. Wood
Soldering Machine, Can. W. H. H. Stephenson
Watch Case. C. K. Giles
Watch Cases, Machine for Making. E. Keller ...
Wind Vane Motor for Clocks. A. Hitt
Window Clock. H. Pennington
Window Reflector. K. Frekker
to 367,161
367.15s
366,537
366,485
366,429
366,433
366.987
366,366
367.2S7
366.297
366,345
366.471
10,852
366.325
366.631
366,513
366,965
3(16.236
366.284
366.4*6
366.2m;
366,271
367,288
366,778
366.S34
366,683
366,624
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
18GG, will be furnished from this office for 2s. Gel. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
Gazette.
Pabtneeships Dissolved.
Quin & Romer, Newman Street, Oxford Street, jewel case makei
Phelps
Brothers, Birmingham, goldsmiths. William Washington and Samuel
Washington, Morecambe, Lancashire, polishing paste manufacturers
Bishton & Fletcher, Birmingham, jewellers. John Baker & Co.
Sheffield, cutlery manufacturers. Button & Powers. Lower Broughton
and Manchester, silversmiths. B. & L. Hammett, Barking Road
Canning Town, and Cambridge Place. Plaistow. pawnbrokers.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender in London.— Andreas Furtwangler. Strand, watchmaker
.Bryce McMurdo Wright, Regent Street, mineralogist.
To surrender in, the Country.— -Edwin Buswell, Brecon, jeweller. Ben-
jamin Sargent, 12, King's Road, St. Leonards-on-Sea, Sussex, jeweller
Joseph Bromage and Frederick Bromage (trading as J. & F. Bromage),
Birmingham, manufacturing jewellers. Isaac Eisner, Birmingham
and Edgbaston. pawnbroker. John Green, Sheffield, pawnbroker.
Clara Ann Rollaston (otherwise Twist). Birmingham, pawnbroker.
Public Examinations.
In the Country.— -W. H. Stokes (trading as John Stokes & Son), Bir-
mingham, manufacturing jeweller; September 9. at 11. T. Marston
(trading as T. Marston & Co.), Birmingham, jeweller : September 12,
it 9
Adjudications.
In London.— A. Paillard (trading as A. Paillard & Co.), Holborn Viaduct
and elsewhere, musical instrument importer.
In tlio Country. — J. Jennings. The Pavement, Surbiton, watchmaker. E.
Buswell. Brecon, jeweller. J. Fletcher. Birmingham, jeweller. W.
Hayward, Christchurch. watchmaker. F. G. Baker, Shanklin, watch-
maker. B. Sargent. St. Leonards, jeweller.
Notices of Dividends.
In London. — George Charles Haider. 65. Hattou Garden, diamond mer-
chant : ljd., second and final : any Wednesday, Seear, fiasluck&Co.,
23. Holborn Viaduct. E. Scott and J. F. Beckett I trading as Scott i;
Beckett), Myddelton Street, manufacturing jewellers : Is. 8d., second
and final : any Wedpesday, Seear. Hasluck &Co.,23, Holborn Viaduct.
Ln tin- Country. — B. Whitaker, Burnley, working jeweller: 8d.,firstand
final : August 4, Official Receiver, Preston. J. A. Ensden, Gains-
borough, jeweller; 7s„ first : on and after August 5. (.;. Gay, Lincoln.
A. Carson, Manchester, watch importer ; 4s. 6d., first : November 27.
5, Winckley Street, Preston. C. Taylor and \V. Taj Lor (trading as ('.
vV- W. Taylor). Coventry, watch manufacturers : 3s.. second and final ;
August 12, Official Receiver, Coventry. R. II. Cheetham, South-
ampton, cutler ; Is. Hd., first and final : August 15, Official Receiver.
Southampton. .J. G. Needham. Sheffield, watchmaker; 3s. 4d.. first
and final : August 18, Official Receiver, Sheffield. J. Sheldon, Stock-
port, jeweller; Is. 24d., first and final: any day, Official Receiver
Macclesfield. " Amended NoT ice.
H. G. Bloor. Sheffield, electro-plater ; Is. 5d., first and final: April 4.
Official Receiver, Sheffield.
Scotch Sequestration.
■ I. Waddell, Glasgow, watchmaker.
Buyers' Suibe.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield, Sell Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Buy all materials containing Gold and Silver.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
Customers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hattou Garden,
London, E.C.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen, send to Alexander Edwards,
Watch Material and Tool Dealer. 88 iV. 89. Craven Street, and 2. Holy-
head Road. Coventry. Lists : all Horological Literature.
W. Scott Hayward & Co., 59, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornametit Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool, Leipzig and Paris.
WANTED.
AVERY Experienced SPECIALIST MANUFACTURER
seeks some GENUINE FACTORS for a NEW CHRONOGRAPH
which defies all competition as to price, soundness and efficiency. The
Chronograph acts as a simple chronograph, counter and fly-back. Offers
to be addressed in writing to H. 730 Q, a Messrs. Haasenstein &
Vogler, Bale, Switzerland. — [Advt.]
"UAUNIER'S EOROLOGY,"
O Huddy, Fore Street. Liskeard —
Second-hand copy. — W. H.
[Advt.]
TO BE SOLD.
JEWELLERY BUSINESS for Sale, in one of the principal
Seaside places on the South Coast and occupying a commanding
position. The business has been carried on with success for the past
twelve years, and is only now offered for sale in consequence of the ill-
health of the proprietor. The Stock, &c, is valued at about £4,000.
All particulars may be obtained from Messrs. B. H. Joseph & Co., 20,
Frederick Street, Birmingham. — [Advt.]
U/ATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
V V of Superior Goods only ; established 35 years, with good Jobbing
Trade attached, extending over England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Incoming can be reduced to Four or Five Hundred Pounds, chiefly or
quite covered by goods, comprising movements, material, tools, &c.
Owner no objection to remain two or three years to part work at
finishing or assist in any way required. Age only reason for wishing to
decline business. — Address Manufacturer, Office of this Journal. — ■
[Advt.]
cViVe
{XJatel^akcr,
Hib/crsrrjitl^.
Entered at Stationers' TTall.~\
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
[Registered for Transmission Ahmad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 4.]
OCTOBER 1, 1887.
r Subscription, 5s. ( Post
|_ per Annum. | Free.
SPECIAL NOTICE.
Our correspondents are kindly requested to note that the
Office of this Journal has been removed to more com-
modious premises at No. 7, St. Paul's Churchyard.
CONTENTS.
Editorial ...
General Notes
Trade Notes ... ... ...
Birmingham News. From Ouk Correspondent ...
The Birmingham Jewellers and Silversmiths' Association
American Items ...
Electro Deposition of Iridium ...
Electro Gilding Watches ...
East Indian Jewellery ...
The Effect of Centrifugal Force on the Balance
The Merchandise Marks Act, 1887
The Ruby Mines of Burmah ...
Fashions in Jewellery
Workshop Memoranda ...
London Bankruptcy Court
Bankruptcy Proceedings... ...
Gazette
Applications for Letters Patent...
Eecent American Patents ...
Correspondence ... ...
Buyers' Guide ...
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IChe "Watchmaker, jeweller an6
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers.
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence.— Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, St. Paul's Churchyard, London, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
OME time since, one of the comic papers (we think it
was our old friend Mr. Punch) published the fol-
lowing "Conundrum' for the considerate:" "Why
is happiness like an Act of Parliament?" the answer given
being, "Because you can never tell its value until it is passed."
Well, what, in some of its clauses, is essentially a watchmakers'
Act is passed, and whether or not the various branches of the
horological trades were happy before, it is at least quite certain
that many of them are not so now it has become un fait accompli.
In previously commenting on the measure as it was at first
proposed, we attempted to deal with its possible effects on the
trade as a whole ; and, while avoiding as much as possible the
invidiousness due to a more detailed consideration of the subject,
pointed out at the same time the difficulties of satisfactorily
formulating and administering enactments of the kind.
The appositeness of our remarks is now sufficiently manifested
by the state of uncertainty and apprehension prevailing among
many branches of the trade which the Bill was never intended by
the majority of its advocates to affect, and to whom it must, if
vexatiously administered, do an incalculable amount of injury.
There can be no doubt about the facts of the case, and English
watchmakers should, in their own interests, study it in all its
bearings. The Bill is the direct outcome of the on all sides
admitted grievance of foreign-made goods being made in imita-
tion of and sold as English ; and, so far as watches were con-
cerned, this was rendered possible mainly in consequence of their
bearing the English Hall-mark in the case, which, from usage,
has become to all intents and purposes a trade mark.
Having already fully discussed this part of the question, it is
unnecessary to further enlarge upon it here, saving to remark
that, had legislation been limited to the remedying of this point,
a good deal of the present complication would have been avoided.
However, those responsible for the Act did not apparently see
their way to stopping at this stage, and so we have, according to
Section 7, the Hall-mark " constituting, or considered as consti-
tuting, a description of the country in which the watch is made,"
P
50
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 1887.
prima facie. The Hall-mark is in future to be considered a trade
description within the meaning of the Act, and, for the purposes
of Section 7, the expression "watch" means all that portion of
a watch which is not the watch case.
What effect the Bill is to have on the future trade of the
country is an_qpen question, upon which opinion is very much at
variance ; those in favour of it saying it will greatly benefit the
trade by stimulating various branches of English manufacture
and re-introducing others that are lost ; while those opposed to
it say it will react favourably on foreign-made goods, and
eventually overcome prejudice, against the same by demonstrating
their relative cheapness in comparison with home productions.
But whatever the general consequences may be to manufacturers
here, there can be no doubt but it will fulfil one of its best
objects if it effectually prevent the sale of foreign-made imitation
English watches. The wholesale trade that has been done in
these goods is one of the chief causes for the summary manner
in which the Bill has been introduced. On the other hand, how-
ever, there is always a danger, in the inconsiderate application of
such drastic measures, of doing injustice to persons perfectly
innocent of any desire to trade under false pretences or act
in any other than good faith. Such are the numerous manu-
facturers of bona fide Swiss watches (bar-watches, having not
the least resemblance to English work), who would indignantly
repudiate the charge of unfair dealing; and of all those English
manufacturers who have availed themselves of opportunity of
using Swiss parts (bearing, however, a small proportion to the
entire watch, from jewel screws to the repeating mechanism,
which cannot be made in this country), to the mutual advantage
of the public and their own reputation.
To class such persons in the same category with the dealers
before mentioned is obviously both unfair and illogical ; yet this
is what the Bill literally interpreted does, and the fact that it
does so shows the necessity existing for a test case. That com-
paratively few repeaters and other complicated watches are sold in
this country, is no reason for English watchmakers handing over
a small but profitable branch of the trade to the Swiss. Besides,
a clearer definition, or, as Dr. Johnson says, such an explanation
as is equivalent to a definition, of the meaning of the Act is
necessary on principle. As a matter of fact, hardly a manu-
facturer could be found in England who would not be amenable
to the law in some form if it were to be construed au pied de la
lettre, in accordance with the notions of certain sections of the
trade, who imagine such a construction would create monopolies
in their favour.
Mr. Edward Waterton, F.S.A., whose death was recently
announced, distinguished himself as a collector, and was engaged
at the time of his death in forming a collection of rare editions
of Thomas a Kempis. It is, however, for his splendid collection
of rings (especially episcopal) that he is best known. This,
exhibited at the South Kensington Museum, will be familiar to
most of our readers. Mr. Waterton, who was the son of the
famous naturalist, Charles Waterton, descended collaterally
from Sir Thomas More ; and among the many souvenirs he
possessed of that distinguished man is the curious clock painted
by Holbein in the well-known picture of Sir Thomas More and
bis family. This clock still stands in the old ball of the
Waterton mansion, and, we hear, keeps pretty good time.
Speaking of the old hall reminds us of an odd incident. The
Watertons have ever been- strict Roman Catholics ; and Charles
Waterton especially observed the fasts of the Church with
rigorous exactness. One alay a friend of his .called at the
house. The would-be guest, a Member of Parliament for a
southern county, found that it was a strict fast day, and that
Waterton was not to be seen on any pretence. The visitor
described the circumstance to~a friend in these words: —
" There were cases of stuffed birds
All round the old hall ;
But my case was a case
Of no stuffing at all."
Seneral Notes.
filfHE September number of Good Words contains the first
l^g part of a paper entitled " The Experiences of a Meteo-
rologist in South Australia." It is from the well-known
pen of Mr. C. L. Wragge, F.R.G.S., and will be found well
worth perusal.
Mr. Henry Irving has promised to visit Stratford-on-Avon
on the 17th inst., to inaugurate the Memorial Fountain and Clock
Tower which was described in our August issue. The United
States' Minister (Mr. Phelps) and Mr. Lowell will also be present.
The Superintendent of the Indian Geological Survey has
reported on the auriferous tracts in Mysore. He found many
workings where the reefs were of promise. In a hurried tour he
chanced upon no fewer than five sets of old workings unknown
to previous surveyors.
From the Burmah Ruby Mines comes the news that revenue,
collected at 30 per cent, ad valorem, is coming in satisfactorily,
and will likely greatly exceed Messrs. Streeter's bid ; so that
already, asserts an Indian paper, the folly of giving leases without
knowledge of the circumstances is apparent in this case.
The sale of the French Crown Jewels, it is now officially
reported, has produced the net sum of 7,207,252 fcs. and 50
centimes. The historical heirlooms which were not sold represent
a far larger amount. Such of them as have been transferred to
the Louvre Museum are estimated at £510,000 sterling.
We are informed by Mr. Sidney Webb that the Working
Men's College, 46, Great Ormond Street, W.C., now provides
technical instruction in all subjects for which a minimum
audience of twelve be guaranteed by any responsible club, insti-
tute or other organisation. Applications for information should
be made to the Secretary.
According to a contemporary, there is reason to believe that
the Colonial Governments, in conformity with the views expressed
at the recent Colonial Conference, will shortly propose legislation
similar to that embodied in the Merchandise Marks Bill just
passed. As will be seen by the recent speech of M. Rouvier, the
French Government also contemplate action with the view of
suppressing false trade marks.
The Manchester Chamber of Commerce recently discussed
and confirmed a claim of a special annexe for Lancashire at the
forthcoming Melbourne Exhibition. Various speakers at the
meeting pointed out the importance of maintaining and cul-
tivating our trade with the Australian Colonies. Here is a good
opportunity for our movement makers and others to show they
are alive to the altered conditions of the watch trade likely to be
produced by the Merchandise Marks Bill,
October 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
51
The proceeding's of the British Association at Manchester
came to an end on September 7, when the President read a
communication from the Economic Science and Statistics Section
to the effect that the Council be requested to consider the
advisableness of organising an International Scientific Institute,
with power to correspond with other existing institutions on
the Continent and in the United States. The proposal being-
discussed was disapproved.
Speaking at the meeting of the British Association on
September 2, the Hon. John Forrest, C.M.G. (Commissioner of
Crown Lands and Surveyor-General of Western Australia), said
that during 1886 about 10,000 diggers proceeded to the gold
fields at the head waters of the Fitzroy and Ord rivers, and
that, although many returned disappointed, the permanency and
richness of fields is now firmly established. By the last mail
from the colony, he learnt that one man had recently obtained a
hundredweight of gold, and that in one ship 3,000 ounces were
exported from the district.
On the occasion of the marriage of his daughter, Mr. B. H.
Joseph (of Messrs. B. H. Joseph & Co.) entertained his
employes, numbering over 60, for a day in the country. On
the previous day they presented the bride with a very handsome
oak despatch box of stationery, the lid of which bore a silver
plate with the following inscription : —
Presented to Miss Annie Joseph, on the occasion op
her Marriage, by the Employes op
Messrs. B. H. Joseph & Co., September 9, 1887.
A new alloy has been discovered by Herr Reith, of Bocken-
heim, which is said to practically resist the attack of most acids
and alkaline solutions. Its composition is as follows : copper, 15
parts; tin, 2-34 parts; lead, 1*82 part; antimony, 1 part.
This alloy is therefore a bronze with an addition of lead and anti-
mony. The inventor claims that it can be very advantageously
used in the laboratory to replace vessels or fittings of ebonite,
vulcanite or porcelain.
A tool to be used for the heating of shellac, &c, as employed
in the setting of jewels, pallet stones and similar work, has been
patented by Mr. Frank Heller, of Oakland City, Ind. It is
made by forming twists or coils in the discharge end of a blow-
pipe, and surrounding these twists or coils by a ball or jacket of
metal, the nozzle projecting outward through a proper opening.
This bail or jacket of metal having been previously heated, the
air forced through a tortuous course within such body of heated
metal affords a hot blast, which may be delivered against the
shellac without subjecting the surrounding parts to the action of
the flame by which the heat is produced.
The Parisian watchmaker, Schwob, has brought out a new
chronographic watch (montre-observateur ) which is a marked
improvement on the ordinary stop-watch. The face is furnished
with a second small dial similar in size to the seconds' dial. By
touching a knob, the hands of this dial, which is a complete copy
of the large one, are at once replaced to twelve o'clock and then
continue their progress from that point. This method is very
practical, as it not only shows the time of commencing an
observation, but infallibly determines its duration without the
least trouble, all the observer having to do for this latter purpose
being simply to read the time indicated by the small dial, and
to subtract that time from the true hour of the large dial.
This can all be done without exercising any memory or making
any note. We think the invention invaluable for making-
astronomical or other observations ; the eye need not be even
turned to the watch in touching the knob, which can be done in
perfect darkness. A sleeper in suddenly awakening from a
nightmare, or hearing a strange noise at night, and wishing to
fix the time of the occurrence, need only press the knob of his
watch and turn his head quietly round on the pillow, knowing
that in the morning he will have the exact hour and minute
correctly registered.
The Winterthur (Switzerland) correspondent of Industries
says: — The establishment of a large association, embracing all
the smaller societies in the clock and watch making trades, is
one of the most important events in the industrial history of this
country. For a long time past the Geneva watch trade has
been in an unfavourable condition, and the great success which
resulted from the Association of Machine Embroiderers seems to
have given an impulse to the formation of a powerful society
containing both masters and men engaged in the watchmaking
industry. At the present moment the Association contains 9,000
members, but it is expected that this number will shortly be in-
creased to 12,000. The affairs of the Association are adminis-
tered by a standing committee, to which men, foremen, managers
and masters have to apply for information and advice. Trade
disputes are to be settled amicably by a special committee con-
sisting of a president and fourteen members, half of the latter
being workmen and the other half masters ; the president,
however, must not belong to either category, so that his judgment
may not be biassed. Provision has been made in the rules for
the affiliation of foreign societies and syndicates, in case such a
step should appear desirable at a future time.
Adelaide Exhibition Awards. — The awards of the jurors
were completed on the 14th ult. Of the 237 British exhibitors,
93 have secured recognition in the shape of medals and certificates.
Messrs. Dent & Co., of London, and Ellis & Co., of Sheffield,
receive gold medals for watches and cutlery respectively.
The Paris Exhibition. — A semi-official communication
relative to the Exhibition of 1889 is published, in which it is
stated that it is proposed to fix April 1 as the very last date
for demands for space. Pending the regular working of the
committees, foreign exhibitors may apply direct to M. Georges
Berger, in Paris. Intending exhibitors are invited to send in
their applications as early as possible, " in order to enable the
Superior Administration of the Exhibition to allot spaces to the
advantage of all."
The Diamond Market. — The Amsterdam and Antwerp folk
are still grumbling at the price at which rough is maintained,
but probably as the factories are all reported to be in full activity,
not much attention need be paid to these complaints. After all
it resolves itself into a question of supply and demand, and as
there is plenty of stuff in the market, those who have it to dispose
of must obviously get rid of it somewhere. The success of the
great Russian fair of Nishni Novgorod brought many buyers
into the market, but the competition among the sellers prevented
good prices being obtained. Small goods are the only ones in
demand, but prospects are thought to be improving generally.
Paris reports state that the market for finished goods has
revived a little, considerable parcels having been bought for
foreign account, but the home trade is still in a dull state.
The steamers " Warwick Castle," " Tartar," " Hawarden
Castle," " Athenian " and " Norham Castle " arrived at Plymouth
during the month, bringing large consignments of current stuff.
Numerous Continental buyers have been attending the sales, and
valuable parcels have changed hands.
Latest from Kimberley, dated August 20, states that during
the early part of the week there was a strong demand for all
classes of fresh stuff, but after the receipt of cablegrams reporting
on the shipment, the inquiry became less active; there is," however,
no appreciable change in quotations.
Cablegram from the Central Diamond Mine, Kimberley, reports
results for the first fortnight of the past month : hauled, 30,000
loads blue ; washed, 35,000 ditto ; diamonds found, value
£51,000.
Silver. — Slight fluctuations in nominal prices have characterised
the market during the past month, very little business having
been transacted. Towards the end of the month, however, some
business in bars for the East has left the quotations very firm
at 41id. per oz. for bars, smd 43§d. per oz. Mexican dollars.;, s
52
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 1887.
Crabe Wotee.
NOVELTY in watches has just been brought out by the
Berne firm of Joannot Baltisberger. This consists of a
keyless watch with a compass at the back, both watch
and compass having luminous dials. It has been recommended
by the French War Minister for use by the officers of the army.
We commend to the notice of the jewellery trades a little
pamphlet just published by Moody's Printing Co., 10, Dale End,
Birmingham ; price 3d. It is entitled " The Advertiser's Guide
to Publicity," and contains extracts from the utterings of public
men, from Demosthenes to T. P. Barnum, which are well worth
perusal.
Mr. Thomas Jeffery, late Controller of the London Postal
Service, has been presented by the clerical staff, on his retirement,
with a magnificent hall clock, which chimes the Cambridge
quarters on four gongs, and strikes the hours on a powerful tenor
gong. The case is richly decorated in the Louis IX. style. Mr.
J, W. Benson, of Ludgate Hill, is the maker.
We have received from Messrs. J. Radges & Co., of Coventry
and 5, Thavies Inn, Holborn, their newly published price list of
sterling silver and 18-carat Hall-marked English lever watches.
The catalogue, which is well got up, is fully descriptive and is
furnished with upwards of 40 illustrations. Particular attention
is paid to the requirements of the Colonial trade, and at the
present juncture it should be in the hands of all watch exporters.
Messrs. Askham Brothers & Wilson, Limited, are the
makers of a new patent ore separator, in which a continuous
current of air circulating through a descending stream of partially
crushed material, separates the fine particles from the coarse, the
latter being returned to the grinding machinery to be further
reduced. The separator occupies but little space-, and is driven
at a slow speed. It can be applied to most descriptions of
crushing or grinding machinery.
Complaints of the supineness of our art workers in the matter
of originating designs are (although too often not altogether
without foundation) more easily made than answered. It is
therefore pleasant to be able to occasionally practically demon-
strate the unfounded nature of sweeping charges of this kind.
' On an advertisement page in our last issue will be found an
illustration of a masonic emblem, which in a limited field shows
high artistic merit. The jewel is made by Messrs. B. H. Joseph
& Co., of Frederick Street, Birmingham, whose name is a
sufficient guarantee as to the quality of the workmanship.
Messrs. Haswell & Sons, of Spencer Street, E.C., have
introduced a very useful adjunct to the "Boley" lathe. This is
a nest of drawers (fixed underneath the box which contains the
lathe and its parts) for containing the ordinary requisites of a
watchmaker. As it has a separate cupboard arrangement which
may be locked up, it can be used with or apart from the lathe
itself. The one we inspected was made in walnut, and formed a
very portable and handsome addition to the " B " size lathe to
which it was fitted. It should prove an exceedingly valuable item
iu the equipment of watchmakers going to the Colonies, &c.
Goldsmiths and Jewellers' Annuity - and Asylum Insti-
tution. — The annual dinner of the above institution is announced
to take place on October 31, at the Holborn Restaurant, on which
occasion the chair will be taken by the President, Major George
Lambert; and the Committee make a special appeal to subscribers
to support him, both by their presence and contributions, not
only as a testimony to the general respect in which he is held,
but also with 'a view to add another item to the memorable
character of the year, by rendering more happy the prospects
of those now applying to the institution for assistance.
Birmingham News,
From Our Correspondent.
"W HEAR that some of the Jubilee work is getting returned
M> as unsaleable, and the only outlet for most of it will be
the melting pot ; but I suppose no one will be surprised
at this.
£fe 3|e 3R
I have seen a few samples of Florentine mosaic work, which
are very pretty and artistic, but as these do not find much work
for the jeweller I expect they will not be pushed.
* * #
There is evidence of a fair amount of trading for the jewellers
after this month has closed. Several firms have commenced full
hours again and filled up some of the vacant places in the
workshops ; and there is a possibility of a fair trade up till the
end of the year, though I think that " overtime " will scarcely
be needed.
* * *
The two extremes (low priced and expensive) seem to be the
classes of goods going. There are some large orders about for
silver jewellery of a showy common quality, set with " foiled back
paste," and on the other hand some of the diamond mounters
are fairly busy, but the medium class of coloured gold work is still
very flat.
* * *
There are still numbers of workmen in the jewellery branches
seeking situations. They are for the most part indifferent work-
men, still I know of some few to whom this does not apply — men
who are capable and willing, and such as would have commanded
good wages a few years back. Gem setters are in the greatest
demand, there being no good ones to be found out of employment.
* * *
The rising generation of jewellers and metalworkers have
some opportunities for technical learning that their predecessors
were quite unable to get, and it will be their own fault if
they do not obtain a considerable amount of knowledge of the
chemistry of the metals they work in. If they will look down
the very extensive list of classes in metallurgy at the Birmingham
Midland Institute, and select the one which applies to their
particular branch, they will find that Mr. Hiorns and his staff of
very able and obliging assistants will do their best to assist them
in every respect. Of course they will require a considerable
amount of industry on their own part, but they will have every
facility given them, and at very low fees : the total list of classes
for the winter session really strikes one as being magnificent. *If
they will add to that the art education, to be obtained at the
School of Art in Edmund Street, under the management of
Mi - . Edward R. Taylor and staff, or at the numerous branch
classes attached, they will receive such a training as will enable
them to compete with the world and to uphold the reputation of
their town. I have had the pleasure of attending both institutions
as a student, and hold them in very high esteem. It is by such
means only that we can hope to rise above mediocrity.
* * *
Watch jobbing is passing through a very trying ordeal at
the present time here ; a few indifferent workmen having com-
menced repairing at starvation prices (which cannot possibly
last long), are doing considerable injury to that branch of the
trade by creating a false impression among the public that
a watch can be cleaned for one shilling. The public will find
in time that this is quite impossible, and that they have been
imposed upon by bogus workmen ; they will arrive at this con-
clusion when their watches have been " cleaned and repaired "
about six times where once should have sufficed, and that their
watches have been considerably damaged into the bargain. In
the meantime conscientious workmen are suffering, but they will
reap their harvest later on. [Let us hope so. — Ed.]
October 1, i887.]
THE 'WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
53
(The Birmingham ]eweUers an6 Siluersmiths'
Association.
MMHE Committee that were appointed in August last to
l^l formulate the. rules and objects of the Association which
was then decided upon, having completed their labours so
far, a second meeting of the trade was called on the 12th ult., at
the Middle Class Schoolroom, Frederick Street, Birmingham,
to thoroughly discuss the rules as drafted by the Committee.
In response to the invitations, about 60 members of the
wholesale and manufacturing trades attended, including Messrs.
J. W. Tonks (T. & J. Bragg), Charles Green (C. Green &
Sons), H. Payton (C. Payton & Sons), J. Jacobs, Cox (Cox
Brothers), J. M. Davis, H. Hyde, Wainwright, J. Adie (Adie
& Lovekin), W. J. Ginders, J. M. Banks, B. H. Joseph, Geo.
Basnett, Freeman, Izon, Fridlander, Platnauer, Smith (Smith
Brothers) and Holmes.
On the motion of Mr. Green, Mr. Jacobs was voted to the
chair, and, after the reading of the minutes of the previous
meeting by the Honorary Secretary (Mr. J. W. Tonks),
The Chairman remarked that, in accordance with the resolu-
tion passed at the previous meeting, the Committee had met
together on several occasions to take into consideration the rules
now before them, and it was for those present to say if they
should be passed. If so, the Association would commence its
existence at once. He believed in the establishment of a
thoroughly sound Association, whose chief object should be the
protection of thoroughly honest traders against dishonest traders,
and by its influence a better trade amongst jewellers would be
brought about. He then read the objects and rules, and asked
that comments be made on each.
The name, " The Birmingham Jewellers and Silversmiths'
Association," was decided upon without comment.
Then followed the objects :
" (a) The advancement of taste in the manufacture (and pur-
chase) of jewellery and personal ornaments of gold, silver
or other materials (by judicious suggestion and sound
criticism in the public papers, by giving due attention to
the movements of fashion in society, and by seeking to
direct those movements into artistic channels) ; by com-
bined efforts to develop the art education of employers
and employed ; by taking measures for the continuous
instruction of apprentices and young persons in the true
principles of decorative and constructive art ; by bringing
practical and educated influence to bear on the modes of
instruction in schools of design (and in the selection of
examples for display in public galleries)."
Mr. Wainwright wanted to know if the articles proposed to
be purchased were to be of Birmingham manufacture.
Mr. Tonks explained that the objects of his clause was more
especially to provide that articles sent to exhibitions shall
effectually represent the trade.
The Chairman thought this matter had better be left to the
Committee, who, being practical men, would be best qualified to
select jewellery.
Mr. Green said the words in parentheses were really inserted
for further discussion, and he moved that they be expunged. He
did not think it was part of their business to educate the buyers.
Every man, he contended, was the best pioneer of his own busi-
ness, and they did not want the Association to give them
" grandmotherly " advice.
Mr. Payton, in seconding the proposition, said they did not
want criticisms of their own work to appear in the Press for the
sake of educating buyers. He further contended that this matter
was quite out of their line ; they had to go to work in a stern,
business-like manner, but did not require the Association as a
crutch to help them.
Mr. Wainwright also spoke in support of Mr. Green's
amendment, and, in the course of his remarks, said he thought
the manufacturers were better able to judge of the wants of the
public than the Press.
Mr. Banks also thought it would be impracticable to carry out
this clause, and instanced the injustice that might be done to one
branch of the trade while benefiting another. They had, he said,
fichu brooches and lockets, and one or other only would be
fashionable at the same time ; therefore, to recommend to the
notice of the public the locket as a fashionable article would be
detrimental to the fichu brooch maker, and the same would apply
to the locket maker it fichu brooches were commended. It would
be unjust to lead fashion to one branch.
Mr. Tonks counselled them to leave the rules as elastic as
possible and have objects wide, as at some time such a clause
might be of benefit.
On being put to the vote, this clause was carried with the
amendment proposed by Mr. Green.
The next clause, as follows, was passed in its entirety :
" (6) To watch all measures brought forward in the Imperial
Parliament in any way affecting the interests or position
of the trade — whether for the establishment of technical
schools ; the relations of debtor and creditor ; working
and trading regulations ; the recovery or disposal of
stolen property ; the working of the Acts relating to
pawnbrokers ; the detection or punishment of fraud or
crime — and to use its best endeavours to have such Acts
passed in a form calculated to place the trade on a sound
commercial basis."
The Chairman then read the next clause :
" (c) To ensure united action in all cases of the failure of
persons engaged in the trade to meet liabilities in full ;
to initiate a distinct line of policy in reference to com-
mercial fraud or reckless trading, and to bring to bear
the full weight of its membership to promote a sound and
healthy system of trading."
Mr. Wainwright said it appeared to him that this clause
was a most important one to the Association ; they had consider-
able difficulty in coping with the law, which was stronger than
the strongest man amongst them. When a case of dishonesty
was disclosed they were all pretty unanimous on the subject of
taking action, but they were not always provided with funds for
the purpose ; they had a difficulty in finding men who would take
up such cases. But if they had an Association, prompt action
could be taken to bring a dishonest trader to justice, and if this
were done they would not have so many failures.
Mr. Tonks explained that as soon as a failure was announced,
the Secretary would send to those concerned, and a meeting
would be held at which the Committee would be empowered to
take combined action.
Mr. Holmes wanted to know whether the protection would
apply to shopkeepers as well as wholesale and manufacturing
houses.
The Chairman said the Association would take up the case of
any man ; his idea was to see the whole of the trade, manufac-
turing, factoring and retail, combining together.
Mr. Stokes inquired if the subscription would be the same for
a factor as a small manufacturer.
Mr. Green said the remarks of Mr. Holmes should be well
considered ; there must be differences in an Association which
covered so much. If the factor were to be protected as well as
the manufacturer, they would spend as much money in punishing
a man who failed for £300 as it would take to liquidate an
estate of £20,000. He personally objected to the factors receiv-
ing this protection at the hands of the Association, but would
leave it to the Committee.
Mr. Banks thought the clause should be passed in its entirety.
It had been shadowed forth that it should cover all, but the title
said nothing about retailers ; he suggested that they take the
beam out of their own eyes before attempting to take the mote
out of others. As manufacturers they should attend to their own
trade. Let them pass the clause as it stood, and if they wanted
to combine afterwards they could do so.
Mr. Basnett agreed that it was best the clause should be
passed as it stood, and it could be discussed afterwards. They
were all of opinion that fraudulent traders should be punished.
This clause was then passed.
54
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 188?.
The Chairman then asked for discussion on the following
clause :
" (d) To secure the detection and punishment of all dishonest
and nefarious dealing on the part of workmen and
employes ; the more certain and regular prosecution of
receivers of stolen property, whether on a large or small
scale ; and the development of a system of inquiry and
reference, which may tend to secure more reliable work
and better service."
This was passed without comment. The following clause was
then read :
" (e) To assist as far as possible in the establishment of a
General Provident Institution among the workpeople and
employes in the jewellery and kindred trades, involving
support in case of sickness or accident, and insurance in
case of death."
Mr. Wainwright, in commenting upon this clause, remarked
that as the employes had an Association of their own it would be
unwise to set up an opposition one, and he moved that this be
not adopted.
Mr. Basnett seconded this amendment, arguing that if they
introduced a provident institution they would not have sufficient
time to develop the Association.
Mr. B. H. Joseph believed this to be a good object, and ex-
plained that, although in many workshops they had provident
societies, the workman received no aid when he removed from one
workshop to another, all he had paid in contributions being lost.
Mr. Banks most heartily supported the present clause, and
said it was pitiful to see the journeymen jewellers so poor ; if they
had not acquired the habit of thrift, it would be a kindness to
teach them. He averred it would do more good to the Associa-
tion than anything else to lend a helping hand to the workpeople.
This trade had had many wealthy men connected with it, but
who had left anything for the working men, who, when their
sight or health failed, drifted into the workhouse ?
Mr. Payton said they had left out the decayed masters
altogether, and he moved that the same assistance be given to
decayed masters as to the employes.
Mr. Tonks seconded this.
Mr. Adie thought this was a matter for the men themselves.
Mr. Green was pained by the last few speeches he had heard.
They should, he said, think of the people who laboured for them.
There was no trade but the jewellery trade in which they could
find men so early in life incapacitated for work — a man's eyesight
failed him, or he became unable to follow his trade through
continual sitting at the bench — and they would be doing him a
kindness by showing him how to become provident ; they had no
funds to provide, the men would find the money themselves, and he
certainly thought they should have a uniform system by which a
workman could rely on aid.
On being put to the vote Mr. Wainwright's amendment was
carried, and the clause therefore rejected.
The next clause was, on the motion of Mr. Payton, seconded
by Mr. Green, altered to the following : —
" (/) To assist in the development of Colonial and Foreign
trade in jewellery and personal ornaments, by efforts to
secure a Museum or tabulated collection of specimens of
the general form and decoration of articles worn in each
colony, dependency or foreign country."
Following this came the rule relating to members :
" 4. — This Association shall be composed of Manufacturers, of
Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Jewellery and personal orna-
ments in gold, silver or other materials, who shall subscribe a sum
of not less than one guinea per annum, payable in advance, and
who, after the first enrolment, shall be subject to election at the
quarterly meetings of the members."
Mr. Joseph proposed that the words " retail dealers " be struck
out. He thought they would have enough to do with the manu-
facturers, and it would be sufficient to include the manufacturers
and factors.
Mr. Wainwright seconded this.
Mr. Payton said this was a most important clause. If they
admitted factors for a subscription of one guinea a year, they
would lay upon themselves a heavy burden. If the funds were
sufficient to carry it out he would then have no objection, but he
did not think one guinea would be sufficient for a man who had
customers in the three kingdoms. The very travelling expenses
to Inverness would swallow up the subscriptions, and he was
convinced that if they prosecuted traders from John o' Groat's to
Land's End they could not do it for a guinea a year.
Mr. Hyde did not see how it could be practicable for factors
and manufacturers to work together. He would rather have an
Association entirely confined to manufacturers.
Mr. Joseph said it would be difficult to draw a line between
wholesale and manufacturing houses.
Mr. Freeman wanted to know how many shopkeepers to one
factor were wound up in a year. This Association would be
formed to punish people whom the manufacturer had nothing to
do with.
Mr. Green was also of opinion that none but manufacturers
should be members.
Mr. Basnett said that by keeping the factor they would keep
themselves, and thought if they commenced to draw a hard and
fast line differences would arise. He quite agreed that the
retailer should not be admitted ; it was a question whether or
not they should support the honest factor. He thought an effort
should be made to join London with Birmingham, and if they
could work with the watchmakers of Coventry, they would get a
stronger combination.
Mr. Tonks thought it would meet the matter if they had an
increased subscription for wholesale jewellers.
Mr. Banks said it must be an association of manufacturers.
Mr. Payton was pleased with the suggestion that watchmakers
be admitted ; he had known many cases where watchmaking
firms held a number of proxies at creditors' meetings, and in
large failures they would often have the power to paralyse the
action of the Association. As regards the factors, he thought
they had best have confidence in them — "better let them in at
the front door than the back," said the speaker.
Mr. Banks proposed that wholesale jewellers be not admitted,
but found no seconder.
The Chairman said one of the objects of the meeting was to
take away the petty jealousies existing between manufacturers
and factors, and if they would only bind themselves together
they would become a much stronger body. Jealousy, he con-
tended, had done much harm in the trade. He then put the
clause to the meeting with alterations as proposed by Mr. Joseph,
that "retail dealers" be omitted and "watch manufacturers"
added, and it was duly passed.
The other Rules, as under, were passed without much discussion.
" (a) The minimum subscription of One Guinea per annum
shall entitle a Member to one vote.
" (b) A Firm or Company may be admitted to Membership
as represented by one Member of such Firm or Company,
for every Guinea subscribed, such Member's name, as
representing the Firm or Company, being entered on the
Books of this Association, and none other shall be eligible
to attend, to speak or vote at Meetings on behalf of such
Firm or Company.
" (c) Any Member failing to pay his subscription, after having
been applied for, within three months of its falling due,
or becoming bankrupt, or making any arrangements with
his creditors, involving the payment of less than twenty
shillings in the pound, or divulging to persons, not
Members of this Association, any confidential reports-
or other information from time to time supplied him by
the Committee, he shall, ipso facto, cease to be a Member ;
and, on the discovery thereof, his rights of Membership
shall forthwith determine.
" (d) The Committee may, by a resolution passed by a
majority of two-thirds of the Members present at any
given Meeting, expel any Member (including any Firm
or Company), providing a notice of motion to that effect
has been sent to each Member of the Committee, with the
notice calling such Meeting. Provided always that any
Member so expelled shall have the right of appeal to the
October 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
55
next Quarterly General Meeting of Members to reverse
such decision, on giving notice to the Secretary fourteen
days previous to the date of such Meeting.
Meetings.
" 5. — General Meetings of the, Association shall be held four
times in each year — in the months of January, April, July and
October, or as near thereto as in the discretion of the Committee
for the time being may be convenient. The Meeting in January
shall be the Annual Meeting, at which reports shall be presented,
officers elected, and the course of action for the ensuing year
decided on. At these Meetings twelve shall form a quorum.
Ten days' previous notice shall be given of each Meeting, and
tbe subjects to be brought forward shall be stated on the notice
calling such Meeting. No other subject shall be brought forward,
except by permission of the Meeting, to be granted by a show of
hands, but any resolution arrived at in such case must be
confirmed, after due notice, at a future General Meeting.
" (a) A Special General Meeting of Members shall be called
by the Secretary, on receipt of a requisition signed by at
least twenty Members of this Association, the date of
such Special Meeting to be fixed by the Committee at its
next Ordinary Meeting following such notice, unless, in
the opinion of the Chairman, the subject of such Special
Meeting is urgent, when the Emergency Committee shall
have power to fix the date.
" (b) At all General Meetings, questions shall be decided by a
show of hands, except when a ballot shall be demanded
by at least five Members present. It shall be in the
discretion of the Chairman to take a vote by ballot at once,
or to adjourn the Meeting for a period not exceeding
seven days for the purpose.
" (c) The Chairman of the Association, if present, shall preside
at each General Meeting ; if absent, the Vice- Chairman
shall preside, and in case of his absence, a Chairman shall
be elected by a majority of the Members present.
" 6. — Ordinary Meetings of Committee shall be held monthly,
at such times and places as may from time to time be decided on
by the Committee itself, and Special Meetings by resolution of
the Committee. An Ordinary Meeting may, however, be omitted
at the discretion of the Committee, expressed by resolution at a
previous Meeting. Five Members and ex-officio Members shall
form a quorum.
" 7. — Meetings of the Emergency Committee shall be held at
twelve hours' notice from the Secretary or Honorary Secretary,
as may be most convenient. That it shall be the duty of the
Secretary, on hearing of a failure, to call a Meeting of those
interested and report same to the Committee.
Officers.
" 8. — The officers of this Association shall consist of a
Chairman, who shall also be Chairman of Committee ; a Vice-
Chairman ; a Treasurer ; Honorary Secretary ; Secretary ; and
Auditor. All these officers, except the Secretary, shall be
ex-officio Members of Committee. These officers shall be elected
for one year only, but shall be eligible -for re-election at the
Annual General Meeting.
" (a) The Chairman shall have the right to preside at all
General Meetings during his year of office, and shall have
a casting vote, in addition to his original vote, in case of
equality of voting.
" (b) The Vice-Chairman shall have the right of presiding at
all Meetings in the absence of the Chairman for the time
being. In case of equality of voting, he shall also have a
casting vote, in addition to his original vote on the same
question.
" (c) The Treasurer of the Association shall keep a separate
banking account, and accounts of all receipts and dis-
bursements, in books provided for the purpose, and shall
present to the Annual General Meeting a detailed state-
ment, made up to December 31 last, duly audited, and
previously accepted by the Committee.
" (rf) The Honorary Secretary shall conduct all correspondence,
and generally direct and superintend the salaried Secretary
in the keeping of Minute Books, pursuit of inquiries,
tabulation of statistics, and all other work usually per-
taining to the office of Secretary, in accordance with the
resolutions of the Committee.
" (<?) The Auditor shall go over the accounts of the Association,
and if correct, vouch for the same previous to each Annual
Meetintr.
Committee.
"(9). — The Committee shall consist of the above specified
officers of the Association, and ten other Members, five of whom
shall retire by rotation, but who shall be eligible for re-election at
the Annual General Meeting. The Committee shall appoint five
of its number to form an Emergency Committee.
" The Committee shall carry on the business of this Association,
and, guided by the resolutions from time to time passed by
General Meetings of the Members, shall be empowered to carry
out the objects specified in these Rules. They may fill up any
vacancy caused by the death, resignation or ceasing to be a
Member of the Association, of any one or more of their Members.
They shall also fill up any vacancy, so caused as above, in the
list of officers of the Association, and may provisionally decide
any question not otherwise provided for in these Rules. They
shall have power to elect and fix the rate of salary, and to limit
or extend the duties of the Secretary or any other paid officer of
this Association whom they may see fit to appoint. They may
also, if they deem it necessary, remove any such paid officer by a
resolution of two-thirds in number of those present at any
Meeting, at which due notice of such action shall be given. And,
providing that no action taken is in contravention of the Rules
in force for the time being, or of any previous resolution of the
Association then still remaining in force, no Member of the
Committee shall incur personal responsibility for any act done on
behalf of this Association.
Rules.
" (10). — No alteration of or addition to these Rules shall be
valid, except it be supported by a vote of two-thirds of the
Members present at a General Meeting, given after due notice
as aforesaid."
The Election of Officers.
The Chairman thought it would be as well to leave this until
they had an Association formed, so that they could be elected by
the members.
Mr. Basnett proposed that the present Committee form a
Committee jiro tern, for carrying out the work : seconded by
Mr. Wainwright.
A vote of thanks to the Chairman closed the proceedings.
Gold melts at about 2,016° to 2,190° Fahr., according to
different authorities. It is neither affected by water nor air at
any temperature, and is not attacked by ordinary acids. It is
the most malleable of all the metals, and may be beaten into
sheets of surpassingly wonderful thinness. Its very great mal-
leability renders it unfit for use for jewellery or for coinage until
its hardness, and consequent durability, are increased by alloying
it with silver or copper. Exposed to the heat of the oxy-hydrogen
blowpipe, it is known to be vaporised ; and it was formerly
supposed that it was not volatile at lower temperatures ; but the
researches of Napier and Makins show that volatilisation occurs at
temperatures of an ordinary muffle furnace when alloys of silver
and gold are cupelled with lead. An analysis of deposits taken
from the chimney of a small reverberatory furnace, in daily use for
cupelling gold for months, showed 14 per cent, of silver and 7'1
grains of gold for every eight ounces of silver. Still, after the
destruction of a quantity of jewellery by a fire, a great proportion
of the gold should be recoverable, since but a small quantity, if
any, would be volatilised ; and the metal is not at all affected by
air or water, as before remarked.
56
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[Octobeii 1, 1887.
American Jtems.
§HE Elgin National Watch Co. is so busy at the present
time, that it can with difficulty fill its orders. Manager
Cutter reports that jobbers are eagerly taking goods even
without orders, and that things are so strained at the factory
that they are unable, in spite of their constantly increasing-
facilities, to keep pace with the demand.
Mr. A. Lyons, 36, Maiden Lane, New York, has obtained the
American agency of Messrs. Borgzinner Brothers, of London,
England, manufacturers of watch and jewellery cases, in reference
to which the Jewelers' Weekly says : The firni could hardly have
made a happier selection, as Mr. Lyons, with his long experience
in the trade and his hosts of friends, cannot fail to handle its
interests here successfully.
A unique watch fob worn by a young society' man, who is
visiting friends in St. Louis, is a live turtle about an inch long,
which is attached to his watch chain by a gold ring. The turtle
was caught about five months ago by the young man in Lake
Winnebago, and is released each day for a banquet of Mies and a
swim in a bowl of filtered water.
The report of Messrs. George F. Kunz and J. S. Diller, who
were sent by the Director of the United States' Geological Survey
to make an examination of the reputed diamond fields in
Kentucky, furnishes considerable food for speculation. Although
the carbonaceous shale of the Kentucky field contains only -681 per
cent, of carbon to nearly 38 per cent, of the same element in the
Kimberley shale, it is thought that the remarkable similarity of
the peridotite and the residuary deposits, which so closely
resemble the diamondiferous material of the South African mines,
hold out astrong prospect that patient and diligent search may
yet result in the discovery of diamonds in paying quantities.
The New York Herald has published a series of interviews
with representative business men, giving in full their views of the
business outlook. The opinions expressed are, without exception,
of a hopeful character. Though a good trade was done by a
majority of the houses last year, they judge, from the volume of
1887's business so far transacted, that this year will be even more
prosperous. With its usual good sense, says the Jewelers' Weekly,
the Herald devotes more space to jewellery than to any other
branch, and publishes interviews with several of the leading
American firms, all of whom express themselves as satisfied with
the spring trade and the substantial promise it holds forth of an
exceptionally prosperous fall season. Commenting editorially
upon the various views which it publishes, the Herald says :
Trade is not booming just now, but is on a solid basis of
enduring prosperity. There have been few periods when the
affairs of the country were so evenly adjusted as they are at
present, and when the talents and energies of the people were so
exclusively given to production and to development of natural
resources.
It ha
for
ms gotten to be a chestnut, says the Jewelers' Circular,
man to speak of the "prospects" for the fall trade;
and yet a careful look at the present condition of things shows
trade to be in a remarkably active and healthy condition, and
extensive preparations are being made on all hands for a large
fall trade. This is most noticeable at the fancy goods dealers'
and dealers in kindred lines, possibly because of their wares being-
kept in sight upon shelves and tables; and the quantity of
novelties for the fall is truly astonishing. It does not seem' that
the buyers for these houses have used sufficient caution in
purchasing such large stocks, but when spoken to they speak
most confidently of their ability to dispose of them. In jewellery
a brisk demand is noticeable for all classes of goods. Manufac-
turers of all kinds of gold, silver and plated goods have made up
an imposing variety of patterns for this season, and have made
them in large quantities. The jobbers are not buying largely, so
they say, but they are still buying more than in previous years.
The best sign of all, however, is that retail dealers are exercising
more caution in buying. They are buying many goods, it is true,
but not more than they are able to dispose of. Goods are
moving fast, and the coming autumn months will tell whether
the strong indications for good business have had any foundation
under them.
Electro Deposition of 3ri6ium.
]fj!N a patent recently issued by the L'nited States Patent 'Office
Jj^ to Mr. William L. Dudley, the inventor describes a process
of depositing iridium, by means of which a bright, flexible
reguline deposit is obtained. The inventor uses either aqueous
solution of the double chloride or iridium and sodium, or of the
double chloride of iridium and ammonium, containing about two
ounces of metallic iridium to the gallon, and acidified with about
half an ounce of sulphuric acid to the gallon. The solution of
the double chloride of iridium and sodium is prepared as follows :
The hydrate of iridium is dissolved in the least possible quantity
of hydrochloric acid and evaporated in a water bath to expel the
excess of acid. The residue is then dissolved in water and an
amount of sodium chloride is added sufficient to combine with all
of the chloride of iridium present to form the double salt. The
solution is then diluted to the required amount, so as to contain
about two ounces of metal to each gallon of liquid. The required
amount of sulphuric acid is then added and the solution is ready
for the electro deposition.
The solution of the double chloride of iridium and ammonium
is prepared as follows : The hydrate of iridium is dissolved in
the least possible quantity of hydrochloric acid and carefully
neutralised with ammonium hydrate. It is then acidulated with
sulphuric acid until all of the precipitate produced by the ammo-
nium hydrate is dissolved, and finally diluted with water until
each gallon of the liquid contains about two ounces of the metal.
The solution is then ready for work when acidified, as before
mentioned. From both of these solutions Mr. Dudley obtained
a thick, bright and reguline deposit of iridium ; and he has found
that a plate of iridium or phosphide of iridium, as made by the
Holland process, if used as an anode, will dissolve in these solu-
tions while the current is passing. As in electro-plating with
other metals, it is essential, to obtain good results, that the
articles to be plated should be perfectly clean. A brighter and
smoother deposit is obtained if the articles are highly polished
before they are introduced into the iridium bath. In plating
articles which are readily attacked by the solution, it is of course
desirable to first coat them with some metal not. appreciably
affected by such solutions.
In the deposition of iridium from any of its solutions it is
necessary to avoid battery power of too great intensity ; and in
case the intensity be too great, it can be recognised by the deposit
becoming dark and powdery, and also by an excessive evolution
of gas from the surface of the anode and cathode. In managing
the solution, alkalinity should be avoided, although neutral solu-
tions may be employed ; but acid solutions are to be preferred.
During deposition, where a thick deposit is required, it may be
found necessary to remove the articles from the solution from
time to time, and to wipe them in case the deposit should have a
tendency to become black ; but this blackness may be avoided, by
proper manipulation of the solution and battery power, and also
by proper cleansing of the articles. It is also found that when
the articles to be plated are kept in gentle motion during deposition ,
the deposit will take place faster and be brighter and thicker
than if they are allowed to remain stationary. Mr. Dudley
does not claim, however, that the plating produced by his
process will resist the action of acids which will dissolve finely
divided iridium.
October 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKEK, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
57
Electro (Biloing "batches.
^N reply to a correspondent of the Deutsche Uhrmacher
M Zeitung, Mr. Behrends says that the ill- success in gold
plating is generally due to circumstances so trifling that
they are apt to be overlooked, and for this reason it is often
difficult to find the offending cause that occasioned the trouble ;
but still more difficult is it to specify it without a personal
examination of all the single parts.
The interrogator says that the first pieces were handsomely
gilt. This is the best evidence that everything was in good order,
and entitles us to conclude that equally good results should in
the future have been expected, if no alteration was effected
meanwhile with the element or bath, or that a new bath had been
substituted. To judge from the expressions of the interrogator,
this is not the case, and I therefore will endeavour to point out
a few features calculated to produce a disturbance.
It is of chief moment for the good success and handsome colour
of the gilding, that the articles subjected to this manipulation be
thoroughly cleansed, rinsed and scratch brushed. These processes
have repeatedly been described in divers publications, and I will
simply state at this place, if the gilder desires to dispense with
the preliminary silver graining, the cleanliness of the article must
unconditionally be beyond question. An imperfect cleansing
produces a dirty colour of the. gilding. We will find this
frequently demonstrated on watch barrels, the interior and
exterior of which have been insufficiently cleaned, in consequence
of which said barrels frequently turn black.
When preparing the chloride of gold, great attention must be
paid to entirely evaporate the acid, or if, in place of the chloride,
the ammoniacal oxide of gold is used, then that the precipitate is
well washed and filtered, so that no trace of acid is carried into
the bath. If this bath contains any acid the articles suspended
in it will turn black. This can only be explained by the
occurrence that the copper wire will become covered with verdigris,
which, however, has never yet happened to me, and theoretically
I cannot explain it in any other manner. It is advisable to only
use covered conduit wires, by which their repeated cleansing is
dispensed with.
The elements must, from time to time, be cleansed in all their
parts, and the clamps, screws, &c, are to be rubbed off with
emery paper, since otherwise the strength of the current is
deteriorated. When the battery is not to be used for a length of
time, it is advisable to pour off the liquid, and to store it separately.
Before each use of the elements it is necessary to be satisfied
that everything is in due working order, and the electrical current
is generated in sufficient strength. This test is most easily
performed by bringing the ends of the Conduits tor a moment in
contact. An electrical spark will pass over if the current is
sufficiently strong. If it does not, then the current is either too
feeble or there is none at all, and the reason must be looked for,
which will generally be found due to foreign bodies, such as dirt,
or collections of metallic solutions or salts, or to too great a
porosity of the cells, mutual contact of the generator or its
conduits ; beside this, it may also be owing to the bad condition
of the filling of the element.
When a bath has remained standing for some time it is
advisable to boil it ; it may also be employed in a warm condition.
The precipitation in a warm bath will be more rapid than in a
cold, but it will not be as uniform, and the cathode, as well as
the anode, must constantly be moved to and fro in it. But when
gold plating only a few articles at a time this occasions no
difficulties.
Again, the magnitude of the surface of the anode to that of
the cathode, as well as the mutual approach toward each other,
must be fully considered. Too great a proximity, or too great a
magnitude of surface of the anode, produces too rapid and too
strong a precipitation, which will also be produced by too strong
a current and too great a percentage of gold in the bath. The
articles in the process of gilding soon begin to colour a dark red
or dark brown, but when the distance between the anode and
cathode is either too large or too small, or that the current is
too feeble, or the gold percentage of the bath almost exhausted,
the precipitation will then be too slow and too thin, or else there
will be none at all, and the articles assume a dirty, dead and
spotted colour.
There is another probability : that your bath contains either
too much or too little cyanide. All these defects can be
ascertained only on examination, and corrected by adding one or
the other of the components wanted.
Articles which have assumed an "off-colour" in the bath must
be carefully scratch brushed until it has entirely disappeared ; if
necessary they are to be ground anew, thoroughly cleansed and
grained.
The above are about the principal vexations of the bath and
current, and if the interrogator will devote a little time to the
study of his bath and current, he will soon find where the blame
is due.
"£a$t 3n6ian 3euuellery.
>MONG Signer Castellani's collection of antiquities, nu-
merous examples occur which bring one back to the lost
art of making Etruscan jewellery. It is believed that
valuable hints of how the ancient goldworkers operated may
be gathered from the itinerant goldsmiths of the East
Indies. These craftsmen carry their tools with them in
their wanderings, and, where employment can be found,
transform coins and bits of metal into filigree ornaments re-
sembling the antique, whilst still following their natural style.
U Union Ilorlogere has the following regarding the tools and
manner of working of these artists : " A low earthern pot full
of chaff or sawdust, on which he makes a little charcoal fire, a
small bamboo blow-pipe about six inches long, with which he
excites the fire, a short earthern tube or nozzle, the extremity of
which is placed at the bottom of the fire, and through which the
artist directs the blast of the blow-pipe, two or three crucibles
made of the fine clay of ant-hills, a pair of tongs, an anvil, two
or three small hammers, a file, and, to conclude the list, a few
small bars of iron and brass about two inches long, differently
pointed, for different kinds of work. It is astonishing what an
intense little fire, more than sufficiently strong to melt silver and
gold, can be kindled in a few minutes in the way just described.
Such a simple portable forge deserves to be better known. It is,
perhaps, even deserving the attention of the scientific experimenter,
and may be useful to him when he wishes to excite a small fire,
larger than can be produced by a common blow-pipe, and where
he has not a forge at command. The success of tins little forge,
it may be necessary to state, depends a good deal on the bed of
the fire being composed of combustible materials, and a very bad
conductor of heat. The smiths at Ceylon use a composition as a
hone for sharpening knives and cutting instruments that is worth
noticing. It is made of the capitia resin and of corundum. The
corundum, in a state of impalpable powder, is mixed with the
resin rendered liquid by heat and well incorporated. The mixture
is poured into a wooden mould, and its surface levelled and
smoothed while it is hot, for when cold it is extremely hard. It
is much valued by the natives and preferred by them to the best
of our hones.
Mother-o'-Pearl. — In the western suburbs of Vienna
flourishes an industry which as a general rule does not attract
much public attention, although it is of some importance. This
is the manufacture of articles and ornaments where mother-o'-
pearl is used. Attention has lately been drawn to this industry,
owing to the breaking out of a strike amongst those engaged in
it. The value of the crude mother-o'-pearl which is annually
consumed in the district is, according to the Vienna correspondent
of Industries, 3,600,000 fl. (about £300,000), whilst the value
of exported articles is 8,000,000 fl. (about £670,000). In the
latter figure are not included the articles which are sold in the
home market, so that, making an allowance for this item, the annual
value of mother-o'-pearl articles produced in the neighbourhood
of Vienna may be set down at about £1,000,000 sterling, showing
that this industry is one of considerable importance,
5-8
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 1887,
Che Effect of (Dentrifugal Force on the Balance.
lyKR. KULLBERG, being of opinion that the effect of
-A-yJt, fcntrifii.Lfal force on the isochronous vibrations of a
chronometer balance were greater than generally supposed,
and being desirous of having the fact tested by an independent
authority, applied to the Astronomer-Royal, who granted per-
mission to send a chronometer to the Royal Observatory, and
undertook to rate it.
The chronometer, an ordinary large two- day, was deposited at
the Observatory on April 18, and with it were left four balances,
described below. The balances were practically of the same
diameter, but of different elasticity.
1. A plain brass balance, not cut, with four quarter timing
screws ; thickness of rim, 0-085 inch.
2. An ordinary compensation balance, two timing screws, and
two compensation weights. Thickness of rim, 0-038 inch ; length
of acting lamina?, 135° from point of fixture or bar ; distance of
centre of compensation weight, 98 c from bar.
3. A steel balance with brass inlaid, two timing screws, two
compensation weights. Thickness of rim, 0*035 inch ; length of
acting lamina 1 , 141° from point of fixture at the bar ; half the
laminae on each side compensated next to bar ; distance of centre
of compensation weight, 100° from bar.
4. Same as No. 3, but with lamina? 0-024 inch thick ; acting
length of lamina?, 150° ; two small screws at ends of acting
lamina?, each weighing three grains ; distance of centre of com-
pensation weight, Gl° from bar.
The balances in large arcs made one turn and a fifth, and in
short arcs three-quarters of a turn. The last throe balances were
accurately adjusted for temperature, and as the variations of
temperature were so small, it can be assumed that the rates are
unaffected by temperature.
When balance No. 1 was fitted, the chronometer was placed in
the oven at an even temperature. Below are the daily rates : —
Long Arcs
—166-4
—165-7
—166-0
—167-4
+ 0-7
+ 0-5
+ 0-3
+ 0-5
+ 0-4
+ 0-3
+ 0-2
+ 6-5
+ 6-7
+ 6-7
+ 5-4
•+6-2
+ 6-0
+ 5-6
+ 9-2
+ 10-7
+ 8-2
+ 8-0
+ 7-8
+ 10-8
+ 10-7
Balance
No
. 1.
Temperature
Short Arcs
88-9
—172-1
88-9
—177-3
90-4
—176-5
90-5
—1720
Balance
No
2.
54-6
+ 2-5
54-6
+ 2-4
56-0
+ 2-0
55-8
+ 3-4
56-5
+ 2-8
55-8
+ 2-8
56-4
+ 2-5
Balance No. 3.
54-7 +21-3
54-2 +21-4
55-7 +21-4
55-8 ' +21-9
55-4 +21-6
55-6 + 22-0
56-0 +21-4
Balance No.
59-0
58-0
62-4
62-4
62-8
63-7
65-0
4.
+ 41-5
+ 40-2
t-40-2
+ 39-4
+ 39-0
+ 3S-0
+ 40-4
Temperature
90-5
90-4
90-6
90-4
53-0
52-0
51-2
62-2
51-4
50-8
54-1
54-4
54-0
52 5
53-6
54-5
54-8
55-9
55-4
56-0
56-0
57-7
59-5
59-8
60-0
Mean Daily Kates.
Long Ares Short Ares
Balance 1. —166-4 —174-5
2. +0-5 -t- 2-6
„ 3. +6-1 +21-6
4. +9-3 +39-7
Mr. Kullberg thinks had balance No. 4 had its rim compensated
at the free end of the rim, instead of, as now, next to the point
of fixture or bar, the compensation weights would have been at
the extreme end, and the chronometer would probably have gained
about 40 seconds more in short than in long arcs, without any
change whatever in the balance spring or escapement.
The chronometer from which the above results were obtained
was exhibited in the Paris Exhibition, 1878, and Mr. Kullberg's
experience of theoretical springs and centrifugal force laid before
the jury, of which M. Saunier was president.
£he 3¥lerchan6ise fflarhs Act, 1887.
fjMHE following circular is being sent round the trade by the
f^S London Watchmakers' Trade Association : —
" 42, Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.,
" September, 1887.
" Dear Sir, — I am instructed by the Committee of the above
Association to call your earnest attention to the ' Merchandise
Marks Act,' 50 and 51 Vic, cap. 28, recently become law, and
which makes offences punishable by fine or imprisonment the
selling of foreign watches as English, or the selling of foreign
movements in English Hall-marked cases, or if any marks or
words be on the case or movement which are liable to deceive as to
place of origin, unless at the time of sale a statement to such
effect be given in writing to the customer (it not being necessary
for the customer to ask for the same).
" We would particularly call your notice to Clauses 7, 8 and
17, although the whole of the Act ought to be carefully studied.
Copies of the Act can be obtained of Messrs. Eyre and
Spottiswoode, East Harding Street, Fleet Street, or through any
bookseller, or of. this Association (in which case the charge is 4d.,
to cover postage, &c).
" The reason we beg to impress the above upon the attention
of all shopkeepers is that they may have in stock watches pur-
chased of some manufacturers (Clerkenwell, Coventry or other-
wise) that are part Swiss work, and which they (the shopkeepers)
have bought as legitimate English work. They should therefore
see to this directly, as this Association considers it its duty to
enforce the Act, and give prosecutors every assistance possible,
in the shape of experts' evidence, &c, to ensure conviction.
" I am, dear Sir, yours respectfully,
" J. T. Newman, Secretary:'
We published in our August issue the clauses as then
amended referring to watches, but as they have since received
some further slight modifications, we herewith republish them as
they are now the law, together with Section 17, to which attention
is drawn in the above circular, and Section 18, which is of general
interest to manufacturers. The words printed in italics are the
additions referred to.
7. Where a watch case has thereon any words or marks which consti-
tute, or are by common repute considered as constituting, a descrip-
tion of the^country in which the watch was made, those words or marks
shall prima facie be deemed to be a description of that country within
the meaning of this Act ; and the provisions of this Act with respect to
goods to which a false trade description has been applied, and with
respect to selling or exposing for or having in possession for sale, or any
purpose of trade or manufacture, goods with a false trade description,
shall apply accordingly ; and for the purposes of this section the expression
" watch'" means all that portion of a watch which is not the watch case.
8. (1.) Every person who after the date fixed by Order in Council
sends or brings a watch case, whether imported or not, to any assay
office in the United Kingdom for the purpose of being assayed, stamped
or marked, shall make a declaration declaring in what country or place
the case was made. If it appears by such declaration that the watch
case was made in some country or place out of the United Kingdom, the
assay office shall place on the case such a mark (differing from the mark
placed by the office on a watch case made in the United Kingdom) and
in such a mode as may be from time to time directed by" Order in
Council.
(2.) The declaration may be made before an officer of an assay office,
appointed in that behalf by the office (which officer is hereby authorised
to administer such a declaration), or before a justice of the peace, or a
commissioner having power to administer oaths in the Supreme Court of
Judicature in England or Ireland, or in the Court of Session in Scotland,
and shall be in such form as may be from time to time directed by Order
in Council.
(3.) Every person who makes a false declaration for the purposes of
this section shall be liable, on conviction on indictment, to the penalties
October 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
59
of perjury, and on surnmar3 r conviction to a fine not exceeding twenty
pounds for each offence.
17. On the sale or in the contract for the sale of any goods to which
a trade mark, or mark, or trade description has been applied, the vendor
shall be deemed to warrant that the mark is a genuine trade mark and
not forged or falsely applied, or that the trade description is not a false
trade description within the meaning of this Act, unless the contrary is
expressed in some writing signed by or on behalf of the vendor and
delivered at the time of the sale or contract to and accepted by the
vendee.
18. Where, at the passing of this Act, a trade description is lawfully
and generally applied to goods of a particular class, or manufactured by
a particular method, to indicate the particular class or method of manu-
facture of such goods, the provisions of this Act with respect to false
trade descriptions shall not apply to such trade description when so
applied : Provided that where such trade description includes the name
of a place or country, and is calculated to mislead as to the place or
country where the goods to which it is applied were actually made or
produced, and the goods are not actually made or produced in that place
or country, this section shall not apply unless there is added to the trade
description, immediately before or after the name of that place or country,
in an equally conspicuous manner, with that name, the name of the
place or country in which the goods were actually made or produced,
with a statement that they were made or produced there.
Che Ruby Jflines of Burmah.
XN an interesting communication to Murray's Magazine Mr-
M> Streeter says the above mines are of three distinct kinds.
The metamorphic or gneiss rock furnishes the first, and
probably in the near future the most important, of these. Huge
fissures traverse its mass in all directions, caused by shrinkage in
long past ages, and these fissures hare been filled, probably at
an early stage of transformation, with a soft reddish and blackish
clayey earth, generally containing rubies. These have escaped
much of the water-wearing process to which the stones in the
lower valley appear to have been subjected, and it is reported that
some of the best gems have been found in such fissures. These
crevices are called by the Burmese " Loos " or caves ; they work
them in a most superficial manner, simply following the veins of soft
earth between the walls of rock as far as practicable, or until they
are stopped by poisonous gas. The earth is extracted and washed
by hand in small round flat trays of bamboo basket-work. The
most remarkable example of this system of mining is found on the
Pingoo-Doung, or Pagoda Hill, near Kiapien, a huge black mass
of rock rising high above the valley and carrying ruby-bearing
earth both in its fissures and flanks. On its summit a gilt
pagoda has been erected which forms a landmark for miles round,
sparkling in the sun above its less favoured neighbours. The
workings on it are of a dangerous character, and fifteen miners
were killed a little while ago by a landslip. The second variety
of mines is found on the sides of these rocky hills, where diversi-
fied strata of a red and white clayey consistency have been upheaved.
The earth contains masses of harder material, undergoing rapid
disintegration wherever exposed to the action of the air ; some of
it is almost as light as pumice stone and other portions nearly as
hard as granite. The original material from which this red and
white clayey stuff has proceeded is believed to be the matrix of
the corundum which furnishes the ruby and sapphire in their now
existing state. But repeated transformations must have been
undergone since the formation of the original rock, during which
selections and distributions of the valuable stone have occurred ;
for although the natives say that such stones may be found
throughout almost the entire mass of this reddish earth, yet only
certain places have been systematically worked for them. This
is done by a simple system of hydraulic mining on a small scale.
Water is brought in an open conduit from the side of the hill
in channels, never more than 18 in. square, and delivered with
very little pressure. The water is employed to wash the earth,
generally along a natural channel, to the lowest part of the
working, and at night is diverted into hamboo pipes which throw
a spray on to different sides of the excavation. The earth thus
softened is dug out in the morning by hand, usually with tools
like gardeners' spuds, and then washed in the stream. Thus the
Whole of a hillside is slowly eaten away and its rubies extracted.
The third and last system of mining employed is by sinking pits
in the lower or plain parts of the valleys. The ruby strata here
are of a different character, and a final process of discrimination
appears to have distributed pockets of ruby-bearing earth under
the entire area of the flat land in the different valleys. The
earth is called by the natives "Byun," and is generally found
at two different depths : the first layer at about 4 ft., and the
second and richer one, at 20 to 30 ft. below the surface. It
is generally extracted by a company of miners, ten or twelve
in number. Pits are dug about 8 ft. square, lined with rough
timber and stayed with four cross-pieces at intervals. Water
enters the pit on sinking a short distance below the surface, and
the principal work and source of expense is keeping the mine free
- from water. Upright posts are let into the ground at a short
distance from the mouth and a fork is cut in the upper end of
each. In this fork is balanced a lever, the longer arm of which
hangs over the pit, while the shorter arm carries a bucket
weighted with stones to counterbalance the contents of the basket,
which is connected with the longer arm by a bamboo which reaches
to the bottom of the pit. This contrivance forms a most efficient
though simple means of raising both water and earth by manual
labour. Generally six or eight of these levers overhang each pit
in actual working, and probably the proportion of water buckets
in constant use to earth baskets is two to one. Three men at
least are below, occupied in filling both baskets and buckets ; they
rise and fall incessantly during the working hours, which rarely
exceed six daily. The ruby earth thus extracted is placed in a
heap at the side of the pit, and on first exposure, while wet,
sparkles in the sun with myriads of small stones, brilliant in colour
but not large enough, unfortunately, to be of any value. When
a sufficient quantity has been obtained it is washed in bamboo
trays and handed over to the sorters, who, after carefully examining
it, and taking out any stones of value, pass it on again to a small
colony of women and children who generally surround every pit,
and who again sort it slowly over in the hopes of finding some
smaller stones that may have been missed by the men. It is a
ludicrous sight to see two or three little children who, perhaps,
can scarcely walk, sitting down before aheap of this washed earth
and sorting away with most serious faces, as if they realised that
their existence depended upon their exertions. No machinery is
apparent in the whole district, though it is stated that a pump
Avas brought up a few years ago from Mandalay ; but it soon got
choked, and was thrown away as useless, probably because no one
understood how to work it. These gangs of miners are presided
over by a "Gyoung" or head-man, and they appear to work on a
co-operative system, the result of their labour being divided
according to merit. Some curious superstitions exist among
them, and they are great believers in dreams. No miner will
dare mention or talk about an elephant, tiger or monkey while at
work ; and lately they greatly feared that a few elephants,
belonging to the commissariat department, which came down near
the mines to feed, would frighten away all the rubies in the district.
It is also thought that, if a man secretes a stone found Avhile
working at the diggings, he will sooner or later meet with some
great misfortune and probably die some horrid death. This,
however, does not prevent smuggling being carried on to a great
extent, though the Burmese kings have resorted to many expe-
dients in order to stop it. One Lord of the White Elephant
had all the ruby earth brought down to his palace and washed
and sorted there by his numerous wives under a guard. In the
late King Min-dolm-Min's reign, any smuggler or illicit dealer
in rubies was publicly flogged at the street corners of the town
and all his property confiscated. The expedients for passing
rubies through the King's guards that were stationed at different
places on the road between the mines and Mandalay were
surprising in their variety. Some of the miners or traders would
make flesh wounds in their arms and legs and place rubies in
the different cuts. These would heal over and completely hide
the gem beneath, which might be extracted when occasion served.
Others would place packets of stones in the top-knots of their
hair or would carry them in small hollow bamboos with false
bottoms. These devices must have been often successful, for
numerous valuable stones reached Rangoon yearly from unknown
sources.
60
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 1887.
Fashions in jewellery.
MM HAT a revival in the direction of an increased taste for
l^g* personal adornment in the way of jewellery is taking place
in fashionable society has been evident for some time. As
this change of taste on the part of the leaders of our own beau
(or rather belle) monde is likely to be more lasting than arbitrary
changes of fashion usually are, it should afford hope that the
jewellery trade may be raised from the slough of despond into
which it has fallen. Any indications that the fashion referred to
is not purely local or confined to any one circle, tend to strengthen
the idea as to its enduring. Although the sale of the French
Crown Jewels has had the usual fate of a nine days' wonder, there
are not wanting signs that French feminine inclination for
jewellery has in no way declined ; and that our Trans-Atlantic
cousins are following the European lead is shown by numerous
articles on the subject in American papers.
An excerpt from a leader in the Jeweler s Circular will be of
special interest just now, as showing what is being done by the
jewellery trade to keep the matter of personal adornment abreast
of the times.
While marked progress is being made in literature, science, the
arts, &c, and the human race becoming more appreciative each
day of all that is beautiful either in nature or art, it is but
reasonable to suppose that an industry that is devoted to the
production of articles of luxury, and in which , so many millions
are invested, should contribute its full share to the progress of
the age. In no branch of artistic work has there been greater
advancement than is manifest in the productions of the gold and
silver smiths. All the other arts and sciences have been made
tributary to these productions, and whatever of progress has been
developed in painting, sculpture, &c, may also be found in the
modern examples of the handicraft of the gold and silver smiths.
This has been abundantly demonstrated in the recent sales of the
collections of some of our wealthiest citizens, whose death made
necessary the dispersion of their art collections which they had
spent their lives in collecting. At the sales of these famous
collections, no articles offered attracted more attention than the
examples of art work in gold and silver. The cabinets containing
these were surrounded at all times by admiring throngs, whose
admiration extended not only to the artistic ideas embodied in
the works before them, but to the workmanship as well, and the
highest encomiums were lavished upon the skill that had wrought
out in the precious metals the beautiful conceptions of the artists
who designed these masterpieces. At the sales these works of
art and of value brought liberal prices, and the competition for
them was very great, showing that there is a wide and growing
appreciation of artistic work of this kind. That such is the fact
is demonstrated by a visit to the salerooms of the leading
manufacturers, where will be found exhibited a profusion of gold
and silver work in the greatest varieties of design and patterns
that have ever been exhibited anywhere at any time. These
productions are in response to a demand that is constantly
increasing as the country grows in wealth, and the number of
persons who can afford to gratify their longings for the beautiful
multiplies with such rapidity as it does in this country. Our
manufacturers are stimulated to renewed effort by the demand,
and vie with each other in the beauty and elaborateness of their
productions. The mere fact that these beautiful and costly
works are produced is all the evidence that is required that the
demand for them not only exists but is increasing, for our shrewd
manufacturers are too good business men to put their money and
their time into work that is not likely to be remunerative. If
there was no market for them there would be no goods, whereas
the fact is that there never was such a profusion of fine goods,
embodying the highest artistic ideas, as there is at present.
These goods take on all forms that are known to the jewellery
trade, from elaborate pieces that are cherished simply for their
artistic beauty to the most utilitarian articles of every-day use.
What is true of the demand for the best examples of the gold
and silver smith's art, is true, also, as regards those examples of
the jeweller's art designed for personal adornment. There was a
time, a few years ago, when fashion, in its fickleness, decreed
that gold jewellery should not be worn to any great extent ; but
even fashion could not enforce this decree fully, for each individual
will insist upon following his or her own tastes in such matters
and wear such things as are appropriate and becoming. There
are few ladies who do not realise that jewellery, that is in itself
beautiful, adds to their attractiveness when displayed with
judgment, and hence jewellery has always been fashionable, in
spite of all efforts to taboo it, since it was first invented. At
times it has been less conspicuous than at others, but never has
it been regarded as in bad taste when exhibited with judgment.
One may be bejewelled to excess and so appear ridiculous, as
another may be dressed in bad taste ; but dresses are nevertheless
demanded, and so is jewellery. But Dame Fashion has recalled
her decree against jewellery, and those devotees who formerly
wore but little or none, do not now feel that they are dressed
unless they are adorned with certain articles of jewellery, the kind
and amount varying with individual tastes. Necklaces, brooches,
earrings, finger rings, lace pins, pins for the hair and for the
bonnet, cuffs buttons, &c, are worn on all occasions, and our lady
contributor, "Elsie Bee," is our authority for the statement that
even the garters worn by ladies are ornamented with gold, silver
and gems. Of this we have no personal knowledge, although we
remember having seen in the stores some very beautiful articles
which we supposed to be bracelets of novel design until our fair
contributor awakened our suspicions in the matter. But we can
testify positively to the fact that the other articles we have
mentioned are worn freely and openly by ladies at home, at
parties, in the street and on all occasions. The poet remarks
that " beauty unadorned is adorned the most," but our modern
ladies act upon the belief that judicious personal adornment
heightens their beauty, and American women the world over are
noted for their loveliness. As for the gentlemen, a certain
amount of jewellery has become with them a matter of necessity.
They must have their collar and cuff buttons, their watch and
accompanying vest chain, a handsome scarf pin, studs for full
dress, charms for their watch chain, and one or more finger rings
and other articles of ornament according to taste. These are
worn by everybody, at all times and at all seasons, some of them
being absolutely indispensable to full dress occasions.
A New Dodge. — An attempt, of a somewhat novel character,
to extort money from pawnbrokers, has, according to the
Birmingham Daily Mail, been made within the past few days.
The dodge adopted is not exactly new, but it is nevertheless a
decidedly ingenious one. Two respectably-dressed men, evidently
with a fair knowledge oE the jewellery trade, call upon the pawn-
brokers, and upon being told that money is advanced on jewellery
one of the pair produces either bracelets or scarf pin of a valuable
description, and requests an inspection. When -the customary
acid test has been applied, and the articles found genuine, an
extremely high price is asked, which, of course, is refused. The
owner declines to accept a smaller sum, so that the pawnbroker
has no alternative but to hand back the jewellery. Immediately
this is done the owner discovers that the articles have been
disfigured, and forthwith accuses the pawnbroker of having
filed the gold instead of applying the acid. The confederate,
who is waiting in the loan office, declares that he saw the file
used, and in his' estimation it has depreciated the value of the
goods to the extent of two sovereigns. The unsuspecting broker
then begins to perceive that he is dealing with swindlers, and
finds himself in an awkward predicament. He is threatened that
unless he makes some compensation or purchases the jewellery an
action will be brought against him. Knowing that it would be
a delicate matter to refute such a charge if the sharpers upon
oath say that they witnessed the filing, the pawnbroker in some
cases chooses the lesser of two evils, and prefers paying a sove-
reign rather than run the risk of losing a much greater amount
by defending the threatened action. The only way to defeat
these rogues would be to apply the acid test in all cases in the
presence of two or three witnesses, and with this warning probably
pawnbrokers will be on their guard.
October 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
61
"Workshop ffiemoranba.
WWTCKEL-PLATED brass or iron, which has become coated
■p^H 1 with burned grease and dirt, may be cleaned without
injury to the nickel surface, by boiling in a strong solution
of soda or potash : rinse in water, and rub first with moistened
and then with dry rouge or chalk.
Steel which has rusted can be cleaned by brushing with a
paste composed of \ oz. cyanide potassium, . 1 oz. Castile soap,
1 oz. whiting, and water sufficient to form a paste. The steel
should first be washed in a solution of \ oz. cyanide potassium in
2 ozs. of water.
To Clean Pearls. — Soak them in hot water, in. which bran
has been boiled, with a little salts of tartar and alum, rubbing
gently between the hands when the water will admit of it. When
the water is cold, renew the operation until the discolouration is
removed ; rinse in lukewarm water, and lay the pearls in white
paper in a dark place to cool and dry.
A Grained Surface on Brass. — The following simplified
mode of effecting the graining upon brass, and one which does
not require much skill, will be advantageously followed by the
watchmaker who is but seldom called upon to perform this work.
It is given, in L 'Union Horlogere : — Dissolve a little culinary
salt in a mixture of equal parts of nitric and sulphuric acid.
This will produce a grained surface upon either brass, copper
or German silver. A coarser grain can be obtained by the
addition of a little more salt. Before the procedure it should
be understood that the articles are to be well ground and
thoroughly cleaned. Next they are suspended to a horse hair,
and dipped into the said mixture for the space of a few seconds.
They are then withdrawn and afterwards dipped into hot water,
after which they are scratch brushed with beer, for which operation
you can use a brush of brass, German silver, or of glass thread.
This being done, the parts are silvered with ease, and again
scratch brushed and then gilt. In this manner an equally
grained surface of a uniform and desirable colour is obtained.
Two Methods of Demagnetising Watches. — The magnetic
influence of dynamo machines on watches is a constant source of
annoyance to electricians ; the delicate steel parts, such as the
balance wheel and escapement, being so readily affected in their
action by the slightest degree of magnetism as to render the
watch worse than useless. An apparatus was constructed by
Swan for the purpose of demagnetising watches. It consisted
of a horse-shoe magnet made to rotate. The damaged watch
was placed on a revolving disc turning in the reverse direction
to that of the poles of the magnet, and was thus allowed to
approach quite close to the magnet, the distance being gradually
increased until the watch was entirely removed from the influence
of the poles. The repeated alternate passing of the magnet's
poles and gradual lessening of distance had the desired effect of
demagnetising the steel parts. Hopkinson has invented the
following method : — He commences by completely magnetising
the watch, not by subjecting it to the influence of a magnet, but
by suspending it inside the copper coil of an apparatus, having a
commutator which reverses the electric current twice in every
second of time, its strength being at the same time gradually
diminished until it becomes nil. The success of the operation
depends upon the reversals of the current and the gradual
diminishing of its force being obtained with the utmost regularity ;
and to effect this, the apparatus, which is a battery, has to be
constructed with the greatest nicety. A windlass, with ratchet
wheel, is employed for the slow raising of the zincs out of the
solution.
The Glasgow Exhibition. — The building for the Inter-
national Exhibition at Glasgow, which will be opened in May
of next year, is now being proceeded with. The ground to be
occupied by the Exhibition buildings extends to 10-| acres, and
already the framework of the central hall is being carried forward
to completion. The artisans' section is expected to be instructively
complete, and an exceptionally interesting exhibition of pictures
is being arranged. The Fine Arts Committee have now issued
their prospectuses, applicable to the sale and loan sections. The
Queen is patron, and the Prince of Wales hon. president. The
corresponding members include Mr. L. Alma-Tadema and Mr.
Hamo Thornycroft, and the Committee comprises many leading
citizens, Sir James King (Lord Provost) being the chairman of the
Executive Council. The art section is to include sculpture
(original works in marble, bronzes, &c, terra cotta, wax and
plaster of Paris), oil paintings, water-colour drawings, works in
black and white (charcoal, crayon and sepia drawings, &c),
engravings and etchings (steel and copper engravings, lithographs,
&c), architectural drawings and models, and objects illustrative
of Scottish history and archaeology. The art galleries are to be ten
in number, occupying an area equal to 3,200 square yards, and
affording about 2,450 lineal feet of hanging space. It is proposed
that objects illustrative of Scottish history and archaeology shall
be placed in a separate building, specially constructed for that
purpose. Electric light will be used throughout the Exhibition,
and the mode of its application in the fine art galleries will
obviate the risks incidental, under other conditions, to the use of
artificial lights. An art union is to be organised in connection
with the fine arts sale section. The price of tickets will be limited
to Is. each, and the receipts are to be divided into prizes to be
selected from works exhibited in the fine arts sale section. In
connection with the Loan Exhibition, the Committee undertake to
collect and return the works of art and other exhibits lent, and
to bear all cost of transit. When required to do so, they will
insure, at their own expense, all loan exhibits against every risk,
whether in transit or during the Exhibition. It may be added
that, while detailed arrangements are still in prospect, it is
contemplated that music, both choral and orchestral, shall enter
largely into the daily life of the Exhibition.
jCon&on Bankruptcy Court
Ee Bryce McMdrdo Wright.
§HIS was a first meeting, held on Friday, 16th ult. The
debtor, a mineralogist and jeweller, carrying on business
at 204, Regent Street, had a receiving order made against
him in August last, and has filed accounts showing gross debts
£16,792 9s. lid., of which £13,418 2s. 7d. is unsecured, and
assets £1,713 6s. 2d. A long discussion took place upon the
debtor's proposal, which was to vest the estate in trustees to
secure the payment of a composition of 5s. in the pound, extending
over twelve months, which was accepted.
Bankruptcy Proceedings.
Re Joseph and Frederic Bromage.
121 MEETING of the creditors of Joseph Bromage and
^Eak Frederic Bromage, carrying on business at 113, Vyse
S ~ J ^ Street, Birmingham, manufacturing jewellers — Joseph
Bromage residing at Warwick Place, Francis Road, and
Frederic Bromage at Carlyle Road, Edgbaston — was held on
the 20th ult., at the office of the Official Receiver, Colmore Row.
The statement of affairs showed the liabilities to be £4,609 16s. 6d.,
of which amount all but £175 10s. 6d. was due to unsecured
creditors. The net assets amounted to £2,101 17s. Id., thus
leaving a deficiency of £2,507 19s. 5d. The report of the
Official Receiver stated that the debtors commenced business in
April, 1882, with a capital of £1,000, which they received as
part of their interest under the will of their late father. Sub-
sequently they received a further sum of £800. They had not
prepared a balance sheet since they commenced business, but in
December, 1884, they went through their affairs roughly, and
found they were about solvent. In June, 1886, they commenced
62
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLEE AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 1887.
pawning goods, and the pawning was continued up to April
29 last. At the date of the petition a pawnbroker held stock
estimated at £8,328 19s. 7d., upon which advances amounting
to £2,277 had been made. Only two lots of goods had been
redeemed. For some time past the debtors experienced difficulty
in trading through the want of capital, and for the last six
months the profits of the business had been insufficient to pay
the expenses. In May last they found they were unable to meet
several payments becoming due, and a private meeting of the
creditors was held. The statement of affairs showed liabilities
£4,229 16s. 6d., and assets £2,351 19s. 5d. An offer of
composition of 7s. 6d. in the pound was not accepted, and one of
the creditors presented a petition, but the debtors endeavoured to
resist the proceedings, and to prevent the receiving order being
granted. No purchase ledger had been kept, and the invoices of
the goods had been destroyed. In the separate estate of Joseph
Bromage the liabilities were £654 12s. 4d., and the assets nil;
and in that of Frederic Bromage the liabilities were £475 12s. 10d.,
and the assets nil. — In reply to Mr. J. Randall, one of the
creditors, the debtors stated that they had given pawntickets as
security. Most of them were given to Mr. Dick, but Dick had
returned them since his failure. Dick gave them up because he
was asked for them. — In answer to the Official Receiver, the debtors
stated that they had left the tickets at home. — Mr. Randall asked
how many tickets Mr. Smallwood, of Small Heath, had. — One of
the debtors replied that he did not think Mr. Smallwood ever had
one. The tickets were given to Dick about four months before
their failure. — The Official Receiver : Why did you give them to
him ? The debtors replied that he had a bill with them, and he
pressed them to give him some security or goods, and as they
could not pay him they gave him the tickets. Dick returned
them about a fortnight ago when asked for them. They owed
him about £1,700. — Mr. Harris, who appeared for the debtors,
said there was no offer of composition. — Mr. Hill, accountant,
was appointed trustee, and Messrs. Randall, Westwood and
Evans the committee of inspection.
In reference to the above case the Birmingham Daily Post
says : It is hardly to be wondered at that the Birmingham
jewellery trade should be in a suffering state when such reckless
trading as that revealed in the case of Messrs. Bromage yesterday
is resorted to by so many of its members. This is not the first
or the second bankruptcy we have reported lately in which the
systematic pawning of jewellery has been frankly acknowledged
by the debtors ; and though this desperate expedient is doubtless
resorted to in the first instance in good faith, as a temporary one,
to tide over a particular crisis, it invariably proves to be the first
Of a series, each representing the link of a steadily lengthening
chain, which is destined to drag the debtor into bankruptcy, and
seriously aggravate the difficulties of the liquidation. In this case,
it appears that the debtors, finding themselves unable to meet
their engagements in June, 1886, commenced pawning goods,
upon which they obtained advances to the amount of £250.
In the following month two fresh transactions with the
pawnbroker resulted in an advance of £170, and then the
downward impetus being fairly given, the pledging business went
on crescendo at the rate of five, six, seven and nine transactions
a month, until, at the close of April last, the pawnbroker held
stock of the estimated value of £3,328 19s. 7d., upon which
advances had been made to the amount of £2,277. Out of 50
parcels of jewellery pledged at various times, only two, it seems,
had been redeemed, and the marvel is under these circumstances
that the debtors, who owe more than £4,200, should be able to
offer any composition or show any assets at all. As it is, the
creditors find themselves left, as Mr. Fitter yesterday described
it, with the wreck of an estate in the shape of an equity of
redemption, otherwise the pawntickets of the goods pledged,
which the estate w r ould probably never see again. If the mischief
were confined to the creditors concerned in the case, other
Birmingham jewellers would doubtless be able to bear the
misfortune philosophically ; but, as they are well aware, the injury
done by the wholesale pawning of goods at one -half or two-thirds
of their invoice price, is one that is felt by every member of the
trade. For every pawning transaction by a manufacturing
jeweller or factor there are probably a dozen cases of underselling,
as no loss that can be incurred in this way is likely to equal the
loss by pledging. But a still worse service is done to legitimate
trade when the pawned goods are thrown upon the market, as
they must be sooner or later, and the public are invited to buy
jewellery by auction at something like one-half the regular retail
price. Scarcely a week passes in this town without one or more
auction sales at which jewellery is sold at prices for which it could
not be produced; and Birmingham is only one of many distributing
centres where similar bargains are constantly offered to the public
at the expense of the jewellery trade. Even if the demand for
ornaments w r ere much more active than it is, the trade could
hardly be in a healthy condition, when it is being systematically
sapped in this irregular manner ; and until some effectual method
of stopping the leak is devised it seems to be hopeless to pray for
improvement. The approbation system doubtless is at the bottom
of the evil ; but even if it were abolished it would not wholly
prevent the pawning of goods obtained on credit or paid for with
long-dated bills. It is the pawning that must be stopped, and if
the law as it stands is not adequate to meet the case an amending
Act should be obtained to prevent the disposing of manufacturers'
stock otherwise than in the legitimate way of trade. It is not
always the pawnbroker whose friendly agency is invoked in these
irregular and mischievous transactions. Even bankers are not
always proof against the temptations to obtain valuable portable
cover for their advances. But whatever form the pledging takes,
it ought to be equally illegal, seeing that the goods pawned must
always represent, to a great extent, the property of the pawner's
creditors. We are referring, of course, to wholesale pawning by
a trader, which is obviously on a very different footing from retail
transactions with private customers, who part with their own
personal property to meet a pecuniary exigency. Had such a law
as we have suggested been in existence, it is clear that Messrs.
Bromage could not have gone on pledging from £200 to £700
worth of their creditors' goods every month, and the trade
altogether would be in a healthier position than it is just now.
Gazette.
Partnerships Dissolved.
Truseott & Morgan. Tenby, watchmakers. Phillips & Kahn, Strand.
jewellers. Mill & Jones, Swansea, watchmakers. Lezard & Sonj
Holborn Viaduct, City, watch manufacturers. P. Edge «fc Co.,
Tyldesley, pawnbrokers. Hirst Bros., Arlington Street, Clerkenwell,
watch case makers. Forbes & Howe, The Broadway, Streatham ,
jewellers.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender in the Country. — Harry Ambrose, Bath, jeweller. Charles
Ionian McKenzie, Dover, watchmaker. James Varley, Bishop
Auckland, clockmaker. William Whitehall, Leicester, watchmaker.
William Snook, Southsea. watchmaker. Henrj^ Bird, Coventry,
watch manufacturer. Benjamin Graham, Wakefield, jeweller. Thomas
Coventry Judge, Chard, clockmaker. Charles Fitzgerald and Thomas
Young, Bristol, watch manufacturers. George Henry Simmons,
Builth, jeweller. Charles Roberts, Abergavenny, watchmaker.
Poblic Examinations.
In London. — B. McM. Wright, Regent Street, mineralogist; October 4, at
11.30. A. Furtwangler, Strand, watchmaker; October 18, at 12.
In the Country. — H. Ambrose, Bath, jeweller; October fi, at 11.30. Clara
Ann Rollason (otherwise Twist ). Birmingham, pawnbroker; October 3,
at 2. J. Green, Sheffield, pawnbroker ; October 6, at 11.30. J. Bromage
and F. Bromage, Birmingham, manufacturing jewellers ; October 4,
at 2. J. Bromage (separate estate), Edgbaston, manufacturing
jeweller; October 4, at 2. F. Bromage (separate estate), Edgbaston,
manufacturing jeweller ; October 4, at 2. W. Whitehall, Leicester,
watchmaker ; October 5, at 10. W. Snook, Southsea, watchmaker ;
October 6, at 12. Bi Graham, Wakefield, jeweller ; October 6, at 11.
C. Fitzgerald and T. Young, Bristol, watch manufacturers ; October
28, at 12. T. C. Judge, Chard, clockmaker ; October 12, at 2.30.
Adjudications.
In London. — A. Furtwangler, Strand, watchmaker.
In the Country. — T. Marson (trading as T. Marson & Co.). Birmingham,
jeweller. W. H. Stokes, Birmingham, manufacturing jeweller.
J. Green, Sheffield, pawnbroker. Clara Ann Rollason (otherwise
Twist), Birmingham, pawnbroker. C. J. McKenzie, Dover, watch-
maker. J. Varley ,. Bishop Auckland, clockmaker. W. Snook, South-
October 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
63
sea, watchmaker. J. Eisner, Birmingham, pawnbroker. H. Bird,
Coventry, watch manufacturer. B. Graham, Wakefield, jeweller.
W. Whitehall, Leicester, watchmaker. J. Bromage and F. Bromage,
Birmingham, manufacturing jewellers. C. Fitzgerald and T. Young,
Bristol, watch manufacturers.
Notices of Dividends.
In London. — E. Turnor, The Broadway, Hammersmith, jeweller; 2s. llkl.,
first and final ; any day except Saturday, Chief Official Receiver, 33,
Carey Street.
In the Country. — W. Banks. Bolton, optician ; 2s., final ; September 5,
S. Greenhalgh, Bolton. J. Lee, Manchester, jeweller; Is., first;
forthwith, J. Eckersley. J. Bickall, South Molton, silversmith ; 4s.,
first ; September 12, Official Receiver, Taunton. Selina Tan tarn and
W. Tantam, Birmingham, pawnbrokers ; Is. 6|d., first, and final ;
September 19, 25, Colmore Row, Birmingham.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller and Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn, London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Row, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
4,135(7.
11,465.
11,469.
11,522.
11,542.
11,616.
11,770.
11,938.
11,939.
12,096.
12,147.
12,259.
12,306.
12,332.
12,354.
12,452.
12,498.
12,607.
12,649.
12,688.
Nordmann, United
liments to watches."
H. J. Haight, London, for " Improvements in electro-magnetic
clock-time transmitters." (Complete specification.) Dated March
18, 1887.
H-. Conant, London, for "An isochronal clock." (Complete
specification.) Dated August 23, 1887.
J. G-. Tongue, a communication from P.
States, for " Improvements in repeating attac
(Complete specification.) Dated August 23. 1887.
N. C. Reading, Birmingham, for "Improvements in watch chains."
(Complete specification.) Dated August 24, 1887.
A. J. Boult, a communication from P. Amiel, Spain, for "Im-
provements in clocks." Dated August 24, 1887.
A. E. Hotchkiss, London, for "Improvements in the manufacture
of lantern pinions for clocks, watches and the like, and in
machinery or apparatus for use in such manufacture." (Complete
specification.) Dated August 26, 1887.
J. Juillerat-Berthoud and Alfred Leiser, Consul Suisse a Londres,
for "A watch system Callote, bearing but one cover and a dome
on the side of the dial." Dated August 30. 1887.
J. G-. Lorrain, London, for " Improvements in or connected with
self-winding clocks." Dated September 2, 1887.
J. G. Lorrain, London, for " Improvements in or connected with
self-winding clocks." Dated September 2, 1887.
W. C. Aldridge, Birmingham, for " Improvements in collar and
shirt studs and other like dress fasteners." Dated September 7,
1887.
N. Hall, a communication from C. C. Hall, Mauritius, for "An
improved watch stand and watch regulator combined." Dated
September 8, 1887.
A. F. Small and F. W. Small, London, for "An improved fastening-
device, applicable for studs, solitaires, waistcoat buttons, brooches,
neckties and similar articles." Dated September 9, 1887.
G. Reimann, London, for " Improvements in automatic calendars
forelocks." (Complete specification.) Dated September 10,1887.
S. Pearson, A. W. Turner and W. Andrews, Birmingham, for "A
new process for extracting aluminum from minerals, and also
making aluminum alloys therefrom." (Complete specification.)
Dated September 12, 1887.
E. J. Taylor, London, for "An improved method of fastening or
securing collar studs, solitaires, sleeve links and like articles."
Dated September 12, 1887.
F. R. Baker, Birmingham, for " Improvements in solitaire, button
or other similar fastenings." Dated September 14, 1887.
J. Adie and A. Lovekin, Birmingham, for "Improvements in
bracelets and bangles." Dated September 15, 1887.
H. N. G. Cobbe- Birmingham, for " Improvements in self-winding
clocks." Dated September 17, 1887.
H. Dalgety, London, for "Improvements in solitaires and the
like." Dated September 17, 1887.
E. G. Staniforth, London, for "An improved clasp stud for shirts."
Dated September 19, 1887.
Becent American Patents.
Burglar Alarm. A. E. Hathaway
Burglar Alarm. B. F. Hough
Chain and Pen and Pencil Holder. Combination Watch.
■'''• ■-•'-N; Frere
Clock Cases, Die for Forming Metallic. M. Fowler
Clock, Electric Programme. A. J. Reams
Clock, Isochronal. H. Conant
Clock, Programme. A. J. Reams
Clocks, Controlling Device for. W. S. Scales
Cones, Apparatus for Making Sand. J. Foran
Cuff Holder, Adjustable. C. H. Murray
Cuff Holder. S.' B. Ellithorp
Cuff Holder. G. H. Phelps 368,305-
Cuff Retainer. A. Bond
Cutlery or similar articles, Manufacture of. H. A. Brognard
Cutlery, &c, Manufacture of. H. A. Brognard ...
Emery Wheels, Dresser for. W. W. Brisben
368,336
367,523
367,804
368,526
367,663
368,814
367,662
368,689
368,915
368,350
368,081
-368,306
368,750
368,061
368,060
368,062
Eyeglasses. E. B. Meyrowitz 368,226
Files, Machine for Cutting. C. M. Fairbanks 367,382
Finger Ring. J. Scott 367,449
Finger Ring. R. Weidmann 368,743
Ingot Manipulator. F. Heron 368,395
Ingot Mould. H. Wright 367,571
Ingots, Forming Metal. E. Wheeler 368,176
Jewellery. C. W. Hartmann 367,976
Jewellery. J. Lamont 367.414
Lathe. C.Smith 368J021
Lathe Tool Holder. J. L. Bogert 368,749
Micrometer Gauge. F. Spaulding 368,554
Micrometer Pipe Gauge. D. G. Brown 368,563
Ore Concentrator. J. H. Pemberton 368,683
Ore Detector, Electrical. L. Mellett 367,422
Ore Indicator, Electric. Mellet & Prince 367,541
Ore Separator. E. A. Wall 368,033
Platinum, Deposition of by Electricity. W. A. Thorns ... 367,731
Rings or Chain Links, Manufacture of. W. A. Peck 367,923
Rolling Mills, Device for Balancing Rolls of. F. G. Tallman... 367,464
Sand, Machine for Screening and Moistening Moulding.
G. Guntz 368,333
Scarf Holder. W.P.Clarke 368,380
Screw Cutting Die. G. Emig... 368,462
Spectacle Frame. W. Ramsay 368,852
Spectacle Joint. F. Scheidig 367,552
Thermometer, Recording. W. H. A. Bogardus 368,319
Wire Drawing Machine. W. H. Sawyer 367,667
Wire Drawing Machine. W. Wallace 367,733
Watch Case Spring. G. A. McCay 368,100
Watch, Repeating. A. P. Pfister 368,002
Watch, Repeating. G. Aubert 368,904
Watches, Push Button for Repeating. C. Morlet 367,995
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
18G6, will be furnished from this office for 2s. 6d. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
lorresponbence.
All Letters for Publication to be addressed to the Editor of The
Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith, 7, St. PauVs Church-
yard, E.C.
All communications must bear the name and address of the sender, not
neeessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.
To the Editor of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith.
Sir, — The Prime Meridian Conference, held at Washington in
1881c, recommended for universal adoption : —
1. Greenwich as the initial meridian.
2. Longitudes to be reckoned east and west to 180° from
Greenwich.
3. A universal day for all purposes for which it may be
found convenient, and which shall not interfere with
the use of local or other standard time where desirable.
4. The universal day to begin for all the world at midnight
at Greenwich, and to be counted as 24 hours.
5. The civil day to be used for all purposes, abolishing the
astronomical day and the nautical day so called.
Are these recommendations ever likely to be acted upon, and
if so, when and to what extent ; or are they merely the ghostly
reminiscence of a pleasant holiday trip experienced by the
Conferees at the public expense, according to the usual outcome
of such conferences ?
Yours faithfully,
R. Strachan.
11, Offord Road, N., September 3.
[MELBOURNE CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION.]
Sir, — I have the honour to inform you that it has been
decided by the Government of the Colony of Victoria to hold an
International Exhibition of Arts, Manufactures, Agricultural
and Industrial Processes and Products in the City of Melbourne,
in celebration of the Centenary of the Settlement of Australia ;
and that the Exhibition will be opened on August 1, 1888,
and will close on January 31, 1889.
64
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[October 1, 1887.
An Executive Commission lias been appointed by the Governor,
under the Seal of the Colony, to conduct the Exhibition ; and
its London Committee, who have control of all questions con-
cerning the exhibitors of the United Kingdom, consists of the
following gentlemen : — The Hon. Sir Graham Berry, K.C.M.G.,
Agent-General for Victoria, Chairman ; The Right Hon. Hugh
C. E. Childers, M.P., Sir Henry Barkly, G.C.M.G., Lieut.-
General Sir Andrew Clarke, R.E., G.C.M.G., Sir James
McCulloch, K.C.M.G., Sir Samuel Wilson, M.P., The Hon.
James Service, The Hon. J. Dennistoun Wood, Charles E.
Bright, Esq., O.M.G., John Badcock, Esq., John H. Blackwood,
Esq., John Maclntyre, Esq., John M. Paterson, Esq., William
Peterson, Esq., Robert Rome, Esq.
The offices of the Commission in England will be at 8, Victoria
Chambers, Westminster, adjoining the offices of the Agent-
General for the Colony, and all communications should be
addressed to the Secretary at that address.
Her Majesty's Government propose to. issue a Royal Commis-
sion, of which His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales has
graciously consented to be President, to co-operate with the
Government of the Colony in ensuring a due representation of
the Arts and Manufactures of the Queen's dominions, and have
promised to use their good offices with the Governments of
Foreign States, of the Indian Empire, and of the Colonies
other than those of Australasia, to make the Exhibition truly
representative of the works of all nations.
I am instructed to request your particular attention to the
following figures, which give a general view of the trade of the
United Kingdom with Australasia, and which are published
on the authority of Government returns supplied to the
Commission : — -
" During the year 1885 Australasia, with a population of
3,500,000, imported from Great Britain goods to the amount
of £32,000,000. The United States, France and Germany,
whose combined populations number 133,000,000, imported
during the same period from Great Britain, to the amount
of £53,000,000. Calculated at per head of the population,
Australasia therefore imported nearly 23 times as much as the
above-named countries combined ; and this in addition to a
large and increasing trade, with other countries."
The last International Exhibition held at Melbourne, in the
year 1880, was followed by a most remarkable increase in the
imports of the Colony, due no doubt in great part to the stimulus
thereby given to trade. The imports of Victoria, which in
1880, the year in which the Exhibition was held, were
£14,556,894, rose in 1881 to £16,718,521, and in 1882 to
£18,748,081. The capitals of the adjoining Colonies, Adelaide
and Sydney, are now connected with Melbourne by railway, and
before next year the line to Brisbane will be open, so that the
population of the greater Colonies will be placed within easy
access of the Exhibition. It may thus be fairly hoped that the
stimulus given to British trade, not merely with Victoria, but
with all the Australasian Colonies, will even exceed the re-
markable results which followed the Exhibition of 1880.
The main buildings erected for that Exhibition are of a
permanent character and fine design. To these will be added
annexes of iron, covering, according to a telegraphic despatch
just received from the Colony, a total area of 24 acres. No
charge will be made for space. The detailed prospectus and
forms of application can be obtained on personal or written
inquiry at the above address. Applications for sjDace should be
returned to the London offices on or before August 31 ; but it
is requested that, in view of the distance at which the Exhibition
is held, and the time necessarily involved in correspondence
respecting the arrangements for the perfect accommodation of all
exhibitors, the applications may be sent in at as early a date as
possible. I am to add that every facility will be afforded to
exhibitors respecting customs, transit from wharves to Exhibition,
and supply of motive-power.
In conclusion, it may be stated that the Government of
Victoria are determined to use all their influence to make the
Exhibition in every way worthy of the great historical event which
it commemorates, hoping besides that it may, like its predecessor
of 1880, be the direct means of promoting a largely-increased
personal and commercial intercourse between the Colonies and
the United Kingdom. And it is in this spirit that the Executive
Commission at Melbourne invites exhibitors from all nations in
the following words : —
" In view of the remarkable growth of Australasia in all
things relating to population, production, and general dis-
tribution of wealth among all classes, the facilities for rapid,
economical and easy transit, and its many other advantages,
the Commissioners confidently invite all desirous of extending
commercial relations with these rapidly-extending communities
to exhibit the fullest and most complete representations of
their Raw Products, Skilled Industries and Arts at the
Centennial International Exhibition, Melbourne, 1888."
I have the honour to be, your obedient servant,
J. Cashel Hoev.
Buyers' Suibe.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield, Sell Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Buij all materials containing Gold and Silver.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A ■
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
Customers' Hatchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden,
London, E.C.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen,, send to Alexander Edwards,
Watch Material and Tool Dealer, 88 & 89, Craven Street, and 2, Holy-
head Road, Coventry. Lists : all Horological Literature.
W. Scott Hayward & Co., 59, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool, Leipzig and Paris.
WANTED.
mO JEWELLERS or WATCHMAKERS.— Toa Gentleman
JL of experience in the Retail Trade, and having the command of
£2,000. an exceptional opportunity offers to join an eminent firm in the
West End of London as Partner. — Address Excel, Office of this
Journal— [Advt.]
YOUNG MAN (21), of five years' experience, seeks a Situation
as Improver. Well up in Clock and Jewellery Work. — Pursek,
Temperance Hotel, Leamington. — [Advt.]
TO BE SOLD.
WATCH AND CLOCKMAKER'S BUSINESS,
BRIGHTON.— In consequence of the death of the late Pro-
prietor, an old-established and genuine WATCH and CLOCKMAKER'S
BUSINESS, of high class, in main thoroughfare, close to Post Office, is
TO BE DISPOSED OP, immediately, at a moderate price. Ample
stock of first-rate goods. Lease, nearly nine years, at moderate rental.
Good connection, capable of great extension. Excellent opening for
young man, with small capital, starting in business. — Full particulars
on application to Messrs. J. W. Stride & Soxs, Auctioneers, 163,
North Street, Brighton, or to Messrs. Freeman Gbll &. Co., Solicitors,
58, Ship Street, Brighton.— [Advt.]
WATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
V V of Superior Goods only ; established 35 years, with good Jobbing
Trade attached, extending over England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Incoming can be reduced to Four or Five Hundred Pounds, chiefly or
quite covered by goods, comprising movements, material, tools, &c.
Owner no objection to remain two or three years to part work at
finishing or assist in any way required. Age only reason for wishing to
decline business. — Address MANUFACTURER, Office of this Journal, —
[Advt.]
S"Ik
ilVevBiriitli.
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
Entered at Stationers' Wall.']
[Met]ist,e.red for Transmission Ahroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 5.]
NOVEMBER 1, 1887.
I" Subscription, 5s. ( "Prut
L per Annum. , I Free.
SPECIAL NOTICE.
Our correspondents are kindly requested to note that the
Office of this Journal has been removed to more com-
modious premises at No. 7, St. Paul's Churchyard.
CONTENTS.
Kditorial
General Notes
Trade Notes. ( Illustrated )
Birmingham News. From Ouit Correspondent
A Watch Factory for Prescot ... ... ' ...
Trade and Navigation Returns
Pearls
The Use of Gold for Ornaments
The Merchandise Marks Act and the English Watch Trade
David Glasgow, V.P. British Horological Institute ...
The Lever Escapement. By M L.-A. Grosclaude. flllustr
Four Large South African Diamonds. By George F. Kunz
American Items ...
The Watch Trade and the Merchandise Marks Act
Workshop Memoranda
Gazette
Applications for Letters Patent...
Recent American Patents
Buyers' Guide
By
•a tea 1 )
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80
Che Watchmaker, Jeiueller anfr
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for jjs. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence. — Correspondence is invited on ail matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, St. Paul's Churchyard, London. E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TrUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N,S.W.
Editorial.
HE constantly growing foreign competition in all
kinds of cheap watches, and the success attending
the general systematisation and the factory system
abroad, have lead to many suggestions being made from time to
time for the establishment of watch factories on a large scale
in this country.
But most of the suggestions thrown out have been of the most
vao-ue and shadowy description, and have been more of the
nature of colloquial "we ought to's" than of that of practical
proposals. At any rate the plan of Mr. T. P. Hewitt, for the
establishment of a watch factory at Prescot (which we publish
on page 70), is the first that has been publicly formulated
since the time of Ingold. Mr. Hewitt says "that the cheap
class of work is fast leaving the town must be known to
anyone acquainted with the trade ten or fifteen years ago,"
and that it is no use hiding the fact that our watches are too
dear for the present demand ; we are making watches that the
public either will not or cannot afford to buy, and they are
supplying themselves with cheaper watches of foreign make.
It will avail us nothing to say or think these watches are not
as good as ours ; it is better we should see that while we are
idle these watches are being made and sold. And again, he
says that our present system of manufacture is far behind that
of other countries, so far as applies to the production of cheap
watches. Further, he states that movement makers have long
seen this and have modified their system of manufacture
accordingly; but that all has been of no avail on account of the
finishing processes in the manufacturers' hands being too slow
and expensive. Having carefully gone into the question of
cost with makers of machine-made watches and persons engaged
in the manufacture of machine tools, Mr. Hewitt comes to the
conclusion that £100,000 in round numbers would be a sufficient
sum with which to start a factory in full working order, leaving
an ample margin for contingencies and working capital. This
sum would, he estimates, start a factory capable of turning
e
66
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[November 1, 1887.
out 1,250 watches a week, which at a very small profit would
yield a return of over 10 per cent, on the capital employed.
Now this is something like a proposition and a way of meeting
foreign competition. As to its feasibility — only show the public
something like a possibility of getting 10 per cent, for their
money, and you could soon raise a million. From an outsider's
point of view, it is simply incomprehensible why a country,
commanding unlimited capital (which is forthcoming at any and
every demand), where any amount of labour (skilled and unskilled)
is obtainable at the lowest rates, and which is the matrix of every
kind of machinery, cannot hold its own in the manufacture of a
class of goods in which it has long been pre-eminent. It may be
that very pre-eminence in the past has a good deal to do with
the question. It is, however, necessary in dealing with this
subject to give a more particular regard to details. Looking at
such a question commercially, one would naturally weigh, one
with the other, all the circumstances for and against any
particular project ; and before being able to do so with a
satisfactory result it would be necessary to consult repre-
sentative men of the trade in which the proposed change is
to be effected. But although there is not a more intelligent
body of men in the world, as a class, than those engaged in
the English watch trade, nor one better able to give an opinion
upon their trade under existing conditions, it should be con-
sidered in consulting them that they have been working in one
particular groove for so long that it is not without an effort
they will be brought to consider the subject from more than one
standpoint, any radical departure from which they will as likely
as not strenuously oppose. All possible details should there-
fore be collected without loss of time and circulated throughout
the trade, so as to secure their concurrence to the scheme, as well
as with a view to educating them up to the point of departure.
t&eneral Notes.
fSlCCORDING to a telegram in the Melbourne Argus, dated
JSpk " Perth, September 5," a pearl, weighing 62 grains, and
valued at £800, was found on the Ninety-mile Beach by
Mr. George Roe.
It is officially announced that the Exhibition of the Queen's
Jubilee Presents at St. James' Palace will close after Wednesday,
the 23rd inst.
Antwerp Exhibition.— Out of 39 British exhibitors, nine-
teen have gained the highest awards in their respective classes.
Messrs. Haywood & Co., cutlers, Sheffield, have been awarded
the Diplome d'Honneur ; while Messrs. Wellmann & Co., London,
and John Round & Son, Sheffield, have gained the gold medal
for cutlery and electro-plate respectively.
The Brussels Exhibition of 1888. — The Executive Com-
mittee of the International Competition and Exhibition which
is to be held at Brussels next year has, we hear, with the
consent of the Belgian Government, nominated Mr. Lee-Bapty,
the General Manager of the Royal Jubilee Exhibition at Man-
chester, Commissioner-General for the British Empire. A space
of 20,000 square metres has already been retained for the British
gection of the Exhibition,
The Glasgow Exhibition. — The buildings for the Exhibition
to be held in Glasgow next year are rising rapidly on the borders
of Kelvingrove Park. Everything seems in an unusually forward
condition, and the opening is definitely fixed for the first week
in May. The Queen will be asked to officiate on the occasion,
but in all probability the Prince of Wales will be deputed to
perform the ceremony.
A collection of jewels, including some unusually fine opals,-
pearls and rubies, was offered for sale by Messrs. Debenham,
Storr & Sons on the 25th ult. The following are among the
prices realised : A brilliant pendant, 222 gs. ; a brilliant head
ornament, 210 gs.; a brilliant head ornament, 126 gs.; a sapphire
and brilliant bracelet and earrings, 315 gs.; a set of rings, com-
prising a brilliant ring, a ruby ditto, a sapphire ditto, and coral
ditto, 538 gs.; and a brilliant and ruby ring, 115 gs.
The London Chamber of Commerce has proposed to form a
Watch Trade Section, for dealing with purely commercial matters
in connection with the trade. In the circular convening the
preliminary meeting for October 27, it is stated that on all the
subjects which might be considered, the recommendations which
the Section could make to the Council would be of special value,
and the influence of the Chamber with the Government De-
partments, with Parliament, with Provincial and Colonial
Chambers of Commerce, and public bodies generally, would
greatly assist in carrying them out.
Ox Tuesday, the 11th ult., a meeting was held in Prescot
Town Hall, Lancashire, for the purpose of considering a proposal
to establish a factory in Prescot for the complete manufacture of
watches. The chair was occupied by the Rev. Harry Mitchell,
vicar, and there was a large attendance of watch manufacturers
and others. During the discussion references were made to the
American competition, and the opinion was expressed that the
drifting trade of the town could be again made prosperous if a
company were formed to complete the watchmaking in all its
branches, a resolution to this effect being carried.
One of our Birmingham friends sends the following cutting
from a local newspaper : — Councillor Lawley Parker the other
day, referring to the delay in the laying down of the cable trams,
said it was partly caused by the extreme care which had to be
exercised in fixing the works. He said the parts had to be fitted
together with as much mathematical accuracy as the works of a
watch. Judging by the appearance of the appliances, the worthy
Councillor must wear a Waterbury, and at some time or other
been curious enough to raise the cap. The comparison is by no
means a bad one. A Waterbury has many things in common
with a cable tram, and I should think they were both invented by
the same man.
The shareholders of the Opal Mines of Queensland, at the
statutory meeting held on October 20, inspected the several gems
sent over from the Colony. Some of them are really very fine
and large. The shares, it appears, have been well distributed
amongst a large body of investors, and the Company has already
commenced operations. The Chairman (Mr. George Hopkins),
in the course of his speech, said they had a sufficient quantity of
opal in stock to commence sales ; but it would be evident to every
shareholder present that in dealing with an article like precious
stones, it was very desirable not to make sales in such quantities
as would have the effect of flooding the market. They had
already effected some sales, and had numerous inquiries from
various quarters which would, he felt, satisfactorily enable them
shortly to effect considerably larger sales. He believed that in
this country there had been, in times past, some prejudice against
the opal stone, but he thought that this was gradually dying out
as a superstition ; and certainly in Russia, and on the Continent
generally, no such prejudice existed. The directors hoped to pay
a dividend at no very distant period.
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
67
The death is announced of Mr. George Sim, F.S.A. Scot.,
a well-known Scotch antiquary, in his 73rd year. Devoted to
the science of numismatics from an early age, he amassed during
his life a collection of Greek and Roman coins which for extent
and variety is said to be unequalled by any other in the country.
It comprises upwards of 13,000 specimens, many of them very
fine and rare, and the collection is especially rich in Consular
and Imperial coins, as well as in the Greek, Bactrian and Parthian
silver series. Mr. Sim catalogued the coins, so that they might
be made useful alike to students of geography, mythology, history
and art. As Curator of Coins at Edinburgh he contributed to
the transactions of the Society of Antiquaries numerous papers
on the discovery of coins in Scotland. He was also a contributor
to the Numismatic Chronicle, and at the time of his death was
engaged in an important work on the coinage of Scotland, which
he took up on the death of the late Mr. Burns, F.S.A. This
work will shortly be published.
Mr. B. H. Thwaite, of Liverpool, and Mr. A. Stewart, of
Bradford, have discovered a new process of steelmaking which
is particularly applicable to small foundries. It is carried out by
melting the pig metal in what is known as a "rapid" cupola,
and collecting it in a receiver, from which it is run into a vertical
converter, and from thence drawn off in the ladle. In its passage
through the converter the metal is subjected to the blast from
the cupola blower. As soon as the metal is collected in the ladle,
the latter is raised from its trunnions and rapidly revolved.
Stirrers effectually mix the metal, and the steel is then ready
for the moulds. It will thus be seen that the process is rapid
and the plant simple. The system can be applied to existing
open-hearth furnaces, in which case the special converter is
placed in the centre over the furnace roof. The metal is run
from the cupola either by means of a runner or ladle, and in its
descent into the open-hearth furnace it is subjected to annular
jets of air from the cupola blower. The conversion of the metal
is completed in the open-hearth furnace in the ordinary way.
The " rapid " open-hearth steel plant has a decarburising cylinder
placed at a slight angle with the horizon and through which the
metal flows into the open-hearth furnace and is partially converted
therein. The completion of the process is effected by a highly
oxidising and plenum character of combustion. The gaseous
fuel is supplied from a Thwaite gas-producing plant. The time
of conversion is stated to be about one-third that of the ordinary
open-hearth process. The "rapid" process is in course of
adoption at various works, the plant being manufactured at the
works of Messrs. Thwaite Brothers, of Bradford.
The Diamond Market. — Amsterdam. — The demand for
finished goods has been steadily increasing throughout the
month. Roses have been in strong request, and from -4 to 6
grain stones. As stocks diminish a visible improvement for
sellers is to be observed, although, owing to their not regulating
the prices among themselves and sticking to fixed terms,
buyers have the best of it, and no very good prices are obtainable.
Rough remains dear, but factories are fully occupied.
The Paris trade towards the end of the month greatly
improved. Important parcels have changed hands, and the
trade in mounted goods, both for the home and English markets,
has been very lively.
The steamers "Pretoria," " Norham Castle," "Trojan,"
" Grantully Castle," and " Mexican " arrived at Plymouth during
the month, bringing large consignments ; and as prices were
quoted somewhat lower, some large parcels changed hands.
Latest from Kimberley state that while prices continue firm,
less buoyancy has latterly distinguished the market, in con-
sequence of which, while fresh goods are in fair demand, dealers'
parcels are neglected.
Silver. — The market has remained weak throughout the
month, but notwithstanding some fluctuations in the Indian
exchanges, it has continued steady, il^d. per oz. being about the
average nominal price for bars,
Urabe Notes.
The London Watch Trade Association. — The first annual
meeting of the above Association was held on Wednesday, 5th ult.,
in the Schools of the Martyrs' Memorial Church, Clerkenwell,
Mr. S. A. Brooks (president) in the chair. There was a large
attendance. — The Secretary (Mr. Newman) first read a letter from
Captain Penton, M.P., in which he wished every success to the
Association, and enclosed a cheque for £50. Messrs. J.W. Benson
also wrote enclosing a cheque for £10 10s., and stating they were in
perfect accord with the objects of the Association, had supported
and would continue to support the English trade. — Mr. Brooks,
in a short resume of the year's work, spoke of the readiness with
which members of the trade came forward to protect their own
interests, the result of which was that at their first meeting, just
twelve months since, 150 members joined. This number had
been increased at each succeeding meeting ; and they had a
committee who went about their work so thoroughly and educated
Members of Parliament so well up to what was required to protect
the English watch trade, that now, at their first annual meeting,
they had to report the passage of a Bill through Parliament
which well protected them. The London makers had got the
sympathy and co-operation of fellow watchmakers in Prescot,
Coventry, Liverpool, and a few from Birmingham, and when
they had to go before the Committee of the House of Commons
they had nine Members of Parliament with them ; and when the
Government saw the earnestness of the men they promptly dealt
with the question. The result was that they had a measure which
enacted that no one could sell a watch with the English Hall-
mark if any portion was of foreign make. It was no exaggeration
to state that the shopkeepers were fairly " struck " by the Act ;
they did not believe the Government would pass a measure which
would place them in the difficulty in which they now were, viz.,
that they had to give to the customer a descriptive account of
the contents of the case unless of entirely English make. But
from information received from all parts, he believed there would
be an honest endeavour all round to comply with the Act of
Parliament. The foreigners, however, were still Hall-marking
their cases, and it was said that one Swiss firm was going to
bring over its workmen to England in order to produce its
watches. — Several votes of thanks were passed, and the proceedings
closed.
The Opsiometer is the name of a new instrument for measuring
the sight which has just been brought out by Messrs.
J. Raphael & Co., wholesale opticians, of 13, Oxford Street, W.
It consists of a handsome mahogany cabinet of about a foot
square by 15 inches high, the back part of which lets down on
to the counter with two eye-holes in front. At right angles to the
back is fixed a piece of board which, when the former is let down,
stands up at exactly 14 inches (the prescribed optical focus) from
the eye-holes. The interior of the box contains two slips of
velvet worked on rollers, each carrying a complete set of test
glasses in all sights — from strongest to weakest, in convex and
concave. Upon looking through the eye-holes two knobs at the
sides of the box are turned until glasses of suitable sight are in
position, when it can at once be seen what strength glasses are
required, by means of numbers stamped on the velvet which
appear through two smaller holes at the side of the eye-holes.
As each set of glasses is shifted independently of the other,
persons with odd sight can be accommodated without trouble.
The Opsiometer is a great advance on any of the primitive and
troublesome arrangements for suiting customers heretofore em-
ployed by retail opticians and others ; while affording a speedy
and certain method of ascertaining all possible focal requirements,
its use obviates the necessity for overhauling and soiling stocks,
which is one of the chief worries of the retail optician's business.
Its advantages are manifold and obvious : being at once
portable and compact, it forms an attractive addition to
the counter ; and as its price brings it within the reach of
all, it is sure to be in strong demand by all who deal in
optical goods.
68
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[November 1, 1887.
New Mayoral Chain for Hanley. — At a special meeting"
of the Hanley Town Council, held on the 11th ult., the
presentation of a new mayoral chain to the borough, the gift of
Herbert Keeling, Esq., Shelton Hall, in commemoration of
Her Majesty's Jubilee, was made. The chain is a magnificent
work of art, and for beauty of design and chasteness of pattern
is probably unrivalled throughout the boroughs of the United
Kingdom. It is GO inches in length, and weighs nearly 40
ounces of solid 18-carat gold, Hall-marked throughout. The
chain is composed of the letter H (the initial letter of the
borough name) with Staffordshire knots at intervals and a series
of 26 escutcheons, each bearing a shield. On the front of the
shields are the monograms in enamel of the 26 mayors who have
held office since the incorporation of the borough, and at the back
of the escutcheon is inscribed each of these mayors' names and the
date he held office. Over each escutcheon is a handsomely wrought
mural crown — corona muralis. Dependent from the chain is a
massive and gorgeous badge, bearing the arms, crest and motto of
the borousrh in enamel and gold, f nil v emblazoned in colours. On
facturers are Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, Birmingham, whose high
repute is fully maintained by their latest chef -d' centre. The
commission was given to Messrs. Henry Pidduck & Sons, Hanley.
The "Dorcas " thimble, is, we think (although apparently
a very small matter), destined to play an important part in the
household economy of the future. Most people are aware of the
want of durability of the ordinary silver thimble, and mam-
have experienced the pains of pricks received from needleheads
going through holes in partially worn out thimbles. The
invention under notice, which is the patent of Mr. Horner, of
23, Northgate, Halifax, is practically everlasting in this respect,
as it consists of two parts of silver and an intermediate one of
steel, which are all struck up together and form a light and
durable thimble that is sure to be in strong demand as soon as
its properties become generally known to the sewing community.
The " Triumph " Lathe. — Since our last notice of this useful
tool, it has had added to it several valuable improvements in the
shape of fittings and attachments, as shown in the annexed cut.
one side of the badge and forming part of the general design are
the Royal arms and crest of England, and on the other side the
Jubilee memorial, consisting of the Royal Crown of Victoria
with the initials V.R. in monogram, skilfully wrought in upon
an artistic representation of the Tudor rose. The style is Renais-
sance, imparting a harmonious effect throughout. Above the
pendant badge is an elegant centre link, in the form of a shield,
with oak and laurel wreath, and the initials of the donor
surmounted by his crest and surrounded with a motto, " Per-
severentia Vincit" On the back of the badge is the following
inscription : — " Presented to the Corporation of Hanley by
Herbert Keeling, Esq., Shelton Hall, Hanley, in commemoration
of the Jubilee Year of Her Majesty Queen Victoria, October,
1887." The badge is constructed so that it can be detached from
the general chain and worn as a special and separate decoration
when required. The cost of the chain is about £300 ; its rnanu-
Country dealers, watchmakers and jewellers should write to
Messrs. H. J. Cooper & Co., 150, Oxford'Street, W., for their new
illustrated catalogue and price list just published. It is very
clearly descriptive, and the illustrations of patterns, especially of
chains and rings, a re unmistakable.
When Swift made Mr. Lemuel Gulliver put on his glasses to
protect his eyes from the darts and arrows of the Lilliputians, it
is doubtful if it ever occurred to him that his idea would one
day be put into actual practice. Such, however, has been the case
in the origination of shot-proof spectacles for sportsmen, just
introduced by Mr. A. W. Newbold, of 37, Spencer Street,.
Clerkenwell. These are made in all sights in crystal pebbles,
and in every description of mounting ; and in view of the accidents
that are constantly occurring among the stubble, will doubtless by
their ready sale soon repay the enterprise of their inventor.
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
69
Birmingham News,
From Our Courespondent.
SXl MUCH brighter and more hopeful tone prevails here than has
tJs2& done all the year. Some of the makers of silver jewellery
have orders which have made it necessary to increase their
number of hands, and the general report is that trade is stirring.
A walk round the " jewellers' quarter " after 7 p.m. reveals a
number of workshops with their lights still going, a clear proof
that they are anxious to make up for the time lost during the
awful summer stagnation, and also that they have the orders to
enable them to do so.
* * *
Unemployed workmen have mostly all obtained situations
during the last fortnight, and one of the manufacturers was
complaining to me that he wanted a good man and could not
get one : this is one of the strongest proofs of an improvement
in trade that I could give.
* # #
There is always a certain amount of gossip going about the
trade with more or less truth attached to it ; the latest is,
that the wife of a recent bankrupt is boasting to her lady friends
that her husband is £3,000 better off than he was before the
bankruptcy. What do the creditors think about this little matter ?
Those lady friends were no doubt instructed " not to mention
this for the world," but there was evidently a " traitor in
the camp."
* * #
A practical man once described a jeweller as " a person with
the patience of Job and the ingenuity of the devil ;" but judging
by prices paid to workmen lately, patience and ingenuity must
have become very prolific, or, on the other hand, they manage to
get along without them. There certainly cannot be much of either
brought to bear when one gross of studs and solitaires is required
to be made for 6s., all soldered together and no press-work ; or,
as in another case, to turn out one gross of silver brooches per
day : no wonder at the market getting overstocked.
* * *
Bank failures always affect to a large extent the purchasing-
capabilities of one or more sections of society. Some of the
ever-complaining souls in the Birmingham trade are promising
the spoliation of the shopkeepers' trade for the winter in
Warwick, Leamington and adjoining districts, by the collapse of
Greenway's Bank ; and as the source they obtain their jewellery
from is Birmingham, the aforesaid complaining ones are meeting
sorrow half-way by making out, no doubt, that they will thus be
deprived of a certain part of their winter trade. Well, it may
affect a few who depend solely upon the home trade, but I think
they are very few and far between.
* * *
The watchmakers in the district appear to be anxious to
supply the public with the " time of day " in a gratuitous manner
that is quite refreshing. Mr. Riley, Vyse Street, had a clock
placed by the side of his window some few years ago ; since then,
Mr. Krauth, Great Hampton Street, has erected an imposing
pedestal in his front garden, supporting a clock ; and, lately, Mr.
W. H. Brown, Great Hampton Street, has eclipsed them all by
erecting over his shop a large illuminated clock with three dials,
which is certainly an addition to the neighbourhood, and is par-
ticularly convenient at night. Evidently Mr. Brown does not
intend to be outdone in generosity, and this will no doubt be
appreciated by his numerous customers and the public generally.
* * *
I am always pleased to find practical men putting aside old
prejudices and adopting new ways of working which are more
economical, speedy and scientific ; and, in the course of con-
versation with a number of them, I am convinced that technical
education is making itself felt. For instance, quite a number of
them have adopted the use of T. Fletcher & Co.'s new melting
arrangement — the one with the crucible and ingot combined.
They report it as being eminently successful, and, for small
quantities of gold or silver up to about 5 ozs., as being the most
speedy and accurate in its results : a few of them have used this
from the time of its invention, but it is only lately that any
number of them have been in use. The arrangement is par-
ticularly adapted to working jewellers in small towns who want
to melt a clean little ingot of from 5 ozs. to 10 ozs. or less,
without the trouble of a coke furnace. The whole apparatus with
blower takes up very little room, and the cost is trifling : from
30s. upwards complete. If any of our country readers wish to
adopt this method, they can obtain the apparatus with instructions
from Mr. A. Osborne, 89a, Spencer Street, Birmingham.
# # *
Numerous are the devices that have been brought to bear in
order to prevent the pilfering of gold and silver by workmen and
boys in the manufactories ; but the failures attending each have
been as numerous and frequent. That there is an enormous
amount of it takes place every year is a well-known fact, the
difficulty being to fix upon the thief. The usual methods for
checking workmen is to weigh out to them all the gold, silver
solder, &rc, and weigh back again the work produced, and any
scrap, lemel, &c, that may accrue in the working, allowing a
small margin for the unavoidable loss which occurs. If the man
" weighs up " short of the proper amount, it is clear something is
wrong ; but then comes the difficulty. The man in question is
perhaps one of your oldest and most trustworthy hands ; you feel
sure that he is not the culprit — the thief would most probably
prefer to rob another man's box than to weigh back short himself —
you are more inclined to'let the thief go than to accuse an honest
man whom you have respected for years ; but some steps must be
taken in the matter. Perhaps the best plan is to watch very
carefully for the next few weeks ; the thief will gain confidence
by being able to repeat the offence, and you will be much more
certain of your man in this way than by trusting entirely to the
weighing up plan ; then, having seen enough to decide upon the
culprit, communicate with the detective department, and insist
upon having the man watched as he leaves work in order to find
the receiver. This is an important point, as the receiver is the
greater rogue of the two, and he is the man who generally gets
off (and the detectives know why): so I say, insist upon him
being tracked, as "no receivers, no thieves" is an old adage and
true. This is the modus operandi just pursued by Messrs. G. E.
Walton & Co., Hylton Street, Birmingham (an account of which
will be found in another page), and with immense success; the
receiver being convicted and awarded five years' penal servitude.
If this plan was adopted and pursued more rigorously, there would
be much less pilfering, as in all cases the receiver suggests the
theft to his dupe, and he nearly always selects a boy or very
young man : in the case referred to, the culprit is 22 years of
age and the receiver 50 years. The verdict and sentence are most
just and very satisfactory.
In South African diamond mining, according to Mr. G. F.
Kunz, the well-known American expert, the enormous sum of
over £1,000,000 is annually expended for labour. This mammoth
investment of European capital has been profitable to the share-
holder, and it would have been still more so were it not for the
thievishness of the native diggers, who, instigated by the vicious
whites that congregate at the fields, steal and dispose of from
one-fifth to one-quarter of the entire yield. More improved
methods of surveillance, recently introduced, have diminished
this loss. None but authorised agents are permitted to purchase
or possess rough diamonds, and a large detective force is on the
alert to prevent any infringement of the rules. The lengths to
which the natives and their white accomplices go in their fraudu-
lent traffic may be judged from the fact that chickens have been
decoyed to the mines by them and made to swallow diamonds.
A post-mortem recently held on the body of a Kaffir, who had
died suddenly, revealed the fact that death was caused by a 60-
carat diamond which the native had swallowed.
70
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [November 1, 1887.
A Thatch Factory for Prescot.
§ = HE following circular has been sent to prominent members
of the trade by Mr. Hewitt : —
You are doubtless aware that an Act has been passed
during this Session of Parliament which, it is expected, will
beneficially affect the watchmaking industry of this country.
For some months it has been contemplated to form a company
in Prescot for the purpose of manufacturing good, sound, English
watches, of special designs, and at prices that would command
ready sales, and compete successfully against all other watches
offered to the public ; and the present time is considered oppor-
tune for commencing operations. In order to effectively carry
out this enterprise it would be necessary to erect large and
suitable premises, with a full complement of automatic and other
machine tools of the most advanced type, and it is estimated that
a capital of £100,000 (made up as follows) would be needed for
the purpose : —
Buildings, fixed machinery, shafting and
other plant, say ... ... £10,000
Automatic machine tools, say ... ... 30,000
Materials, stock-in-trade, say ... ... 15,000
Working capital, wages, &c, say ... ... 20,000
Contingencies — Capital probably not re-
quired to be called up until works
further developed ... ... ... 25,000
£100,000
That there is a large and increasing demand for watches and
other timekeepers is evidenced by the vast number imported from
Switzerland, Germany, America and France, together with the
quantity manufactured in this country, which annually amounts
to upwards of 675,000.
The manufacture of watch movements in Prescot has hitherto
been upwards of 2,500 weekly (one firm alone having made
about 1,200 of that number) ; and it is fully believed that this
quantity could be largely increased by the further development of
the factory system, and the economical completion of e eery part
of the watch. A well-equipped factory, such as is contemplated,
would be capable of turning out at least 1,250 watches a week;
and at the very small profit of 2s. 6d. on each watch, would
produce a return of over 10 per cent, on the capital employed,
[t is reasonable to assume that this output would be increased
on the qualities of the watches becoming known, and such increase
would necessarily lessen the cost of production on the whole, and
ensure 12^ per cent, profit all round. In addition to the manu-
facture of the special designs in complete watches, the Company
would, with their machinery and ample appliances, be able to
supply against very little, if any, competition, the demand formove-
ments by makers of hand-finished watches. The advantages of im-
mediately forming a watch company in Prescot are many, and
amongst others may be mentioned the abundance of skilled male
and female labour, and the employment of automatic tools and
machinery which have been gradually developed during the last
twenty years, and have now passed their experimental stages. I
shall be glad to have your endorsement of this scheme, and to
learn that it will have your co-operation and support.
Yours faithfully,
Prescot, Lancashire, Thomas P. Hewitt.
September, 1887.
And the following letter appeared in the Prescot Reporter ; —
Sir, — In response to your further invitation, I now forward
to you my views on the management for the projected watch
company. It suggests itself to me that the stockholders would
appoint on the directorate gentlemen who would be sufficient
guarantee that the funds would be properly handled, and who
would also command respect as being men of good business
capacity. The board of directors would at once appoint a general
manager of the whole undertaking. I need scarcely say that this
person would require to have a good knowledge of watchmaking
generally, as well as some experience of machinery as used in the
manufacture of watches, and ought also to have large commercial
experience. It would then be necessary to engage a specialist in
the engineering department. This person would undertake the
superintendence of the whole of the machinery to be constructed
and purchased, as well as see that it was kept in the most
effective repair and the highest state of efficiency. The
manufacture of the watches would be entrusted to the master
watchmaker, who would devote the whole of his attention to the
designing of the watches to be put on the machinery, and would
also have the reponsibility of seeing that the production was kept
up to its fullest capacity. I need hardly say that on the selection
of these three persons would depend in a large measure the
success of the undertaking, and I would most respectfully suggest
that it would be a matter of prudence and economy to get the
very best men possible. If the opportunity presented itself, appli-
cations would be sure to be sent in, out of which careful and
judicious selection could be made. Minor appointments would
then follow in each of the departments — the commercial, the
engineering and the watchmaking. With regard to the ap-
pointments in the commercial department, I think it will be
generally admitted that little or no difficulty would be experienced
there. As we are in close proximity to Manchester and district,
where the construction of machinery (both large and small) for
all purposes has long been established, I am satisfied that this
department would be as well supplied as it is possible to have it.
In the watchmaking department would be required foremen of
the several branches, such as case making, frame making, pinion
making, escapement making, balance making, dial making,
jewelling, springing, timeing, &c. The most intelligent watch-
makers have for some years past seen that watchmaking in future
would have to be conducted on the machine system, and have
been devoting their energies and attention to devising plans for
producing several parts on the interchangeable method. From
these you would be sure to draw men thoroughly capable of
carrying out all details required, as I am sorry to have to admit,
as present conducted, the watch trade offers no such advantageous
occupations as these suggested. I do not know that it is necessary
to give any further information on this subject ; but would most
earnestly recommend that this enterprise be carried out without
further delay, being persuaded that if not done in Prescot it will
be done in some other part of the country, as there is a general
consensus of opinion existing among all classes of watchmakers,
th.it the manufacture of watches in future can only succeed on
such lines as I have ventured to lay down. As a Prescot man,
it would give me the greatest delight to see Prescot (having
devoted itself to the watchmaking industry for centuries past)
again to the fore, prosperous and happy, not only supplying her
own country, but sending her watches into all parts of the world,
stamped and branded with the honest guarantee of the Prescot
Watch Co.
Yours faithfully,
T. P. Hewitt.
In commenting on the above scheme, The Reporter says : As
was not unlikely, he (Mr. Hewitt) travels over some ground
which has already been trodden by former correspondents. But
in doing so he gives emphasis to facts which cannot be too
strongly impressed upon the minds of local watchmakers. His
argument is, that however low the cost of an English-made watch
is brought, when it reaches the market its price is too high for
competition with the foreign watches. The skeleton of the
watch,' the movement, is made at Prescot at an exceedingly low
price, but the movement is not a watch. It has to go elsewhere for
its completion — finishing, dialing, casing, and what not. Finished
machinery, accurate and rapid in its production, produces the
movement, which then leaves Prescot to go through a consider-
able number of old-fashioned slow processes before it can be made
into a timekeeper. Slow labour means costly labour, as it may
in some cases mean also more finished and artistic labour. In
the production of a cheap watch it is necessary that the machine
tool should be made to do as much as it is possible for it to do,
so as to leave as little as possible for the file, or cutter, or polisher
in the fingers of a workman. Then the production of the watch
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
should not be the woi'k of different sets of workmen in different
parts of the country, or in different parts of a town. If the least
cost has to be readied the watch must be the result of the
combination of machine and hand labour under one roof. With
respect to this Mr. Hewitt's words are assuring. He says that
the modern machine tools for making all the parts of a watch on
the gauge or interchangeable principle can " now be bought as
readily as machinery for spinning or weaving cotton, or for
making boots or shoes." As any intelligent man would naturally
expect, the cost of automatic and machine tools for the rapid
production of the varied and numerous pieces which, when put
together, form a watch, will be very great. For a factory capable
of turning out 1,250 watches per week, he estimates that these
tools would cost £30,000, besides the cost of fixed machinery,
shafting and plant. The total sum required for such a factory
he puts down at £100,000, the exact figures we had ventured to
name previously. We cannot follow Mr. Hewitt when he speaks
of the profits likely to be realised, simply because we are outside
of the watch trade and have no intuitive perceptions of what the
profits would be likely to be. At the same time Mr. Hewitt's
expectations of profits do not appear to be unreasonable. At
this stage a consideration of the highest importance arises. We
believe there will be in Prescot now the most finished, accurate
and rapid machinery, and machine tools, for the production of
the skeleton movements, whilst all others required for completing
a watch would have to be purchased and laid down at the factory.
From Mr. Hewitt's letter it would appear that there would be no
difficulty in this respect, the necessary capital having been
subscribed. The importing of the machinery and tools into
Prescot would be a mere trifling matter, but how about the
competent skilled managers of the departments in the watch
factory which would be new to Prescot movement manufacturers ?
The most automatic machinery will but remain lifeless and
inert until it is brought under the power and control of trained
and experienced men. Can such men be readily procured, and
are they in such numbers that their services can be procured
at reasonable rates of remuneration ? When we speak of creating
a new factory for the production of machine-made watches there
are many questions to be answered in a satisfactory manner, and
one of the number is whether the men absolutely required to
preside over departments can be easily obtained at reasonable
rates of pay. This is one point as to which we are sure the
readers of The Reporter would like to hear from Mr. Hewitt.
We have before given expression to the belief that there are many
wealthy gentlemen in the neighbourhood of Prescot who would be
willing enough to put money into a watch company, which could
be shown to be likely to result in reasonable dividends. People
who have thousands at their bankers yielding one-and-a-half per
cent., or otherwise invested at from two to three-and-a-half per
cent., are not slow to encourage healthy projects which promise
something over five per cent. But their confidence is not secured,
nor their money obtained, until full and complete information is
given them as to all matters in which they may be in doubt
or ignorance.
iTrabe ano Navigation Beturns.
fHE Trade and Navigation Returns for the month of
September were published on October 7. In the imports
there is a decrease of 6 per cent., but the exports have
been better by 4f per cent. Although the imports for the
month are poor, those for the nine months are still 3 per cent,
better than they were a year ago. Imports have been rather
declining for some time past, and exports have been mending, so
that the deficiency visible in the latter earlier in the year has
now disappeared, and the total for the nine months is 2^ per
cent, to the good. It is, therefore, fair to assume that the
improved exports will now begin again to stimulate the lagging
imports. The heaviest deficiencies in the imports of the month
occurred in articles of food and drink, and in raw materials
for textile and other industries. Metals alone were imported to
a. larger extent than a year ago, and all the leading heads of
import, except metals, are liable to great variations in September.
For the nine months the total trade of the country is valued as
follows: — Imports, £264,437,000; exports, £163,099,000; re-
exports (estimated), £44,416,000; grand total, £471,952,000.
The bullion movements of the month have not been important,
as measured by these returns. A notable increase has taken
place in the export of "metals and ironwork."
The clocks and parts thereof imported during September are
valued in the Board of Trade Returns at £33,772, in comparison
with £31,179 for the same month of 1886, and £27,892 for
that of 1885. The sources of the supply are as follow : —
1885. 1886. 1887.
From France £15,366 £15,028 £15,763
'„ United States ... 4,777 6,820 9,393
„ Other Countries.. 7,749 9,331 8,616
For the nine months of this year the total of clocks imported
show a record of £278,540, against £269,280 for the same
period of last year, and £289,575 for that of 1885.
The watches and parts thereof imported last month are valued
at £56,252, in comparison with £69,349 for the same month of
last year, and £47,202 for that of 1885. The nine months of
this year show a total value of £538,882, against £493,955 for
the same period of 1886, and £448,512 for that of 1885.
The plate, plated and gilt wares exported during September are
valued at £29,878. In the same month of last year the amount
was £36,520, and in that of 1885 £28,442. For the first nine
months of this year the exports have reached £215,554, in com-
parison with £254,309 for the same period of last year, and
£233,420 for that of 1885.
The total value of imports for September was £27,161,594.
In the same month of last year the figures were £28,898,505.
The September of 1885 had a record of £29,863,788.
The exports for last month reached £19,833,830, against
£18,928,975 in the September of 1886, and £18,621,664 in
that of 1885.
The Diamond Industry of Amsterdam. — -The Consul of the
United States at Amsterdam, in his last report on the trade of
the Netherlands, devotes a section to the diamond trade and
industry of the Dutch capital. In 1886 the import of the
"rough stuffs" was very large, but not in excess of the demand
for "polished goods." The prices were higher than those ruling
for some time previously ; this is said to be due to the operations
in the diamond fields being more expensive now than in years
gone by, and also to the fact that the mines have now generally
got into the hands of wealthy corporations, which put the produce
in the market in such a way as to obtain fair prices. It is esti-
mated (an accurate statement is impossible) that about 20,000
carats of rough diamonds reach the hands of the Amsterdam
manufacturers each week. When finished, these vary in price
from 16s. to £11 per carat, while some stones command very
much higher prices. The capital invested in this trade is not all
Dutch, for a very large proportion of the diamonds manipulated
in Amsterdam belong to London and Paris houses. Berlin,
Frankfort, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Rome, Naples, Barcelona
and Madrid, as well as Paris, London and New York, are all
markets for diamonds prepared in Amsterdam. Besides Antwerp
the diamond industry is carried on extensively nowhere else.
The trade is usually conducted on the cash system, credit being
generally short. The aggregate paid in wages to diamond
workers in Amsterdam is about £600,000 per annum, and it is
estimated that from 7,000 to 8,000 persons are employed in the
industry, and in the business of buying and selling the rough
and polished stones. The wages of the men engaged in the
various operations of cleaning, cutting and polishing, are de-
creasing, because of the constant increase in the number of
skilled workmen and the never-ceasing accession of apprentices.
The declared export of diamonds from Amsterdam to the United
States in 1886 amounted to £275.708, but this by no means
represents the total export, but those the invoices of which were
presented to the Consul to be certified. A large quantity is sent
to Paris and London, to be despatched to America, and many
diamonds are also taken on the person.
THE WATCHMAKEE, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[November 1, 1887.
Pearls.
fljWHE great development in the fashionable taste for wearing
'fM? pearl ornaments of various kinds may render the following
extracts from Mr. Streeter's charming book on the above
subject of interest to many of our readers.
In the time of Charlemagne (born 742, died 814 a.d.), a
favourite decoration consisted of large gold rings, set with
precious stones and pearls, worn on the neck and arms and in
the ears. The women interwove gold thread or strings of pearls
in their hair, and bound fillets round their heads, which were
often richly decorated with precious stones and pearls. The
embroidered borders of their robes and their shoes, too, were
richly worked with pearls.
The 12th and 13th centuries, the age of chivalry, were
particularly luxurious, and the coats of arms worn by the knights
were made of gold or silver stuff, velvet or silk, and embroidered
in gold, silver, pearls or precious stones.
Pearls were used so extravagantly, not only by the nobles, but
also among the middle classes, in rich towns, that certain laws
were passed to put a limit to their use. Philipe le Bel of France
(born 12G8, died 1314 A.n.) forbade the burgher classes to wear
ornaments of gold, precious stones or pearls. The Council of
Zurich, held in 1411, published an order forbidding women or
girls to wear more than one pearl head-band, which was not to
weigh more than six ounces. Many noble families having been
ruined by their excessive expenditure on clothes, a council of
knights was called before the 28th Great Tournament at Wurz-
burg, which decided that no gold or pearl ornaments should
be worn, unless hidden from view ! Women also were not to have
their dresses embroidered in pearls. In Saxony, even imitation
pearls were forbidden ; and in Hamburg, women so loaded
themselves with gold and jewels that a mandate was issued
forbidding them to wear more than one gold chain : copies of this
mandate were posted on the town wall and at the corners of the
principal streets. The church, too, preached against luxury in
dress, but all to no purpose : the women continued to wear
pearls and precious gems in spite of ecclesiastical denunciation.
But the greatest splendour of the Middle Ages was to be seen at
the court of the great house of Burgundy, from the time of
Philip the Bold to that of Charles the Bold. Their magnificence
far outshone that of the kings of France and the German
emperors. Magnificent jewels, that can be traced back to the
time of the last dukes of Burgundy, are to this day reckoned
among the most valuable possessions of the crowns of France
and Austria. Charles the Bold surpassed all other princes of
his line in magnificence. When, in 1473, he attended the
Imperial Diet at Treves, he wore a dress of cloth of gold, richly
embroidered with pearls. At the banquet which he gave to the
Emperor Frederick III., the goblets shone with precious stones
and pearls. When in the same year he went to Dijon, he was
resplendent with pearls and diamonds ; and the crown which he
wore on his triumphal entry into Nancy in 1475 was so covered
with diamonds and pearls as to be worth the value of a " whole
duchy."
At the famous meeting between Henry VIII. and Francis I.
on the Field of the Cloth of Gold (a.d. 1520), the banqueting
chamber was hung with tissue raised with silver, and framed
with cloth of silver raised with gold ; while the seams were
covered with broad wreaths of goldsmiths' work, set with precious
stones and pearls. When Henry VIII. met his bride, Anne of
Cleves, he wore, we are told, a coat of purple velvet, embroidered
in gold and clasped with great buttons of diamonds, rubies and
Oriental pearls ; and a collar richly ornamented with pearls and
precious stones. Anne of Cleves' wedding dress was a gown of
cloth of gold thickly embroidered with large flowers of pearls.
Queen Mary wore at < her wedding a dress richly brocaded in
gold, and a train magnificently bordered with pearls and
diamonds. The sleeves were turned up with clusters of gold set
with pearls and diamonds. Elizabeth wore at a tournament
given in Mary's reign, on December 29, 1554, a white satin
dress decorated with large pearls.
Queen Elizabeth had a perfect passion for ornaments, especially
jewellery of all kinds, and her courtiers were constantly im-
poverishing themselves in order to minister to her foibles. The
costly parure of pearls belonging to the unfortunate Mary Queen
of Scots, which Elizabeth bought for much less than its value,
is thus described by the French ambassador at the English court :
" There are six cordons of large pearls strung as paternosters,
but there are five and twenty separate from the rest, much finer
and larger than those which are strung ; these are for the most
part like black muscades."
To return to the history of pearls in Europe ; we find them
much worn both by men and women during the 16th and 1 7th
centuries. Marie de Medici, wife of Henry IV. of France, wore
at the christening of her son (1G01) a gorgeous dress ornamented
with 3,000 diamonds and 32,000 pearls, valued at 60,000 crowns.
The Elector Maximilian of Bavaria, in 1635, sent his bride,
the daughter of Emperor Ferdinand II., a present of a string of
300 selected pearls each of which cost 1,000 gulden (about £100).
Table decorations were also very magnificent at that time, and
Charles II. of Spain, in 1680, presented his wife with an
ornament in the form of a salad, in which the leaves were
represented by enormous emeralds, the vinegar by sparkling
rubies, the oil by yellow topazes, and the salt by pearls.
Notwithstanding the dire consequences of the Thirty Years'
War, immense sums were expended during the 17th century upon
ornaments and luxury of all kinds. Knightly orders, sword and
hat knots, rings, shoe buckles, waistcoat buttons — all glittered
with gems. The stomacher and the enormous collar and ruff,
both richly trimmed with pearls and jewels, were also introduced
about this time. In the 18th century precious stones were
less lavishly employed, especially after the French Revolution, and
dress in general came to be characterised by greater simplicity.
Che "Use of $olo for iDrnaments.
fHE most interesting question of all about gold (says the
Cornhill Magazine) is, how did it come to be the root of
all evil ? What has made this particular yellow metal,
above all stones and minerals, the standard of value, the medium
of exchange, and the object of all men's ardent devotion ? In
order to solve that curious problem we must look at the origin of
its use among mankind and the gradual evolution of its employ-
ment as money. Primitive man, hunting about in the rivers for
fish and in the forests for venison, had other wants (philosophers
tell us) than those of mere vulgar food and drink; the noble
thirst for trinkets, the aesthetic desire for personal decoration,
which now gives rise to fashion plates, and drapers' shops, and
jewellers' windows, was already vaguely alive within his swelling
bosom. He adorned himself even then with necklets of bears'
teeth and shining fossils, and girdles of shell and bits of vampum :
all which things are found, in company with the white chalk
and the red ochre that made primitive woman beautiful for ever,
among the coveted flowers of the Dordogne caverns. Primitive
woman was not fair to outer view as other maidens be ; on the
contrary, she was no doubt distinctly dark, not to say dusky —
somewhere about the precise complexion of the modern negress,
her nearest surviving representative — but already she knew how
to keep in the fashion ; she loved gold (as Walpole long afterward
remarked of her remote descendants), and, when she could get
them, diamonds also. Ages before any other metals were melted
or manufactured into useful implements, gold and silver had
attracted the attention of our savage ancestresses. There was
every reason why this should be so. They are generally found
in the native state ; they have glitter and brilliancy and beauty of
colour ; they are soft and workable and easily pierced ; they can
be readily strung in ingots, as beads for necklets, and at a
somewhat higher grade of culture they can be hammered with
ease into rude ornaments. Hence it is not surprising that from
a very early age primitive man should have prized nuggets of
gold and ingots of silver for personal trinkets, just as he prized
the shells and pebbles, the garnets and cornelians, the jade and
crystal, the ivory and feathers, from which he manufactured his
rude ornaments,
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
73
£he Jfterchandise 3¥larhs Act an6 the English
Iftatch Cra6e.
By David Glasgow, V.P. British Horological Institute.
|S the question of tlie Merchandise Marks Amendment Act
has lately been exercising the minds of watchmakers, it
may be interesting to some of your readers if I give a
short outline of the movement that has resulted in this rather
ambiguous measure ; at least, in that part of it relating to watch-
making.
A few years ago the Council of the Horological Institute,
seeking some means of reducing the cost of the production of
English watches, to enable them to compete with the Swiss,
thought that the Swiss had a great adA r antage in the almost
nominal control of the Government over the quality of the gold
in the cases of watches, and also in the liberty they had of putting
metal domes to their cases. The Council asked for an interview
with the Wardens of the Goldsmiths' Co., which was granted,
and an influential deputation of watchmakers waited upon
them at their hall, stating their grievances and requesting a
reformation in the manner of scraping and stamping gold watch
cases ; also complaining of the charges for the same, and other
matters. The deputation (as usual) did not agree as to their
wants or on the modes of redress. Two well-known shopkeepers
wished to abolish Hall-marking altogether, as a survival of the
feudalism of the Middle Ages, while others thought the marking
of watch cases should be made optional as the marking of most
articles of jewellery is optional. The Company took the matter
up at once, and sent an assayer to Paris to ascertain the French
mode of assaying and marking watch cases, which had been
represented to them as superior to that practised here. The
Company declined to use the French plan ; but they so far
acceded to the wishes of the deputation, that a marked improve-
ment in the treatment of cases sent to the hall was the immediate
result. This more delicate handling of cases at the hall enabled
the Swiss to send their light cases to be marked here, although
the Swiss system of testing and marking was both cheaper and
simpler than that of our halls, the presumption being that a
Swiss watch with the English Hall-mark in the case would sell
for more than if the watch was purely Swiss.
This facility for marking Swiss cases, and threats by some of
the watchmakers that they would have their cases made in
Switzerland, alarmed the case makers, who immediately began to
agitate for a measure to abolish the Hall-marking in England of
foreign-made watch cases. Coventry and Lancashire came to the
assistance of the London case makers, and of course enlarged
their demands so as to meet their own wants ; they not only
asked for the abolition of the Hall-mark on foreign-made cases,
but for an Act which would prohibit the use of any foreign
materials or parts in the manufacture of English watches. As the
art of making the repeating or clock part of repeating watches and
other parts of complicated mechanism for watches had long been
located in Switzerland, and the last repeating-motion maker in
England had been dead for the greater part of a century, it was
felt by many people that these demands were not in accordance
with the spirit of the times, and were rather retrograde ; but
Sir Henry Jackson, who was then Member for Coventry, being
persuaded by his constituents, took the matter in hand, and
obtained a Committee of the House of Commons to inquire into
the Hall-marking of gold and silver wares.
This Committee sat for some time, examined many witnesses,
and gave the House of Commons the benefit of their deliberations
in a report, on a part of which Sir Henry Jackson framed a Bill
which was before the House for part of two sessions. This Bill
provided that all foreign-made watch cases should have a
distinctive mark put on them, in addition to the usual mark, and
that the distinctive mark should indicate the country of origin ;
also that no foreign materials or parts should be used in the
manufacture of English watches under some very severe penalties.
But this Bill met with much opposition, both from Members of
Parliament and the watch trade, and so it was dropped. Some-
how, up to the date of this agitation, there had been no complaints
here of the sale of Swiss watches as English; and the imitation
of English watches by Swiss manufacturers was not urged in
favour of Sir Henry Jackson's Bill, although it was shown in
evidence before the Committee, by those opposed to the Bill, that
it had long been a practice of the Swiss, not only to imitate
English watches, but to forge the Hall-mark- and the names of
almost every English watchmaker who had a reputation in
countries out of England : but as this piracy only affected a few
people they had to put up with it.
From that time the number of watch cases of foreign make
marked at the Goldsmiths' Hall increased considerably each year,
and the rapid popularity of keyless watches with going barrels,
and the adoption by the Swiss of the lever escapement to their
commoner watches, tended to assimilate the character and appear-
ances of Swiss and English watches. A still further development
of this similarity was brought about by the manufacture of
movements in Switzerland in exact imitation of a Lancashire
keyless movement, when, of course, if these movements were
finished in Switzerland and placed in English Hall-marked
cases only an expert could tell the difference between such watches
and those finished here.
I think the question is likely to occur to some — Then what is
the difference if it is so hard to detect ? The difference is in the
word finishing, as these movements only cost as many shillings
as the completed watch costs pounds. The difference in the
quality of the watch is easily accounted for, and the importer
has assured me that he can make watches from these movements
in England at the same or even a less cost than he can have
them made for in Switzerland, if the quality of the work is
equal. But although it requires an expert to see the difference in
the external appearances of these English watches and the Swiss
imitations of them, the difference is easily detected if they are
taken to pieces, as, like all imitations, they are very much inferior
to the originals. But as they were much lower in price than
English watches, they were spread all over the country ; and I
have it on good authority that there are few watchmakers in the
provincial towns who have not some of these watches with their
names upon them : and the London shopkeepers have been
trading in the same articles, with, of course, some exceptions.
The injury thus inflicted upon the English watchmakers became
so serious, that they were quite ready to adopt any measure that
promised to relieve them by putting a stop to so nefarious a
system. So a public meeting was called at the beginning of
last year, at the Horological Institute, under the presidency of
Lord Grimthorpe, at which several Members of Parliament
attended, and resolutions, carefully drawn up, were passed,
condemning the practice of selling Swiss watches as of English
make, and asking Eor legislation to prohibit the English halls
from marking Swiss cases, to the injury of both the trade and
the public ; but these resolutions were not sufficiently strong for
the deputations from Coventry and Lancashire and a great
many of the Clerkenwell workmen, who formed associations and
fell back on the Bill of Sir Henry Jackson, with all its prohibi-
tory clauses, its affidavits and penal enactments.
It would not be either amusing or instructive to make any
comment on the Bill in its present form, as portions of the Act
which apply to our trade have not yet come into operation. Some
of the clauses have to be regulated by an Order in Council,
and this order will not be issued until all necessary preparations
are made ; these preparations I understand to be the agreement
as to the form of the stamps that are to indicate the origin of
the work and the preparation of the same. I would not like to
prophesy, but I do not think the halls in England will be
troubled with much Swiss work, if they impress such a legible
mark upon watch cases as will attest their origin at first sight.
While I am greatly pleased that some means have been found of
putting a stop to a system which was defrauding the public and
demoralising all who had a share in it, I feel sure that to carry
out the clauses of the Bill in the spirit of a circular issued by
the Clerkenwell Watchmakers' Protection Society is impossible,
and if possible, would be ruinous to the trade, the welfare of
those engaged in it being what we have to consider above all
local interests. Then may I ask — Will the enforcement of these
74
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [November 1, 1887.
clauses that interfere with the freedom of English watch manu-
facturers, and prevent them making up repeaters and other
complicated watches, reduce the price of our manufactures, or
enahle us to compete with foreigners in foreign markets who are
now able to undersell us in certain classes of goods in our own ?
I have seen, lately, watches made in Coventry, both by the
splendid machinery of the Messrs. Rotherham and others made
on the old system, and for quality and price they would compare
favourably with any watches I have Seen ; but on inquiring into
the condition of the producers of the latter, it was quite evident
a decent existence could not be maintained on their earnings :
therefore, competition with foreigners under such circumstances is
neither desirable nor possible. Instead of relying on our old
system for the production of our commoner watches, we must
leave that branch of the trade to the now various establishments
in the country and London (that are either in existence or in
embryo for the manufacture of watches, principally by machinery,
who are well able to take care of themselves); and as the producers
of high-class watches, take care that we do not lose the men
and consequently the power of still making watches that will
maintain our old superiority, and that the world cannot beat.
Two Methods of Welding Metals by Electricity. —
This comparatively new application of electricity is one that has
an interesting future before it. The processes of welding metals
by electricity at present known, although producing an undoubted
closeness of adhesion, cannot boast of the same amount of
strength or tenacity obtained by the ordinary method of welding
or by riveting ; the latter quality will no doubt in time be attained
also by the inventors. One method is that of the Russian in-
ventors, Messrs. Nicholas de Bernados and Stanislas Oszewski,
of St. Petersburg. It consists of the direct application of the
luminous arc of a dynamo-machine. The pieces of metal to be
united are tightly pressed together by means of an iron clamp
which is connected with the negative pole of the machine, the
positive pole being connected with a suitable non-conducting
handle to hold the carbon point, which is passed over the adjoin-
ing portions of the two pieces of metal ; fusion immediately
takes place and the welding is accomplished. The handles for
holding the carbon point are contrived both to be guided by the
hand and to be mechanically moved, according to the nature of
the work. For long joinings of metal plates, for instance, a
sliding runner is used to carry the point evenly along. The in-
ventors of this process have already established a small workshop
in St. Petersburg with a 25 horse-power dynamo-machine, and
have recently exhibited its working to representatives of the iron
industries, practically demonstrating to them that metal plates,
bars, &c, can be thus satisfactorily and expeditiously welded.
Articles of hardware, such as kettles, saucepans, &c, were also
made by the process in substitution of soldering, iron plates of
various thicknesses being used. Iron sheeting of one-eighth-of-
an-inch admits also of holes being bored through it by the passage
of the electric current. Petroleum casks are some of the chief
articles the workshop is at present employed in making, of which
it turns out ten to twelve daily, the process being particularly
applicable to the joining of vessels where no possibility of leakage
can be allowed, on account of the perfect contact it produces.
The number of applications in store for the process are of course
innumerable, supposing that the inventors succeed in combining
with the present quality of close cohesion that of great tenacity,
a difficulty they are in hopes of surmounting. Another method
of electric welding is that of the American inventor, Mr. Elihu
Thomson, which consists, not like the above described, of the
application of a luminous arc, but of simply passing the electric
currents through the metals to be joined. He uses a dynamo,
producing alternating currents of great tension, which are con-
verted by a transformator into a current of lesser tension but
condensed quantity ; the jjarts to be welded being, as before,
closely clamped together. This process is more adapted to the
welding of metal bars, tubing, steel tops to tools, &c, than to
sheeting or plates, and, for general utility, holds a place second
to the Bernados-Oszewski method.
iUhe Leuer Escapement -
CONSIDERED WITH REGARD TO ITS FORM, INERTIA,
FRICTION, &c.
By M. L.-A. (xrosclaude, Professor at the Geneva School
of Horology.
(Translated from the French.)
§HE lever escapement is undoubtedly that which, up to the
present, tends more and more to supplant the others in
pocket watches that are intended to perform with exac-
titude. This has been proved to us in all the recent trials at
the observatories, where the great majority of the pieces have
been provided witli this escapement. It is not, then, surprising
that its adoption should be so general, nor that so much should
already have been written and discussed upon its construction.
Our aim in taking up this subject in our turn is more espe-
cially to pass in review the different points which may have an
influence upon its good construction — to point out their reciprocal
advantages and the importance that should be accorded them.
Those who will follow us closely will find in the following pages,
we think, some novel details, but also many others that are not
so. We have not, therefore, the pretension of diminishing in
anything the merit of those who have preceded us in this way ;
we have simply essayed to go a step further in this question,
already so well considered, both in a general manner by M.
Grossmann and by many others from special points of view.
Our intention is to consider the plan of the lever escapement
under different aspects : it is thus only that it is possible to base
an accurate judgment and to make a judicious choice — this
subject, like so many others, having a certain number of different
conditions which should all be carefully examined. It is only
after having well weighed the pros and cons that we can, in dis-
cussions of this kind, arrive at anything satisfactory.
We propose, then, in the first place, to determine a general
procedure for the form of this escapement ; then we shall examine
it with regard to the impulse, the influence of oils, the inertia of
the matter, and, lastly, the friction.
We shall endeavour to be brief, without in the meantime
neglecting to dwell upon certain points which, in our opinion, do
not appear sufficiently well understood by a large number of
practitioners. We do not wish it to be thought that we^have
any pn tension to completely settle the complex question, but
hope we shall succeed at least in introducing to the subject some
u sef ul eclair xissements.
Lever escapements may be elassed in different categories, as
follow : 1st. The distance of the rest with regard to the centre of
the anchor (levers,* or equidistant lockings); 2nd. The number
of teeth of the wheel ; 3rd. The distribution of the incline (all on
the anchor, or divided between the anchor and the wheel in
different proportions) ; 4th. The total angular movement of the
anchor and the locking angle ; 5th. The drop.
The determination of all these quantities rests at the choice of
the constructor ; and here he will be influenced by very diverse
considerations, some of which will be treated of later on.
In considering the plan of the escapement we shall accept the
following data, which, if necessary, may be modified : —
An escape wheel of fifteen teeth : consequently, a total angular
movement of the wheel for each impulsion, 12°; Total angular
movement of the anchor, 10°; Movement of the anchor necessary
for unlocking, 11°; Drop: 1st, for escapements with club-
toothed wheel, 1°; 2nd, for escapements with ratchet-toothed
wheel, 2°.
We leave the other data variable ; meanwhile our study will
bear especially upon the four following systems : —
1st. Equidistant lockings, pointed teeth, the wheel travelling
over 10° during the impulse, and the drop being 2°.
2nd. Equidistant pallets, pointed teeth, same movement of the
wheel, same drop.
* We substitute for the term generally and improperly applied, "lift" (levie), that
of " lever" (leviei'), to designate the jewelled pieces upon whieh the teeth of the wheel
act ; the word " lift " being reserved for the angular movement of the anchor.
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
75
3rd. Equidistant lockings, lift divided — taking 4° for the width
of the tooth, 7° for that of the pallet, and 1° for the drop :
total, 12°.
4th. Equidistant pallets, lift divided, the same distribution for
tooth and pallet as in the preceding case.
Plan of the escapement with equidistant lockings and -pointed
teeth. — Describe a circle a b a' b' (fig. 1) to any scale. Draw
three radii, oa, or, oa', at distances apart of 30°, since the opening
which corresponds to two-and-a-half teeth of a wheel of fifteen
teeth is 60°. At the ends a and a of the two extreme radii draw
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of the wheel to b, then 10° (total angle of lift of the anchor)
around the centre of the anchor to c, and, lastly, turn it back 1^°
(amount of penetration of the locking) to d. The junction of
the point d with the point of departure a gives us the incline of
the pallet. Therefore the point b is where the tooth will leave
the incline, because to arrive there it has travelled 10°; there
then remains 2° for drop, and the point c will have traversed in
all 10° to come to b.
Produce the line a d and describe the tangency circle s t u.
The tangents passing by the points c and b give us the incline in
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two tangents : the point of intersection upon the intermediate
radius, produced, gives the centre r of the anchor.
For this escapement the point a (if we confine ourselves at first
to the entering lift (levee cV entree) is the point of the tooth. To
find the heel* of the pallet turn the point a 10° around the centre
* The part of the tooth that comes first in contact with the pallet is nsually termed
the point, and the part which actuates it the heel (talon). We shall, therefore, in order
to facilitate description, apply "point" and "heel" to the parts of the pallets which
come first and last into action respectively. The impulse begins, then, by the contact
of two points and terminates in that of two heels. It is hardly necessary to say that, as
regards the pointed toeth, the point and heel are identical.
Y
its two extreme positions with regard to the wheel. As regards
the exit lift (levee de sortie) the same process is observed :
The point a' is first taken 10° around the centre of the
wheel to b', then 10° towards that centre around the centre of
the anchor to c' and brought back again 1^° to d) the line a' d'
will be the incline of the exit pallet. The tangency circle v x y
will serve to draw this incline in any desired position between the
two extreme positions.
Plan of the escapement with equidistant pallets and pointed
teeth. — To set out the second escapement in our above classifi-
n
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[November 1, 188'
cation exactly the same process is .gone through, save that since
the pallets are equidistant and correspond to 10° of the wheel,
the point for the tooth a (fig. 2) is taken 5° to the left of the
radius o k, from there 10° to b, then 10° interiorly to c, and, being
turned back again l\ c , brought to d, as before ; a d will be the
incline. At the exit lift take the point a', similarly, 5° to the
left of the radius o I, and proceed in the same way ; that is to say,
bring it at first to b', then to c', and lastly to d'; the incline of
the exit pallet will be d' a 1 .
The question of "draw" has been designedly left aside until
we have finished with the inclines.
Plan of the escapement ivith equidistant lockings and club teeth.
— We have already seen that the angular movement of a wheel of
fifteen teeth is 12° for each impulse. As the club tooth allows of
the pallet freeing it easier at the back than in the case of the
pointed tooth, we shall only take here 1° for the drop instead of 2°.
There remains, therefore, 11° which may be distributed according
to taste between the incline of the tooth and that of the pallet.
We have selected 4° and 7°; had we desired a tooth almost hs
wide as the pallet, we could have chosen 5° and 6°, or any other
optional proportion.
Describe a circle a h b a' V b' (fig. 3), representing the exterior
size of the wheel. In order to obtain the centre of the anchor it
is necessary to find the point of the tooth, seeing that up to the
present it has always been considered best that the centre be
upon the tangent to the circumference which touches that point
(we shall see later on the importance that should be given to this
detail). To be able to proceed then, take a provisional centre of
the anchor r as nearly as possible in its proper place. We can
never be far out in this, as we know it should be a little nearer
to the wheel than that which was found for the ratchet-toothed
wheel. In any case an error of judgment in this respect can
readily be corrected.
Since equidistant lockings are required, take, starting from
the point k, a point a making an angle of 4° witli this last, the
centre o of the wheel forming the summit of the angle.
Mark a point b 7° from k or 11° from a, then with the
centre r of the anchor as centre, carry the point b 10° inwards
to c and again recoil it 1^° to d, as 11° is always required
for the locking.
If now the point a be joined with the point d by any line or
curve, the condition will be effected as regards the anchor having
an angular movement of 10° for its total movement and of 1^°
for attaining the position where the inclines can act upon one
another. This allows of any form of incline being selected
without destroying our proposition.
Assuming that we have chosen the broken line a e d, the part
a e will be the incline of the tooth, and the part e d the incline of
the pallet. Produce this last and describe the tangency circle
s t u; two tangents, c and b, to this circle will give the innermost
and outermost positions of the incline.
A line touching the point e of the tooth perpendicular to the
radius of the wheel touching the same point can now be drawn,
which will enable us to find the centre of the anchor; if the
provisional centre is appreciably out of its proper position the
drawing must be done over again ; but the point b will not
change its place and only the points c and d will require to be
moved. From the centre r describe the arc b d c, which most
frequently will only imperceptibly modify the points c and d,
even in a drawing on a very large scale. It is thus apparent
that selt.don of a provisional centre of the anchor does not
present any serious inconvenience, while at the same time it
affords a uniform means of drawing different systems of escape-
ments ; and it will be seen later on the advantage there is in
placing the centre of the anchor upon the tangent which passes by
the point of the tooth. As regards the exit pallet, take in the same
manner a point a' 4° to the left of the equidistant radius o V, the
point b' 7° to the right ; find a point c' and a point d' at 10° and
8^ c by turning around the centre of anchor towards the wheel.
Here the points a and d' can no longer be joined by any straight
line, the incline of the tooih being already determined. Move
then the point e through an nrc of the circle to e and join e' and d'.
Producing this last line the tangency circle v x y is obtained and
the incline of the exit pallet, in its interior position, m c\ and in
its exterior, n' b 1 , drawn.
Plan of the escapement with equidistant pallets and club teeth.
— The directions given for drawing the preceding escapement
serve, with a little modification, for this one, so it will only be
necessary here to generally indicate briefly the mode of procedure
without going into details.
Assuming that the tooth is to be four-sevenths the width of
the pallet, as before, take two points, /and b (fig. 4), 3^° to the
left and right of the equidistant radius o k, and mark the point a 4°
still further to the left ; this will be the heel of the tooth. Turn
the point b 10° and 8^° around the centre of the anchor and join
d and a; this gives a e for the incline of the tooth and e d for
that of the pallet. Try if the centre of the anchor be upon the
tangent passing by the point of the tooth, and correct it if it is
not. This tangent for the escapement with equidistant lockings
cannot, as is shown in the drawing, be ascertained by the point of
the tooth, because it would not intersect upon the line of centres
the tangent passing by the point of the tooth in the exit lift.
The point g on the equidistant radius o k takes the place of the
point of the tooth, and from this point the perpendicular is drawn
for obtaining the centre of the anchor.
At the exit lift take in a similar manner the points/' and b'
3^° to the left and right of the equidistant radius o V, and the
point a' (heel of the tooth) 4° further to the left. Turn the
point b' 10° and 8^° and join the point d 1 with the point e'of the
tooth which had been carried over when previously drawing the
entrance lift. By the same system of tangency circle the incline
of the pallet may be drawn in any desired position.
(To be continued.)
Four Large South African Diamon6s.
By George F. Kunz, New York.
argest brilliant
MODEL of the Victoria (the great White Diamond), or
the Imperial, as it has been more recently called, having
been sent to this city lately, and nothing having been
published in any scientific periodical concerning this stone, it
occurred to the writer that some particulars concerning its
natural uncut form, as well as after cutting, might be of interest.
Concerning its early history very little is known ; in fact, where
the stone was found is only a matter of conjecture — a remarkable
circumstance when we consider that this is the ]
in the world.
An explanation by a letter in the Times was given as
follows : — " That this stone was not found in English dominions
at all, but in the neighbouring Orange Free State ; that it had
been found by a Boer on his farm, who, knowing it to be a
diamond, but fearing being turned out of his farm by a mob, kept
the secret a whole year, until a Mr. Allenberg, of Port Elizabeth,
saw it and forwarded it to London."
It is, however, believed that it was found by someone in one
of the Kimberley mines, South Africa. The first intimation that
any of the various mining companies had of its existence was
when they heard of its safe arrival in London. It is generally
supposed that in the month of June or July, 1884, the stone had
been found by one of the surveillance officers' of the Central
Mining Co. in the Kimberley mines. It being his duty to
search others, he had the privilege of not being searched himself,
and so the stone was passed through the searching-house, and
he was afterwards supposed to have found means of communi-
cating with four illicit diamond buyers. Owing to the stringency
of the diamond laws of Griqualand West, the trading in rough
diamonds is forbidden anyone not owning one of the "patents"
or " licences" as they are called, costing £200 and a guarantee of
£500. All purchases made by them must also be entered in a
special registry, and are duly signed every week by the police
authorities. £3,000 was the price paid to obtain the stone from
the first possessor. To prepare themselves for the ordeal of
transporting the stone out of the district they assembled at
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
77
night, commenced drinking, then gambling, and, after a night's
debauch, two of the party lost their share in the big stone. The
other two reached Cape Town in safety, where the diamond laws
are not in force, and from a dealer there received £19,000 in
cash for their stone. An outward duty of one-half per cent, is
collected on all shipments of diamonds from Cape Colony ; but
this diamond is said to have been carried by one of the passengers
of a mail steamer, and was hence undeclared.
We next hear of it in London, causing considerable sensation
at Hatton Garden, the great diamond market. After considerable
time had been spent in trying to find a capitalist who could afford
to buy such a, gem, it was at last arranged by a former resident
ol the Cape mines to form a company of eight persons, who
bought the stone together for £45,000 cash, on condition that if
they should dispose of it, each should receive a ninth share in the
eventual profits.
Before cutting it was estimated that the crystal would furnish
either of the following gems : If cut as a briollette, 300 carats ;
as a drop, 230 to 240 cnrats ; as a lozenge, 250 carats ; and as
a mathematically perfect brilliant, 150 carats. If cut in the
latter form it would have furnished cleavages that would cut into
one 40 carat, one 20 carat stone, and 40 carats of smaller stones.
It was finally decided to cut it into the largest possible brilliant,
still preserving a good shape, and Amsterdam was selected as the
place where the gem could best be cut.
It was accordingly sent to the polishing mills of Jacques Metz,
who erected a special workshop for the purpose. In order to
better obtain the brilliant form of cutting, a piece was cleaved
off which furnished a 19-carat diamond, and was sold to the
King of Portugal for £4,000. The cutting of the large stone,
which was commenced on April 9 in the presence of the
Queen of Holland, took about twelve months, since, instead of
being cut by abrasion witli another diamond, as diamonds are
usually cut, it was polished down on the scaif ; and a great
amount of time was consumed by the cooling of the stone, as it
heated after an hour's running on the wheel. The cutter of the
stone was M. B. Barends. The stone in its finished condition
weighs 180 carats, is a beautiful, perfect steel-blue diamond, and
is the largest brilliant in the world.
It is 39.5 mm. (1 T 9 ^ inches) long, 30 mm. (1|| inches) wide,
and 23 mm. (' | of an inch) thick, being exceeded in size by one
diamond only, the Orloff, belonging to the Russian crown, which
weighs 194f carats, but is a large deep rose, and not a brilliant.
The Victoria exceeds the Regent in weight by 44^ carats. The
Koh i-noor weighs only 106^ carats.
The form is not entirely even, and on one side of the girdle
there is quite a flat place, a natural unpolished surface, necessary,
in cutting, to preserve the large weight of the stone. It is,
however, a perfect 58-facet brilliant.
The original weight of the stone was 457-^ carats — over 3 ozs.
troy. The stone to-day is held by a London syndicate for
£200,000. The ownership is divided into 32nd parts, some
holding only one and others four or more.
The Tiffany large yellow diamond weighs 125§ carats, is
absolutely perfect, is a " double-deck " cut brilliant, as it is
termed, and is undoubtedly the finest large yellow diamond
known. It was found in the Kimberley mine about nine years
ago, and was cut in Paris. One of its most pleasing features is
that it not only retains its rich yellow colour by artificial light,
but is even more beautiful than by day. It has 40 facets on the
crown, 44 facets on the pavilion or lower side of the stone, and 17
facets on the girdle : total number, 101. Because of its deep colour
this is a finer stone than the historical Star of the South (125
carats), which was purchased by the Mahratta, ruler of Baroda,
for 400,000 dols., at the French Exposition, 1867. It also rivals
the Florentine, which, according to Schrauf's determination
(Sitzb. d. k. Akad. d. Wissench., Band 54, Abtheil i. Nov.,
18(56) weighed 133| carats, and was sold for 2,000,000 florins,
but is only a long double rose or drop, and not a brilliant.
The Tiffany No. 2 diamond weighs 77 carats, is of a light
yellowish colour, is absolutely perfect, and is one of the few large
stones that have been cut for beauty and not for weight. It is
so evenly cut that it will stand on the culet, which is only of the
regular size. This stone was exposed to a strong blazing sunlight
for 30 minutes, tw r o thermometers registering 110° to 120° F.
during the whole time of exposure : and only a very faint, if any,
phosphorescence was observed, although the stone was placed in
a dark room within 30 seconds after exposure. It had been laid
on a black velvet case during the whole time of the experiment,
and nothing came in contact with it while it was being carried to
a place of darkness. Its specific gravity is 3.523+ at 60° F.; it
measures 26 mm. (I^L- inches) in length, 25 mm. (1 inch) in
width, and 17 mm. (^ of an inch) in thickness; there are 33
facets on the crown or upper side of the stone and 25 facets on
the pavilion or back; and, in addition, there are 55 small facets
evenly distributed around the girdle.
A fine yellow diamond, weighing 51§- carats, also from South
Africa, and recently recut by Tiffany & Co. in New York City,
is absolutely perfect and without flaws. It measures 22 mm.
(| of an inch) in length, 22 mm. in width, 23.75 mm. (f^- of an
inch) at the corners, and 15.75 mm. (§ of an inch) in thickness ;
there are 73 facets on the crown or upper side of the stone, and
49 facets on the pavilion or back ; and the cutting, which is
that of a double-deck brilliant with some of the lower crown
facets divided in two, is quite unique, forming' a remarkably
beautiful gem.
Madagascar Trade in Watches and Ornaments. — There
are in Madagascar, writes a correspondent, no special dealers in
watches and ornaments, these goods being kept by most of the
traders as supplements to their stocks, and their sale is prin-
cipally amongst the European circles of inhabitants. As mantle-
pieces are unknown in the island, there is no demand for the
ormolu class of clocks, candlesticks, vases, &c, which are so com-
monly in request in England ; but small timepieces, inkstands and
such like for writing tables are very saleable. There is also a fair
demand for travelling clocks with or without alarums, and such
goods may with safety be shipped to Tamatave on consignment.
Massive gold watches of medium quality (especially keyless ones)
and large and showy chains with pendants are very marketable
goods ; the same can be said of nickel and aluminum-cased
keyless watches, but these latter should only be sent out if their
winding gear is oE reliable make, for should an article of this
kind get a bad name through a few purchasers being let in, a
whole consignment will probably be doomed. Exporters should
remember that in sending goods to out-of-the-way places witli
limited populations, their sale is readily affected by a bad
reputation, chance custom being a much less important factor
here ; neither should it be forgotten that cheap mechanical
articles, whose prices in the country of manufacture are so low
as hardly to make it worth purchasers' while to complain if they
turn out badly, by the time they are offered to retail purchasers in
the above-mentioned places have their prices increased 100 per cent,
or more, and a greater importance is attached to the purchase.
It is therefore an error to export this class of manufacture in the
lowest qualities. The same remark applies to gilt or plated
goods, which should always be of a moderately fair quality at
least, and not mere wash, if an3'thing like a continuous trade is
wished for. When a Madagascar), or say an Otaheitian, indulges
himself in a splendid gilt warming-pan cased watch or princely
looking chain, paying, as he would have to, a by no means
inconsiderable price for the gratification, his mortificatk*« will be
great on finding the glitter all gone after a few weeks^wear, or
that the keyless movement of his wonderful watch has broken
down ; and he does not, as an Englishman would do similarly
circumstanced, keep the article out of sight and say nothing
about it, but protests loudly to everyone he meets against the
manner in which he has been " swindled," and makes others
suspicious of the manufacture. The women in Madagascar,
both Europeans and natives, have a great aptitude for adorning
themselves with jewellery, choosing not the gaudiest patterns,
but for the most part showing good taste ; and medium quality
gold necklets, bracelets, earrings, hairpins, &c, will always find
ready purchasers. The import duty on these goods is 10 per
cent, on declared value.
78
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[November 1, 1887.
American 3tems.
VCR. CHARLES L. TIFFANY, one of the founders of
the house of Tiffany & Co., which reached its 50th anni-
versary on September 21, was presented with a handsome
testimonial or address from his employes on that occasion.
The address was an illuminated one on vellum, consisting of
eleven large sheets attached to an ivory roller. It was encased
in a finely polished rosewood case, with a solid gold plate on top,
hearing the inscription, "Charles L. Tiffany, 1837 — 1887."
The Canadian Government has recently taken to seizing all
catalogues, price lists, &c, that are sent into the Dominion by
mail and levying a duty on them. A dealer in machinery
complains that a catalogue sent by him to Hamilton, Ontario,
was so seized, and on his writing to the collector at that place
he was informed that all such publications were dutiable. This
is rather a petty business (says the Jewelers' Circular) for a
great government to indulge in. It has always been represented
that Canada desired to cultivate the closest commercial relations
possible with us, and our people have reciprocated that sentiment
fully ; but if such paltry hindrances as this are to be thrown in
the path of trade and commerce, it is not likely to be developed
very rapidly.
Says the Jewelers' Circular : Manufacturers and jobbers alike
have been kept unusually busy during the past month, and no
one is now heard complaining of dull times. The universal
response to the inquiries regarding trade is, " never better ;" and
instead of the former complaints of dulness, with which we have
been so familiar in previous years, the grumbling, when there is
any, is because of overwork. One extensive jobber informed
us recently that his business for the first eight months of this
year was 40 per cent, more than it was for the corresponding
months of last year; and that if lie were to close up then he
would be ahead of last year's business, so far as the quantity
disposed of was concerned. Others speak with nearly equal
satisfaction as to the condition of trade ; and unless something
unforeseen occurs, the quantity of goods sold will be largely in
excess of the sales of 1886. But there comes in the old cry
regarding excessive competition, and the cutting of prices till
the margin of profit is whittled down to a point that is almost
indistinguishable. A large manufacturer of a general line of
jewellery informed us that his firm kept a large force employed in
making chain ; yet he did not believe that they had made a dollar
on chain in several years, because the prices had been cut away
until there was scarcely enough left to pay for material and
labour. When asked why he continued to make goods on which
there was no profit, he replied that they were obliged to in order
to keep up their stock and sell their other goods. Their
customers demanded full lines ; and so they had to go on making
chain and to sell it without a profit, because the competition was
so great that prices were cut all to pieces. He was certain that
he could make chain as cheaply as anyone, and if he could not
make a profit out of it he was sure no one else was getting rich
by it. So it is with other goods, and the general feeling seems
to be that the profits of the business this year will not be
commensurate to the quantity of goods sold. It is something,
however, to have sold the goods.
HZhe "ftlatch IUra6e anb the Jflerchanbise
Jflarhs Act.
MEETING was held on Tuesday, the 11th ult., at the
offices of the London Chamber of Commerce, Botolph
House, Eastcheap, of watch importers and manufacturers,
for the purpose of receiving a report "As to the bearing of the
Merchandise Marks Act, 1887, on the watch trade." Mr. L.
Platnauer presided, and there were present : Mr. J. Rotherham,
Sir John Bennett, Mr. E. J. Leyard, Mr. M. A. Perrier, Mr. J.
Tripplin, Mr. J. Elkan, Mr. T. Wordley, Mr. T. W. Vine, Mr.
J. A. Lund (Messrs. Barraud & Lund), Mr. J. L. Langman
(Goldsmiths and Silversmiths' Co.), Mr. H. M. Frodsham,
and others. The Secretary (Mr. Kenric B. Murray) read the
report and opinions obtained from reliable sources, which showed
that the Merchandise Marks Act appears to apply to the watch
trade except in regard to those matters which are to be regulated
by the future issue of an Order in Council ; that this Order in
Council will not be issued until all necessary preparations have
been made ; that while the English Hall-mark does not rank as
a " trade mark," it does rank as a " trade description," and
consequently nothing must be placed upon a watch tending to
mislead the public as to its origin ; that the Act will apply to
existing stocks without any allowances, but that if watches Hall-
marked prior to the passing of the Act are sold on a special
declaration of their origin the spirit of the Act will be complied
with ; the declarations at an assay office as to origin of watches
and cases will immediately on the issue of the Order in Council
have to be made in person, or by an accredited representative ;
that the most convenient possible arrangements will be made by
the authorities ; and that new stamps were proposed for marking
watches, different and distinctive from gold and silver.
The Chairman said the meeting would recognise the value of
the means by which they could legitimately dispose of present
stocks by giving a certificate declaring the origin of the watches
they sold. In reference to the proposed new distinctive marks
for gold and silver Hall-marking of watch cases, he thought they
would oppose any such change. The public now looked upon
the Hall-mark of the lion as a standard, and it should be main-
tained. What was necessary, however, was that in the instance
of Swiss or other goods they should educate the public into
understanding what a Swiss or other Hall-mark meant. Questions
were then replied to. The Chairman said, in course of his
answers, that although a retailer need not necessarily describe a
watch as other than a " Swiss horizontal " or a " Swiss lever," yet
it would be advisable to add the words "of Swiss manufacture"
for the purpose of safety. For instance, if Mr. Benson sold a
watch marked as " Benson, London," the public were supposed
to be buying a watch made by Mr. Benson — not one made in
Switzerland or Clerkenwell. The true origin of a watch must be
declared so as to prevent fraudulent representation, or fraudulent
description.
Serious Charge against a Birmingham Jeweller. — At
the Birmingham Quarter Sessions, Friday, October 21, 1887,
George Griffin, jeweller, of Hunter's Lane, Birmingham, was
indicted for receiving 2 ozs. of gold scrap, the property of Messrs.
G. E. Walton, Limited, from James Ravenscroft, well knowing
it to have been stolen. Mr. Stnbbins (instructed by Messrs. J.
C. Fowke & Son) prosecuted, and Mr. Hugo Young (instructed
by Mr. BenbowHebbert) defended. A second count charged him
with stealing the gold, but this was not gone into. James
Ravenscroft said that up to July 20 last he was in the employ-
ment of the prosecutors. The prisoner had previously been in
the same employment, but left it about three years ago. On
July 13 last he met the prisoner in Hamstead Road, and
prisoner asked him if he could get him any stuff. Witness
said he would try, and an arrangement was made that they
should meet on July 27 in Icknield Street, Hockley. They
met on that day, and witness gave prisoner about 2 ozs. of
gold scrap which he had stolen from his employers. Another
meeting was arranged for August 4 for the same purpose,
and for prisoner to pay witness for what he had already given
him. On July 28, however, Mr. Walton made a charge against
witness, who confessed to it and made a statement to Mr.
Walton in the presence of Detective-Sergeant Baker. On
August 4, as arranged, witness went to Icknield Street about 8
o'clock in the evening and met. prisoner, who asked him what
was the matter at the shop, and why witness had been discharged ;
was it for theft? Witness said it was. Witness lived in a
house at Priory Road, Handsworth, with his mother: the house
belonged to Mr. Walton. On Saturday, October 15, prisoner
came to the house, and in the presence of witness's mother he
asked witness what he had done for him, what had he said.
Had he made any admission as to what had passed between them ?
November 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
79
Witness said he had, and prisoner remarked, " Well then I'm
well done for." Witness was subjected to a rigid cross-
examination by Mr. Young. He said he commenced to steal
gold about a fortnight before July 27. He had never stolen
gold before, and then he only stole a few pennyweights. A
policeman was sent for, when he was charged with the theft
and told that if he said what he had done with the gold he
would not be prosecuted. Re-examined : Witness said the first
thefts of a few pennyweights of gold followed upon his first
meeting with the prisoner. Prisoner gave him 5s. for that
amount. Mr. Foxall, manager to Messrs.. Walton, said he
made up his gold account on July 11, and next on July 27. On
the latter date he should have had 13 ozs. 1 dwt., and he had a
deficiency of 6 ozs. 13 dwts. By Mr. Young : We have heard that
Ravenscroft only stole 2 ozs. and a few pennyweights. — Can you
tell us what became of the other 4 ozs.? — I cannot. — Mr.
Frederick Walton said prisoner was in his employment up till
about three years ago, and Ravenscroft worked under him.
Witness further deposed to Ravenscroft being charged by him
with theft and to his confessing. Detective- Sergeant Baker
deposed to hearing the Ravenscrofts' statement and to arresting
prisoner and charging him with the offence of receiving. He
denied the charge. Police-Constable Thomas said on the evening
of August 4 he went to Icknield Street by instructions, and saw
the prisoner loitering about as if waiting for someone ; soon after
Ravenscroft came along and joined him, and they talked together
for some time. Louisa Ravenscroft, mother of the first witness,
said on the 15th inst. prisoner came to her house in Priory Road,
Handsworth, and saw her son. He asked her son, "Jimmy,
what have you been saying about me ; have you told them that
you brought me any stuff ?" Witness's son replied, "I have,"
and prisoner remarked, "I'm well done for." Witness
was waited upon by Detective-Sergeant Baker on the same day,
before her son returned from the Police Court, and she then dic-
tated to Baker an account of prisoner's interview with her son
that morning, and which she signed.— This concluded the case
for the prosecution. The prisoner was found guilty, and the
Recorder sentenced him to five years' penal servitude.
"Workshop JFlemoranba,
Phosphate of Soda. — This salt, easily to be had in commerce,
similar to borax, in a melted condition takes up metallic oxides,
consequently it acts like borax. Since it is a very thin fluid in
heat, it is especially useful in cases when soldering with very hard
solder are necessary. The crystallised commercial phosphate of
soda also contains water of crystallisation, and this has a dis-
turbing influence when soldering ; consequently the crystals are
exposed to the air, when they will lose their water, by becoming
air slaked, and fall into a delicate white powder, which is imme-
diately used for soldering.
Tarnish on Electro-plate Goods. — This tarnish can be
removed by dipping the article from one to fifteen minutes — that
is until the tarnish shall have been removed — in a pickle of the
following composition : — Rain water two gallons, and potassium
cyanuret one-half pound ; dissolve together, and fill into a stone
jug or jar and close tightly. The article, after having been
immersed, must be taken out and thoroughly rinsed in several
waters, then dried with fine clean sawdust. Tarnished jewellery
can speedily be restored by this process ; but be careful to
thoroughly remove the alkali, otherwise it will corrode the goods.
" Mystery Gold." — An alloy of this kind entered the market
many years ago, in the form of watch chains and other articles
of jewellery, the composition of which was, copper sixteen parts,
platinum seven parts, and zinc one part. This alloy, when
carefully prepared, bears a close resemblance to 16-carat gold,
and when electro-gilt would readily pass for the genuine article.
The manufacture of this variety of spurious gold seems to have
received a check for a certain period ; but somewhat recently, in
a modified formula, it has reappeared, not only in the form of
articles of jewellery, but actually as current coin, and from its
highly deceptive character, being able to resist the usual test, it
has acquired the name of " Mystery Gold." It appears that,
when converted into jewellery, the chief aim of the " manu-
facturers " is to defraud pawnbrokers, to whom the articles are
offered in pledge ; and, since they readily withstand the nitric
acid tests, the " transactions " are often successful. According
to Mr. W. F. Love, in a communication to the Chemical News,
a bracelet made from an alloy of this character had been sold to
a gentleman in Liverpool, and when the gilding was removed the
alloy presented the colour of 9-carat gold. The qualitative
analysis proved it to be composed of platinum, copper, and a little
silver. A quantitative analysis yielded the following result : —
Silver 2-48
Platinum 32-02
Copper (by difference) ... ... ... 65 - 50
It was found that strong boiling nitric acid had apparently no
effect upon it, even when kept in the acid for some time.
To Clean and Renew old Files. — Collect all the old files
that are clogged up with grease and dirt and boil them for half
an hour in saleratus water (4 ozs. saleratus to 1 quart water).
Then wash them in clean water and place them in a solution of
sulphuric acid and water (4 ozs. of sulphuric acid to 1 quart
water). Remove the smaller and finer files at the end of about
45 minutes : the larger and coarser may remain in the solution
from two to three hours ; they should be examined from time to
time, however, to see that they do not cut too much. Afterwards
wash thoroughly with a stiff brush and plenty of clean water, and
dry and oil them to prevent rusting. It will be found that many
files which were apparently useless, will, after having undergone
this process, cut almost as well and last almost.as long as new ones.
Setting Jewel Holes. — The following directions are given
by Saunier : — Whether it be a plate, cock or bouchon in which
the stone is to be set, the piece must always be cemented to a
chuck and the whole accurately centred. Turn it out to a depth
corresponding to the thickness of stone, and make a circular
groove round the hole thus made with a round-pointed graver,
only leaving a very thin fillet of metal on the inside. The stone
should fit easily in the hole, but without play, and should pass in
to such a depth that its surface is slightly below that of the
plate, &c, when there is an endstone ; in others it must of course
often depend on the endshake to be obtained. At the same
time it appears desirable that it should always be slightly below.
Clean out the setting and place a small quantity of oil in it to
prevent the stone from flying out when made to rotate ; or it
may be rendered still more safe by a pointed pegwood stick held
in the hand. The stone is fixed in position with a small conical
burnisher (as,- for example, the point of a round broach) very
carefully polished so as to avoid all abrading action ; if an excess
of metal is forced over the surface of the stone it is removed with
a graver. The surface of the brass is finally smoothed with a
hemp stem or pegwood and tripoli in oil, followed with polishing
rouge in spirits of wine. English jewel-setters often do not turn
the groove, but leave a projecting edge round the hole which is
pressed on to the stone with a burnisher.
Sazette.
Partnerships Dissolved.
Satchwell Brothers, Birmingham, manufacturers of jewellers' requisites.
P. Lawson & Nephew, Hatton Garden, City, diamond merchants.
Julius Cohen & Co., Hatton Garden, diamond merchants. John
Watson & Son, Bradford, watchmakers.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender in London.— Robert James Griffiths, St. Martin's Lane,
Westminster, jeweller. William Jardine (trading as Jardine & Co.),
Great Winchester Street, City, diamond merchant.
To surrender in the Cou?itry.—Kenry James Hayhurst, Hastings, jeweller.
James Henry Hunt, Birmingham, electro-plate manufacturer. Charles
Madrell Caine and George Oscar Caine (trading as Caine Brothers),
Liverpool, pawnbrokers. Thomas Arthur Temhn, Sheffield, watch-
maker. Frederick Birchall, Liverpool, jeweller. Richard Barnaby
Baines Preston and Liverpool, pawnbroker. Richard Barnaby
Baines' and James Baines (trading as R. B. & J. Baines), Liverpool,
80
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[November 1, 1887.
pawnbrokers. Frederick Francis Peasley, Wolverhampton, pawn-
broker's manager.
Public Examinations.
In London. — M. Sugar, Waltham Buildings, Holborn Circus, fancy goods
dealer : November 8, at 12.30.
lathe Country. — H. J. Hayhurst, Hastings, jeweller: November 7, at 1.
J. H. Hunt. Birmingham, electro-plate manufacturer ; November 15,
at 2.
Adjudications.
In London. — R. J. Griffiths. St. Martin's Lane, jeweller. M. Sugar. Holborn
Circus, fancy goods dealer.
In the Country. — H. J. Hayhurst, Hastings, jeweller. T.'C. Judge. Chard,
clockmaker. G. H. Simmons. Builtn, jeweller. T. A. Ternlin,
Sheffield, watchmaker. F. Birchall, Liverpool, jeweller. C. M. Caine
and G. O. Caine (trading as Caine Brothers and as J. Edwards & Co.),
Liverpool, pawnbrokers. R. B. Baines, Preston and Liverpool, pawn-
broker. R. B. and J. Baines, Liverpool, pawnbrokers. F. F. Peasley.
Wolverhampton, pawnbroker's manager.
Notices of Dividends.
In London. — A.Jack, Cheltenham, jeweller : 8s. (id., first : any Wednesday .
Seear, Hasluck & Co., 23, Holborn Viaduct. J. Dubois (separate
estate), Camden Road and Hatton Garden, watch manufacturer; 20s.,
first and final : any Wednesday, Seear, Hasluck & Co.. 23, Holborn
Viaduct. S. Thomas, Albemarle Street, Piccadilly, jeweller: 2s. 6d.,
first; any day. except Saturday, Chief Official Receiver, 33, Carey
Street.
In the ('ountyy. — J. Joseph and M". Joseph (tra ling as J. Joseph iV Sons
and as Scott & Co.). Birmingh imand elsewhere, jewellers : 5s., payable
by three promissory notes at six. twelve anl eighteen months : 120.
Colmnre Row, Birmiugha'n. F. H. Tritschler, Carlisle, jeweller:
3s. 7d., first and final: o:i an after October 26, Official Receiver,
Carlisle.
Scotch Sequestration".
0. Faller (trading as Faller Brothers), [nverness, watchmaker.
APPLICATIONS FOE LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents lias been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller mid siirmrnitli, by Messrs. \\". P. Thompson & Eoult, Patent Apents,
of 323. High Holborn. London. W.C ; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Row, Notting-
ham ; and 6. Lord Street, Liverpool.
12,711. James McClelland, Birmingham, For "An improved stand for
clucks and other articles." Dated September 20. 18K7.
T. Baxter. London, for "A balance-spring-collet shifter for the
use of watchmakers." Date! September 21, 1887.
F. J. Britten, London, for "Winding work for marine chro-
nometers." Dated September 23, 1887.
H. E. Webb. London, for "An improved key for winding watches
and for opening watch cases." Dated September 24, IS^T.
Mariano Vian, London, for •• Electric motor for clocks." (Com-
plete specification.) Dated September 27, 1887.
J. J. Rowley, Lewisham. for "An improved combined shirt and
collar stud or fastener and necktie retainer." Dated September 28,
1887.
W. Falk, London, for "An improved kevless watch." Dated
October 1. 1887.
H. D. Cole, London, for "An improvement in or in connection
with clocks and other timepieces.' 7 Dated October 3, 1887.
C. A. Burghardt and W. J. Twining, Manchester, for " Improve-
ments in the production of aluminum." Dated October 6, 1887.
E. Golay, London, for "An improved manufacture of com-
pensating balance wheel » for watches and clocks." Dated
October 8. 1887.
E. H. Durban and W. N. Last, Birmingham, for " Improvements
in the method of mounting or setting certain or various designs
or articles of jewellery or coins in brooches, breast pins, solitaires
and other similar articles." Dated October 17. 1887.
D. G. FitzGerald. London, for "An improved electro-chemical
process for the extraction of the precious metals from their ore: .
Dated October 17, 18S7.
M. Weber, Liverpool, for "Improvements in studs for collars,
cuffs and other like purposes." Dated October IS, 1887.
J. S. MacArthur, R. W. Forrest and W. Forrest, London, for
" Improvements in obtaining gold and silver from ores and other
compounds." Dated October 19, 1887.
A. B. Cunningham, London, for "Improvements in the reduction
of lead, silver and other metals, and apparatus therefor." Dated
October 19 1887.
J. A. Lund, London, for " Improvements in self-winding clocks
or clockwork." Dated October 20, 18S7.
12,799.
12,898.
12.955.
13,091.
13.132.
13,330.
13,373.
13,522.
13,663.
14,037.
14,054.
14,128.
14.174.
14,221.
14.252.
Recent American Patents.
Brazing Machine. N. H. Roberts
Button, Cuff. W. E. Gillman
Celluloid, Die for Moulding Hollow Articles of. J. A. Furman
Chain, Watch. H. Fritsche
Clock, Calendar. E. W. Morton
Clock Case Mould. C. Hellebush ...
Clock, Electric Alarm. A. J. Wooley
Clock for Timing Watches, Striking." J. F. Beyerle
Clock-striking Mechanism. J. L. Sullivan
Clock, Universal. S. S. Moyer
Clocks, Electric Synchronising Attachment fo
Cuff Holder. C. E. Cander
Cutting and Burnishing Tool. J. P. Lewis
Drilling Machine, Portable. J. Moffet . ...
Eyeglass or Spectacle Frame. J. J, Minster
!■:. f
369.077
369,106
369,784
369,053
368,961
369,337
369,672
37U.H38
370.219
3K9,462
369,386
369,160
369,252
369,120
369.544
File-cutting Machines ; Chisel Holder for. J. Buyer 369,690
Gold and Silver Refining. Johnson & Ryan 370,338
Grinding and Polishing the Interior of Hollow Ware. Machine
for. J. T. Duff 369.326
Jewellery. Manufacture of Shell. C. Moegling 369^649
.Metals. Electric Welding and Tempering. E. E. Hies 370,282
Metals from their Ores. Separating. D.W.Birmingham ... 370,366
Metals. Machine for Drawing. H. R. Kennedy 369/290
Micrometer Gauge. J. Moftitt " 369,357
Music Box Comb. Paillard & Recordon-Sultiger 369,258
Pendulum Power. D. Gerstein ... ... 369,176
Polishing Lap. G.E.Brown 369.431
Rock Drill. Diamond. W. Odgers 369,654
Screw Threads, Die for Boiling. C.D.Rogers 370.354
Watch. A. Junghans 370.146
Watch Balances. Machines for Turning and Polishing Rims of.
E. A. Marsh 3fi9,8';6
Watch Case. C.F.Morrill 369,871
Watch Regulator. J. W. Hurd 369,006
Watch Springs. Apparatus for Tempering. V. Sedgwick ... 369,560
Watchmaker's Tweezers. L. Hirscn 369,182
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
I860, will be furnished from this office for 2s. 6d. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
Buyers' (kuibe.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield. Srll Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Bui/ all materials containing Gold and Silver.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Asiortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
Customers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden.
London. E.( I.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen, send to Alexander Edwards,
Watch Material and Tool Dealer. 8S & 89, Craven Street, and 2. Holy-
head Road, Coventry. Lists: all Horological Literature.
W. Scott Hay ward & Co.. 59, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works: .Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool. Leipzig and Paris.
WANTED.
ITALY.— A FIRST-RATE .MERCANTILE FIRM,
J_ travelling regularly over the whole peninsula — Sicily, Malta and
Tunis — with large experience and extensive connections in the Jewellery,
Watch and Clock line, is open to enter into correspondence with some
Imp u'tant Manufacturer for the Sale of their Goods in the above
quarters. References of the highe-t standing — Please address, A. A.,
110, Naples.— [Advt.]
TO BE' SOLD.
1T7ATCHMAKER'S, JEWELLER'S and SILVER-
VV SMITH'S BUSINESS.— Established over 100 years in good
Agricultural and Training Districts. Stock moderate, and can be
reduced. — For particulars, apply to Mrs. J. Staniland. Malton, Yorks.
[Advt.]
U/ATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
VV of Superior Goods only : established 35 years, with good Jobbing-
Trade attached, extending over England. Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Incoming can be reduced to Four or Five Hundred Pounds, chiefly or
quite covered by goods, comprising movements, material, tools, &c.
Owner no objection to remain two or three years to part work at
finishing or assist in any way required. Age only reason for wishing to
decline business. — Address Manufacturer, Office of this Journal. —
[Advt.]
TO JEWELLERS and WATCHMAKERS.— BUSINESS
FOR SALE. In a leading West-End thoroughfare, under ex-
ceptionally favourable circumstances to a responsible purchaser. The
Stock, Goodwill, &c, and Tenure of Premises. Rent £150 per annum;
no rates or taxes. About £700 required ; £300 in cash, and the balance
would be taken in approved bills extending over twelve or eighteen
mouths. — Apply to A. B.. care of Messrs. Saunders & SHEPHERD,
Bartlett's Passage and Buildings, Holborn Circus, London, E.C. — [Advt.]
mO WATCHMAKERS and JEWELLERS.— A Well-
J_ Established BUSINESS TO BE SOLD in an improving Market
Town. Incoming about £200. — Apply to J. Watts. Business Agent,
Wokingham, Berks. — [Advt.1
ST^e-
^JJatel^akcr, jeweller
Entered at Stationers' Wall.']
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jusr.
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 6.]
DECEMBER 1, 1887.
|~ Subscription, 5s. ( Post
|_ per Annum. ( Free.
SPECIAL NOTICE.
Our correspondents are kindly requested to note that the
Office of this Journal has been removed to more com-
modious premises at No. 7, St. Paul's Churchyard.
CONTENTS.
Editorial ... ...
General Notes
Trade Notes. (Illustrated) ... ... ... ...
The Diamond Cutting Industry... ... ...
The Pawnbrokers and the Merchandise Marks Act ...
Birmingham News. From Our Correspondent
Delhi Jewellers. By William Simpson, R.I., F.R.G.S., Hon
Assoc. R.I.B.A. (Illustrated)
The Deeds of Arrangement Registration Act...
Mining in New South Wales
The Lever Escapement. By M. L.-A. Gbosclaude
Abstract of Chronometer Rates...
Casket for Lord Magheramorne
Goldsmiths and Jewellers' Asylum
Christmas and New Year's Presents ...
Localities of Gems
Gazette ... ■ ... ... ... ... ...
Applications for Letters Patent... ...
Recent American Patents ...
Correspondence
Buyers' Guide ...
PAGE
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IChe Watchmaker, jeweller anb
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence.— Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, St. Paul's Churchyard, London, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
HATEVER may be the result of the Merchandise
Marks Act on the future of the English watch
trade, upon which so much divergence of opinion is
expressed, there can he no doubt that it is having the immediate
effect of greatly stimulating manufacturing enterprise in many
directions. This is evidenced by the activity reported from various
centres, the formation of companies, &c. Although it seems to
have become the fashion to depreciate ourselves, our methods
and our resources, a better and more intimate acquaintance with
what is here being done and what can be done, is, we are con-
vinced, only what is wanted to create a different and more
favourable impression. Of course, while so much difference of
opinion exists among leading manufacturers as to the respective
merits of old and new methods of production, there can be no
hope of the definitive adoption by the whole trade of a particular
system. But, while there are such unanswerable arguments in
favour of both, we cannot see what is to prevent their beino-
successfully worked concurrently. Various causes have been
assigned for the alleged decadence of the English trade, but
whatever else may have affected the home industry, there can be
no doubt that increased foreign competition has had much to do
with the existing depression. This was the result, first, of the
introduction of the factory system into America and the necessity
of watch factories there creating fresh markets for their large
output ; and, secondly, of the increased activity of the Swiss
who were some few years since awakened to their shortcomings,
by the report of Monsieur Favre-Perret on the American system
of manufacture.
Let the English trade then, in like manner, learn first what
are the bases of American and Continental procedure and then
inquire into their own systems and resources, and there can be no
fear as to the result.
The idea that is so prevalent among watchmakers of the old
school that there is at present any practical limit to the demand
for all classes of watches will not bear the , most superficial
82
THE WATCHMAKEE, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[December 1, 1887.
examination of statistics on the subject. At any rate this idea
is not yet entertained by the largest Transatlantic producers,
who are extending their operations in every direction.
As we took notice of, in our last issue, a scheme for the
establishment (on a larger scale than has yet been attempted) of
an English watch factory, is on the carpet, and from the progress
that has already been made, there is every reason to sujrpose that
the undertaking will shortly become un fait accompli, at nil
events, as far as the formation of a company and the establish-
ment of a factory are concerned. But the practical working of
such a concern presents many points that should be exhaustively
considered,' both' by the promoters and those who contemplate
embarking capital in the enterprise, before a final decision as to
the modus operandi is arrived at.
Foremost among these considerations come, of course, questions
as to the class of goods that are most in demand, with other
economical particulars involved in the detailed arrangements of
the manufacture.
It is not our intention to go into these matters just now, as,
whatever arrangements may be come to at first, even after the
most careful statistical studies and consultations with experts,
will most likely require considerable modification before the
factory has been long in practical operation.
What we would point out, however, is the necessity, in order
to successfully carry out such a project, for starting the working
of the factory on the right lines.
These would comprise uniformity of gauging on a scientific
basis, and the adoption of a recognised standard for the pitches
and diameters of screws, such as is in use among Continental
manufacturers.
In August, 1888, a sub-committee of the British Association,
appointed to consider the latter subject, pointed out the desira-
bility of securing a system of small screws international in its
character, and recommended that a thread of a certain form be
adopted. They concluded the report by saying they would only
advocate the definitive adoption of certain modifications, previously
recommended by them, after consultation with the Swiss Com-
mittee appointed to consider the same subject, as they considered
the absolute identity of English and Continental screws to be of
primary inqxutance.
Since the issue of the above-mentioned report we are not
aware of any steps having been taken by English watchmakers
in the direction indicated. As the want of uniformity in our
system of gauging is admittedly one of our primary weak points,
is not the subject worthy of the attention of those who are now
going in for the new departure ?
General Notes.
We learn from the Hydrographic Office of the Admiralty that
the officer in charge of India Marine Survey has reported that
the following additional time signal has been established at
Madras : — The signal is a gun fired daily by electricity from a
battery near the lighthouse, at noon, Madras mean time, equivalant
to 18h. 39m. 00.6s., Greenwich mean time.
tf^O- UIIRIG, who in the 188G Chronometer Trial was first
J^i'J^ and second, has again gained premier honours at
Greenwich, his two chronometers being this time first
and twelfth respectively.
On the 18th ult. the shop of Mr. Walker, Finchley High
Road, was burglarised and some £40's worth of watches,
rings and other jewellery carried off. The thieves, who effected
their object by cutting a large hole through the plate-glass front
and a revolving shutter, are believed to belong to the same gang
that, on the previous Monday, stole from the residence, near
Barnet, of the Dowager Countess of Caledon jewellery worth
£800.
The Winterthur (Switzerland) correspondent of Industries
states that the value of exports of watches from the consular
district of Chaux-de-Fonds to the United States for the third
quarter of the current year amounted to £G4,338, as compared
with £59,055 in the same quarter of 188C. The value for the
first nine months of this year was £172,229, as against £129,855
in the corresponding period of last year.
The Anniversary Dinner to celebrate the eighth anniversary
of the opening of the Horological Club is announced to take
place in the club room at the Horological Institute on
Friday, the 2nd inst. The musical arrangements will be in
charge of Mr. F. W. Knight, who on similar former occasions
has so successfully carried them out. Tickets, price 3s. Gd. each,
may be obtained of any member of the committee, or of the
Hon. Sec, Mr. Henry Bickley, 33, Half Moon Crescent,
Barnsbury.
At the close of the Exhibition of specimens of hand turning,
held at the Mansion House, under the auspices of the
Worshipful Company of Turners, on October 28th last, fourteen
of Messrs. Ford & Wright's apprentices were awarded prizes
for excellence in diamond cutting and polishing. All the
specimens shown bore evidence of the high quality of the work-
manship turned out by this now well-known firm, and it is grati-
fying to be able to note such tangible proof of the reality of the
revival of an industry that not long since was quite lost to this
country.
A curious story is attached to the gift of the new mayoral
chain to Hanley, which was described in our last month's issue.
It seems that when the Stoke boroughs were incorporated, a
Mr. Richards, one of the first members, presented the Hanley
Corporation with a mayoral chain ; but a short time ago it was
found to have been made of base metal, on which discovery being
made Mr. Keeling promised a new chain. It would be interesting
to know how the worthy burgesses of Hanley found out that
their chain was of base metal. Was the original donor imposed
upon ? or has the corporation been mistaken all along as to its
intrinsic character ?
Professor Roberts-Austen, F.R.S., and Messrs. Courteney
Boyle, C.B., and Henry J. Chaney, are the members of the
committee appointed by the President of the Board of Trade to
confer with the officials of the Assay Office of the United Kingdom
with regard to the steps to be taken under the watch clauses of the
Merchandise Marks Act. They have been attending meetings of
the wardens of the various corporations at Edinburgh, Glasgow,
Sheffield, Birmingham and Chester, in pursuance of their inquiries
in the matter, and the trade will doubtless soon be relieved from
the state of suspense in which it has been for so lcng by the
publication of the Order in Council, based upon their recom-
mendations.
The fourth course of Cantor Lectures at the Society of Arts
will be delivered on March 12, 19 and 26 by Professor
W. Chandler Roberts- Austen, F.R.S., on "Alloys."
December 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
83
Manufacturers, traders and others interested in the opera-
tion of the Merchandise Marks Act should obviously make
themselves familiar with its provisions. For this purpose we
recommend the following pamphlets (in all of which it is fully
embodied) to their notice : — " The Merchandise Marks Act,
1887," by Albert Gray, of the Inner Temple, price 3s. 6d., Wm.
Clowes & Sons, 27, Fleet Street. " The Merchandise Marks
Act, 1887," by Newnham Browne. " The Law of Trade
Marks," by J. F. Bennett, 82, Queen Street, Cheapside, E.C.
The Annual Ballad Concert in aid of the funds of the
Clerkenwell Benevolent Society is announced to take place
on the 19th inst., at the Agricultural Hall, Islington. As
the Committee announce in their annual report, the high-
class character and consequent success of these concerts have
become proverbial, the last one realising a net profit of nearly
£150, which, after paying for the relief tickets and general
expenses, left a balance of £51 17s. lid. to be carried to the
general fund for continuing the charitable operations during the
ensuing winter. The useful work done by the Society last
season was represented by the distribution, through its subscribers,
of some 2,000 sacks of coal and the like number of quartern
loaves to the deserving poor of the district, and the amount of
comfort thus bestowed can only be partially realised even by
those well accustomed to house to house visitation. The recent
severe depression in the watchmaking and jewellery trades is
likely to make the present winter peculiarly distressing to those
who have been thrown out of employment in consequence. There
can be no better way of finding out and realising deserving cases
(which would probably be otherwise overlooked in the ordinary
course of eleemosynary relief) than in the system of distribution
adopted by the Society, and we trust the financial results of the
forthcoming concert will be as favourable as its object is
meritorious.
With reference to the montre-observateur brought out by the
Parish watchmaker Schwob, which we noticed in our October
issue, Monsieur A. Redier says, in the Revue Chronometrique : —
In point of inventions proclaimed as new, without real novelty,
we may cite the watch sold under the name of montre-observateur.
A small dial of hours and minutes, placed between the IX.
and the centre of the ordinary dial gives the time correspond-
ingly with the two large hands ; but, on pushing a bolt, the two
little hands are returned to zero, from whence they go on
again. If, for example, we return them to zero at the moment
of taking a coach by the hour, when the time comes for paying
the coachman it is only necessary to read the hour marked by
the little hands in order to know, without calculation, the time
passed. The method is not new. At the time when the Societe
des Petites Voitures was founded, about 1854, many arrange-
ments of this kind were constructed. We believe that the house
of Oudin, of the Palais-Royal, originated the painting of an
arrow-point upon the glass of the watch. This glass could be
turned easily by the hand ; and at the time of engaging a
carriage the hour hand and the painted arrow were superposed.
This was a simple reminder. A number of carriage counters
which have, by the researches made, caused so much loss in
horology, are based upon this idea. One or two hands were
returned to zero at the moment of departure — the one indicated
the time elapsed ; the other the amount to pay. The writer
has himself constructed such watches with, however, but one
(hour) hand and the dial divided into six figures, so as to
facilitate the reading. Monsieur Redier goes on ironically
to say : " What a good opportunity for the new constructor ;
the idea is excellent, useful and serious. The means employed
may be simplified ; that which the undersigned used long ago,
and which he put at the disposal" of the first who demanded it of
him, may be applied to all watches." " But it is not even with
ideas of this kind that one will relieve the state of an
industry which is truly in consumption."
The Barcelona Exhibition — The Barcelona Exhibition
will be opened on April 8 next. Intending exhibitors will be
required to enter their names before the close of the current year.
It is stated that the guarantors of the Liverpool International
Exhibition of 1886 are to be called upon to pay nearly 22 per
cent, of the amount of their guarantee towards the liquidation of
about £20,000, as shown in the accounts issued by the auditors.
Edinburgh Exhibition. — At a meeting of the Edinburgh
International Exhibition Association, held on November 11, it
was announced that the total receipts of the Exhibition amounted
to £110,525, and the total expenditure to £101,830, leaving a
surplus of £5,695. Some time ago it was expected that the
surplus would reach £15,000 or £16,000, but that idea has
proved too sanguine. The question of how the money left over
is to be disposed of will be submitted to council for an opinion.
Paris Exhibition of 1889. — M. Berger, on behalf of the
General Committee, has issued a circular warning intending
exhibitors that certain unauthorised persons are calling on
manufacturers, offering for a fee to obtain for them specially
favourable space at the Paris Exhibition of 1889. These
self-styled " agents " have, it seems, been at work among the
foreign exhibitors. The Ministers of Commerce and Public
Works have asked the railway companies to concede 50 per cent,
of their rates for the carriage of raw materials to the great
Exhibition of 1889. This concession was made to the exhibitors
of 1878.
A case of mistaken identity, which might have had very
unpleasant consequences to at least one of the parties concerned,
occurred last month at the Westminster Police Court, in which
Mr. W. F. Steel, a watchmaker and jeweller of repute, and
member of the District Board of Works, was charged by a woman
with detaining a silver belt valued at £5, which she stated she had
left at his shop for repairs, and in which she was coiToborated by
two witnesses. Luckily for Mr. Steel, Mr. Brenchley, watch-
maker, of Churton Street, Pimlico, came to the rescue at the right
moment, and producing the belt, stated that it had been left with
him. Most people will concur in the magisterial censure on the
complainant and in the justice of her being mulcted in the five
guineas costs which she was ordered to pay. But such cases
afford food for serious reflections on the equivocal position in
which men may be at times placed, and on the value of evidence
generally.
The Diamond Market. — The continued demand for finished
stones has slowly but steadily increased, which has enabled sellers
to hold out for somewhat better prices than were before obtainable.
Serious fears are entertained, however, among the Continental
workers that the amalgamations now going on among the South
African Mining Companies will soon affect the market to the
disadvantage of buyers. As it is, rough still continues dear. De
Diamant advises smaller manufacturers to hurry on with their
goods, even if it involves paying more to workmen, in view of the
generally increased demand towards the end of the year.
Paris workers have been busy all round, including the setters ;
and many parcels have changed hands, mostly for the United
States account. High-class goods are readily saleable, and a
good demand exists for roses.
The steamers " Mexican," " Garth Castle," " Spartan," " Roslin
Castle" and "Tartar" arrived at Plymouth during the month,
bringing large parcels at somewhat higher prices from the fields,
but, as large numbers of Foreign buyers are in the London market
at present, competition is pretty brisk and not much remains un-
appropriated. " Cleavages," " Givreux " and " Yellows " are much
sought after, and most of the last that was on hand has been dis-
posed of.
Latest from Kimberley report that the market has hardened
and quotations are very firm.
Silver. — There has been little business done in the market
throughout the past month, and although quotations have been
characterised by the usual slight fluctuations in sympathy with
the Indian Exchanges, 43£d. and 13d. per oz. for bars and
dollars respectively have been the ruling prices.
84
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[December 1, 1887.
IUra6e JNotes.
Mayoral Chain for Haverfordwest. — Following the
examble of Pembroke, the town of Haverfordwest is now having
an elaborate mayoral chain, which in style and treatment will
hold its own with the finest civic chains in Wales. It is privately
presented in honour of the Jubilee Year of the Queen, and has
been manufactured by Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham.
The central object of the badge, the cognisance of the town,
belonging to the "castle" period of British heraldry, shows a
quaint castle with three towers, oriels and closed doors, the
warder with trumpet on the central watchtower and banners
flying on the others. The supporters are a dragon and an eagle,
while on the green sward in front of the castle is crouching the
wyvern or red dragon of Wales. This is rendered in enamel in
the true mediaeval spirit, and the name of the borough is given in
the circular border. Four circular escutcheons are arranged
round the centre device, all richly enamelled. The upper one
represents the Royal emblem, the Tudor rose; the lower one the
crest of Wales ; those at the sides record the various charters
from Edward II. to James I., a subject which is further illustrated
on the chain itself by the enamelled arms of the respective
sovereigns. Between the four circles come the civic mace and
the fasces, placed crosswise and interspersed with oak and laurel.
Above the badge is a smaller pendant, appropriately decorated,
containing an enamel painted miniature of the Queen, executed
on a plaque of gold 18-carat quality. The centre link of the
chain itself consists of the Royal arms, garter, crest, supporters
and motto, all carried out in best style and in correct colours,
forming a most effective starting-point for the main body of the
chain.
Mayoral Chain for Penrhyn. — Mr. John Bisson,the Jubilee
Mayor of this ancient Cornish borough, has by gift and subscrip-
tion secured a handsome gold chain of office for its chief magis-
trate, in commemoration of the fiftieth year of Her Majesty's
reign. The order was given to Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of
Birmingham, who have now completed the work in a way that
will add even to their well-earned reputation. The chain is of
gold, Hall-marked on every link, the larger links having civic
crowns surmounting Crusader shields, some portion of which are
already engraved with the names and years of office of past mayors
as subscribers to the chain — the others being left for future occu-
pants of the chair. The centre link is a Jubilee trophy, shown
by a pretty device in enamel and including the name of the present
mayor. The badge, which depends from the centre link, takes a
general circular form — the ancient shield of the town — a saracen's
head with band — the shoulders, covered with antique armour,
being finely treated in enamel ; the shield gold, on a crimson
diaper, leads to the old inscription, " Burgus Penryn," as in the
borough seal, given here in gold letters on a blue enamel field ; a
bold wrought, open wreath of oak one side and laurel the other
completes the circle. But the interest of the badge is much en-
hanced by a facsimile in miniature of a superb loving cup,
presented in 1618 by Lady Jane Killygren, and also in saltire,
reduced copies of the two fine old maces in the possession of the
corporation. The arms of Mr. Bassett, a large contributor, are
placed on reverse of badge, and the effect of the whole is quaint
and original.
Photo frames have come into general use in the decoration of
the home and as a receptacle for the photographs of those we are
desirous of retaining in our memory. Of the many that have
come under our observation, one of the most excellent is the new
registered " Renaissance" frame manufactured by Messrs. King &
Sons, of 222, Goswell Road, E.C. This unique work in the
Renaissance style of art, a beautiful pierced repousse scroll, is
made in all sizes (carte-cle-visite, boudoir, imperial, panel, &c),
and being plated and lacquered, will not tarnish. The samples
of mirrors just finished are most handsome, particularly some
mounted on plush velvet. The firm report a large sale of these
goods. Another frame, manufactured by the same firm, is a
pierced flower and leaf pattern of very tasty design, for which the
prices quoted seem very low. Among their various patterns of
antique and early English silver and silver-plated frames may lie
mentioned a neat-bordered one with cherubs, surrounded by a
small scroll, and another, of a bolder and broader design, with
figures introduced in the corners and centre and pierced work
surrounding. It is curious how from simple designs an effective
result is produced which always pleases : and this is probably why
the early English designs, not only of jewellery but of all decora-
tions and adornments, have again taken such a hold on public
favour. Messrs. King & Sons make a speciality of this style in
buckles, clasps and chatelaines, &c, while the pincushions,
matchstands, &c, manufactured by them in pierced repousse'
work are very pretty and useful adjuncts to the mantlepiece and
toilet table.
The accompanying illustration shows the new "opsionieter" of
Messrs. J. Raphael & Co., of 13, Oxford Street, W, which was
fully described in our last issue.
The New Edition of Kelly's "Directory of the Watch and
Clock Trades" is now ready and will be sent from this office, as
advertised on another page. It is the most complete directory of
the watch, clock, jewellery and kindred trades yet published, and
should prove of great service to those to whom such a guide is a
desideratum.
The Albert Memorial in Gold. — A model of the Albert
Memorial in gold is amongst the Jubilee presents to Her
Majesty, being presented by His Highness Abu Bakar, Sultan of
Johore, who was very recently in England, when he was raised
by treaty to the dignity of Sultan. It stands unique in the
collection of gifts now on view. The Sultan entrusted Mr.
Benson, of Old Bond Street, with its production in the early
part of the year. The model is faithfully carried out in every
architectir-al detail to scale from the plans of the late Sir
George (_■ .ibert Scott. It stands 21 inches high, and is made
entirely of fine gold, as are the railings and four corner groups
of Europe, Asia, Africa, and America, the steps being frosted
silver. The model is enriched by the use of enamel to express
the onyx and gem-like stones of the tabernacle work in the
original. The mosaic pictures in the gables are delicately
painted enamels by special artists. The canopy over the statue
of the Prince is likewise enamelled. The podium or pedestal is
a striking part of the model, as the numerous figures of the
frieze — poets, painters, architects, and sculptors — are reproduced.
The groups at the angles representing the industrial arts of the
country, as well as those of the four quarters of the globe, have
all the details of the originals. Against the pillars are the tiny
statues of allegorical figures representing the greater sciences and
Christian virtues, and again, above these the angels beautifying
the- spire.
December 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
85
Visiting the watch factory of Messrs. P. & A. Guye, 77,
Farringdon Road, E.C., last month, we were agreeably surprised
at the extent of the preparations there made for complying with
the watchmaking clauses of the Merchandise Marks Act, and for
generally extending the manufacture. Although the factory
system has long been in operation with them (nearly a 100 opera-
tives being employed), the firm hare hitherto used their discretion
in availing themselves of certain foreign materials and parts for
economical and other reasons. But all this is now altered, and
the new find improved plant will enable them to turn out in future
the con pbte watch, from the movement to the case, on the most
approved methods, besides doubling the number of hands employed.
Mr. A. Guye informed us that they are now bringing out a cheap
watch of a new calibre which, by increasing the output, will still
further enable them to economise in the different processes. As
all the parts of their watches are strictly interchangeable, and as
there is plenty of skilled labour obtainable for finishing and
adjusting processes, there can be but little doubt that the future
productions of the firm will maintain their past high reputation,
and enable them to successfully compete with other organisations,
to the obvious advantage of the London watch trade.
Of the numberless contrivances that have from time to time
been invented for the purpose of obviating the broken finger nails
and crumbled linen consequent on the use of the ordinary form of
cuff buttons and sleeve links, and perhaps of promoting the
morality of the wearers, most have been open to objections on
account of liability to get out of order, or loss, from the parts
being- detachable. The sleeve-link shown in the annexed cuts,
Fig. 1. Fig. 2.
however, is entirely free from these drawbacks, and being exceed-
ingly simple and easily adjusted, is doubtless destined to become
generally adopted. The clearness of the illustrations render a
description almost unnecessary. To fix the link in the cuff the
moveable ring is slid to the outer end of the slot, as shown in fig. 1,
and the end A is inserted through the two holes of the cuff from
the outside, and when through the top is slid into the position for
holding as shown in fig. '2, where it is securely held by a pressure
spring. It is the invention of Mr. Thomas Hart, of 4, Heathcote
Street, W.C., and its manufacturers are Messrs. Appleby & Co.,
of 55, Frederick Street, Birmingham.
Birmingham Silver. — The following is circulated by the
Birmingham Assay Office : — It having come to the knowledge
of the Guardians of the Standard of Wrought Plate in Birming-
ham that silver lower than the standard recognised by law is
being used in the manufacture of silver plate, and that such
silver plate is being manufactured and exported without having
been assayed and marked, notice is hereby given as follows : — It is
contrary to law to use in the manufacture of silver wares (other than
those expressly exempted from the operation of the Assay Office
laws) any silver of a lower standard than that prescribed by law —
viz., 11 oz. 2 dwts. of fine silver to every pound weight troy.
All silver wares (except as aforesaid) must, before they are sold,
exchanged or exposed for sale, be duly assayed or marked. All
persons offending against these regulations are liable to be
proceeded against according to law. And notice is hereby
further given that a reward of £25 will be paid by the
said Guardians to any person who shall give information
to them as will lead to the conviction of any manufacturer
or dealer offending as aforesaid. — Thos. Martineau, Law
Clerk to the Birmingham Assay Office, Birmingham, October
6, 1887.
LLhe Diamond itutting 3n6u$try.
Iff N an interesting article (of which the following is an abstract)
JgL the Statist calls attention to this industry, with the expressed
object of awakening Englishmen to its importance and the
expediency of re-establishing it in this country.
The paragraphs referring to the possible earnings of the work-
people employed are particularly deserving of attention. We
notice, however, that the writer of the article makes no mention of
what has already been done here in this direction, and should very
much like to hear something from Mr. John Jones, Sir Henry
Bessemer, or Messrs. Ford & Wright (the last of whom could
without doubt afford some valuable, practical and statistical in-
formation) on the subject.
Following an introductory part, the writer states that
it has been from official sources ascertained that the rough
stones exported from the Cape during the four years 1883-6
weighed no less than ten-and-a-quarter millions of carats, valued
at eleven-and-a-half millions sterling, but no reliable data can be
obtained prior to September, 1882. Of course no accurate esti-
mate can be made of diamonds taken away on the person or
stolen or smuggled away. Further, it is estimated that 33
millions of carats, realising upwards of 40 millions sterling, had
been extracted from the mines of Kimberley, De Beer, Bultfontein
and Dutoitspan collectively up to the end of 1886.
The diamond cutting industry in Amsterdam, which employs
in all some 10,000 persons, appears to have been in a state 'of
transition for some years past, and it is a fact that much of the
capital employed in this lucrative enterprise is controlled by
London and Paris houses. The original system, by which the
owners of the so-called diamond cutting mills in Holland simply
provided the motive power, lighting and necessary space at fixed
rates to contracting cutters, seems to be gradually giving way to
the establishment of large diamond cutting works employing
regular cutters, who are paid wages according to their capability.
The number of mills in existence in the Dutch capital cannot be
less than 6,000 to 8,000. Not only is this number rapidly in-
creasing, but the cutting industry has extended from Amsterdam
to Antwerp, to Hanau, near Frankfort — where the diamond
cutting and polishing is almost exclusively for London account —
and even to Switzerland.
It would be difficult — in fact impossible — to give any thing-
approaching to correct statistics of the quantity of diamonds
passing through the Amsterdam mills, owing to the special
character of the trade and the fact that the stones, both rough
and cut, are carried backwards and forwards between Amsterdam
and the markets on the persons of the dealers — thus escaping
observation of the State authorities — and also from the number of
private cutters engaged in the business ; the best judges, how-
ever, estimate that about 20,000 carats of rough diamonds are
weekly manipulated by the Amsterdam craftsmen.
As regards wages it is not easy to give any absolute figures
which would serve as a basis, nearly all the work being done by
the "piece," the price of which varies with its nature and the
size and value of the stones; hence the tariff has a very wide
range. A skilled cleaver and polisher can almost command his
own price. In the large establishments which employ cutters the
wages paid are about as follows : — Women and girls for rose
cutting, 25s. to 35s. per week ; cutters, 35s. to 75s. per week ;
cleavers, 50s. to 130s. per week; polishers, 40s. to 120s. per
week, working twelve hours daily.
There is no doubt that some of the skilled and private work-
men can and do earn more than the maximum figures. These
workmen under the old system have to pay for space and motive
power about 2s. to 2s. 6cl, per day of twelve hours — the weekly
rental of about 15s. per mill, showing a profit of about 50 per
cent, after deduction of expenses and interest on capital.
The earnings of workmen employed in the Amsterdam trade
are gradually decreasing, and probably will continue to do so, as
the new system of large works conducted on wages payments,
and with powerful mechanical appliances, develops. Hence,
even if skilled English workmanship were not immediately pro-
86
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[December 1, 1887.
curable here, there would be little, if any, difficulty in inducing
Amsterdam diamond workers to come to London at about the
same rate of wages as hitherto paid them in Holland. The
poorer Jews, who are so largely engaged in this industry, are
nomadic, fond of change, and soon make themselves at home in
their new surroundings ; moreover, the surplus labour will, ere
long, make itself felt in the Dutch capital.
After giving these particulars the writer in the Statist adds
that there is no presumption in stating that this art would be
capable of employing thousands of artisans, both male and female,
and distributing in wages an amount which would reach annually
at least half-a-million sterling. There are in our midst skilful
and competent Englishmen, able and willing, if only properly
backed up and encouraged, to implant anew in this country, and
to direct with intelligence and entire success, this most lucrative
business. There can be no question of our ability to erect and
equip workshops equal, if not superior, to anything to be found
in Holland or elsewhere, and to carry on operations at a reduced
cost. The trade admits that factories solely laid out for cutting,
and capable of turning out workmanship of the highest excellence,
would receive hearty support, and that if such were efficiently
organised they would undoubtedly be successful. Under these
circumstances it certainly appears desirable that the trade should
foster any movement which may have for its object the restoring
of the lost art to its ancient stronghold, and of making world-
wide the fact that British workmanship is equal to-day to any
that can be procured abroad. The time has arrived for action,
the Held of operations is open, and the demand is greater than
the supply.
Che Pawnbrokers an6 the Jflerchanoise
Ittarhs Act.
\T the meeting of the Metropolitan Pawnbrokers' Protection
Society held on Wednesday, October 26, the solicitor
submitted the opinion of counsel upon the provisions of
the Merchandise Marks Act. They were read at length and
set forth a statement of the very difficult position in which it
would place the pawnbroker.
Mr. Telfer observed that this was a result of the mischievous
opinion existing as to the idea of making people virtuous by Act
of Parliament — of compelling them to be honest from outside
instead of in. It was an example of the danger of the Legis-
lature interfering at the instigation of persons who knew nothing
of the intricacies of business — a course calculated to make more
misfortunes than it would cure. His own idea was that the
matter should be submitted to the Liberty and Property Defence
League. It would be necessary that something should be done
to mitigate the severity of the Act, which placed restrictions upon
innocent as well as upon dishonest men. If a copy of that report
and opinion came into the possession of the Liberty and Property
Defence League, some good might result in getting rid of the
more unbearable restrictions of this Act.
Mr. H. A. Attenboroogh said that no watch had been made
in England for the last 10 years which had not some part of it of
foreign manufacture.
Mr. James Russell said the Act was not likely to touch the
pawnbrokers at present, and they had best wait and see how it
affected others.
Mr. Telfer moved that a copy of this document be sent to the
Liberty and Property Defence League.
It was finally, after some discussion, agreed that the matter be
left in the hands of Mr. Telfer to deal with as he thought fit.
The Pawnbrokers' Gazette says that this Act promises a
mass of difficulty to the pawnbroker. He is bound by law to
sell by public auction all his forfeited pledges for more than 10s.
But how can he venture to do so with this Act hanging over
him? The Metropolitan Protection Society have taken the
opinion of counsel upon the bearing of the Merchandise Marks
Act on their operations, and the result has been eminently dis-
couraging. The position of the trade, in common indeed with
all other occupations, is girt about by such a host of pains and
penalties that they cannot see their way, and have therefore
thought it wisest not to give publicity to the report. There is
no use, they assume, in instructing those who may desire to make
a profit — or to extort hush moneys — from members of the trade,
who will in many cases be involved in serious difficulty by this
Act. In all probability it will not be the pawnbrokers who will
first feel the evils of the new system, and they will do well to
wait and watch, so as to see how the new law works before its
operation reaches them.
Birmingham News.
From Odr Correspondent.
§HE Deeds of Arrangement Registration Act, 1887 (an
account of which will be seen on another page) is generally
accepted here as a useful and important move, the usual
remark being, " A sensible bit of legislation at last."
# # #
It is a pleasure in these degenerate times of cheap workman-
ship and inferior goods to find instances here and there of nice
artistic work still being produced. I was fortunate enough last
week to see a specimen of the silversmith's art in the shape of a
very beautiful key, the handle being composed of an heraldic
shield surrounded by a floral design of a very suitable conventional
character, supported by a handsome column or shaft leading
down to the wards of the key, which are so arranged as to form a
monogram, the whole made of silver, richly gilt and enamelled.
It is the production of Messrs. S. Blanckensee & Son, Frederick
Street, Birmingham, upon whom it reflects great credit as a
specimen of nineteenth century art work. I believe that this
firm are competing very successfully for tins class of work,
several instances having come to my notice of their taking orders
over the heads of other makers.
The hopes that we should have a run of good business up
till Christmas seem to have been suddenly nipped in the
bud, and after some six weeks of brisk work and a con-
siderable increase in the number of smiling faces and numerous
expressions of "I really think trade has taken a turn for the
better," the report again is that trade generally is ilat ; there
arc a few exceptions — some firms working early and late — and I
think that they are all diamond mounters : perhaps the gossip
about the "Diamond Corner" has something to do with this.
# # #
There is a large amount of talk about that same "Diamond
Corner;" the first question generally being "How much capital
will it take to make a success of it ?" Some of the mounters are
hoping for it to " come off." Having heavy stocks, the prospect of
a rise in the price seems very rosy ; but I think, as far as the
mounters are concerned, the opinion I heard given by the head of
a firm in a lai-ge way of business in that branch is the most
reasonable — he argues thus : " The great increase in our branch
of the jewellery trade that we have experienced in the last few years
is mainly owing to the fact that diamonds are cheap and have
thus come within reach of another class of wearers than hitherto ;
raise the price of these stones to the old-fashioned scale and what
will be the result ? some of us who have large stocks may make a
fair increase of profit upon the sale of them, but it will curtail the
number of our orders for the future, and for my part I prefer the
large turnover at popular prices." Well, I think that this is the
right argument ; but the gentlemen who propose forming the syn-
dicate to buy up diamond stock and if possible to limit the out-put
for the future, are not, I suppose, doing this for the benefit of
the diamond mounters or jewellers, but in order to put a few
thousand pounds into their own pockets, consequently they will
be unable to see the logic of this way of reasoning. It is of course
a matter of some considerable doubt whether they will be able to
do it, as the diamond fields are rather more numerous than they
were some years ago ; however, the effect of the gossip on the
subject is a tendency towards increased prices, and this will put
money into some cash-boxes.
December 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
87
Delhi 3eujellers.
By Willlam Simpson, R.I., F.R.G.S., Hon. Assoc. R.I.B.A.
Filjf HE jewellers of India are an important class. In no other
|*g country in the world is his work in such demand. This
will be understood when it is remembered that men,
women and children all wear personal ornaments, and that, too,
to the fullest extent that the means of each individual will admit
of. The poorest man, if he can procure a " firozeh," that is, a
some particular verse from the Koran. Almost all, young and
old, wear articles of this kind ; with the poor they are made of
copper, but with the wealthy, silver and gold is the material, and
the more costly are set with jewels. It should also be remembered
that in India no banking system existed, and that savings were
either buried in the ground or converted into jewellery — this last
being perhaps the favourite alternative. It will thus be seen
that the peculiar ideas and conditions of the people all tend to
develop the craft of those who work in the precious metals.
There is scarcely a village in India that has not its jeweller ; in
turquoise stone— however black and dirty it may be— from a
belief in its being lucky and that it will save its wearer from
accidents, has it mounted on a ring made of the smallest amount
of silver. This is one kind of talisman ; but charms of many
kinds are carried on the person. With the Hindus the symbol
of the particular deity a man worships is worn in a small case,
rV?/ ■ arm; W ' th the M^ammedans the "faswir," or
relic-holder, is suspended by a chain round the neck and contains
A Jeweller's Shop in Delhi.
the larger towns they are of course numerous ; and it will convey
some idea of their numbers when it is stated that, according to
official returns, there were in 1875, in Bombay, 2,875 goldsmiths,
who found " constant and lucrative employment." In the villages
of Afghanistan there are generally a few Hindus who act as
traders, and among them will usually be found one who is a gold-
smith and money-lender. There are " shrofs," or money-
lenders, in all parts of India, but the jeweller is often the' banker,
88
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[December 1, 1887.
and in most cases Ms productions, in the shape of ornaments,
take the place of a deposit account.
In two countries so very opposite in many respects as England
and India, it is very difficult for the people of each to_ form
correct ideas regarding the other. I had a capital illustration of
this with my servant in India, who was a very able and intelligent
fellow ; he had a great desire to come to England, and talking
with him one day about it, I asked him what he would do about
his food — he was a Mussulman, and animals have to be killed, as
with the Jews, in a particular manner — " Oh, Sahib," he said, " I
would go to the bazaar and buy a kid and kill it myself." He
thought he saw his way quite clearly, but he was estimating
the shops of London by the bazaars of India. It is the shops of
the dealers which constitute a "bazaar"; and Jungli Khan,
which was the man's name, would have had an interesting search
along such bazaars as Oxford Street or the Strand for an
establishment in which to buy a kid. Most people at home here
may have just as strange notions of shops in India : they may
naturally imagine that in a great city like Delhi — the old Imperial
capital of Hindostan, that jewellers' shops will be rather hand-
somely got up ; that plate glass windows will be laid out with
bangles and other articles such as were seen at the late Indian
Exhibition, which was supposed to represent India, and might,
in this case, help the imagination.
A bazaar in India is generally a narrow dirty street, with a
series of booths or open recesses which have neither doors nor
windows, in these the people sit on the ground with their hips
on their heels, either waiting for customers — if they are merely
dealers — or at work on the particular articles they produce.
The jeweller's shop in Delhi of which I give an illustration is
rather a superior sort of place. It is built of the red sandstone
which is peculiar to the locality, on which it will be seen there is
some carving on the mouldings, and instead of thatch projecting
to protect those within when the sun is strong, there is a purdah
of striped cloth to stretch out. The reader may be assured that,
for India, this represents rather a superior kind of an establish-
ment : it is not a picture of the Clerkenwell, but the Regent
or Bond, Street of Delhi. It will be noticed that the floor of the
shop is a few feet above the level of the street ; we have here a
peculiarity of all shops in the bazaars of India ; the principal
object of this is to place the occupant and all his goods in
a safe position from .invasion by horses, cattle, or other animals
passing in the street.
The marked feature of a Delhi jeweller's shop is the curious
object formed not unlike the gigantic head of some monster fish ;
this is made of clay or mud, and holds the fire necessary for a
goldsmith's operations — a fervent heat being produced by means
of a blow-pipe. All the tools used by these men are of the
simplest description ; and the marvel is how they can produce
the beautiful work for which they are celebrated with such very
primitive materials. Europeans at times employ jewellers at
their own bungalows ; the man will bring his implements, with
a small pot of fire, and will produce whatever is wanted, sitting
on the floor of the verandah. He weighs the gold or silver
which is supplied, and weighs it again when the articles are
made, charging a very small sum for his day's work. Not long
ago servants used to receive about six or eight shillings a month,
on which they could feed themselves and keep their families.
Jewellers would be paid better than this ; still, the mode of esti-
mating the finest work produced was to weigh the gold and add
six per cent, as the value of the labour upon it. It may be
noticed that the men in the picture have left their shoes outside
the shop: this is an Eastern habit as old as the time of Moses.
Near the shoes is the clrillum, or water-pipe. It consists of a
vase, which holds the water, with a wooden tube, on the top of
which is the tobacco in a small cup. This is often referred to as
the work goes on, and from the gurgling sound produced by
the smokers, Europeans generally call it a "hubble-bub-
ble." Although this sketch was made on the spot as far
back as 1860, I remember that the bird in the cage was a
mina : it is a kind ^of blackbird with a yellow bill, and some of
them can speak a word or two. The cage was formed of slips of
bamboo.
In Delhi there are men who go about with jewellery for sale.
They are always on the look-out for the arrival of Europeans.
These " sona-wallahs " — sona is the word for gold — will sit
patiently before their expected customer, unfolding their articles,
which are carefully wrapped up in bits of cotton cloth. I re-
member one day that a fellow had turned out a large stock, and
by a little sleight of hand I transferred some of the objects into
my pocket. When I reproduced them he gave a single smile,
which might have meant that he had seen it all, or that he was
confident the Sahib would not cheat him. When I paid him for
some purchases I am not quite sure that I was quite so safe as
he was in that respect ; for they put on very high prices, and the
stranger has considerable trouble in knowing what would be fair
and just.
Already in this article some of the conditions which give work
to the " sona-wallah " of India have been given, but it would
take a long time to enumerate all. One or two more may be
here hinted at. India is not celebrated for its pottery ; there is
manufacture of this kind, but it never reached the quality of such
productions in China or Persia. Religious caste has been the
original influence in this case. If a European in a village he
passes through chances to get a drink out of a rude earthen-
ware cup, he returns the cup with thanks, but he is astonished
to see the vessel thrown away, or perhaps broken before his eyes;
and he discovers, rather to his astonishment — probably producing
at the moment a touch of anger — that his touch had defiled it.
A metal dish can be purified by scouring with mud or sand and
water ; on this account nearly all domestic vessels, particularly
those used for eating from, are of metal — brass is the usual
material. We are familiar with porcelain from China; and here is
the explanation of the brass articles generally called " Benares
work" — which are so common now in the shops of London — from
India. Few or none of those who deck their drawing-rooms
with such articles are aware that they are an expression of
Brahininical exclusiveness. Where the ordinary people use brass
the wealthy — the Nawabs and Rajahs — will have silver and gold.
A Rajah, who always eats alone, has his dinner brought in on a
sort of dumb-waiter — the food being in a number of dishes. He
eats with his fingers, and the dumb-waiter is turned round to
bring each dainty within reach. The dumb-waiter will be of
silver-gilt, and the dishes may be either silver or gold, and all
ornamented. Here it will be seen that the dinner table of the
rich in India, with all its belongings, is the production of workers
in the precious metals. The state howdahs — that is, the seat
fixed on the back of the elephant — of Rajahs are usually of
silver-gilt, and are highly ornamental and often enriched with
jewels. The state howdah of the Viceroy is a very handsome
one of silver. Chairs of state are the same ; there was one
which had been sent as a present to the Prince of Wales, in the
Durbar Hall of the late Indian and Colonial Exhibition. The
throne of the Viceroy is of silver, with gilt lions for the arms,
and the emblems surmounted by a crown of the Order of the
Star of India on the back. The celebrated peacock throne of
the Emperors of Delhi was so enriched with precious stones that
it was specially a work of the jeweller's craft.* Rajahs have
always carried in their presence on state occasions a number of
royal insignia ; they are of silver, highly ornamented and gilt.
Most of the Hindoos have small shrines in their houses ; these
small ornamental stands, with figures of their gods upon
are
them. The greater quantity of such articles are of brass, but
with the wealthy they are made of the precious metals, and often
with jewels upon them, the gifts of their votaries. The story of
" The Moonstone," by Wilkie Collins, is based on a celebrated
stone that had belonged to one of the celebrated gods of India,
and the Koh-i-Noor is also reputed to have at one time belonged
to an idol. These very slight sketches of the requirements of
life as it is in India — and it has been the same for ages back —
will show you how great must be the demand upon the jeweller
and the worker in the precious metals.
» This throne, which was of the forcn of a peacock, covered with jewels, was carried
off from Delhi by Nadir Shah. It, or what is left of the original, is said to be now in
Terhan, and I regret much that I missed seeing it when in that city about three years
ago. According to some accounts the throne was broken up at Delhi, and Nadir had
only a copy of it made on his return to Persia.
December 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
89
The Emperors of Delhi had within the palace boundaries a
large establishment of all kinds of skilled artisans ; these included
painters, inlayers of gold and damascene workers — who were
principally employed in decorating weapons — enamellers, embroi-
derers, jewellers and workers in gold, silver, crystal and carnelian.
The Ayin Akbary gives a detailed list of the great number of people
who were thus employed by the Emperor Akbar. He personally
superintended the work and rewarded all who showed signs of
superior ability. Jade articles may be said to be almost peculiar
to China, but the Mogol Emperors introduced the manufacture of
articles from it ; the Chinese only carve the jade, but in India it
was not only cut, but encrusted with gems. ■ Some of the finest
specimens of this work are in the Indian Collection at South
Kensington — from the Guthrie Collection, if I am not mistaken —
among them is a bowl on which it is said one family in Delhi
were employed for three generations.
The Princes of India had similar establishments to that at Delhi;
and there is reason to suppose that those who had the means
kept skilled workmen about their houses. Rajendralila Mitra, a
learned Sanscrit scholar of India, quotes* from a play written
in the first century of the Christian era, called the " Toy Cart,"
which describes the scene in the court-yard of a courtezan's
house, where there are "jewellers' shops," and "skilful artists
were examining pearls, topazes, sapphires, emeralds, lapislazuli,
coral and other jewels; some set rubies in gold, some work gold
ornaments on coloured thread, some string pearls, some grind
the lapislazuli, some pierce shells, and some cut coral." From
the same play, Eajendralila Mitra gives us another aspect of the
jeweller's trade at that early date. It is evidence, from what
follows, that those who could not afford geniune articles had
imitations to wear, so that the fabrication of false jewellery was a
practised one. There is a passage in the " Toy Cart " which deals
with the indentity of certain ornaments, which takes place in a
court of justice. A question is asked by the Judge: " Do you
know these ornaments?" Mother — " Have I not said ? They
may be different, though like ; I cannot say more ; they may be
imitations made by some ' skilful artist.' " Judge — " It is true.
Provost, examine them ; they may be different, though like- — the
dexterity of the artists is no doubt very great, and they really
fabricate imitations of ornaments they have once seen and in such a
manner that the difference shall scarcely be discernable." The
Judge here pays a very high compliment to the ability of the
workman. As far back as the laws of Manu there were punish-
ments for the debasing of gold with inferior metal ; there were
also in the same code a curious law that a fine was to be imposed
for " piercing fine gems as diamonds or rubies, and for boring
pearls or inferior gems improperly ."f The spirit of the legislation
would seem to be that precious stones, from their indestructible
character, did not altogether belong to the holder of them for the
time, and that he had no right to injure or destroy such objects,
which should descend intact to posterity. If this is the
spirit, Cleopatra, had she lived under such laws, might have got
a sentence of twelve months when she dissolved the pearl.
Che Deeos of Arrangement Registration Act.
fHE Deeds of Arrangement Registration Act, 1887 (50 & 51
Vic, c. 57) , provides that every deed of arrangement between a
debtor and his creditors shall be absolutely void unless it is
registered with the Registrar of Bills of Sale within seven days
of the first execution, by the debtor or any creditor. A register
of deeds of arrangements is to be kept, showing the date of the
deed, the name, address and description of the debtor, with the
titles of his firms and the addresses of his places of business ;
a short statement of the effect of the deed ; the date of registration ;
and the amount of property and liabilities included in the deed.
This register may be inspected at any time by any person on
payment of a shilling fee, and cojnes of any deed of arrangement
may be procured. The register is not to be confined to London.
Whenever the debtor's place of business or residence is outside
the London Bankruptcy District, the registrar is, within three
* " Indo-Aryans," Vol. I., p. 239.
■f Ibid.
days of the registration of the deed, to transmit a copy of the
deed to the County Court in the district of which the debtor's
place of business or residence is situated. Thus there will not
only be a register for all England at London, but in every town
there will be a register, equally accessible to the public, of all
the local transactions of the kind. It will be a difficult
matter to discover a loophole in the Act. The term " deed of
arrangement," as used in the Act, receives a very precise and
exhaustive definition. The term is to include any instrument,
whether under seal or not, made by, or for, or in respect of the
affairs of a debtor, for the benefit of his creditors generally,
whether it takes the shape of an assignment of property or a deed
of, or agreement for, a composition ; and it is to include cases in
which creditors obtain any control over the business or property
of a debtor, so that a deed of inspectorship for the purpose of
carrying on or winding-up a business, and a letter of license,
agreement, or instrument authorising the debtor or any other
person to carry on or to realise a business, with a view to the
payment of his debts (a definition which will include the arrange-
ment so often made by which creditors join in giving a debtor
time in which to pay his debts), will require registration.
Deeds of arrangement are to be burdened with a stamp duty,
in addition to that now imposed by the Inland Revenue, of
Is. per cent, upon the sworn value of the property passing
by the deed, or the amount of composition payable under the
deed. The Bankruptcy Act, 1883, is subjected to a small but
important emendation. One of the causes mentioned in the Act
for which the Court may refuse, or suspend, or make conditional
the discharge of a bankrupt, is " that the bankrupt has upon any
previous occasion made a statutory composition or arrangement
with his creditors." The present Act strikes the word "statutory"
out of this provision. Henceforward the fact that a bankrupt
has made a private arrangement with his creditors will operate
against the obtaining of his discharge. The Act applies to
Ireland, but does not apply to Scotland.
Jflining in jNew South "ftlales.
RECENT advices show that the operations at the various
Ms
mining centres have retained the increased activity recently
reported. A few fresh discoveries of gold, silver, tin and
lead-bearing localities have been recorded, although no further
phenomenal yields are on record. The boom in silver shares has
continued almost without abatement, and the interchange of
scrip has been a marked feature on the Mining Exchange. It
appears to be evident that the proved extensiveness of the New
South Wales argentiferous districts is causing what may be in
some fairness compared to a mining revolution. The successes of
individual proprietaries have induced capitalists to risk their
moneys for prospecting purposes, with the general result that
new finds, with attendant satisfactory mint assays, have been
forthcoming. In connection with tin-mining also, increased
prosperity has to be recorded. Gold-getting, despite intermittent
fluctuations, continues to be brisk. Several new fields have been
opened up in comparatively unexpected quarters, [and a steady
yield is reported from most of the recognised reefing and alluvial
quarters. In diamonds but little is doing, the owners of the
fields having been for some time in communication with English
and Continental syndicates and capitalists in reference to opening
up our diamond-bearing drifts upon a wholesale scale. It has
been somewhat conclusively pointed out that to ensure a payable
return in this particular connection, operations will have to be
carried out upon a much more extensive scale than has been
heretofore, the case. In four or five districts the existence of
probably millions of diamonds has been established beyond a
doubt, but their size, lustre and general merit are such that (so
far as has been ascertained up to the present time) quantity must
be relied upon to ensure an European market. The upper drifts
on the diamond-bearing grounds have only been tapped, but
a movement is on foot to expend capital in the opening up
of lower strata, in which, it is confidently believed, the larger
and purer class of stones may be looked for. Copper-getting
continues active.
90
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[December 1, 1887.
Che Leuer Escapement
CONSIDERED WITH REGARD TO ITS FORM, INERTIA,
FRICTION, <kc.
By M. L.-A. Grosclaude, Professor at the Genera School
of Horology.
(Translated from the French.)
(Continued from page 76.)
The Draw.
jRfET us now say a few words of the "draw" in order to
3*g»i have finished concerning the form of the escapement.
What is the draw for ? Is it for the purpose of equalising
the resistance to disengagement of the pallets from the wheel?
or is it that, should the anchor become accidentally displaced,
the wheel may bring it back into place in order to eliminate all
friction of the dart upon the roller ? It seems to us that this
latter is the true object.
Now, when will this draw be nil? that is to say, when will it
not have the effect of driving the anchor in any sense, as if it
had no friction ? This will be when it presses upon a surface
perpendicular to a radius going from the point of the tooth to
the centre of the anchor, which should give the j^osition of the
centre of the wheel. But if it be required that this pressure
bring back the fork against the safety stops, this surface must
be inclined a certain number of degrees sufficiently to overcome
the resistance clue to friction. An angle of 12° is enough,
because the passing inertia neutralises all friction up to 0, 20.
Proceeding then, at the entering lift (equidistant lockings, fig. 1,
page 75) the flank of the pallet m h makes an angle of 12°
with the perpendicular in z erected upon the radius e r.
It may be remarked that when the entering pallet leaves the
tooth, the draw of 12° is increased to 13^°, since the anchor
makes l-|-° before the tooth can act upon the incline of the pallet,
while, if the exit pallet has similarly 12° at the commencement, it
will be reduced to 10^° when the point of the tooth leaves the
locking.
We will give, then, to this latter pallet at first a draw of 13^°,
for two reasons : in the first place so that it be always at least
12° ; and to obtain at the same time the advantage of the wheel
offering the same resistance to unlocking upon the two faces,
because, upon the first, the draw will go from 12° to 13^°, while,
upon the second, it will go from 13^° to 12°. The mean will
then be the same.
The equidistant pallets do not afford the same facilities for
obtaining the draw, the corner of the tooth being at a different
distance from the centre of the anchor. To obtain the impulse
angle it is sufficient that it have at least 12°, and the same
results might be obtained as in the escapement with equidistant
lockings. But if, at the same time, the effort of disengagement
is to be the same for both pallets, the draw of the exit pallet
must be increased inversely as the lengths of the pallet arms
from the respective lockings to the centre of the anchor. This
calculation gives 16-|° of draw for the exit pallet, and 15° at the
moment the tooth leaves the locking. The angle, it is true is
greater than is necessary to assure the impulse, but, on the other
hand, the draw is thus equalised.
It is then, with the line m z, perpendicular upon e r, at the
entrance pallet, that an angle of 12° is formed, and at the exit
pallet, with the line m 1 z', perpendicular upon the line e' r that
the angle of 16^° is formed.
The Impulse.
Having seen the proper mode of drawing the escapement, so
as to give always to the anchor the exact angular movement pro-
posed, modifying at will the relations of the inclines upon the
pallet, and upon the tooth and the form of the pallets, the
question which naturally presents itself is: which of all these
designs should be chosen as giving the best means of trans-
mitting the motive force at our disposal ? To this we reply
that if the questions relating to the oils, inertia of the matter,
and friction be left out, and an equal drop be adopted for all, all
the forms are of equal value. As this contention may appear
somewhat extraordinary to some of our readers, they would do
well to allow us to explain here some mechanical principles too
frequently ignored.
Every machine or mechanical combination has for aim the
transmission of the motive force, or work.
By work is meant the product obtained by multiplying the
pressure, the force, or the resistance, by the distance traversed.*
In the case in which we are interested, the work done by the
escape wheel during one impulsion is equal to the pressure
exerted by the point of the tooth, multiplied by the distance
traversed by that point during one impulsion. Assuming that
this point exerts a pressure of ten units of weight, and that the
space traversed by the point of the tooth during one impulsion
(corresponding to an angular movement of 12° of the wheel) be
ten linear units, the work transmitted by this wheel at each
impulsion will lie expressed by 10 x 10=100.
We have taken for the distance traversed by the point of the
tooth, and the pressure it exerts in a point of the circumference
of the wheel, arbitrary quantities, because this study is only for
the purpose of comparing different systems and not of measuring
absolute quantities.
It is important to observe that the amount of work the escape
wheel has to transmit to the balance is exactly the same what-
ever be the point of the wheel from which it is calculated.
Thus, if we take a point in the wheel at half the distance from
its centre, it will exert double the pressure, but at the same time
the lineal distance it will travel over for an angular movement of
12° of the wheel will be only half, the product of the two
quantities remaining the same.
This motive force is not transmitted entirely to the balance,
by reason that the tooth of the wheel does not act continually
during the 12°, because the action should be followed by a drop
of 2° at least for the wheel with pointed teeth, and of \\° for
the others. In the former case it can only transmit 10-12ths,
or 83^- per cent, of work, and, in the latter, only UH-12ths or
87^ per cent.
All things being otherwise equal, it will be advantageous to
diminish the drop as much as possible, because, as we have before
seen, for each 1° or drop saved Ave economise more than 4 per cent,
of transmitted work. In fact, there the work is absolutely lost,
because there results from the drop upon the locking face of the
pallet a shock which has no other effect than of producing wear.
In mechanics shocks are always to be avoided, as they present
only inconveniences with no conqjensating advantages. It is of
course understood that we except the case where the shock is
sought for the purpose of forging, for example ; but even then,
mechanicians have recognised that if the same end can be
obtained by pressure, it is better to use it.
In our case, in the meantime, the drop cannot be completely
avoided because we have to take into account the irregularities,
more or less inseparable, for execution ; and as it is necessary to
insure the freedom of the pieces, it must be accepted.
Now, is the work done by the wheel during one ireqralsion
transmitted to the anchor as well by one of our designs as by the
other ? We reply affirmatively, if, we repeat, the influence of
inertia and of friction be subtracted. In effect, the work, per-
formecl in the manner before explained, transmits itself always in
totality, whatever be the mechanism employed to transmit it.
Let us take some examples outside horology. What effort
must be exerted to raise a weight by means of a pulley ? An
effort equal to the weight, because the distance traversed by the
force is equal to that traversed by the resistance.
In a system of tackle of three pulleys in one, a weight six times
as great as the force exerted upon the cord can be lifted, but the
speed is six times less. Let us consider again the platform
scales which are used for weighing bulky goods, such as waggon
loads of materials, hay, &c. ; if a weight of 1 kilogramme,
s In mechanics, the unit of work adopted is the work done in raising 1 kilo-
gramme to the height of 1 metre, or in a more general manner, a resistance of 1
kilogramme overcome in a distance of 1 metre, and this unit is called a kilogramm&tre.
Another unit, by means of which dynamics of different forces may be compared, is the
horse power, which is equal to 75 kilogrammetres produced in 1 second ; thus, a steam
engine of 1 horse power is that which can raise 75 kilogrammes to the height of 1
metre in 1 second, or 1 kilogramme to 75 metres in 1 second, or lastly, 1 kilogramme
to 1 metre in l-75th second.
December 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
91
placed upon the beam, succeed in balancing 1,000 kilogrammes,
any vertical movement of the goods will have a corresponding
movement of the weight exactly 1,000 times greater.
The pressure exerted by the tooth of the centre wheel would be
60 times weaker measured upon the tooth of the seconds' wheel
if these two wheels were of the same size, because the one tooth
would travel 60 times further than the other. We always find
the same product of the pressure by the distance traversed, what-
ever point of the machine we calculate it from. It is from this
the well-known law proceeds, that what is gained in power is lost
in speed.
Passing now to a rather more complicated, example, that of the
piston of a steam-engine acting by the intermediary of a bearing
upon a crank. Supposing this latter turns an arbor on which is
wound a cord carrying a weight at its extremities. Assume that
the diameter of the arbor be such that its circumference is equal
to the distance travelled through by the piston during one turn of
the arbor ; the result will be that the piston for any number of
turns of the arbor will travel through the same distance as the
weight to- be raised. In this particular case the weight the
machine will be able to raise will be exactly equal to the pressure
exerted upon the piston. It is well known that with a crank the
force or pressure transmitted varies at each instant ; it attains
its maximum when the bearing rod acts perpendicularly upon the
crank, and it becomes nil at the dead points. This irregularity
in the impulsion, following the different positions of the crank,
has not then the effect of interfering with the transmission of
total work.
From the preceding we must conclude that if, from an equal
angular movement of the wheel, we obtain an always equal
angular movement of the anchor and its fork, the mean pressure
exerted will be always equal, whatever be the form adopted. Never-
theless we would point out that we have not said that the pressure
of the escape wheel would be transmitted in a uniform manner
throughout the whole duration of an impulse, but only that the
total transmission of the work will be the same.
Then, in order to choose among the different data for making
the most mechanically advantageous design, we must abandon
all that concerns the theoretical impulse and limit our study to
the causes which may modify it ; and these causes, which we
shall have to examine successively, are the numerous resistances,
in particular those of the oils, of the inertia of the matter, and
above all, of the friction.
Inertia and Shocks.
Setting out from the principle that matter continues in the
state in which it is found ; that is to say, that a body in repose
cannot be moved by itself, and that a body in movement will con-
tinue that movement indefinitely unless somh perturbing force
act upon it, it results that each time we shall have to alter the
speed of a body, either by accelerating it or tetarding it, we must
expend work. The resistance matter offers to a change of speed
is called inertia. It would be well to know whether or not the
work necessarily expended in order to overcome it is to be
grudged. But this resistance is only really hurtful when it leads
to shocks between non -elastic bodies. Let us take some
examples in order to make this understood.
Supposing several workmen are pushing a railway waggon in
order to put it in motion. Many resistances, such as frictions and
the resistance of the air, will have to be overcome, but it is to
the resistance of the inertia of the mass of the waggon that the
principal expenditure of labour is due. If the labourers at a given
moment cease to push the waggon forward, the latter will continue
iu motion indefinitely upon a level railway, allowing the non-
existence of friction and the other resistances. But these
resistances cannot be got rid of, and the speed acquired by the
waggon is utilised in overcoming them and preserving the move-
ment for a certain time. The work expended in the first place
finds here, then, its employment. It is seen by this that the
property of inertia of matter is often advantageous, in that it
allows of the storage of work in the form of vital force ; the only
work really expended and lost, without useful results, is that
caused by injurious resistances, frictions, shocks, resistances of
the air, &c.
The fly-wheel of a steam-engine, heavy in itself, only loses
work on account of the increased friction due to the heavy weight
of the wheel. If by reason of this great mass it requires a
little more time to attain a determined speed, the machine
benefits by having a more regular one and the power to continue
its function, which the motive power by itself would not be equal
to were it to be discontinued for a moment. The preceding
example is equally applicable to the balance of a chronometer. A
billiard player exerts an effort to give an impulse to a billiard
ball ; this last will continue its motion even after striking the
cushions, and will only stop, if these are perfectly elastic, on
account of the friction produced by the cloth.
An elastic ball falling to the ground will rebound to nearly the
same height from whence it dropped ; but in the case of a non-
elastic substance, such as a ball of lead, it will remain on the
ground and all the work produced by the drop will be absorbed
by a deformation of the matter and a production of heat.
We have said that shocks between elastic bodies do not expend
any work ; this is only true, however, if the elasticity is perfect —
and, unfortunately, this condition is not absolutely realised by any
body. We have bodies more or less elastic, but none attains
perfection in this respect. So we must conclude that shocks are
always to be avoided ; while it is not so of the inertia of matter so
long as it does not result in shocks.
Let us now consider what takes place in an escapement that
is in action. The balance oscillates its full amplitude. The ruby
pin is taken by the fork at the instant the balance has acquired
its greatest speed. As the spring is almost at rest at this
moment, we may consider the movement of the balance uniform ;
and since the fork is forced to participate in this movement, the
anchor will also have a sensibly uniform motion. This will be so
milch the more true inasmuch as the mass of the balance will be
greater with respect to that of the anchor and its fork. The
latter must then pass suddenly from rest to the same speed ; so
that we have here a very serious shock, which will certainly pro-
duce temporary perturbations, detrimental to the good perfor-
mance of the escapement. The inventive genius of our readers
might here be exercised with advantage in the direction of
finding a mechanical disposition of the ruby pin and the fork
that would permit of giving the movement to the anchor without
shock. We have then to consider the pallet moving before the
tooth with a uniform speed sufficiently great. Assuming the
escape wheel to have a given mass, it will have to pass from
rest to motion ; for this a certain time is necessary — as much
longer as the motive force is less and as the mass of the wheel is
greater. This case presents itself where the tooth only comes in
contact with the incline of the pallet for a quarter or third of its
length, &c. The condition will be plainer if it be observed that
when the tooth leaves the locking free of the pallet, the wheel
makes a slight quick retrograde movement, which still further
retards the instant when the point of the tooth comes in contact
witli the incline of the pallet. It is not easy to verify the impor-
tance of this retardation in the contact, since it is only observable
when the balance is vibrating at a high speed. Practical men
who have had in hand escapements, anchor, cylinder, &c, that
have been going a long time, will, however, be in accord with
the foregoing considerations if they examine those parts of the
nclines which have been worn.
The above observations indicate a shock that it is important
to get rid of. This is arrived at by diminishing as much as
possible the weight of the escape wheel without weakening it too
much. Another means would be by devising such a combina-
tion of forms of levers, that to a uniform movement of the
pallet a corresponding movement of the wheel be given, which
should somewhat resemble the action of the piston and crank of
a steam-engine. In this case the piston passes from rest to a
rapid motion, and from the latter to rest by an insensible pro-
gression ; thus each deperdition of force is imperceptible, since
there is no point of shock. For the escape wheel with pointed
teeth, an incline of a form which would give the required result
could be contrived: one part would be convex and the other
concave.
(To be continued.)
92
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[December 1, 1887.
ABSTRACT OF THE PRINCIPAL CHANGES OF RATE DURING THE FIFTEEN
AT THE ROYAL OBSERVATORY, GREENWICH,
NAME
OF
MAKER.
No.
ro
l*i
Ol
oi
o
-
—
CO
£
o
•N
ADDRESS
OF
MAKER.
Construction of Escapement and Balance,
from the
Description furnished by the Maker.
Least
Weekly-
Rate.
Extremes
of
Temperature.
Uhrig
Mercer
C. Frodsham and Co...
Johnson and Son
Johnson and Son
Hume
Kullberg
Johannsen and Co
Johannsen and Co
Johannsen and Co
Isaac
Uhrig
David Reid
Webster
Hume
Pyott
Isaac
Kullberg
Oram and Son
Brockbank and Atkins
Mann
Reid and Sons
Glover
Edward and Sons
Williams
Davison
Keys
C. Frodsham and Co...
Webster
Oram and Son
Webb
AVebb
James Poole and Co. ..
Reid and Sons
Hewitt
Sewill
Hewitt '.
Keys
Brockbank and Atkins
Williams
Sewill
Sewill
Oram and Son
Webster
Pyott
Mercer
David Reid
Oram and Son
Klean and Co
C. Frodsham and Co...
James Poole and Co. ..
Schoof
458
4592
0011
3780
3779
2013
3500
3516
3588
1670
450
1788
16968
2014
887
1688
4738
18432
2038
4603
867
366
4936
4465
3367
888
0012
16704
510
513
5800
5785
5626
4420
5552
884
2054
8798
4419
4418
19181
15083
878
4827
850
19107
1006
3600
5801
6059
8, Quadrant Road, Essex Road. N.
Prospect Road, St. Albans, Herts.
84, Strand, W.C.
35, Victoria Street, Derby.
36, Victoria Street, Derby.
No. 6 Side, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
105, Liverpool Road, N.
149. Minories, E.C.
149, Minories, E.C.
149, Minories, E.C.
10, Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.
8. Quadrant Road, Essex Road, N.
39, Grey Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
5, Queen Victoria Street, E.C.
No. C Side, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
74, West India Dock Road, E.
10, Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.
105, Liverpool Road, N.
1!». Wilmington Square, W.C.
6, Cowper's Court, Cornhill, E.C.
The Cross, Gloucester.
41, Grey Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
8. Wrotham Road, Camden New Town,
1, Poultry, E.C.
3, Bute Docks, Cardiff.
No. 6 Side, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
15, Craven Street. Strand, W.C.
84, Strand, W.C. '
5, Queen Victoria Street, E.C.
19, Wilmington Square, W.C.
90, High Street, Islington, N.
90, High Street, Islington, N.
33. Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.
41, Grey Street. Newcastle-on-Tyne.
4, Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.
30, Cornhill, E.C.
4, Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.
15, Craven Street, Strand, W.C.
6, Cowper's Court, Cornhill, E.C.
3, Bute Docks, Cardiff.
30, Cornhill, E.C.
30, Cornhill, E.C.
19, Wilmington Square, W.C.
5, Queen Victoria Street, E.C.
74, West India Dock Road, E.
Prospect Road, St. Albans. Herts.
39, Grev Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
19, Wilmington Square, W.C.
70, Myddelton St., Clerkenwell, E.C.
84, Strand, W.C.
33, Spencer Street, Clerkenwell, E.C.
99, St. John's Street Road, E.C.
Uhrig's continually acting auxiliary.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary Balance.
( Auxiliary compensation acting in extremes of
) temperature.
Auxiliary compensation for heat.
Reversed detent, with short spring.
Auxiliary acting in heat and cold.
Auxiliary acting in heat.
Auxiliary acting in heat and cold.
Palladium balance spring.
Dhrig's continually acting auxiliary.
Auxiliary compensation.
Palladium balance spring.
Auxiliary compensation.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance ; bright steel spring.
Reversed detent, with short spring.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance, with auxiliary acting in heat.
Ordinary 1 alance, with auxiliary compensation.
Auxiliary compensation.
Improved balance.
Ordinary balance.
Ordinary balance.
Ordinary balance.
Auxiliary compensation acting in heat.
Auxiliary compensation acting in heat.
Poole's auxiliary.
Poole's auxiliary.
Poole's auxiliary.
Ordinary balance.
Poole's auxiliary.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance.
Ordinary balance, with auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance.
Ordinary balance.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance.
Ordinary balance, with slight alteration.
Auxiliary compensation.
Auxiliary compensation.
Ordinary balance.
Poole's auxiliary.
Ordinary balance.
Poole's auxiliary.
Schoof's resilient lever escapement.
— 12
— 18
— 15
— 4
+ 1
+
+
— 3
— 17
— 25
— 5
+ 3
+ 2
— 13
+ V
— 10
— 3
— 9
— 8
— 18
+
— 29
— 6
9
— 21
—
— 10
— 10
+ 4
— 10
— 15
130
7-
0—91
0—54
0-95
0-58
0—54
0-58
1—71
3-59
1—71
0—58
1—71
1—71
0-54
1—71
9-61
0—90
0—54
4—51
0-90
0—90
4—51
4—51
0—58
0—96
0—55
1—71
4—51
0—58
0-95
0—95
4—51
1—71
1—71
0-90
9-61
0—96
4—51
0-58
0-58
4—51
0-91
4—51
4-51
3—66
3—66
0-95
4—51
0—54
0-95
0—54
0—90
40-4—51-5
88-0—90-3
The sign + indicates that the rate is gaining
December 1, 1887.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
93
WEEKS OE CHRONOMETERS ON TRIAL EOR PURCHASE BY THE ADMIRALTY,
EROM MARCH 5, 1887, TO JUNE 18, 1887.
Mean
Temperature.
O
89
8
1 47
6
} 93
7
54
3
47
6
54
3
68
3
53
8
68
3
54
3
68
3
68
• 3
47
6
68
•3
58
•0
89
•4
47
•6
45
■2
89
.4
89
•4
45
•2
45
•2
54
•3
94
•3
48
■3
68
■3
45
2
54
.3
93
•7
93
7
45
2
68
3
68
3
89
4
58
94
3
45
2
54
3
54
3
45
2
89
8
45
2
45
2
63-
6
63
6
93
7
45-
2
47-
6
93.
7
47-
6
89-
4
45-
2
89-
4
Greatest
Weekly
Rate.
Extremes
of
Temperature.
Mean
Temperature.
Difference
between the
Greatest
and
Least.
fa)
Greatest
Difference
between one
Week and
the next.
Mean
Temperatures
for these
two Weeks.
a+21>
NAME
OF
MAKEE.
No.
s
7-2
12-9
7-0
4.1
10.5
11-3
14-5
7-5
11-7
5-3
6
5'
14>
7
15'
19-2
6-4
18-5
4.3
12-8
7-2
5-8
16-4
13-2
7.2
14-4
5-8
5-9
15.5
3.3
30.9
6-6
16-8
2-6
+
9-1
+
80
+
20-7
+
80
+
12-5
+
12-2
+
8-1
+
21-2
+
2-0
+
19-6
+
18-6
+
17-6
+
36.5
-1-
17-8
+
12-3
+
17-7
+
25.9
390
49-3
64-1
49-3
88.0
40-4
92.0
920
40-4
92.0
88-2
92-0
90-2
39-0
92-0
92-0
64-1
49-3
49.3
64-1
64-1
40-4
60-3
64-1
92-0
88.0
49-3
44-0
39-0
54-9
49-3
920
49-3
390
390
641
880
64-1
64.1
50-0
64-1 .
64-1
92-0
39-0
49-3 ■
64-1 .
50-0
60-3 -
64-1 ■
54-9 ■
92.0 -
60-3 -
55
■ 59
71
59
91
■ 51
• 96
96
■ 51
■ 95
■ 94
95
• 95
■ 55
96
■ 96
• 71
59
■ 59
■ 71
• 71
■ 51
• 66
• 71
- 95
■ 90
■ 59
• 54
■ 55
■ 61
■ 59
96
• 59
■ 55
■ 55
71
90
71
71
57
71
71
96
55
59
71
57
66
71
61
96
66
483
53-8
683
53-8
898
45.2
94.3
94.3
45-2
93-7
92-6
93-7
93-6
48-3
94-3
94-3
68-3
538
53-8
683
68-3
45-2
63 6
683
93-7
894
53 8
47-6
48-3
58
53-8
94-3
53-8
48-3
48-3
68-3
894
68-3
683
529
68-3
683
94-3
48 3
538
683
52-9
636
683
580
94-3
636
49
60
82
8-3
8-9
8.4
101
91
12.1
11-9
101
11-9
10-7
121
11-6
171
201
110
14-6
16-3
186
152
130
161
16-1
13-6
13-7
150
15-8
15-9
184
22.0
15-9
197
22-7
25-2
14-3
230
24-8
16-1
277
24-7
235
28-2
22-3
29-1
28-4
316
28-2
27-3
30-7
33-7
13
10
9
15
10
12
13
11
15
13
18
18
20
21
23
29
3
6
3
7
3 —
8 —
3 —
6 —
7 —
3 —
3
3
3
4
89-4
68-3
63-6
52-9
54-3
89-4
89-8
580
45-2
54-3
89-4
89-4
580
58-0
92-6
89-8
58-0
54-3
89-8
89 4
58
58
58
58
54
89
54
89
54
58
89
63
54
89
93
89
58
54
45
89
89
58
58
89
89
58
89
58
89
58
89
89
s.
11-5
14-0
15-2
19-3
21-1
22-6
22-9
22-9
23-7
23-7
23-9
24-1
25-1
26-1
264
28-3
303
304
31-2
31-5
33-6
338
34-8
35-1
351
35-4
361
37-4
38-2
38-5
39-4
39-8
40-1
41-3
41-5
41-6
42-1
43-6
44-2
46-5
49-1
50-1
505
51-6
535
55-3
64-4
68-2
68-8
70-3
77-9
92-9
Uhrig
Mercer
C. Frodsham and Co,
Johnson and Son ..,
Johnson and Son
Hume ,
Kullberg ,
Johannsen and Co....
Johannsen and Co....
Johannsen and Co...
Isaac
Uhrig
David Reid
Webster
Hume
Pyott
Isaac
Kullberg
Oram and Son
Brockbank & Atkins
Mann
Reid and Sons
Glover
Edward and Sons ...
Williams
Davison ,
Keys
C. Frodsham and Co,
Webster
Oram and Son
Webb
Webb
James Poole and Co
Reid and Sons
Hewitt
Sewill
Hewitt
Keys
Brockbank & Atkins
Williams
Sewill
Sewill
Oram and Son .
Webster
Pyott
Mercer
David Reid
Oram and Son
Klean and Co
C. Frodsham and Co.
James Poole and Co.
Schoof
458
4592
0011
3780
3779
2013
4689
3500
3516
3588
1670
450
1788
16968
2014
887
1688
4738
18432
2038
4603
867
366
4936
4465
3367
888
0012
16704
510
513
5800
5785
5626
4420
5552
884
2054
8798
4419
4418
19181
15083
878
4827
850
19107
1006
3600
5801
6059
The Chronometers are placed in order of merit, their respective positions being determined by consideration of the irregularities of rate
exhibited in the Table above.
94
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [December 1, 1887.
Itashet for Loro 3ttagheramorne.
PTjf HE elevation of Sir James Macnaghten Hogg, M.P., to the
M Peerage, has led his friends in Truro — which city he repre-
sented in Parliament for many years — to offer him an
address of congratulation enclosed in a ve'ry special and artistic
casket, which has been manufactured by Messrs. T. & J.
Bragg, of Birmingham. The commission was given to Mr.
Veen, of Truro, and the oak which forms the body of the box
is a part of the timber taken from the old church on the partial
adaptation of it to the first portion of the new Cathedral, which
was consecrated last week. Upon the oak box are a series of
panels and divisions in silver-gilt and enamel, so that the oak,
appearing only at intervals, affords a very effective contrast. A
richly moulded and decorated plinth supports the oblong casket,
the obverse of which displays the enamelled arms of the city,
with miner and mariner supporters, the civic power being indi-
cated on another division by the enwreathed mace, a trophy of
Neptune's trident dolphins and sea-weed forming a third. One
end is illustrated with the enamelled shield of the diocese of
Truro; on the opposite an Unionist trophy, also in colours, with
crown over. The fourth side has the inscription plate. The lid
is appropriately decorated in repoussee panels, while a richly
wrought scroll handle has the emblazoned arms of his lordship
in front, with monogram on reverse and the crest surmounting
all. The finish is of the highest class, and every detail carefully
rendered.
(Bolbsmiths ano jewellers' Asylum.
fHE twenty-first annual dinner of the Goldsmiths and Jewel-
lers' Annuity and Asylum Institution was held, on October
31, at the Holborn Restaurant. Major George Lambert,
F.S.A., the president of the institution and Prime Warden of
the Goldsmiths' Co., occupied the chair, and was supported
by, among others, Mr. E. J. Watherston, Mr. J. B. Ball, the
Rev. J. H. Rose (Vicnr of Clerkenwell), Mr. Churchwarden
Spiers, Mr. Hagon, Mr. Taylor, Mr. F. B. Thomas, Mr. Under-
Sheriff Rose-Innes, Mr. J. Mortimer Hunt, Mr. J. Wellby,
Mr. D. Wellby, Mr. R. H. Seeker, Mr. Henry Summers and
Mr. J. L. Innocent (Secretary).
The Chairman, in proposing the toast, "Prosperity to the
Goldsmiths and Jewellers' Annuity and Asylum Institution,"
said the institution was founded as far back as 1827 for the
relief of everyone in connection with the goldsmiths' trade who
was really in need of assistance, and it had continued to carry
out that object with a liberal hand. It had met with a good
deal of support, but nothing like the amount it deserved. .In
times gone by it had done a vast amount of good, and would
continue to do good, but it was to be hoped that it would be
more liberally supported. The way the affairs were managed
were as perfect and inexpensive as it was possible to conceive.
Indeed, it was managed free of expense if they excluded the
small amount paid to their collector. Many institutions estab-
lished in later years had been glad to adopt their rules, a fact
that showed what a great amount of care was bestowed upon
them by the promoters. He knew of no institution that was
carried on upon better principles and with better results. There
were, however, many large firms, some of whose workmen had
been assisted by the society, who did not contribute at all to the
funds. This ought not to be, and he hoped when they met
again next year there would be no ground for complaint on that
score. Their funds were not small, it was true, but the calls
upon them increased from year to year, and consequently
increased subscriptions were necessary.
Mr. E. J. Watherston said it was pretty well known that
he was very much in favour of a reform of the City Guilds, but
he was not, and never had been, in favour of any reform which
would sweep them away altogether. On the contrary, he believed
there was a grand future before them ; that they had passed
through the bad time of their existence^ and were about to
become of great use and service to London. Some of the Guilds
had already clone much to promote technical education, and this
was a matter in which they could — and he believed would — do
very much more.
The Chairman said the Goldsmiths' Co. — of which he had
the great honour of being the Prime Warden, after having
begun life as an apprentice — were by no means an idle body.
They were very busy at the present time, but in spite of the
temptation held out to him in Mr. Watherston's speech, he was
not at liberty to say what it was they were doing.
Mr. J. Mortimer Hunt gave the toast of " The Executive of
the Institution."
Mr. F. B. Thomas replied, and said it was very satisfactory to
find that the funded property of the institution continued to
increase. The fact that 1,200 workmen were members of the
institution was a splendid evidence of its great usefulness to
members of the trade.
Before the close of the evening the Secretary announced
subscriptions in connection with the dinner amounting to about
£320, including £105 given by the chairman, and £20, the result
of a workshop collection.
Christmas and New Year's Presents. — The following
notice has been issued by the Post Office : — Senders of parcels
desirous of availing themselves of the facilities offered by the
Foreign and Colonial Parcels' Post to despatch Christmas and
New Year's presents to relatives and friends abroad are reminded
that, in order that parcels should reach their destination on or
about the desired date, such parcels, more especially those ad-
dressed to the Colonies, must be posted some time in advance.
The following are the latest dates when parcels can be forwarded
so as, in due course, to reach their destination about Christmas
or New Year, as the case may be : — For the Continent of Europe :
Not less than from three to ten days before Christmas Day or
New Year's Day, according to the locality ; for British Colonies
and Possessions and Egypt : The first date to reach about Christ-
mas Day, the second to reach about New Year's Day ; Cape
Town (other towns in the Cape Colony will, of course, receive
the parcels later) : December 1, December 8 ; Natal : November
24, December 1; Ascension and St. Helena: December 1, De-
cember 8 ; West Indies (Antigua, Barbadoes, British Guiana,
Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Nevis, St. Kitt's, St.
Lucia. St. Vincent, Tobago, Tortola, Trinidad) : December 1,
December 15; Gibraltar, Tangier and Malta: December 14, De-
cember 21 ; Cyprus : November 30, December 7; Egypt: Decem-
ber 7, December 14 ; Aden: November 30, December 7; India
(Bombay) : November 23, November 30 ; Ceylon : November 16,
November 30 ; Straits Settlements, Labuan and North Borneo :
November 16, November 30 ; Hong Kong : November 2, Novem-
ber 16 ; South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Tas-
mania : November 3, November 10 ; Western Australia : Novem-
ber 10, November 17 ; Dominion of Canada (New Brunswick,
Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Province of Ontario) : De-
cember 8, December 15 ; North- West Territories, Province of
Manitoba, British Columbia, Vancouver's Island : December 1,
December 8 ; Newfoundland : December 6, December 20. With
the exception of the Dominion of Canada and Newfoundland,
the dates given are those on which the mails are made up in
London ; in the case of Canada and Newfoundland the mails
are made up at Liverpool. In order to be included in the mails
despatched as above mentioned, parcels must be posted in time
to reach London or Liverpool, as the case may be, by the night
mails preceding the day of despatch, and, to prevent disappoint-
ment, care should be taken to make inquiry in good time at the
local post offices. On almost every occasion of the despatch of
a parcel mail abroad, parcels reach the despatching office too late
to be included in the outgoing mail, although obviously intended
to go by such mail, and more or less delay is necessarily the
consequence. In these cases the parcels have been posted by the
senders on the days appointed for the closing of the mail or for
the departure of the steamer, and the parcels consequently reach
the despatching office too late to be forwarded.
December 1, 1887.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
95
Localities of (Bems.
WjMHERE is no law, according to Burnham, regulating the
"gig 1 geographical distribution of mineral species, as is the case
with plants and animals, hence climate has little or no
influence upon their development ; yet it is a fact that the richest
coloured gems are found in tropical regions. They occur in
different geographical formations, but the most valuable are found
in the oldest. Sometimes they are embedded in a mass of rock ;
at other times they are near the surface, in diluvial or alluvial
soil, gravels, and sands of river beds (where they are seen as river
pebbles) ; and not unfrequently do they appea'r in derivature rocks,
far from their original home.
They are most abundant in warm countries, and from this
circumstance it has been thought that volcanic agency may have
had some influence in producing them. It would seem that some
peculiar conditions in the laboratory of Nature must have been
required for the production of these, her choicest gifts. Some of
the southern countries of the eastern continent yield the finest
and the largest quantities of the most valuable gems — the ruby,
sapphire, topaz, spinel, jacinth and other coloured stones. How
can this be accounted for, except on the ground that climate has
to some extent a controlling effect upon the formation of precious
stones, though it cannot be the only influence, since they occur,
in some of their species, in nearly every country on the globe ?
North Carolina, in the New World, is probably the richest
State in the American Union for its gem minerals, many of
which are of the first class. A few specimens of the diamond,
of small size but excellent quality, have been discovered in six
different counties in this State.
California offers a considerable variety of ornamental stones,
including the diamond, corundum opal, garnets, various kinds of
the quartz species, malachite, azurite, selenite and absidian.
Gazette,
Partnerships Dissolved.
Schultis, Schwar & Co., Goswell Road, E.C., and Pretoria, South Africa.
Johnson & White, Red Lion Street, Clerkenwell, electro-plate manu-
facturers. Castle & Turton and D. Miller & Son, Sheffield, cutlery
manufacturers. Wright Brothers & Shires, Doncaster, pawnbrokers.
Bentley, Powis & Co., Hanley, jet ware manufacturers. Stacey Bros.,
Sheffield, cutlery manufacturers. Charles Jones & Co., Liverpool,
jewellers. Herz, Smalz et Cie, and Herz, Rosenfeld and Co., Paris,
and St. Andrew Street, Holborn Viaduct, diamond merchants, so
far as regards C. Smalz. L. Courlauder & Co., Kimberley, South
Africa, merchants.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender in London. — George Warwick, Poland Street, Oxford
Street, goldsmith.
To surrender in the Country. — Walter Teale Densham, Bude, Cornwall,
jeweller. Owen Allen, Bath, watchmaker. Samuel Bradley (trading
as John Payne), Blackpool, jeweller. Thomas Swaine, Macclesfield,
watchmaker. Walter Green, Birmingham, manufacturing jeweller.
George Handsom. Bedale, Yorks, jeweller. James Bate, York, watch-
maker. John Britton, Nottingham, watchmaker. Henry Harris
(trading as Henry Harris & Co.), Edgbaston, jewellers' factor. William
Frederick Sanders, Staines, clockmaker, Thomas Lucas, Quorudon,
Leicestershire, watchmaker. William Dyer, Birmingham, jeweller.
James Smith, Cheltenham, jeweller.
Public Examinations.
In London. — W. Jardine (trading as Jardine & Co.), Great Winchester
Street, diamond merchant ; December 16, at 12.30.
In the Country. — J. Britton, Nottingham, watchmaker; December 6, at 10.
J. L. Ward, Jun., the Globe Spoon Works, Smethwick, spoon manu-
facturer ; December 12, at 11. S. Bradley (trading as John Payne).
Birmingham and Blackpool, jeweller ; December 22, at 2. W. Green,
Birmingham, jeweller ; December 22, at 2. J. Smith, Cheltenham,
jeweller; December 22, at 12. T. Lucas, Quorndon, watchmaker ;
December 14, at 10.
Adjudications.
In the Country. — 0. Allen, Bath, watchmaker. J. Bate, York, watchmaker.
T. Swaine, Macclesfield, watchmaker. G. Handsom, Bedale, jeweller.
W. T. Densham, Bude, jeweller. J. L. Ward, Jun., Smethwick, spoon
manufacturer. W. Dyer, Birmingham, jeweller. J. Smith, Chel-
tenham, jeweller. W. F. Sanders, Staines, clockmaker.
Notices op Dividends.
In London. — E. Bassett, High Street, Camden Town, pawnbroker ; 3\d.,
second and final ; any day except Saturday, Chief Official Receiver,
33, Carey Street. T. W. Cooper and A. Cooper (trading as Thomas
W. Cooper & Son), Amwell Street, Clerkenwell, watch manufacturers;
5£d., second and final; any day except Saturday, Chief Official
Receiver, 33. Carey Street, T. W. Cooper (separate estate), Amwell
Street, Clerkenwell, watch manufacturer ; Us. 3d., first and final ; any
day except Saturday, Chief Official Receiver, 33, Carey Street. A.
Cooper (separate estate), watch manufacturer ; 2s. 4d., first and final ;
any day except Saturday, Chief Official Receiver, 33, Carey Street.
In tin- Country. — W. J. Anderson, Carnforth, watchmaker ; Hi., third and
final ; any Wednesday between 12 and 2, Seear, Hasluck & Co., 23,
Holborn Viaduct, E.C. W. Rawlin, Newark-upon-Trent, watch-
maker ; 7Ad., first ; any Monday, Official Receiver, Nottingham. W.
S. Wigg, Great Yarmouth, jeweller ; 8s. 0£d., first and final ; November
29, H. P. Gould. Norwich.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller and Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn, London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Row, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
14,449. J. A. Lund, London, for " Improvements in the striking apparatus
of clocks.'' Dated October 24, 18S7.
14,451. T. Elford, G. Ackland and R. Morgan, London, for" Improvements
in calcining and melting copper, lead, and other ores and regulus."
Dated October 24. 1887.
14,482. E. B. Smith, a communication from James Brown, New Zealand,
for " Improved construction or arrangement of surfaces for
separating gold or other fine metal particles from quartz or earthy
matters." Dated October 25, 1887.
14,609. H. T. B. Dumelow, London, for " Improvements in solitaires and
studs." Dated October 26, 1887.
14,647. H. H. Lake, a communication from Adalmar Breden, Austria, for
" Improvements relating to the electro-deposition of silver and
nickel upon iron, steel and other metals." Dated October 27, 1887.
14,697. I. J. T. Newsome, London, for "Improvements in keyless and
key-winding watches." Dated October 28, 1887.
14.792. H. J. Allison, a communication from James Bowyer D'Arcy
Boulton, United States, for " Improvements in process for casting
metallic ingots." (Complete specification.) Dated October 31,
1887.
14,904. C. W. Kitto, London, for " An improved apparatus for distributing,
mixing, separating, grinding, cleaning and amalgamating gold
or other ores or tailings." Dated November 2, 1887.
F. D. Dencker, London, for " Improvements in chronometers."
Dated November 7, 1887.
15,223. H. Barrett, London, for " An improved method of mounting coins,
stones, compasses, &c. (or an improved mount for coins, &c.)."
Dated November 8, 1887.
J. F. Cassidy, Birmingham, for " A safety centre pinion for going-
barrel watches ; can be applied to clocks, musical boxes and all
going-barrel machines." Dated November 10, 1887.
15,504. A. N. Contarini, London, for " Improvements in the process of
separating precious metals from their ores, and in apparatus to be
employed therein." Dated November 12, 1887.
H. Ostermann and A. Prip, London, for " Improvements in the
manufacture of balance wheels for watches and chronometers."
Dated November 14, 1887.
C. T. J. Vautin, London, for " Improvements in apparatus for the
extraction of gold from crushed or other finely-divided auriferous
material." (Complete specification.) Dated November 14, 1887.
15,638. W. Hardy, jun., London, for "Improvements in regulating
watches." Dated November 15. 1887.
15,660. A. J. Thomas, London, for "Improvements in electric clocks."
Dated November 15, 1887.
15.767. L. P. Guignard, London, for " Winding-up indicator for watches,
clocks and horological works of any kind with going-barrel."
Dated November 17, 1887.
15,849. L. Weill and H. flarburg, London, for "A combination of a
watch,- sovereign purse, stamp case and match box." Dated
November 18, 1887.
15,866. E. Weis, London, for "Imitation jewellery and ornaments."
Dated November 18, 1887.
15,881. C. A. Meygret and P. Marino, London, for "A new alloy and
process for manufacturing the same, and for electro-plating or
typing therewith." Dated November 18, 1887.
15,165.
15,334.
15,561.
15,574.
Recent American Patents.
Darby & Blakeslee
, Woerd
Chamois Skin with Rouge, Impregnating.
Chuck for Watch Movement Plates. C. V.
Clock, Astronomical. H. Conant ...
Clock, Electric Alarm. E. J. Colby
Clock, Electric Alarm. S. P. Meads
Coffee Pot. J. S. Stringer
Drilling Machine. A. L. Stanford
Files, Manufacturing Double Cut. W. M. iMcDou^al
Furnaces, Refractory Lining for Metallurgical. T. Twynam ...
Earring Fastening. T. VV. F. Smitten
Grindstones, Treadle for. J. H. Simonson
Ingot Mould. S. R. Wilson
Jewel or Toilet Set Box. F.W.Evans
Lathe for Forming Pivots of Balance Staffs. C. V. Woerd ...
Mechanical Movement. D. H. Bennett
372,207
372,002
371,306
370,932
371,696
370,827
371,859
371,778
371,233
371,283
371,856
371,907
371,182
372,001
371,024
96
THE WATCHMAKEE, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [December 1, 1887.
Metals from their Ores, Apparatus for Agitating Solution
in the leaching of. F. F. Hunt 370,871
Opera Glass. F. Scheidig 370.975
Pliers. C. B. Manlev 370,960
Hatchet Drill. A.L.Stanford 371,858
Ratchet Drill. A. W. Linton 370.956
Safe Lock, Electrical. C. J. Kintner 372,02fi— 372.028
Screw Nicking Machine. OF. Roper 372.227
Screw Tap. J. Wike 371,015
Screws, Machine for Sharpening Heads of. C. F. Roper ... 372,276
Sheet Metal by Electro-deposition, Apparatus for Forming.
E. Emerson. :.. 371.256
Sheet Metal Shears. J. H. Mason .. 371,961
Spring Motor. A. F. George 370,779
Tool Handle. C. Willms ■ 370.913
Watch. D.Green 372,261
Watch. W.Hanson 371.139
Watch Case. G.C.Smith 371.282
Watch Case Spring. N.J.Felix 372,018
Watch. Pendant Winding and Setting. C. Kistler 371,595
Watch, Pendant Winding and Setting. J. Bachner 37L539
Watch; Stem Winding and Setting. "D. H. Church 370,929
Watches, Device for Setting Ruby Pins in. D. H. Abney ... 371,019
Watches, Forming Bearings for. F. P. Bonneau ... 372,113
Watches, Forming Pendants for. H. Lefort 372.158
Watches, Jewel Supportfor the Balance Staffs of. H. Knickman 372J269
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
1866, will be furnished from this office for 2s. 6d. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Tkuslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeiveller and
Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
torresponbence.
All Lrtters for Publication to be addressed to the. Editor of The
Watchmaker. Jeweller and Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Church-
yard, E.C.
All communications must bear the name and address of the sendt / . nut
necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.
To the Editor op The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith.
Sir, — Many articles have appeared in the daily papers lately
on the subject of diamond production and diamond cutting.
The person who writes these articles can know little about the
subject, and by misleading the public, does a great amount of
injury when he tells them that six-and-a-half tons of rough
diamonds were taken out of the mines in six years. Although
this statement may be correct, the writer does not seem to know
of what these six-and-a-half tons are composed. That absence
of knowledge may frighten the owners of diamonds, especially
private people. Some ladies hold as much as £20,000 worth of
diamond jewellery, and the above statement is likely to give them
a wrong impression as to the real value of their possessions.
But let us look at the facts by experience. Now, three parts of
this six-and-a-half tons which were taken out of the mines are
nothing but what we term in the diamond trade " common
boart " — valued at 2s. 6d. per carat — a class of diamond used to
make powder for polishing other diamonds ; it is also used by
engineers for electrical purposes, and for many other uses. Now
there are one-and-a-half tons to be accounted for ; of this
weight a large proportion is too common to cut profitably. The
next quality is cut in large quantities and held by rich diamond
merchants, or, as soon as possible, distributed over the whole
world. Now comes the fine quality, white and perfect. This
class is dearer at this time- than it has been since the discovery of
the South African mines. Rough stones, that will produce from
one to three carat brilliants when cut, cost, in the rough, from
£5 to £12 per carat, and they lose two-thirds of their
weight in cutting to make them of fine proportion and shape.
We have had rough diamonds sent us to cut and polish lately,
estimated at £50 per carat, showing the scarcity of fine rough
diamonds even in the trade. It is now certain that the rough
material must have a great rise in price, on account of the
mining companies amalgamating with a gross capital of about
£14,000,000 sterling. When this amalgamation takes place
the great company will corner the market ; they will be able to
regulate the output of rough to suit the demand, and keep prices
even higher than at the present time.
By inserting this in your valuable Journal you will do a justice
both to diamond merchants and wearers of diamond jewellery.
We will take the liberty of sending you an article on diamond
cutting for your next issue, to prevent the public being deluded
by inexperienced theorists.
Yours truly,
Ford & Wright.
Clerkenwell Road, and
18 and 19, Clerkenwell Green,
November 21, 1887.
Dear Sir, — Perhaps some kind reader of your Journal would
explain the best method for extracting broken cylinder plugs
from very small cylinders.
I find it a difficult task when the plug is very tight, and it
generally involves putting a new cylinder altogether, which one
lias not always by him, therefore causing a considerable loss of
time. The only tool I should imagine suitable is a hardened
steel stake, having a varying size of gradual bevelled chamfored
poles.
Do watch-tool manufacturers keep tools of this description ?
If they do, I should like to know where to obtain one. Could
you enlighten me on this subject, you would greatly oblige
Anxious Brighton.
Buyers' $uibe.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield, Sell Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Buy all materials containing Gold and Silver.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account upon
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
Customers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden,
London, E.C.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen, send to Alexander Edwards>
Watch Material and Tool Dealer, 88 & 89, Craven Street, and 2, Holy-
head Road, Coventry. Lists : all Horological Literature.
"W. Scott Hay ward & Co., 59, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool, Leipzig and Paris.
WANTED.
TTALY.— A FIRST - RATE MERCANTILE FIRM,
JL travelling regularly over the whole peninsula — Sicily, Malta and
Tunis — with large experience and extensive connections in the Jewellery,
Watch and Clock line, is open to enter into correspondence with some
Important Manufacturer for the Sale of their Goods in the above
quarters. References of the highest standing.— Please address, A. A.,
110, Naples.— [Adyt.]
TO BE SOLD.
TTTATCHMAKER'S, JEWELLER'S and SILVER-
VV SMITH'S BUSINESS.— Established over 100 years in good
Agricultural and Training Districts. Stock moderate, and can be
reduced. — For particulars, apply to Mrs. J. Staniland, Malton, Yorks.
[Advt.]
\\/ATOH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
VV of Superior Goods only ; established 35 years, with good Jobbing
Trade attached, extending over England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Incoming cam be. reduced to -Four or Five Hundred Pounds, chiefly or
quite covered by goods, comprising movements, material, tools, &c.
Owner no objection to remain two or three years to part work at
finishing or assist in any way required. Age only reason for wishing to
decline business.— Address Manufacturer, Office of this Journal. —
[Advt.]
%\v
^atcl^akcr, jeweller
Entered at Stationers' Hall."]
Edited bt D. GLASGOW, Jun.
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 7.]
JANUARY 2, 1888.
t Subscription, 5s. ( Post
per Annum. ( Free.
CONTENTS.
Editorial ... • ....
General Notes
Trade Notes ... ...
The Merchandise Marks Act. (Illustrated)
The New Hall Marks for Foreign Watch Cases
Birmingham News. (Illustrated)
New Books... ...
A New Compass
The Rating of Watches at Kew Observatory
The Legend of the Koh-i-Noor
The Lever Escapement. By M.L.-A. Grosclaude. (Illu
The Theory of Adjustment. By M. L. Lossiee. (Illusti
American Items ...
Anniversary Dinner of the Horological Club
The Dresden Collection ...
Workshop Memoranda ...
Gazette ...
Applications for Letters Patent...
Recent American Patents
Correspondence ...
Answers' to Correspondents
Buyers' Guide ...
itratei
ated)
d)
PAGE
. 97
. 98
. 99
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. 101
. 102
. 103
. 103
. 104
. 105
105
107
108
109
110
110
no
111
111
111
111
112
Che Tllatchmaher, Jeweller an6
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription.— A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for $s. payable in advance.
Advertisements.— The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence.— Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, ST. PAUL'S CHURCHYARD,
LONDON, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
NOTHEE year has passed and gone, and by the
time the present number of the journal is in the
hands of our readers, the New Year will have been
ushered in with all the honours.
To state that the events of the past twelve months have
been of very great moment to the trades with which we are
especially concerned, would be merely to utter a truism with
which everyone is acquainted. Whether they are to operate
beneficially or otherwise in the future is a matter of speculation.
Still, speculation is better than apathy ; it is a healthy sign
in itself, indicative of a nervous awakening and prospective
action, and that it exists at present to a greater extent than has
been the case for a great number of years is an undoubted fact,
as it is a matter for congratulation.
The business outlook for the next year is far from being so
cheerless as it was this time twelve months back. On all sides
we see signs of activity and preparation, and while the general
trade of the country shows an improved tendency, the special
causes which produced local depressions are either removed or
are disappearing.
Thus, the dulness in the watch trade during the latter portion
of the year has undoubtedly been chiefly due to the uncertainty
prevailing as to the probable effect of the special clauses of the
Merchandise Marks Act affecting that trade, which, coupled
with the delay attending the publication of the Order in Council
with respect to the Hall-marking of cases, has prevented
retail buyers from adding to their stocks ; while, with a decrease
in the number of names appearing under " Receiving Orders "
in the Gazette, a marked improvement is observable in the
jewellery and fancy trades, in which confidence had been pre-
viously so much shaken as to seriously interfere with business.
With regard to the first-named trade, efforts are everywhere
apparent of a desire to comply with the requirements of the law,
and, as it has been almost officially announced that the Act was
intended to operate more as a deterrent measure than to be used
as a means of punishment, not much inconvenience need be
98
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1888.
apprehended from its application by those who only desire to act
honestly. The foregoing remarks may, to some extent, apply
to the construction to be placed upon the retrospective character
of the measure, although, in the absence of any authoritative
decision on the subject, it would not be safe to assume that all
watches stamped before the publication of the Order in Council
will not require any further distinctive marks.
Seneral Notes.
fHOSE who are interested in or contemplate speculating in
gold mining shares should read a paper on "The Goldfields
of the Transvaal," contributed to last month's Longmans'
Magazine, by George J. Nathan.
The Queen has received a magnificent Jubilee present from
the diamond fields of South Africa in the shape of an ivory
casket lined with curled ostrich feathers. The lid is mounted
with gold filigree-work and profusely studded with diamonds.
The death took place last month of Mr. Samuel Roberts, of
Sheffield, aged 87 years. Mr. Roberts was descended from an
ancient Yorkshire family which took a leading part in the intro-
duction of the silver-plating industry into Sheffield. He gave
munificently to church, educational, and social objects.
The death took place last month of Mr. George Garritt, of
Smith Street, Northampton Square. The deceased gentleman,
who was well known and respected in connection with many
parochial and trade associations, has held the positions of Chair-
man of the Goldsmiths' & Jewellers' Annuity Asylum and
Secretary to the Precious Metals Dealers' Protection Society.
Orders have been issued to the Customs officials of the
United Kingdom to lay anembargo on all watches bearing the
English Hall-mark in the case, imported after the present date,
unless the place of origin be distinctly marked on the movement,
pending further action under the Merchandise Marks Act with
a view to their confiscation, &c.
One of our Coventry friends informs us that the dulness of
trade is by no means over as regards the watchmaking industry
in that town ; as a proof of which he adduces the fact of lever
escapements being now made at Is. 9d. This is indeed a poor
look-out for the workmen engaged, and the effects of depression
could, we think, hardly go much farther in that direction.
It is perhaps not very generally known that the mechanical
figures, &c, of many of the old musical clocks known as twelve-
tuned Dutchmen, made by Rimbault, who kept a shop in Great
St. Andrew's Street, Seven Dials, about the middle of last
century, were painted by the afterwards celebrated dramatic
portrait painter, Johann Zoffany. It was through Rimbault,
who introduced him to Benjamin Wilson, that he became known
to David Garrick, the actor, who subsequently became his warm
friend and patron.
In Some Official Correspondence of George Canning, edited by
Edward J. Stapleton, and published by Messrs. Longmans,
Green & Co., we find a curious petition from the watchmakers of
London, begging that Mr. Canning will encourage their trade
by substituting watches for snuff boxes as diplomatic presents to
foreigners. The petition incidentally mentions that the cost of
"the best gold repeater that could be required " would not exceed
100 guineas. Canning answers that the subject is entirely new
to him, and that he will take it into his consideration. The
" correspondence " covers Canning's last term of office, from
1821 to 1827.
The prospectus of the British Diamond-cutting Co., Limited
(R. E. North & Co.) states that the proposed capital is
£100,000, in £1 shares, but the present issue is to be £75,000,
including the "fully paid" shares given to the vendors. It is
an entire mistake, says the prospectus, to suppose that diamonds
can be cut well and cheaply only in Holland. Messrs. North's
business has been bought as a nucleus of a large experiment
which is to prove this statement true.
Mr. Thomas Jessop, who died at Sheffield on November 30,
was for many years proprietor of Brightside Steel Works, the
largest works engaged exclusively in the manufacture of steel in
the world, and was chairman of the limited company which took
over the business. He was Mayor and Master Cutler, and
founded and furnished Jessop's Hospital for Women, costing
£30,000. Mr. Jessop was 84 years of age.
The death of Professor Stewart, of Owens College, Manchester,
took place last month at his house near Drogheda. He held for
about ten years the directorship of the Kew Observatory. At
the time of his death he was president of the Physical Society of
London and of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical
Society. In 1870 he was appointed Professor of Physics at
Owens College, and director of the Physical Laboratory.
A man, who declined to give any account of himself, was
arrested last month at Birmingham, on suspicion of being
concerned in some jewellery robbery. A " dress improver"
containing new jewellery worth about £200 was accidentally
left at an hotel in the town on Friday by a woman who
had been staying there along with the prisoner and another
man, and the prisoner was arrested on calling to claim the
valuables, which bore upon them shopkeepers' price tickets.
In reply to the inquiry of a correspondent as to how the Mer-
chandise Marks Act will affect stocks of watches purchased
before the new law came into operation, Mr. Courtenay Boyle
states, on behalf of the Board of Trade, that they have no power
to place an authoritative opinion upon an Act of Parliament,
but that they may call attention to the exempting words in Section
7 of the Act — " and the watch bears no description of the
country where it was made."
Mr. Lowinski, diamond expert, having made an examination
of some newly-purchased ground in Purtyal, India, on behalf of
the Hyderabad Company, reports the discovery in the plot of a
rich diamond mine. He states that the ground contains millions
of tons of diamondiferous layers which have never been touched,
and that the finding of diamonds in largely-paying quantities is
only a matter of time and labour. As the Company was to have
commenced work within a month from the time of his report,
it is doubtless by this time carrying on operations.
In an interview with a representative of the Coventry Herald
a leading manufacturer stated that the depression in the watch
trade of Coventry was partly due to the transition state of the
type of watch produced, but that the same genius which enabled
Coventry to take the trade from Liverpool and London will
enable it to win back on new lines the old supremacy. He had
a distinct hope for the future of the Coventry watch trade.
Gauged by the progress in the article produced, Coventry's
advance, during the past five years, is greater than that of either
Switzerland or America ; and should that be continued, a new
future for Coventry, based on the new type of watch — the keyless
and going-barrel — the improved method of manufacture, and the
highly-organised factory system, may fairly be predicted. He
was emphatically of opinion that, though prices had gone down,
the quality of Coventry watches had improved ; the type of goods
produced was certainly more in touch with modern demands, and
time was on the side of local trade,
January 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
99
The representative of the Macdonald Ranges Ruby Mining
Co. has received a very favourable report upon the gems
which he has brought to this country from the Central Territory
of Australia. It is drawn up by a well-known firm of expert
brokers in Hatton Garden, who state that they have come to the
conclusion that the Co. has made a valuable discovery, and
possess " stones which will sell freely at high prices." The
report further states that a large quantity of these stones have
been cut and are gradually being introduced to the London
market, and there is no doubt in time they will command a ready
sale, for many of them are of extreme beauty. It is worth
notice that experts both in Melbourne and Adelaide laughed the
" find " to scorn, holding out the hope that some of the rubies
might be garnets.
The Centennial International Exhibition at Melbourne in
1888 is being actively supported by the various Chambers of
Commerce on this side, some of which are using their influence
with a view to British industry being adequately represented at
Melbourne. The Council of the London Chamber has had
under consideration letters received from the Royal Commission
for the Exhibition in this country, reminding it of the keenness
of foreign competition with British trade in Australia, and the
importance, therefore, of British commercial interests being
well represented. The same letters were brought before the
Australasian Trade Section of the Chamber at a special meeting
held the other day, when it transpired that previous efforts
made by the Chamber had had good effect, the Association
of Chambers of Commerce of the United Kingdom having
been induced to issue a circular in favour of, the Exhibition.
Sir Vincent B. Kennett-Barrington, a member of the Council of
the London Chamber, who has just returned to England, was
stated to have rendered valuable service in inducing foreign states
to take part in the Exhibition. Some discussion took place as
to the unsatisfactory treatment of exhibitors at the recent
Adelaide Exhibition, more especially in regard to an alteration of
the tariff which it was alleged was applied to goods sent to
Adelaide for sale, on the understanding that they could be
disposed of on payment of the duties in force when they were
originally received. The system of awards was also stated to be
unsatisfactory. The hope was therefore expressed that no
changes of this kind would be made in the course of the
Melbourne Exhibition. One or two members interested in
Victorian trade were of opinion that this was extremely unlikely,
and, in support of this, attention was drawn to the prospectus of
the Exhibition.
The Diamond Market. — Although the latest reports from
America state that brisk sales are the order of the day, none of
the Continental markets are as yet affected thereby. However,
the holidays are considered sufficient to account for the present
dulness, and a lively Spring trade is confidently anticipated.
Probably, to the same cause is attributable the scarcity of buyers
in the London market, which, coupled with the high quotations
from the fields, makes things very flat.
Latest from Kimberley report the prices firm for all classes of
goods, with a less active demand.
Silver. — The fluctuations, which are a distinguishing feature
of this market, owing to the varying rates of the Indian ex-
changes, followed a slightly upward tendency throughout the last
month ; quotations for bars closing at 44^d. per oz., while
Mexican dollars remain nominally at 43|d.
City and Guilds op London Institute. — Dr. A. K. Miller
will deliver a course of ten lectures on the " Chemistry of Oils
and Fats," at the Central Institution, Exhibition Road, on
Mondays, at 4 p.m., during the Spring term, commencing on
January 23, 1888. The lecturer will treat of — 1." Oils of
mineral origin ; petroleum, including shale oil, paraffin, and
manufacture of oil gas; 2. Oils, fats, &c, of vegetable and
animal origin, volatile oils, including turpentine, fixed oils and
fat,
Crabe 3Sfotes.
'filiWHE Prince of Wales has ordered a set of Harrison's Patent
14| Tube Chimes (which we spoke of in connection with the
Manchester Exhibition and elsewhere) for the church of
St. Alban's, Copenhagen, and Mr. Harrison has gone over to
superintend their fixture.
The decoration and diploma of the Legion of Honour have
been awarded by the French Government to Mr. James Kendal,
of the firm of Kendal & Dent, watchmakers, 106, Cheapside,
London. This firm was also fortunate in receiving the Gold
Medal at the Paris Exhibition.
Jobbers should write to Messrs. A. Flavell & Co., 59, Spon
End, Coventry, for their new price list of materials and parts
used in watch repairing. The prices quoted for the various
repairs appear to us extremely low, while the well-known reputa-
tion of the firm is a sufficient guarantee of the quality of the work.
We are informed by Mr. James Rigg, the well-known manu-
facturer of technical education apparatus, that his business has
been taken over by a company, under the style of Rigg's Tech-
nical Education Appliances, Limited. The new offices and show-
rooms are at 20, Bucklersbury, Queen Victoria Street, E.C.
Messrs. Thompson & Vine have dissolved partnership. Mr.
E. J. Thompson, whose long and active business and public
career has well merited a much needed rest, having retired, the
business will in future be carried on by his nephew, Mr. T. W.
Vine, who has long been the active partner.
The New Romney Household Almanack, which has now
reached its fifth year of publication, is interesting as being the
only work of its kind we know of that owes its being to the
enterprise of one of our craft. It is published by Mr. J. N.
Masters, jeweller, of Rye and Romney, and, judging from the
number of advertisements which appear in it, is well appreciated
by local patrons. The present number is well got up, and con-
tains a large amount of local and general information.
Another Almanack that is deserving of a word of praise is
the publication of Messrs. P. & A. Guye, of 77, Farringdon
Road, E.C. It contains, besides many memoranda likely to be
of interest to watchmakers, useful monthly notes, and an
appendix comprising the firm's new price list and telegraphic code.
Mr. J. W. King, of 13, St. John's Square, Clerkenwell,
celebrated the anniversary of his new plating and gilding works
by lighting the premises by the electric light. His plant for
lighting and for plating and gilding purposes consists of three
dynamos, the largest being an Edison machine of one-and-a-half
tons' weight, and several sets of accumulators ; the motive power
being an Atkinson gas engine. The whole installation, which is
no doubt, the most complete in Clerkenwell, has been erected by
Mr. King and his own workmen, assisted by his son, who is a
pupil to a firm of electrical engineers. Mr. King gained a
further certificate in electro-metallurgy at the last May exam-
ination of the City Guilds.
A Novelty in Post Cards. — A novel post card has been
patented by Mr. William Evans, of Rowley Park, Stafford.
This invention embodies a method for dispensing with publicity
of names and addresses of senders of post cards by the substitu-
tion of indexes, which are letters or numbers or letters and
numbers combined. The index on any post card represents the
sender, and corresponds with a similar one in possession of the
addressee, and so refers him to the name and address of the sender.
The invention doubtless would cause a certain saving of time and
obviate unnecessary formalities in simple business communications
of "Sir" or " Dear Sir," "Yours obediently" or "Yours truly,"
and such like (besides the non-publicity of name and address of
sender), all of which may be taken for granted under the index,
100
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1888.
Che 3¥lerchan6ise Marhs Act.
Customs Regulations.
Prohibition on Importation.
From the London Gazette, December 2, 1887.
1. Goods prohibited to be imported as hereinbefore recited,*
having applied to them forged trade marks, false trade descrip-
tions, or marks, names, or descriptions, otherwise illegal, which,
upon examination, are detected by the officers of Customs, are
to be detained by them without the requirement of previous
information.
2. In giving information with a view to detention, an
informant must fulfil the following conditions, viz.: (i.) He
must give to the Collector or Superintendent, or the Chief Officer
of Customs of the Port (or Sub-Port) of expected importation,
notice in writing, stating the number of packages expected, as
far as he is able to state the same ; the description of the goods
by marks or other particulars sufficient for their identification ;
four days in double the value of the goods with two approved
sureties. The ad valorem deposit will be returned upon com-
pletion of the bond, and will not be required if, as an alternative
where time permits, the informant prefers to give a like bond
before examination, upon estimated value of the goods declared
to by him under statutory declaration. If the security is not
duly given as above required, there will be no further detention
of the goods.
5. In the above regulations the words "officer of Customs"
mean an officer acting under general or special direction of the
Commissioners, and the words " value of the goods " mean
value irrespective of duty.
6. The " notice " and " bond " required as above shall be in
the forms contained in the schedule to regulations, or in such
other forms as the Commissioners may from time to time order
and direct.
7. The security taken under these regulations will be given
up at the times following — that is to say: Where given before
examination, and if no detention, forthwith ; where given on
detention — if the forfeiture is completed, either by lapse of time
FIGURE I.
FIGURE II.
* o
Shield for Foreign Gold Case. (Actual size.) Shield for Foreign Silver Case. (Actual size.)
FIGURE' III.— Particular Mark for each Hall.
London.
(Phoebus.)
A
Birmingham.
(Equilateral Triangle.)
Chester.
(Acorn and Two Leaves.)
Sheffield.
(Crossed Arrows.)
$\TtJ\:
Edinburgh.
(St. Andrew's Cross.)
22, and -917.
20, and -833.
Glasgow.
(Bishop's Mitre.)
FIGURE IV.— Carat Marks for Gold.
18, and "75.
15, and -625.
Dublin.
(Shamrock.)
12, and -5.
9, and '375.
the name or other sufficient indication of the importing ship ;
the manner in which the goods infringe the Act ; the expected
day of the arrival of the ship, (ii.) He must deposit with the
Collector or other officer, as aforesaid, a sum sufficient, in the
opinion of that officer, to cover any additional expense which
may be incurred in the examination required by reason of his
notice.
3. If, upon arrival and examination of the goods, the
officer of Customs is satisfied that there is no ground for their
detention, they will be delivered. If he is not so satisfied, he will
decide either to detain the goods, as in a case of detention upon
ordinary examination, or to require security from the informant
for reimbursing the Commissioners or their officers all expenses
and damages incurred in respect of the detention made on his
information, and of any proceedings consequent thereon.
4. The security thus required must be an immediate ad
valorem deposit of £10 per cent, on the value of the goods,
as fixed by the officer from the quantities or value shown by the
entry ; and, also, subsequently a bond to be completed within
* See Section 16, Merchandise Marks Act.
or ultimate condemnation by a Court of Justice, then on such
completion of forfeiture ; if the forfeiture is not completed, then
if the goods are released by the Commissioners, and no action of
suit has been commenced against them, or any of their officers
in respect of the detention, then at the expiration of three
months from the time of detention ; or, if the goods are released
for failure of proceedings taken for the forfeiture and condemna-
tion thereof upon information under Section 207 of the Customs
Consolidation Act, 1876, and no action or suit has been com-
menced against the Commissioners, or any of their officers, in
respect of the detention, then at the expiration of three months
from the trial of such information ; if within such periods as
aforesaid any such action or suit as aforesaid has been commenced,
then upon the ultimate conclusion of such action or suit, and the
fulfilment of the purpose for which the security was given.
8. These regulations apply to trans-shipment and transit
goods as well as to goods landed to be warehoused or for home
consumption.
9. The 1st day of January, 1888, is, by these "regulations,"
fixed as the day from which Section 2 of the Revenue Act, 1883,
fANUARY 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER JEWELLEK AND SILVERSMITH.
ioi
shall be repealed, subject to the terms of the recited Act ; and
tbese regulations will take effect from the date of such repeal.
r, . . . TT ( Charles Du Cane,
Commissioners or Her 1 „ ■•«■
, f . , , . ~, . ■< H. Murray,
Maiesty s Customs. j tt a
J J ( Horace Seymour.
Custom House, London, December 1.
not, to any assay office in the United Kingdom for the
purpose of being assayed, stamped, or marked, shall make
a declaration declaring in what country or place the case was
made. If it appears by such declaration that the watch case
was made in some country or place out of the United
Kingdom, the assay office shall place on the case such a
mark (differing from the mark placed by the office on a
(Gold)
FIGURE V.— REPRESENTATION OF MARKS.
(Six times the actual size.)
London. Birmingham.
(Silver) (Gold) (Silver)
^ I'll
0TO1DIBK]
\
A
F©[MQ©KI
m
Chester.
(Gold)
(Silver)
Sheffield.
(Silver)
iFMiadK]
y
(Gold)
Edinburgh.
(Silver)
(Gold)
Glasgow.
(Silver)
iFOKHIKglM
^ — . »31
F®KII1©N1
(Gold)
Dublin.
(Silver)
11 f°\
IFTOIKBRI
IF ©EI I ©C
The annual variable date-letter is to be inserted in position as shown above. The proper gold carat value is also to be inserted in position
as shown above.
Form of Declaration and the new Hall Marks for
Foreign-Made Watch Cases.
From the London Gazette, December 9, 1887.
Whereas by the Merchandise Marks Act, 1887, 50 and
, 51 Vic. c. 28, it is, amongst other things, provided that —
(1.) Every person who, after the date fixed by Order in
Council, sends or brings a watch case, whether imported or
watch case made in the United Kingdom) and in such a
mode as may be from time to time directed by Order in
Council.
(2.) The declaration may be made before an officer of an assay
office appointed in that behalf by the office (which officer is
hereby authorised to administer such a declaration) or
before a Justice of the Peace or a Commissioner having
power to administer oaths in the Supreme Court of
102
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1888.
Judicature in England or Ireland or in the Court of Session
in Scotland, and shall be in such form as may be from time
to time directed by Order in -Council.
(3.) Every person who makes a false declaration for the
purposes of this section shall be liable on conviction or
indictment to the penalties of perjury, and, on summary
conviction, to a fine not exceeding twenty pounds for each
offence.
Now, therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice of Her
Privy Council, and in exercise of the powers vested in Her by
the above recited provisions of the said Act, is pleased to order
and declare, and doth hereby order and declare, that where it
appears by such declaration that such watch cases have been
made in some country or place out of the United Kingdom, then
the following Authorities, that is to say: —
The Wardens and Commonalty of the Mystery of Goldsmiths
of the City of London ;
The Guardians of the Standard of Wrought Plate,
Birmingham ;
The Company of Goldsmiths of the City of Chester ;
The Guardians of the Standard of Wrought Plate, Sheffield ;
The Incorporation of Goldsmiths of the City of Edinburgh ;
The Goldsmiths Company of the City of Glasgow;
The Fraternity or Company of Goldsmiths of the City of
Dublin ;
shall respectively cause to be placed on such watch cases the
marks more particularly described and delineated in Schedule II.
hereunto annexed, and no other mark or marks, and such marks
are hereby authorised accordingly.
And it is hereby further ordered and declared that the
declaration to be made shall be in the form set forth in Schedule I.
hereunto annexed.
This Order shall come into operation on the first day of
January, one thousand eight hundred and eighty-eight.
C. L. Peel.
SCHEDULE I.
Form of Declaration.
I (a) do hereby declare that the [watch
case] or [watch cases] [brought] or [sent] by me this
day to the Assay Office at
and in a parcel marked
made in
Declared at this
18 .
Before me (c)
Officer of the aforesaid Assay Office appointed in that behalf
or, Justice of the Peace for
or, Commissioner having power to administer oaths in the
Supreme Court of Judicature in England
[Supreme Court of Judicature in Ireland]
[Court of Session in Scotland].
(a) Here insert name and address of declarant.
(&) Signature of declarant,
(c) Signature and title of person before whom the declaration is made.
in number
[was] [were]
(b)
day of
SCHEDULE II.
On a foreign gold case: —
Within a shield of the form of a Cross, and of the size
shown in Figure I. of the Appendix hereto, the word
" Foreign," over which a Hall mark particular to each
office shown in Figure III. and the carat value of the gold,
and under which the decimal equivalent of the carat value
of the gold together with the variable annual date letter.
On a foreign silver case: —
Within a shield of the form of a regular octagon and of the
size shown in Figure II. of the Appendix hereto, the
word " Foreign," over which a Hall mark particular to
each office shown in Figure III. and under which the
variable annual date letter.
The particular Hall mark above referred to for each of the
seven assay offices at which foreign cases may be stamped is
shown in Figure V. of the Appendix hereto.
Birmingham N eui s.
From Odr Correspondent.
tECEMBER has proved a rather flat month as far as
business among the Birmingham jewellers is concerned.
The usual rush before the Christmas holidays has not
come with anything like the usual pressure, and most manu-
facturers have been hoping for the New Year, 1888, to bring
something better in its train.
# # #
The English Watch Co., Villa Street, Birmingham, are now
full up with orders, many of them being distinctly traceable to
the new law upon the putting of foreign movements in English
Hall-marked cases; several large dealers in that class of Geneva
watches afterwards English levers, having placed their orders
during the last month with bond fide English makers. We
want a little more of that kind of legislation, and considerably
less of the " Irish Question." This reminds me of a point in
connection with the duties existing upon silver goods, a maker
was expressing his sorrow to me that he was unable to make an
article of use, in silver, to sell at a reasonable price, on account of
the duty, although the present low price of silver would enable
him to do it. Cannot we petition Government to remove this and
put it, say, upon whiskey instead — it is only a delusion for the
working man, and the proof can be seen any Saturday night in
Birmingham, although trade is bad ; or put it, say, upon cats,
and make ample apologies to all the maiden ladies ?
# * #
I send you illustrations of the latest novelty produced by the
enterprising firm of Messrs. G. E. Walton & Co., Limited, of
Hylton Street, Birmingham, which is in the form of a com-
bination cedar pencil watch-key, to wind any watch, and a watch-
opener combined, each part of which would be in daily use by
most people. It is intended to offer it at a price which will
enable it to be retailed at twopence to the public ; and this fact,
combined with its general utility, should certainly command a
ready and an immense sale.
* * #
There has been a good deal said and written from time to
time about a little mischievous imp yclept the Printer's Devil,
and many a trick has been laid to his charge, either wrongly or
rightly : but I think it is quite time that something very strong
and (if there is any part in his constitution that is touchable
without the aid of a lathe strap or some equally forceable
argument) something very touching were done about a very
mischievous and incorrigible young person known as a "Jewel-
ler's errand kid." He varies in age from a reputed thirteen years
(there are no boys under thirteen now seeking employment, thanks
to the School Board, though I feel bound to suggest that boys of
thirteen are nothing like so big now as they used to be) to fifteen
years, is somewhat dirty in appearance, and is equal to the
occasion, whatever it may be, from " pitch and toss " to
"manslaughter." To tack some nickname upon any peculiar
person walking about the neighbourhood and follow him about
in packs like wolves and howling at him until they drive him to
madness and even death, as was the case recently, or to throw a
paper bag of soot in the face of some passing lady (this I have
seen), are some of his mildest forms of amusement. It is no use
preaching sermons at him, he only sings " Wait till the Clouds
roll by,", and prepares for more tricks ; it is very little use to
bring force to bear, for if you kill one, " about 40 immediately
come to the funeral." I leave this little matter for the con-
sideration of his daily instructors, whoever they may be.
January 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
103
It appears that there is an old superstition still present in
some peoples' minds about the figure eight and the combination
of a number of figures eight being lucky ; and so, in accordance
with this belief and in hopes of finding new fields for their labours,
a number of the jewellers are busy in designing brooches, pins,
charms, &c, bearing all sorts of arrangements of 1888, &c. ;
and no doubt the figures can be made to produce a very pretty
design, arranged with floral forms in combination, and if people
will believe in luck, the Figure Jewellery may be made to take as
great a footing as the Horse-shoe has had for so many years.
Perhaps a few reminders of the light in which some ancient
nations have regarded the figure eight may be useful to jewellers
who are investigating this point of the subject, and who are too
busy to hunt up their Ancient Mythology, Roman History, $c.
According to the ancient " Calendaria," the Romans divided
the entire year, beginning with the 1st of January, into weeks'
of eight clays each. A similar usage is still known in some
countries, where the expression, eight days, is frequently used as a
week ; this accounts for the eight-day clock of our grandfathers.
October, the eighth month of the old Roman year (as the
name signifies), was sacred to Mars, and a horse, called the
" October Equus," was sacrificed to the deity. The Greek
philosopher Pythagoras, who professed a belief in the mystical
properties of numbers, dedicated the figure eight to Cybele, the
Mother of all the Gods, whose image, in the remotest time, was
only a cubical block of stone ; so that we see that some centuries
ago profound and learned people were "in a stew" about the
figure eight, and the pot has been kept boiling ever since.
Well, if the jewellers can add another fagot to the fire, the
year 1888 will, no doubt, be grateful ; and, if the idea takes, it will
keep a large number of real and actual pots to be kept boiling —
so I wish them every success.
Weu) Boohs.
Les Mervielles de L'Horlogerie.* This work, which is
one of Hachette & Co.'s " Bibliotheque des Mervielles " series,
is the joint production of MM. Camille Portal and H. de
Graffigny — the former being an old student of the National
School of Horology and the latter ex-chief editor of " La
Science Universal." As the title indicates, it is rather popular
than technological in character ; nevertheless it contains a vast
amount of information both interesting and instructive, com-
bining the two in such a way as differs from any book of the kind
that has hitherto been published either here or on the Continent.
Thus we find a historical disquisition on ancient clocks and
watches, closely followed by a chapter on the marine chrono-
meter, involving technical details and the regulations for their
trial and purchase by the French Marine under the law pro-
mulgated in 1883. It will be news to English chronometer
makers to learn that " it has been proved that French chrono-
meters are always superior to analogous instruments constructed
by the foreigner." All the essentially French inventions are
described in the book, the remaining most interesting chapters
being those devoted to the pneumatic clock system of Paris,
electric clocks, and those ingenious contrivances which are com-
prehended under the term " myste'rieuse." To those acquainted
with the language the book would prove exceedingly attractive
reading, both from its peculiar lines and intrinsic merits as a
whole ; it is illustrated with 112 blocks.
Calvert's Mechanics' Almanack and Workshop Com-
PANiON.f This useful little book has now readied its fifteenth
year of publication, and the present number is in every respect
worthy of its predecessors. As a work of reference for the
artisan and handicraftsman it stands unrivalled. Among a
variety of useful information scattered throughout its pages may
* Paris: Librairie Hachette ET Cie., 79, Boulevard Saint-Germain,
t Price 4d. Loudon : John HEYWOOD, 11, Paternoster Building; ; and 01 all booksellers.
be mentioned a very clear abstract of the Merchandise Marks
Act and a paper on " Taking out Patents."
An appropriate book for the season has just made its appear-
ance in the " Playground of Science, "J by Johnston Stephen.
Although the experiments described in this little book do not
bear dh - ectly upon any of the industries with which we are
concerned, many of them are sufficiently cognate thereto to
interest and afford valuable suggestions to practical minds, for
which the wide extent of the ground covered gives an infinity of
applications. As Mr. Stephen (whose name will be familiar to
many of our readers in connection with former contributions to
this journal) is a purist, it is almost supererogatory to add
that the book is written in language intelligible to all, every
experiment being accurately described and illustrated. We note,
however, a slight mistake in the chapter on " The Pendulum and
Tuning-fork," where Mr. Stephen has fallen into the not un-
common error of assuming the metre to be the length of a
simple seconds pendulum. The book is well got up and care-
fully printed on good paper; and its modest price, together with
the fact that the experiments described in it can be easily per-
formed with the simplest apparatus by those totally unacquainted
with science principles, should render its popularity assured.
A jNeuu itompass.
TiIffHE Alta California gives an account of the test of a new
compass, invented by Mr. Leon Sirieix, a Frenchman by
birth, and a graduate of the French Polytechnic. The
compass as exhibited consists of a brass cylinder divided into two
compartments. The lower compartment contains the corrector
of the needle, while the upper division contains the* compass card,
which is swung on a pivot, as in the ordinary compass. On one
side of the cylinder, close to the base, is a screw, and in the
centre of the base is another. These are the adjusting screws,
the first being used for correcting the permanent magnetism and
the other for the correction of the induced magnetism. The
inventor placed his compass on an imaginary ship, and laid her
head due North, or, in other words, made the •' lubber line " form
one with the pole on the wall. The needle then pointed due
North. On the other courses the same result was attained.
The needle never deviated one degree from the North. Iron was
placed around the compass, and the needle was observed to
deviate a degree West. The inventor moved the second screw,
and adjusted the needle carefully. The imaginary vessel was
swung again, and on every course the needle pointed due North.
It was also shown that the compass had no " heeling error,"
which was caused by the rolling of the vessel. A more severe
test was applied, but the card remained perfectly horizontal : — ■
The Sirieix compass was revolved at a great rate, much more
than ever could be attained in swinging a ship, and directly the
motion was stopped the compass card was seen to be still pointing
North, and it had moved little more than half a degree on each
side of the " lubber line." The compass card was swung round
at a great rate — left to itself it became dead in about one
minute's time ; an ordinary compass would revolve probably
five minutes or more. Mr. Sirieix has in his compass avoided
the use of compensating magnets placed in the desk or binnacle,
vertical bars, and other arrangements necessary to the compass
mentioned. He has, to use his own expression, " centralised
and neutralised " the magnetism of the ship in a spot directly
beneath the /compass card, thus succeeding where others have
failed.
The Alta says : " Prof. Sladky, of the University of California,
has testified in writing to the splendid performance of Mr. Sirieix's
instrument, and it has also been examined by Lieutenants J. B.
Milton/ E. J. Lorn and G. M. Stoney, of the U. S. N., all of
whomy'agree as to the efficiency of the compass."
t Prir/is. London : Published by TRUSLOVE & SHIRLEY, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
104
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1!
H-he Eating of "batches at Keuu iDbseruatory
during the year ending October 31, 1887.
(From the Report of the Kew Committee.)
WjjfJHE arrangements for rating watches mentioned in previous
*&£& Reports have been carried on during the year with con-
" . tinueck success, and up to the present 1,344 watches hare
been examined and reported upon.
•510 entries of watches were made as contrasted with 490
duringithe corresponding period of last year. They were sent
for testing in the following Classes : —
For Class A, 463 ; Class B, 25 ; and Class C, 22.
Of these 174 failed to gain any certificate ; 19 passed in C, 21
in J3, 296 in A, and i3 of the latter obtained the highest possible
form of certificate, the Class A, especially good.
In Table I. will be found statements giving the results of trial
of the 26 watches which obtained the highest numbers of marks
during the year, the premier position being attained — with 88-1
marks — by a keyless, double-roller, going-barrel watch, submitted
by Jos. White, Earlsdon, Coventry.
This total exceeds that of last year, and it is also extremely
satisfactory to note that a very marked increase has taken place
in the number of watches which have gained more than 80
marks.
As some inconvenience was caused by the employment of
temporary expedients to maintain the large watch-safe at an
average of 65° F. for the " middle temperature " test, a burner
was procured and fitted up with a shield, and the safe can now
be kept at the desired point, whilst at the same time no
deleterious fumes of coal-gas can penetrate into the interior
chamber.
The three-rating safes are therefore now maintained* by means
of gas and ice at practically the three constant temperatures of
40°, 65°, and 90° F. respectively, all the year round.
Special attention continues to be given to the examination of
pocket chronographs, in accordance with the request of the
Cyclists' Union.
Hating of Chronometers. — Since the institution of chronometer
trials, as mentioned in last year's Report, 27 movements have been
examined, and certificates issued giving the mean daily rate and
variation of rate at each change of temperature.
The trial occupies 35 days, divided into 5 periods of 6 days
each, and 5 intermediate days, namely, 1 day at the commence-
ment of each period of test : —
1st period. Chronometer at temperature of 55° F. or 13° C.
70° 21°
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
Certificates are
85° „ 29°,,
70° „ 21°,,
55° „ 13°,,
which have under-
granted to chronometers
gone 35 days' test as specified above, and whose performance is
such that : —
1. The mean of .the differences in each stage of the exam-
ination, between (a) the average daily rate during that period,
and (£■) the several daily rates, does not exceed one second in
any one of the stages.
2. The mean daily rate has not been affected by change of
temperature more than one-sixth of a second per 1° F., which is
about a quarter of a second per 1° C.
3. The mean daily rate has not exceeded ten seconds in any
stage of the test.
A Kullberg's temperature regulator has been fitted by the
maker to the chronometer oven, and a Richard thermograph is
also arranged to work in the case with the chronometers, affording
a continuous record of the temperatures which they have ex-
perienced during the whole of their trial.
The range of temperature from 55° to 85° F., to which the
marine chronometers are submitted, has been decided upon after
careful consideration as being amply sufficient for determining
the behaviour of chronometers under conditions to which they
are usually exposed at sea, and no serious objections have yet
been received from makers or others to the adoption of the above
range.
Table I.
Uksults ok Watch Trials. Performance of 26 Watches which obtained the highest number of Marks during the year.
Mean
>>
o
Difference of mean daily
rate.
Mark
- awarded for
'cs
daily
£•
= ;=
a
5
§ =
ii
,
Number
rate.
o
g
*^ -X?
a
^ d
o
£|5
s
c
Total
Watch deposited by
of
Watch.
Balance Spring, Escapement, &c.
+ Gain-
ing.
C3
o
SO
P
§.§"
d —
le .
p
si
3 = "
Marks.
0—100.
— Los-
•C-H
£
R "~
- S
- =
T. c
c - x
3
°s
Is .2
ing.
k
'o
- -
£ a
9 'S
? .5
>
S5?
£ 55
pq -
I 1
I*
Ei -
fee
goo
1?
P u
r. 1
5°
sees.
sees.
Sees.
- ■ S.
sees.
sees.
SrC-.
SUUS.
Jos. White, Coventry
2999!)
Single oven-oil, *d.r., c g.b
+0-4
0-4
0-03
-0'5
+ 1-3
+ 06
+ 0-4
4-5
32-7
37-7
17 7
88-1
Baume A Co.. Loudon
264iif
Single overcoil, d.r„ g.b
+ 2-4
0'5
0-02
—1-5
-2-1
-2-6
—1-8
4-25
30-0
36-2
18-9
85-1
W. Holland, Rockferry
3503
Single overcoil, d.r., fusee
+ 33
0'6
0003
—0-2
—1-1
+ 0-5
+ 2-8
5-25
27-1
36-2
19-8
831
StaufEer & Co., London
120 ISO
Single overcoil, d.r.. g.b., bar-lever
+ 3'8
0'4
0-04
4-0-8
—4-5
—1-1
—1-1
6-25
31-4
34-3
17-2
82-9
Donne & Son, London
1545
Duo-in-TJno, d.r., resting barrel
—1-1
06
003
-01
+ 0-6
+ 2-0
—0-5
5-0
27-9
37-0
17-8
827
D. Buckuey, London
30191
Single overcoil, d.r., fusee
+ 0-8
05
0-02
—08
+ 3-9
+ 2-7
+ 3-7
675
30-4
33-1
18-9
82-4
Baume & Co., London
2528
Single overcoil, d r., g.b., bar-lever
+ 34
0-4
o-io
—1-3
—1-3
—0-8
+ 1-8
65
31-5
37-4
13-2
82-1
Stauft'er & Co., Loudon
123174
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever
+ 1-9
0-7
0-03
+ 0-1
—1-6
+ 08
—0-8
5-25
26-8
37-2
17-9
81-9
Stauft'er & Co , London
111353
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b
+ 1-5
0'5
0-H3
-4-7
—1-3
+ 0-2
+ 3-0
8-5
29-0
34-6
18-0
81-6
Stauffer & Co., London
122288
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b
+ 09
0-6
0'06
4-2-3
+ 2-7
+ 0-7
—0-8
4-5
28-7
36-6
16 3
81-6
Stauft'er & Co , London
1 14351
Single overcoil, dr., g.b
+ 2-4
0-4
0-05
+ 24
—2-8
+ 39
+ 0-7
8-25
32-9
31-4
17-0
81-3
Banme & Co., London
2529
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever
+ 4-3
05
0-06
—0-2
—3-5
— 1-7
-0-4
675
29-8
354
16-0
81-2
J as. White, Coventry
29026
Single overcoil, s.?\, g.b
-0-9
0-6
0-06
+ 0-6
—1-3
—2-8
—1-4
6-0
28-6
36-2
163
811
Jas. White, Coventry
29024
Single overcoil, s.r.. g.b
+ 0-4
0-6
0-02
—4-7
—0-4
—1-4
+ 3-6
8-5
27-5
35-0
185
81-0
StaufEer & Co., London
123173
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever
+ 1-9
0-5
0-04
—1-7
—3-0
-5-3
+ 1-9
7-75
30-9
330
17-1
81-0
Stauffer & Co., London
122289
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b
+ 36
0-6
0u3
+ 4-1
+ 1-5
—0-3
—1-4
7-75
28-8
34-1
18-0
80-9
Usher & Cole, London
25738
Flat spring, s.r., g.b
+ 0-5
0-7
0-03
—1-5
—29
—08
+ 1-6
6-75
26-5
363
18-0
80-8
R. Crook, London
899
Single overcoil, s.r., g.b
—2-3
0-6
0-04
-0-8
+ 2-3
—30
+ 0-1
7-25
28-4
34-8
17-6
808
Baume & Co., London
2530
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever
+ 1-5
0-4
0-10
+ 1-4
+ 1-0
+ 3-8
--2-5
70
31-8
35-4
13-5
80-7
Stauffer & Co., London
123158
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever
—4-8
0-4
009
—0-4
+ 0-4
+ 3-1
—1-0
8-0
312
35-5
14-0
807
Stauft'er & Co., London
120184
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever
—10
■0-5
0-05
+ 0-8
—2-0
—37
—1-2
6-0
29-6
34-3
16-7
80-6
A. V. Roger, Guernsey
123172
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b
— 0'5
0-6
001
+ 1-0
•— 07
—34
—4-6
80
28-5
330
191
80-6
J. Player, Coventry
24619
Single overcoil, dr., g.b
+ 57
0-6
0-08
+ 01
—0-7
-o-i
—0-8
5-75
27-1
38-6
14-7
80-4
H. Golay, London
14776
Double overcoil, d.r., g.b
+ 3-0
0-4
0-05
+ 0-5
— 4'6
+ 22
—2-5
7'5
32-0
31-8
16-5
80-3
A. E. Fridlander, Coventry ...
52465
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b
+ 2-8
04
0-09
+ 1-2
—2-1
—2-2
—0-2
5-75
310
34-5
14-6
801
Stauffer & Co., London
120S42
Single overcoil, d.r., g.b., bar-lever.
+ 1-6
0-5
0-08
+ 4-0
+ 1-3
+ 1-9
—0-6
6-5
30-8
34-9
14-4
80-1
d.r., double-roller ; s.r., single rolle ■ ; g.b., going-barrsl.
t Split seconds chronograph without minute-recorder.
January 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
105
Table II.
Highest Records obtained by Complicated Watches during the year.
Description of Watch.
Number.
Deposited by
Marks awarded for
Total
marks,
0—100.
Varia-
tion.
Position.
Tempera-
ture.
^Minute and seconds chronograph and repeater ...
14768
14750
32-1
27-7
34-2
33-3
10-7
11-3
77-0
72-3
Perpetual calendar and repeater
01922
14759
S Smith & Son, London
26-1
2 8 '3
'34-2
35-5
16-7
10-7
77-0
74-5
H. Golay, London
Split-seconds and minute-recorder chronograph
9S18
07369
26-6
28-8
34-5
30-2
17-6
14-7
787
73-7
H. Golav, London
Split- seconds chronograph (without minute dial)
2646
Banme Sc Co., London
30-0
36-2
18-9
85-1
Ordinary minute and seconds chronograph
2427
123820
2426
27-6
27-8
28-0
35-8
32-4
33-2
16-4
16-9
15-5
79-8
77-1
767
StaufEer & Co., .,
31578
14752
H. Capt, Geneva
30
26-8
343
33-9
14-2
13-8
78-5
74-5
ithe Legenb of the Koh-i-3Sfoor.
SN a recent article of mine which lately appeared in ' this
JJL journal, a reference was made to the oft-repeated tale of the
manner in which Runjit Singh' got the Koh-i-Noor from
Shah Shoojah. Since writing that article I have found that
there is no truth in the story, and I write this as a correction.
The usual relation is, that after Runjit Singh had exhausted all
his wiles to make Shall Shoojah deliver the diamond, he resorted
to an interview, and taking advantage of the Oriental obligations
of ceremonial customs, suddenly proposed, at the end of the
interview, an interchange of puggerees or turbans, as a mark
of friendship. This, according to the story, the Shah could not
refuse, and the Koh-i-Noor was in' the puggeree. In Cunning-
ham's History of the Sikhs, p. 154-5, the action is very briefly
told : — that Runjit used every effort to cause Shah Shoojah to
deliver up the gem — sums of money were offered and refused.
At last the Sikh monarch paid a visit to the Shah, and after
mutual declarations of friendship, and the promise of a jaghire,
or landed estate, with a rental of 50,000 rupees, or £5,000 a
year — 100,000 rupees had been demanded — the diamond was
given up. The promise was never carried out. From another
source I learn that it is understood that a document was drawn
up, giving the terms of the negotiation. This was in 1813 or
1814, and it is confirmed by what took place in 1832. Shah
Shoojah was anxious at that date to make an effort to regain
his throne. He applied to Runjit Singh for assistance in men
and money ; for which he offered a number of advantages, among
which was an offer of acquittance for the Koh-i-Noor diamond.
History of the Sikhs, p. 201. Another evidence may be referred
to which would in itself throw a doubt upon the matter, even if
we had not the reliable data which has just been given. It is
this: the very same story is told as the stratagem by which
Nadir Shah got the Koh-i-Noor from the Delhi emperor on his
famous raid into India. This is not likely to. be true. From
what we know of Nadir, he would not have performed such a
roundabout trick ; his plan would have been to have ordered
the emperor's nose and ears to be cut off ; if that failed, the
eyes would be gouged out ; and, finally, the order to cut off the
head would have been given. That was the kind of diplomacy
he was accustomed to. I take this story to be an old legend,
and would not be surprised now to find it coming down to us
associated with the history of any celebrated gem in India.
William Simpson.
Che Leuer "£scapement
CONSIDERED WITH REGARD TO ITS FORM, INERTIA.
FRICTION, &C.
By M. L.-A. Grosclaude, Professor at the Geneva School
of Horology.
(Translated from the French.)
( Continued from page 91.)
fHIS shape is shown in fig. 5 ; but workmen will be but
little disposed to accept such an inconvenient form. On
the other hand, if we are only willing to adopt such forms
as can be easily executed, we find that we cannot entirely satisfy
the requirements of theory, and we must only seek to approach it
as nearly as possible.
In figs. 8, 9 and 10, for the club-tooth escapement, three
different designs are represented, which have their advantages
and their drawbacks. Thus, in fig. 8, where the inclines of the
pallet and tooth are convex, the advantage of having at the
commencement of the impulse a slow movement of the wheel is
counterbalanced by the considerable acceleration which takes
place at the finish, producing a drop with a relatively violent
shock. In figs. 9 and 10, where one only of the inclines is
convex, this disadvantage is the same, though in a lesser degree.
The concave inclines are so bad for club-tooth escapements that
we abandon them here entirely. They might be made use of for
the escapement with ratchet teeth (fig. 7), but the fault of the
tooth striking the incline at a distance from the locking corner
would be still greater than in the case before spoken of. The
convex form (fig. 6) would be certainly preferable; but it should
not be forgotten that with it the speed of the wheel is increased
at the moment the tooth leaves the incline.
To sum up. excepting the half-convex- and half-concave form
from the club-toothed escapement, we do not see any advantage
to be gained by departing from the right lined incline such as is
generally adopted. But, among all those that may be traced in
the club-toothed escapement, we have before selected a broken line,
a, e, d, a' e' d ; (fig. 3, page 75, reproduced at a and a', tigs. 13
and 14). It now remains to justify our choice.
If the incline of the pallet is steep (fig. 11), and if that of the
tooth is little, or vice versa (fig. 12), the depart will be good, but
the drop will be strong. It is necessary then to approximate to
the right line ; we say approximate, because the perfectly right
line itself would be imperfect. In fact, for greased or oiled
surfaces the resistance to the sliding is greatly increased when
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January 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
107
the surfaces are touching one another ; the two inclines should
be arranged at such an angle that the surfaces do not come into
complete contact with one another.
The line a, e, d is, therefore, bent to a small angle in order to
conform to the preceding arguments.
At a, b, c, d (fig. 13), and at a', b', c', d' (fig. 14), are
represented four different positions of the entrance and exit
pallets respectively. The lift is effected by, in the first place, the
point of the tooth sliding along the incline of the pallet, and then
by the heel of the pallet sliding along the incline of the tooth.
The same thing takes place for the exit lift. We think this
arrangement preferable to that which would make the point of
the pallet slide (fig. 12) at first upon the incline of the tooth, and
then the heel of the latter act upon the incline of the pallet.
We do not expect our selection will please every watchmaker,
because other conditions that have escaped us may perhaps cause
another arrangement to be preferred; but it will be acknowledged
at least that our method for drawing the escapement has the
advantage of allowing everyone to choose, as regards the relation
between the inclines, their forms and directions without, by
changing the point of departure that shall have been chosen,
knowing the drop, the angle of lift, and the locking. It remains
now to study the effect of friction, which constitutes, like inertia,
one of the most important points for consideration.
(To be continued.)
IThe Cheory of Adjustment.
By M. L. Lossier.
After the Memoir of M. Jules Grossmann. — From the Journal
Suisse D'Horlogerie.
FIRST ARTICLE.— Introduction.
^Igj^OR some considerable time the adjustment of watches and
JEP chronometers has been a long and patient search for the
best conditions to secure the good performance of these
instruments — a pure matter of groping in the dark — among the
greater part of those engaged in it who depend on the data of
experience, valuable without doubt, but not generally depending
on any rational consideration. It is only since the works of
Phillips — that is, since a mathematician and engineer of the
greatest eminence, ceasing to see in horology a special and
distinct art, essayed to apply to it the principles of rational
mechanics — that the adjustment has really become a scientific
study ; and it is since that time that we have seen born and grow,
year by year, the marvellous results that our Observatory trials
verify.
It is even in the same spirit that the following work has been
written. The adjustment is related to the precise and clearly
defined principles of mathematical mechanics, and if all the points
of detail have not yet been submitted to analysis, it may almost
be affirmed that the springers and timers should give place to
scientists, and that the time is not far off when it will be possible
to adjust a watch almost to the extreme limits without having
seen it go.
This assertion may appear rash to many horologists, and yet,
when a constructor makes a locomotive he is able to say in
advance, and before the least grain of coal has been burnt in the
furnace, the speed his machine will have ; when an engineer
erects an iron bridge, he knows beforehand the exact amount of
flexion of each fibre under the weight of a train — he has calculated
the precise effort that each rivet will have to support. It is with
machines as with the large constructions — all the forces in play,
all the functions have been, from the beginning, submitted to a
hard mathematical dissection which, calculating all, leaves
nothing to chance. Why has it not been the same in horology ?
Let us leave to others the care of answering this question and
prove only that it was in applying, purely and simply, mechanics
to horology — in adapting to the balance spring the laws of
elasticity and the formula? he had found for the springs- of
railways — that Phillips was conducted to his admirable works.
The director of the school of horology of Locle, Mr. Jules
Grossmann, following this fertile course, gave, in a series of articles
published in the Deutsche Uhrmacher und Zeitung (1882-83),
a supplement to the theory of Phillips, extending it to the
particular cases that present themselves in watchmaking, studying
the influence of various disturbing causes, notably of frictions, of
the curb pins, of the escapement, &c, and precising the.
differences that exist between the cylindrical and flat springs.
Unfortunately these studies, like the rest of Phillips's memoir,
require, in order to be understood, a knowledge of mathematics
inaccessible to watchmakers. And if, as I have above said, I
think that mathematical mechanics should be understood by
watchmakers, it is convenient meanwhile to amplify nothing and
to reduce this study to a suitable limit ; that is, to that winch a
young man of medium intelligence can learn in a professional or
industrial school.
It is this which has induced me to essay to translate Mr.
Grossmann's memoir, not precisely into vernacular language,
but into language accessible to anyone who has followed an
elementary course of algebra and mechanics. I have kept as
much as possible to the lines followed by Mr. Grossmann, so
that the better part of his arguments are translated literally ;
but the task I have undertaken of eliminating too difficult
demonstration has rendered it necessary to transform entirely
certain parts. I do not claim to have improved upon the
author in anything, but am only forced to leave out the greater
number from a work whose incontestable utility is only accessible
to the privileged few.
To facilitate the reading of these pages to those who cannot
readily call to mind the elementary principles of mechanics, I
have added notes wherever the knowledge of rules or formulas is
necessary for the comprehension of the principal text.
Besides, as certain demonstrations essentially algebraical will
appear perhaps a little difficult to some persons to read, these
will appear printed in smaller characters in order that they may
be, at a first reading, left on one side.
It will be understood meanwhile, from what has been said
above, why I have not thought fit to take away from this work
its character of mathematical study. Mathematics are the
language of theoretical mechanics — a language admirable in
clearness and precision (a simple little formula often saving more
than ten pages of explanations) ; and to form the theory of
horology without mathematics is, to my mind, as difficult as to
make a watch with neither file nor graver.
Nevertheless, I have wished to take into account also, to a
certain extent, the wants of practical watchmakers of the old
school, who, being content with the results obtained, have n«ither
the time nor the desire to follow the long developments from
which these results proceed ; it is, then, for their sake that I
have condensed the general conclusions of Phillips, Grossmann,
and others, in a resume which will terminate this work and
which will be completely exempt from formula?.
L. Lossier,
Directeur de VEcole d'Horlogerie de Besancon.
Note. — The units of measure adopted in this memoir are :
the millimetre, the gramme, and the second.
Angles are always represented in the formula? by the
Greek letters, «, /3, y, &c, and should be measured — unless
special indication — in length of arc, the radius being taken
of unit ; the unit of angle will be then 7r = -i- circumference,
and all the angles will be figures in multiples of t.
g indicates the acceleration due to gravity = 9808 mm , 8.
The mass m of a body is the weight p of the body divided
by 9 ■— P .
General Notions.
CHAPTER I.
Laws of the Balance and Balance
Spring.
The Pendulum— .Although it is the adjustment-of -watches that
is specially treated of here, that is to say, the study of the
spring and the balance, we lay the first bases of this study by
io6
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1888.
treating on the movement of a pendulum, because the demon-
stration of the formulas respecting the latter are easier to
establish and more evident. We shall see presently that these
formulas are easily applied to the movement of the balance spring.
The simple pendulum consists of a heavy weight without
magnitude, suspended from a fixed point by means of a fillet
without weight.
When the heavy point is moved from the vertical . it returns,
under the effect of gravity, with an accelerated speed to the
neuter point ; then, by the speed acquired, it passes farther,
ascending with a retarded speed ; and so on.
The movement from one extremity to the other of the course
of the pendulum is called an oscillation.
Let us find on what factors the duration of an oscillation
depends. For that it is necessary at first to seek a formula
which allows us to calculate the speed at different points of its
course ; and that is very simple in taking into account the laws
of falling bodies.
In effect we know that the pendulum descending from H to
B (fig 1) will reach this point with the speed it would have
acquired in falling from the vertical height h B ; its speed will
be then* : —
2 g x h B.
The length h B being un-
determined, may be expressed by I,
the length of the pendulum, and
a, the space traversed, by recalling
the fact that a chord is the mean
proportional between the diameter
and its projection upon this dia-
meter (Geomtery, Andre, Book
III., 241). Assuming the oscil-
be very small, and
chord for the arc, we
lations to
taking the
lave :
h B :
rom whence
2 /
h B =
a 2
■1 I
nd
/
= •>
9 x
2 /
*J^[
It is also quite easy to determine the speed of any point D at
a distance y from the point B.
Assuming the height h d = h B — d B, and replacing h B
2 y 2
by its value _ — and d B by [ , which we had found by the
same reasoning, we have : —
h d
— y
2 I
-/
r 2 ).
and, for the speed of the pendulum at D,
l v
The speed neither being uniform, nor uniformly varied, we are
not able to deduce directly by elementary algebra, from the
expression of the speed, the time occupied by the mobile in
descending from H to B ; but can ascertain it indirectly by
comparing the movement of a pendulum to that of a ruby pin
whose plan of rotation is that of the figure.
* When a mobile A, start-
ing from a point //, descends
the length of an inclined
plane HD, its speed, on
arriving at the lowest point
D is the same as if it had
descended vertically from the
same height HO, that is to say
V 2g xH 0.
It is found indeed that, if we turn upon a circumference
(fig. 2) having the length H B = a. for radius, a mobile D
travelling with a speed V
-y*
the projection of its
movement upon the right line HBH 1 will follow strictly the
movement of the pendulum.
We find thus very easily the time occupied by the pendulum in
making one oscillation, since it is the same as that taken by the
mobile of comparison in making a half turn.
The time T will be :
T _ space traversed
speed u I g
T = « J
To prove the similitude of the two movements : (1) Describe,
with a. for radius, a half circumference (fig. 2) traversed by a
mobile D having a speed V, and ascertain what will be the speed
of the projection of the mobile D, at a point d, at a distance y
from the centre B.
While the mobile goes from D to D\ its projection will
traverse d d' — D P.
The arc D D' being taken very small, identifies itself with its
chord, and we have two similar rectangular triangles D D 1 P
and D B d, in which
D /'
D d
D B
= J
from whence, calling the speed of the projection
V == / « s — y
(The speeds are between them as the
distances travelled over.)
and, replacing V by its value a I JL
or v
J
-(« 2 _ ,y2)
This is the speed of the projection of D upon the line B H
at a distance y from B, and is also the speed of a pendulum
at a distance y from its neuter point ; then, the two movements
are identical.
(To be continued.)
American 3tems.
W T is difficult to understand in these days of easy communica-
S tion, says the Waterbury, when manufacturers can as readily
send forth travellers and canvassers as can the jobbers, why
the maker and the seller do not come into direct contact, The
retailer is the direct support of the manufacturer, and he should
enjoy all the advantages there are to be had. If the goods can
be sold a few cents cheaper to the jobber, then why is not the
retailer entitled to these few cents ?
January 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
109
The two following paragraphs will interest some of our
Lancashire readers : —
The Jewelry News (New York) says : According to one
of our English exchanges, the project of starting a watch factory
at Prescot, Lancashire, is heing vigorously pushed, and from
appearances, with every hope of success. As the East India
British Possessions contain a population of 250,000,000 souls, a
protective tariff might secure to the English watch industry a
profitable market. It is hoping too much, however, that a
success of the enterprise lies in the near future.
The Jeweler's Weekly (New York) says : At last the Rip
Van Winkles of the English watch trade have awaked from
their long sleep. They are busily engaged rubbing the cobwebs
of prejudice from their senile eyes, and like the luckless hero of
Washington Irving's legend, are amazed at the changes which
have taken place since they gave themselves up to the drowsy
god of conservatism. And what an awakening it is ! Par-
liament, the nobility, capitalists and tradesmen, all combine to
support the ancient industry in its commendable efforts at
rejuvenation. With such co-operation, the factory to be estab-
lished at Prespot on the American plan has every prospect of
ultimate success. Columbia looks on approvingly meanwhile.
If she can be of any assistance to the old gentleman across
the water let him say the word. And that reminds us that she
was three-and-a-half generations old last sky-rocket day.
The Herald cup, won by the sloop yaclrj;,, " Volunteer " at
Marblehead, is now completed, and has lately been on
private exhibition at the showroom of Bigelow, Kennard
& Co., the makers. It is a massive punch bowl with three
heavy silver handles, the whole supported by three large and
handsomely carved silver legs. Upon one side is a shield
inscribed " The Boston Herald Cup," while the reverse bears
another shield inscribed : "Won by the ' Volunteer,' Charles J.
Paine, owner, Marblehead, August 11, 1887." The whole is of
oxidised silver, lined with gold, and is the largest and most
elaborate piece of this kind ever made in Boston. It will shortly
be placed on public exhibition.
From Canadian exchanges we learn that the Toronto retail
jewellers and watchmakers are highly indignant at the competition
they have discovered in a new and unexpected quarter. The
leading stationers are engaging hands to run a watch repairing
department in connection with the stationery business. In
consequence it is expected that the watch repairing business will
become stationary. . . . The Canadian Custom authorities
have seized smuggled jewellery to the amount of 6,000 dols.
Anniversary Dinner of the Horological Club.
MjWHE Eighth Annual Anniversary of the Horological Club was
Y*§ > celebrated by a dinner at the Horological Institute,
Northampton Square, last month. The chair was rilled
by Mr. D. Glasgow, treasurer of the club, and the vice-chair
by Mr. C. Dunn. Among the numerous company assembled
were Messrs. D. Buckney, T. Mercer, V. Kallberg, W.
Barnsdale, L. Donne-Donne, jun., W. Evans, A. Jaccard,
J. Oliver, T. J. Willis, T. Willis, jun., F. Willis, T. Buggins-
Buggins, jun., C. Curzon, W. G. Schoof, W. Bromley, H. Bickley,
hon. sec, &c.
The Chairman, in proposing " Success to the Horological
Club," remarked on the great pleasure he had derived from his
connection with it. He always looked forward to the meetings
of the club as a great source of enjoyment, and undoubtedly
some of the pleasantest hours of his life had been the Friday
evenings spent in that room. The club had done much to
promote good fellowship among the various members of the
trade. He hoped it would long flourish and give to future
members as much pleasure and enjoyment as it had given to him.
Mr. Buckney, in responding, said that he was proud to be a
member of the club, and only wished he could attend oftener.
He would like to see a better attendance at their ordinary
meetings. Everything was done to make members feel at home,
and they hardly knew how much they lost by being absent,
especially on musical nights.
The Chairman next gave " The Charitable Institutions of
the Trade ;" and in doing so, observed that the long and terrible
depression under which the trades of Clerkenwell had suffered
had told on its charitable institutions in a double sense, inasmuch
as while the applicants for relief had been more, the income of
the charities had necessarily been less. It behoved them all to
do something, however small, to help those who could no
longer help themselves, and in this spirit the committee had
placed a box (given by their good friend and member, Mr. Pitkin)
on the club table for small contributions in aid of the Clock and
Watchmakers' Pension Society. The sum obtained might not
be much, but it would, at any rate, be an earnest of their good
intentions.
Mr. Barnsdale, past chairman of the Clock and Watch-
makers' Asylum, returned thanks.
The Vice-Chairman, in proposing " The Health of the
Committee," spoke in appreciative terms of the valuable work
done by those gentlemen.
Mr. Willis, in reply, said that if the committee continued to
pull together as they had hitherto done, they were bound to
succeed.
The Chairman next gave "The Health of the Honorary
Secretary." This, he said, was a toast that needed but few
words, or, for that matter, no words at all, to ensure its hearty
reception. They all knew with what earnestness their honorary
secretary had applied himself to the duties of his office from the
first. His untiring exertions in the service of the club were
worthy of all praise ; he not only grasped its aims and purpose,
but entered with the most self-denying labour into the smallest
detail connected with its working. He (the Chairman) felt
himself restrained by the presence of their honorary secretary
from saying all that he would wish, but he would ask them to
join heartily in drinking to Mr. Bickley's good health, and, if it
were not too selfish a wish, in hoping that he might long remain
their honorary secretary.
Mr. Bickley, in returning thanks, said he was glad to find
that "time did not wither nor custom stale" the spontaneous
expression of their good wishes towards him. Their club
embodied a principle that had always been dear to the people of
this country, namely, the principle of social intercourse and
good-fellowship. It would be impossible to say how much the
history and progress of this country in art, science, literature and
politics was indebted to the happy custom of men meeting
together and exchanging ideas in a social and friendly way.
Considering that this custom prevailed in all ranks ami
professions, it would indeed be strange if watchmakers stood
alone in ignoring its pleasures and advantages. He thought
they might congratulate themselves on the eight years' work
of the club. There had, of course, been changes in its personnel,
that was inevitable — and they would be glad of more members ;
but they were financially sound ; and with a better attendance on
ordinary meeting nights, there would be nothing to complain of.
In again thanking them, he hoped they might meet together for
many years to come.
"The Health of the Chairman" was proposed, in eulogistic
terms, by Mr. L. Donne. The watch trade, he said, was much
indebted to Mr. Glasgow for the manner in which he had always
upheld its interests. The Horological Institute especially owed
him a deep debt of gratitude for the time he had given to its
affairs. The erection of the building they were then in was in
no small measure due to his exertions.
The Chairman in response said that he should always look
back to the time he had spent in connection with the Horological
Institute and the Horological Club as the most useful of his life.
Mr. Bickley, in giving the toast of " The Musical Director
and Horological Glee Party," said they had to regret the absence
of their esteemed musical director, Mr. Knight, and read a letter
from that gentleman excusing his absence. In speaking to the
110
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1888.
toast, Mr. Bickley alluded to the monthly musical meetings of
the club as one of its most attractive features. For himself he
hardly knew of a pleasanter way of spending an evening than in
listening to good music in familiar company. He had heard
visitors to the club speak in the highest terms of the musical
entertainment, and for this result they had chiefly to thank
Mr. Knight and his able coadjutors, the Horological Glee
Party.
Mr. C. R. Coppendale returned thanks. He was sorry
Mr. Knight was not present to participate in the thanks so
warmly given. He knew that he took a great deal of trouble
to make the musical evenings successful, and that their appre-
ciation would form his highest reward. Speaking for the
Horological Glee Party, he could assure them they were delighted
to give their services, and hoped to be able to make them still
more acceptable.
Among the remaining toasts were " The Vice-Chairman," — to
which Mr. Dunn, in reply, urged upon the members to be more
regular and early in their attendance, — " The Visitors," and
" The Ladies."
The concerted music, given by the Horological Glee Party,
added much to the pleasure of the evening, as did also the solos
of Messrs. E. Bennee, Coppendale, Stevens and Willis. Mr.
A. 65. Bennett ably presided at the pianoforte.
"Workshop Jftemoranba.
Che Dresben Collection.
fHE Historical Museum of Dresden contains among its
treasures a very extensive miscellaneous accumulation of
articles in precious stones, which are the progeny of a
period extending from the close of the 16th to the beginning of
the 18th centuries. It was begun in the reign of Duke George
(about 1539); but the Elector Augustus (1553 — 1586) was the
first to deposit this accumulating wealth of art treasures in the
apartments of the Saxon royal palace called the "green vaults."
These rooms, eight in number, preserve one of the most unique
collections of precious things found in Europe. These orna-
mented tilings comprise military weapons and defensive armour
belonging to the Saxon Kings: cups, vases, goblets, snuff-boxes,
spoons, knives, cane-heads, drinking horns, fruits, musicians,
harlequins, dancers, peddlers, dwarfs, animals, and various other
objects all more or less decorated with precious stones and
pearls.
From this bewildering mass one can select specimens which
afford interesting and curious studies illustrating the skill,
ingenuity and patience of the artist, and, sometimes, beauty in
design. Here is seen a fireplace decorated with pearls and different
species of precious stones ; a monument constructed of corals,
enamels and gems ; a grotto of misshapen pearls ; an oak cabinet
covered with amber mosaics ; portraits of the popes and emperors
cut in gems ; a mirror of rock crystal ; a ball, 22^ inches in cir-
cumference, of the same kind of stone ; and a crystal beer-pot,
embellished with jewels and camei', valued at 5,000 dols. Court
dresses, royal trinkets, orders, decorations, chains, badges or
favours, all loaded with gems, show the barbaric splendour of the
Saxon court. This museum contains a large onyx, measuring 6-|
by 4^ inches, set in a gold crown, adorned with emeralds, diamonds
and pearls. One of the productions of Dinglinger — jeweller to
Augustus the Strong, whose skill won for him the title of the
" German Cellini " — represents the Mogul Emperor of India,
seated on his "Peacock Throne," surrounded by numerous courtiers
and ambassadors paying homage to the great potentate, all exe-
cuted in gold, enamel and precious stones. This royal toy cost
the artist eight years of labour, and the Prince for whom it
was made paid 58,485 thalers, or more than 40,000 dols. There
are more than 400 different objects made of ivory, embellished
with gems and enamel, and 200 portraits engraved on gems.
The diamonds are numerous, one ornament alone, for a lady's
hair ? comprising 62 of these gems,
To Clean Pearls. — Soak them in hot water in which bran
has been boiled with a little salts of tartar and alum, rubbing
gently between the hands when the water will admit of it. When
the water is cold, renew the operation until the discoloration is
removed ; rinse in lukewarm water and lay the pearls in white
paper in a dark place to cool and dry.
The following is a liquid which will dissolve silver — without
attacking copper, brass or German silver — from silvered objects,
plated ware, &c. It is a mixture of one part of nitric acid with
six parts sulphuric, heated in a water bath to 160° Fahr., at
which temperature it operates best.
A very good poising tool can be made by adapting to an end
of an ordinary depthing tool two new centres of steel wire — about
a half-inch of the inner end of each of which is filed away
somewhat beyond the diametrical line. Harden and polish these
ends, and they will present, when properly fastened in the tool by
the set screw, a very nice sharp angle on which to poise the
balance. The adjustment for the length of the staff is, of course,
made by the screw which opens the tool.
Soldering. — To repair a ring, the shank of which requires
soldering, bury the head in a crucible full of wet sand, place a
small piece of charcoal against one side, coat the break, previously
cleaned by filing or scraping, with borax, and charge with solder ;
blow a flame against the ring and charcoal until the solder runs
in. For articles which require to be protected against discolour-
ing in the process of soldering, coat them with a mixture of burnt
yellow ochre and borax, adding a little dissolved gum tragacanth
to make it lay all over ; allow it to dry, then charge with borax
and solder and heat sufficiently. Boil out in weak pickle made
of nitric or sulphuric acid. One important point is to wash the
piece well in hot water with a little ammonia in it before attempt-
ing any repairs ; this removes all dirt and grease, which, if
burned on, cannot be removed. If the article be of coloured gold,
boil out in pickle made of muriatic acid, and never coat with any
protecting mixture. The solder must vary in regard to fusibility
according to the quality of the article. For repairing most filled
work, very easily melted solder is required, which may be made of
1 ounce of fine silver, 10 pennyweights hard brass wire, adding
2 pennyweights zinc just before pouring ; or, to make it more
fusible, use bar tin instead of zinc ; or, for stronger silver solder,
use only the silver and brass For repairing most bright gold
work, use gold coin, 3 pennyweights ; fine silver, 3 pennyweights;
fine copper, 2 pennyweights. For coloured work : fine gold, 1
pennyweight; silver, 17 grains; copper, 12 grains; hard brass
wire, 2 grains. A good solder for repairing spectacles or other
steel work is made by melting together equal parts of silver and
copper. In soldering steel, plenty of borax should be used.
iBazette.
Partnerships Dissolved.
Crouch & Clemence, Poultry, goldsmiths. Thompson & Vine, Aldersgate
Street, watch manufacturers. A. & T. Lashmore, Oswestry, jewellers.
Pearson & Forrester, Birmingham, electro-platers. Nathan & Davis,
Birmingham, manufacturing jewellers.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender in London— Jane Bache, Wilmington Square, jeweller.
J. Otto Schuler, Hatton Garden, goldsmith.
To surrender in the Country.— Samson Manoah Ayers, Dewsbury, watch-
maker. Francis James Tyers, Birmingham, late jeweller. Thomas
Turner, Whitby, jet ornament manufacturer.
Public Examinations.
In London. — Jane Bache, Wilmington Square, jeweller ; January 18, at
11.30. (J. Warwick, Poland Street, Oxford Street ; January 24, at 12,30.
January 2, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
Ill
In the Country, — W. Dyer, Birmingham, jeweller; January 6, at 2.
H. Harris (trading as Henry Harris & Co.), Birmingham, jewellers'
factor ; January 9, at 2. S. M. Ayers, Dewsbury, watchmaker ;
January 17, at 11.
Adjudications.
In London. — W. Jardine, (trading as Jardine & Co.), Great Winchester
Street, diamond merchant. Jane Bache, Wilmington Square, jeweller.
J. 0. Schuler, Hatton Garden, goldsmith.
In the Country.— S. Bradley (trading as John Payne), Birmingham and
Blackpool, jeweller. S. M. Ayers, Dewsbury, watchmaker. J. H.
Hunt, Birmingham, electro-plate manufacturer.
Notices of Dividends.
In London. — H. J. Van Dieren, High Holborn and Brighton, jeweller, 4Jd.,
first and final ; January, F. G. Clark, Brighton.
In the Country. — C. W. Hurt '(trading as Hurt & Son), Birmingham,
watchmaker. Is. Id., first and final ;- December 15, or any subsequent
Thursday, Fisher & Randle, Birmingham. T. Marson (trading as
T. Marson & Co.), Birmingham, jeweller, first ; December 28, 25,
Colmore Row, Birmingham. A. Wilcox, Birmingham, manufacturing
jeweller, 13s., first ; September 8, 120, Colmore Row, Birmingham.
J. Lee, Manchester, l£d., second and final ; Decebmer 21, J. Eckersley,
Manchester. W. Snook, Southsea, watchmaker, 6d., first anS final ;
December 30, 1KB, Queen Street, Portsea. E. Welbourn, Ilkley,
jeweller, Is. 6|d., first and final ; Dec. 28, Official Receiver, Wakefield.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller and Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn. London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Bow, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
16,008. G. D. MacDougald, Dundee, for " Improvements in apparatus
for the driving and controlling of clocks." Dated November 27,
1887.
16,027. C. E. Tripler, London, for" Improvement for amalgamating and
separating precious metals from powdered ore or earth." (Com-
plete specification.) Dated November 22, 1887.
16,051. M. V. B. Ethridge, H. E. Waite and J. Swann, London, for
" Improvements in timepieces." Dated November 22, 1887.
16,074 W. Jeannot, London, for " Improvements in chronographs or stop
watches." Dated November 22, 1887.
16,079. T. James, London, for ''A time indicator." Dated November 23,
1887.
16,126. J. Friedberger, C. Hammer, F. F. Mack, A. Bucher, and M.
Haderer, London, for "An Improved safety fastening or brooch."
Dated November 23, 1887.
16,138. F. V. Hawley, London, for " Prevention of watches being stolen,
viz.: the patent automatic swivel." Dated November 21, 1887.
16,183. J. B. Spence, London, for " Improvements in the treatment of
ores containing gold for the purpose of extracting the gold there-
from." Dated November 24, 1887.
16,192. P. J. Ogle, London, for " An improved arrangement of the
amalgamated plates employed in the treatment of gold ores, in
supports for the same, and in apparatus connected therewith."
Dated November 24, 1887.
16,270. H. Hutchinson, London, for " Improvements in the treatment of
refractory gold and silver ores." Dated November 26, 1887.
16,313. W. S. Leete, London, for " Securing the bows of keyless watches."
Dated November 28, 1887.
16,333. A. B. O'Connor and G. W. Butterfield, London, for "A
mechanical appliance adjustable forelocks, watches, locks, rail-
way switches, electric lights, gas lights, and other machinery
requiring regular periodic application of power for adjustment."
Dated November 28, 1887.
16,401. T. B. Sharp, Staffordshire, for " Improvements in attaching
stones, jewels or ornaments to finger rings and other rings."
Dated November 29, 1887.
16,414. P. H. Lawrence and F. L. Turner, London, for " Improvements
in or relating to centre seconds stop watches." Dated November
29, 1887.
16,468. W. H. Lord, Birmingham, for " Improvements in watch chains."
(Complete specification.) Dated November 30, 1887.
16,503. M. Myers and J. Lowe, Birmingham, for " Improvements in com-
bined spring clips and hooks or devices for holding watches,
jewellery and other articles and descriptive tickets of the same."
Dated December 1, 1887.
16,518. R. F. Dorendorff, London, for "A bracelet, garter and napkin
ring cord." Dated December 1, 1887.
16,553. A. Schanschieff and D. Marks, London, for " Improvements in
extracting gold, silver and other metals from their ores and alloys."
Dated December 1, 1887.
16,564. W. Leuchars, London, for "Improvements in bracelets, girdles or
bangles." Dated December 2, 1887.
16,611. E. De Pars, a communication from Kuhn andTieche, Switzerland,
for "Improvements in keyless watches." Dated December 2, 1887.
16,639. E. L. Downing, London, for " Improvements in joints and catches
for the pins of brooches, shawl pins and the like." Dated
December 3, 1887.
16,838. J. Kendal, London, for " Improvements in watch keys for
winding any size watch." Dated December 7, 1887.
16,926. T. Fenwick, London, for " Improvements in the electro-deposition
of metals." Dated December 8, 1887,
17,033. A. Parkes, London, for "Improvements in the extraction of gold
and silver from ores or compounds containing the same, and in
solvents for such metals." Dated December 10, 1887.
17 037 W. Robinson, London, for "Improvements in ingot moulds."
Dated December 10, 1887.
17 129. H. East and F. Llewellyn Turner, Birmingham, for "Improve-
ments in securing watch-bows to the pendants of keyless and
other watches." Dated December 13, 1887.
17,316. H. Aitken, Glasgow, for " Improvements in treating ores con-
taining gold and other metals." Dated December 16, 1887.
Hecent American Patents.
Buttons, Machine for making Collar. G. Krementz
Button or Stud. G. E. Adams
Button, Spring Cuff. E. K. Haynes
Button, Stud, Locket or other article of Jewellery. L. B. Byrne
Casting Steel Wheels, Metal Mould for. W. Sellers
Chain Hook, Watch. H. M. Herring
Chuck, Lathe. C. R. Mead
Clock. W. D. Chase
Clock, Calendar. J. A. Shimp
Clock Dial. A. Staubitz
Clock, Pendulum. H. O. Deuss
Clock Striking Mechanism. Ethridge & Waite
Clocks, Chiming Apparatus for. J.Harrington
Cuff Holder. H. C. Frank
Eyeglasses. C. H. Farley 373,349-
Jewel Case. Valfer & Weil
Metal, Device for Clamping Sheets of. S. McCarter
Metal Shears. W. J. Bavrer 372,784-
Micrometer Gauge. J. P. B. Wells
Screw Cutting Machine. T. B. Smith
Screw Cutting Tool. J. C. Williams
Screw Tap. L. D. Castle
Sheet Metal Shearing Machine. C. Wais
Spectacles. C. B. Bishop
Spectacle Temple. W. J. Suttie
Spectacle Temple. R. Bradley, Jun.
Steel, Welding. W. B. Middleton
Thermometer, Recording. W. F. Brewster
Watch Case. E. C. Chappatte
Watch Case. E. C. Chappatte
Watch Case. E. Heffernan
Watch Case. W. K. Kennedy
Watch Case. C. F. Morrill
Watch Pendant. W. S. Richardson
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
1866, will be furnished from this office for 2s. 6d. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
372,683
373,041
373,401
373,514
372,336
372,675
372,4K2
373,441
372,575
372,642
373,727
373,771
372,849
373,556
-373.350
372,345
373,672
-372,785
373,705
372,434
372,504
373,270
373,038
372,954
372,437
373,006
372,696
373,719
373,011
373,723
373,364
372,540
372,558
372,868
Horresponbence.
All Letters for Publication to be addressed to the Editor of The
Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Church-
yard, E.C.
Ail communications must bear the name and address of the sender, not
necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of good faith.
To the Editor of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith.
Sir, — Can any of your readers tell me whether I must take
out a license to go round the country to sell jewellery, &c, and
to get work ?
" Country Watchmaker."
Answers to Correspondents.
Sir, — Your correspondent, Anxious, asks for an explanation
" of the best method of extracting broken cylinder plugs from
very small cylinders."
The best way to extract plugs from any sized cylinders is to
punch them out on a riveting stake — which should not be made
of hardened steel but of brass — the holes of which stake should
be broached with a taper broach from the under side ; and the
holes should not be chamfered from the top side (a chamfered
112
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[January 2, 1888.
hole might be used to start the plug, but that is not necessary if
the cylinder is placed over the hole in the stake). The punch
used should be in the shape of a crank ; the point or pivot of the
crank to be very short and the' crank of sufficient length and
divergence from the centre to be free of the body of the cylinder
and the boss of the balance when the punch is used to remove
the bottom plug of the cylinder.
One would think that any person who could work in a cylinder
might, with very little thought and trouble, invent ami make such
a tool (the shape is so obvious and the trouble so little) and thus
help themselves, without having recourse to the German tool
makers for every trifle required by the watch jobber, even to the
making of a drill.
If beginners and apprentices would spend a little of their
spare time in thinking out and making small tools and appliances
for various purposes, they would help themselves out of many
difficulties, and save a wonderful amount of the time they lose
in evoking others to help them. -«y tt
Buyers' $ui6e.
The Sheffield Smelting" Company, Sheffield, Srtl Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Buy all materials containing Gold and Silver.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
Customers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden,
London, E.C.
W. Scott Hayward & Co., 59, Deansgate. and Barton Arcade,
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool, Leipzig and Paris.
For cheap, quick, reliable Watch and Jewellery Repairs,
by the most Experienced Workmen, send to Alexander Edwards,
Watch Material and Tool Dealer, 88 & 89, Craven Street, and 2, Holy-
head Road, Coventry. Lists : all Horological Literature.
WANTED.
TTALY.— A FIRST - RATE MERCANTILE FIRM,
JL travelling regularly over the whole peninsula — Sicily. Malta and
Tunis — with large experience and extensive connections in the Jewellery,
Watch and Clock line, is open to enter into correspondence with some
Important Manufacturer for the Sale of their Goods in the above
quarters. References of the highest standing. — Please address, A. A.,
110, Naples. — [Advt.]
TO BE SOLD.
WATCHMAKER'S, JEWELLER'S and SILVER-
SMITH'S BUSINESS.— Established over 100 years in good
Agricultural and Training Districts. Stock moderate, and can be
reduced. — For particulars, apply to Mrs. J. Staniland, Malton, Yorks.
[Advt.]
WATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
of Superior Goods only ; established 35 years, with good Jobbing
Trade attached, extending over England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Incoming can be reduced to Two or Three Hundred Pounds, chiefly or
quite covered by goods, comprising movements, material, tools, &c.
Owner no objection to remain two or three years to part work at
finishing or assist in any wayrequired. Age only reason for wishing to
decline business. — Address Manufacturer, Office of this Journal.—
[Advt.]
WATCHMAKER'S and JEWELLER'S BUSINESS
for sale, situated in the centre of a good manufacturing town.
Stock. Fixtures and Fittings, about £500. — Apply. \\\. Office of this
Journal, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, London. — [Advt.]
IT10R SALE, at once, WATCHMAKER'S BUSINESS
_T in capital position, doing splendid trade; genuine good opportunity
rarely to be met with ; death cause of selling. All particulars given.
W. Dawson, Bridge Street, Bradford. — [Advt.]
fIDakers ano 3mporters of all lunos of
WATCHES, JEWELRY,
AND
WATCHES,
GOODS SUITABLE FOR
THE TRADE.
GENTS' SILYER *•
* ENGLISH LEVERS,
Going Barrel, 35s. 6d.; Fusee, 38s. 6d.
<< LADIES' SWISS, t>
English Hall-marked, lis. 3d
Metal Domes, 9s.
JEvcvy kino of H'(flatcb
tn Stock.
Brooches,
Earrings, Bracelets,
Bangles, Lockets, Necklets
flings, Studs, Links, &c, in all
LATEST STYLES & EVERY MATERIAL
Old Gold & Silver bought or taken in exchange.
HALL-MARKED S/LTER rESTA BOXES, CIGARETTE <3- CARD
CASES. FRUli &■ BUTTER KNIVES, NAPKIN RINGS, SALT
SPOONS, &■(., drc. MEDALS, /or all Sports, JOS. per dozen.
(pencils, Uootbpichs, Hbarms, Ubimblcs an» all IWovclties as tbcv> issue
ILLUSTRATED PRICE-LISTS FREE ON APPLICATION.
TICKETS, CARDS, HOOKS, JEWELRY CASES, CARD BOXES, TISSUE PAPER, 5s. Ream; and WOOL, specially
prepared for resisting tarnish— White, 1s. 8d r , 2s. 6d.; Pink, 3s. 6d. and 4s. 6d. per lb.
cme
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
Entered at Stationers' Hall."]
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 8.]
FEBRUARY 1, 1888.
[" Subscription, 5s. ( Post
per Annum. ( Free.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Editorial 113
General Notes ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ••• 114
Trade Notes 115
The Merchandise Marks Act and the Jewellery Trade 115
Further Facilities for the Insurance of Watches and Jewellery ... 11 &
Birmingham News ... ... ... .. ••■ 116
The Demagnetising of Watches... ... ... 117
Exhibition of Japanese Art ... ... 117
American Items ... ... ... 118
The Theory of Adjustment. By M. L. Lossier. (Illustrated) ... 118
The Lever Escapement. By M. L.-A. Grosclaude 120
A Simple Watch. By Bill Nye 121
To Our Young Friends 122
Silver Ware Manufacture in the United States 123
Workshop Memoranda 124
Gazette 125
Applications for Letters Patent ... 125
Recent American Patents ... ... ... 125
Correspondence —
Important Regulations with regard to the Hall-marking of Swiss
Watches. (Illustrated )
Buyers' Guide ... ... ...
125
126
(The Tilatchmaher, jeweller an&
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers.
_ Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence. — Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, ST. PAUL'S CHURCHYARD,
LONDON, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed and made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
Y the kindness of Mr. Walter S. Prideaux, Clerk to
the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, we are
enabled to give on another page the full text of the
new regulations of the Swiss Federal Council affecting the Hall-
marking of Swiss watches intended for the English market.
While the choice of English or Swiss marks in the cases is
still arbitrary, the promptitude with which their government have
accepted the challenge tacitly embodied in what may be termed
the watchmaking clauses of the Merchandise Marks Act, affords
a clear proof, if any were wanting, of the determination of Swiss
manufacturers to trade honestly on their merits.
Should the great majority of makers, as is not unlikely, elect
to adopt the latter marks, a good opportunity will be afforded
for testing the estimation in which the productions of the two
countries are, respectively, to be held in the home and (shortly,
it is to be hoped) colonial markets. Tlie much talked of " two-
edged sword " will then have an opportunity to develop its back-
cutting properties. As it is, English makers are just now very
confident of being able to hold their own in fair competition
with all comers, and the new rules referred to (which a careful
consideration of will show are very precise) should do much to
promote a good understanding among the trade, as they are
calculated by the removal of vexatious anomalies to beneficially
affect honest traders.
As we have before said (in previous remarks upon the subject
of Hall-marking) the Swiss Government assay is quite as severe
a test as those of our own Halls, and it was only required (in
order that the mark should be an equally reliable guarantee of
the quality of the case) that a rule be introduced such as that
comprised in the second decree which makes obligatory the
assaying of the case as a whole.
On another page will be found the report of the first case
directly affecting jewellers heard under the Merchandise Marks
Act. As the decision arrived at is likely to be of great importance
to the trade, we recommend a careful perusal of the stipendiary's
judgment. Pending an appeal being taken, however, we shall
reserve our comments on the subject.
114
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[February 1, 1888.
$eneral Notes.
WIjWHE Queen's Jubilee presents have been removed from
y^- Windsor Castle to the Bethnal Green Museum, where
they will be on view until further notice, for the benefit of
residents at the East End.
The annual dinner of the Foreign Watch and Clockmakers'
Society took place on January 7 at the Holborn Restaurant.
The report which was submitted by the Secretary showed the
Society to be in a flourishing condition, there being 112 members
on the books, and the balance sheet showing a total j)rofit for
the year of over £98.
The Director of the United States Mint has estimated the
values of the standard coins of the various nations of the world,
to be proclaimed by the Secretary of the Treasury on January 1.
The valuation of the silver coins has been reckoned according to
the price of silver in London during the three months ending
December 24. Accordingly the value of the Mexican silver
dollar is 75-9 to 79 cents.
The methods of production of jewellery work at Pforzheim, in
Baden, says Scientific News, are very similar to those in the
United States, except that the German has the advantage of
being provided with a very excellent technical school, or Gewerbe
schule, in which children intended for employment in the jewellery
shops receive a thorough theoretical training long before they see
the inside of a factory. Instruction here is practically free, the
manufacturers paying about 8*. a year for the pupils whom they
intend to employ.
A remarkable instance of close adjustment for temperature
compensation has just come under our notice in a watch sprung
by Mr. J. F. Cole. The watch, which is a minute chronograph
by Mr. C. H. Golay, has gained an "A" certificate with a total
of 81 "7 marks ; the mean change of daily rate for 1° Fahr. was
0*002 seconds, and the number of marks awarded for temperature
compensation is 19 - 9 out of a possible 20. The total number
of marks would have been much greater but for its partial failure
in one of the "quarter" positions.
M. de Freycinet (Comptes Rendus) proposes the following
New Units of Length, &c, in place of those of the metric
system ; the unit of length is the length of the velocity acquired
at the end of a second of mean time by a body falling freely in a
vacuum at Paris. This unit will be ■ 98 metre. The unit of
volume is a cube of which the side is -^^ of the unit of length.
The unit of mass is the mass of water at 4 ■ 1°C. contained in the
unit of volume. The unit of weight is the weight of the unit of
mass. The unit of force = the unit of weight.
The Council of the Manchester Technical School have
recently purchased a valuable collection of apparatus, of German
manufacture, illustrative of the principles of mechanism, and of
sound, light, and chemistry in their technical applications. They
have also made arrangements for a course of twelve lectures on
" Chemical Engineering," to be delivered by Mr. G. E. Davis,
late Government Inspector of Alkali Works. This school enjoys
considerable prosperity, and is at present attended by 2,304
students, as compared with 2,136 at this time last year.
An electrically-wound clock has been patented by Mr. W. J.
Barnsdale, of Brunswick Place, City Road. According to this
invention electrical contact points or springs are placed with
relation to the centre wheel, and a corresponding pin wheel
driven thereby or acting in unison therewith. The winding is
effected by means of the revolving armature of an electro-motor,
which acts upon suitable wheel trains in connection with the
mechanism, but sifch motor is only actuated when the circuits
are completed through the contact points, and ceases to act so
soon as such circuit is broken.
A Company called the Platinum Plating Co. (Limited) has
been formed to buy up the patent rights of this form of electro-
plating and to carry out the process in the British Empire (Canada
excepted). The capital is £60,000, in 59,100 ordinary and 900
founders' shares, and the former are now offered to the public.
An improvement in the manufacture of aluminum is the
subject of a patent of Mr. Edward Cleavers, of Stockwell, Surrey.
This is effected by baking alumina and dissolving it in sulphuric
acid. The sulphate of alumina thus obtained is mixed with
finely-divided carbon, which when dry is heated out of contact
with air, thereby causing a reduction of the alumina salt. The
material so obtained is mixed with iron in a divided state, and
the temperature raised sufficiently to melt the metal, when an
alloy of aluminum and iron is obtained.
The Rev. Harry Mitchell, in the Prescot Parish Magazine,
says : — One subject now uppermost in the minds of many of you
is, I know, the proposed watch factory. It is a matter of life or
death to the staple trade of Prescot; for, owing to the rapid
introduction of new methods in the manufacture of watches, we
must either accommodate ourselves to the change, and take the
lead in England, or see the whole of the present trade gradually
drift away to more enterprising centres. The sudden death of
Mr. W. L. Evans was a crushing blow to the company. He had
just been appointed its chairman, with Mr. Pilkington, of The
Hazels, and Mr. Willie, of Halsnead, as directors ; and, had he
lived, I have little doubt but that by this time we might have
been getting ready to lay the foundation stone of the factory.
We have not yet succeeded in finding another chairman, and
nothing more can be done until a report shall have been made to
the Company by two gentlemen who have been commissioned to
make full inquiry into the conditions of the trade both at home
and abroad.
The Society for Promoting Industrial Villages is circulating
in printed form Mr. Cookworthy Robins's important lecture on
the depreciation of landed property, and its ultimate recovery.
The report of the discussion thereon is appended, and accom-
panied by a special New Year's appeal to those who may feel
disposed to eo-operate in the movement. The Council believe
that favourable opportunities now exist for the establishment of
village industries side by side with agricultural operations ; and
they invite assistance by granting the use of drawing-rooms for
private meetings, with a view to form Village Branches or
Ladies' Auxiliaries, and by keeping the Society informed of
opportunities for action. The writing and compiling of practical
handbooks on simple inexpensive village industries is also con-
sidered a valuable aid. Among these the Council class candying
and preserving fruits, bee-keeping, poultry and rabbit farming ;
culture of fruits, tomatoes, and fine vegetables ; flax growing,
spinning and hand-loom weaving, rope-net and twine making,
lace, glove and embroidery making, straw and shaving plaiting,
basket and chair making and mending, small metal embossing,
working, and wire-net making. The Hon. Secretary of the
Society is Mr. G. J. Knight, 32, Craven Street.
The Diamond Market. — The Amsterdam market is just
waking up after the holidays, during which hardly any business
was done, and only Russian and Polish buyers were on hand to
take advantage of the low state of the market. Factories are
again fully going.
At Paris, merchants are inclined to speculate for stock, but at
present are offering impossible prices.
The steamers " Athenian," " Grantully Castle,". " Trojan,"
" Norham Castle " and " Mexican " arrived since our last report,
and although quotations have been somewhat higher, a good deal
of business has been done at normal prices owing to the large
quantity of stuff in the London market.
From Kimberley latest advices report a very active market and
Companies' parcels in good demand. The news from home good,
the shipments realising a profit of from two to three per cent.
Silver. — Bars 44^d. per oz.
February 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER ANT) SILVERSMITH.
115
Cra6e Wotee.
|T the recent Apprentices' Exhibition at the People's Palace,
Mile End, two of the apprentices of Messrs. Botwright
& Grey, of 13, Spencer Street, E.C., were awarded
medals for excellence of workmanship.
Messrs. C. Westwood & Sons, of Hall Street, Birmingham,
inform us that they are now making the small punches for
marking watch cases with the word SWISS, as required by the
recent Act of Parliament.
Mr. T. P. Hewitt and a commercial expert sailed for
America on the 14th ultimo, with a view to obtain information
on which to frame a prospectus for the proposed Prescot Watch
Company.
A new set of chimes, for performances of Wagner's
"Parsifal," has been manufactured by Mr. John Harrington, of
Coventry. Madame Wagner has pronounced them entirely
satisfactory, and they will, according to the Athenceum, be used
at the performances in July and August next.
Mr. E. Barnard, of Cirencester, has patented an opsiometer.
He describes it as an instrument whereby lenses, fixed at a normal
reading distance from printed matter, shall, by means of a disc,
cylinder, or other means, be made to revolve before both eyes of
a person who looks through two eye openings (shaped something
like an opera-glass), who thus readily ascertains the power of
lens required in selecting a pair of spectacles, &c.
" The Merchandise Marks Act, 1887, together with the Orders
in Council in Regard to the Marking of Foreign Watch Cases,"
is the title of a pamphlet issued by Mr. George I). Ham. It
contains the full text of the recent Act, with the Customs regula-
tions in regard to the importation of goods bearing trade or
descriptive marks, with notes by the author. It is published by
Effingham Wilson, 11, Royal Exchange Buildings, E.C.
Under the failure of Jacob Otto Schuler, of 12, Hatton
Garden, goldsmith, accounts have been furnished, accompanied
by the official receiver's observations. The aggregate liabilities
are put down at £44,837, of which £33,420 are expected to
rank, and assets estimated at £5,690. The debtor states that
he commenced business in partnership with another person in
January, 1874 ; that his partner retired about the end of 1875, and
the debtor continued the business, having a capital of about £1,600
at the time. He further states that in 1881 he became part
proprietor of the Spitzkop Gold Mine in the Transvaal, and that
since 1885 he has received therefrom and paid into the business
about "£10,000. He attributes his failure to bad debts and a
large falling off in his trade since the beginning of 1887. The
official receiver observes that the books of accounts appear to
have been well and properly kept and balanced. The debtor has
been adjudged bankrupt.
Although a simple means for demagnetising watches has long
been a desideratum in the trade, and, as exposing such, the
article we publish in this issue is a very valuable contribution to
what is known on the subject, seeing that almost every watch in
use is liable at some time or other to be affected, still it is
obviously beginning at the wrong end to aim only at curing what
can be prevented. The increasing dangers to watches accruing
from the extensive employment of dynamos and electrical appli-
ances of all kinds in the manufactures, has of late very seriously
exercised both wearers and makers. It is therefore with satis-
faction we call attention to the new advertisement, appearing on
another page, of Messrs. Baume & Co.'s anti-magnetic Longines
watches. The reputation of the ordinary Longines lever is so
well established that anything we could say with regard to it is
rendered unnecessary. The addition of the non-magnetic parts
will doubtless cause these watches to become still more popular
with the trade, - - :
It has been frequently found that complicated watches having
numerous steel parts in action become magnetised, and this, in
the case of repeaters, has undoubtedly originated in the per-
cussion of the hammers on the gongs. With a view to obviate
this source of error, Mr. H. Golay, of 46, Myddelton Square,
E.C, has introduced a gong composed of a new non-magnetisable
alloy. The new gong has all the properties of the steel ones,
having a rich, mellow tone, and, besides, has the advantages of
neither rusting nor tarnishing.
If the past year of Jubilee was disappointing in its results to
many manufacturers, it is quite certain that our turret clock
makers cannot be included in the category. The old-established
firm of W. F. Evans & Sons, of Handsworth, near Birmingham,
were exceptionally fortunate, and, among many other orders com-
pleted during the year, sent out large Jubilee clocks to Yorkshire,
Lancashire, Gloucestershire and London ; large chime clocks to
Liverpool and Freemantle town halls ; and, as instancing the
general prosperity of the trade, this firm finished fifty lever
escapement clocks during the last quarter of the year for South
America, in one order.
Che Merchandise Tftarhs Act an& the
Jewellery Crabe.
fjp?HE first case under the above Act affecting jewellers was
l^i heard at Birmingham on the 5th ult., when Mr. Alfred
Peel, a jeweller, was summoned for having, as alleged,
falsely described a quantity of silver goods supplied to Mr. Albert
Heymann, of the firm of Messrs. Sachs & Co., Birmingham and
Berlin. The goods were invoiced as " 800 in 1,000," meaning
that in every 1,000 parts there were 800 parts of silver. The
complainant had the goods assayed, with the result that the
highest point reached amongst the various articles was 746 in
the 1,000. The defendant pleaded that he ordered the goods to
be made of 800 silver, and when he invoiced them believed them
to be as described. After hearing arguments from both sides,
the stipendiary, Mr. Kynnersley, reserved judgment for a week.
On Tuesday, 10th ult., the stipendiary magistrate gave his
decision in the above case.
The judgment was given in writing, and was as follows : —
" Section 2 of the Act states (1) that ' Every person who (a)
applies any false trade description to goods ' shall be subject to
the provisions of this Act, and unless he proves that he acted
without intent to defraud, be guilty of an offence against this
Act. (2) Every person who sells any goods or things to which
a false trade description is applied shall, unless he proves (b)
that on demand made by or on behalf of the prosecution, he gave
all the information in his power with respect to the persons from
whom he obtained the goods or things ; or (c) that otherwise he
had acted innocently — be guilty of an offence against the Act.'
By Section 3 the expression 'trade description ' means any
description, statement, or other indication, direct or indirect;
(a) ' as to the material of which any goods are composed, and
the use of any figures, word, or mark, which, according to the
custom of the trade, is commonly taken to be an indication of
any of the above matters, shall be deemed to be a trade descrip-
tion within the meaning of the Act.' The expression ' false
trade description ' means a trade description which is false in a
material respect as regards the goods to which it is applied, and
includes every alteration of a trade description, whether by way
of addition, effacement, or otherwise, where that alteration makes
the description false in a material respect. By Section 5 a person
shall be deemed to apply a trade description who (a) uses it in
any manner calculated to lead to the belief that the goods in
connection with which it is used, are designated by that trade
description. A trade description shall be deemed to be applied
whether it is woven, impressed, or otherwise worked into or
annexed or affixed to the goods, or to any covering, label, reel,
|or other thing." After briefly recapitulating the facts of the
116
THE WATCHMAKEE, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[February 1, 1888.
case, as given above, the stipendiary proceeded to say: — "The
questions that arise are (1) Did the defendant apply a false
trade description by sending with the goods in the way mentioned
the invoice which described the goods as ' 800-1 ,000 silver ? '
(2) Was it a trade description ? (3) Was it a false trade
description ? I am of opinion that a false trade description was
applied. The invoice was applied to the goods or covering, and
was used in a manner calculated to lead to the belief that the
goods were designated by the trade description mentioned in the
invoice. I find as a fact '800-1,000' was a trade description
well understood in the jewellery trade. I also find that it was
false in a 'material respect' as regards the quality of the goods
to which it was applied. The defendant not having proved that
he acted without intent to defraud — in fact, he admitted he
knew of the false description as to quality — I must, therefore,
convict him of applying the false trade description ; and, not
having proved that he acted innocently, I must convict him of
unlawfully selling the goods. As this is the first prosecution
under the Act in Birmingham, I shall impose a nominal fine of
20s. in each case, and shall be glad to grant a case for the
opinion of the High Court."
Mr. Hugo Young : What about the summons for December 14?
I have heard nothing about that case.
Mr. Barradale (magistrates' clerk) : I understand Mr. Kyn-
nersley that that is dismissed.
Mr. Hugo Young said that the defendant would certainly
appeal. On consideration he thought that the Quarter Sessions
would be the best tribunal to deal with the case.
Mr. Alfred Young applied for costs for the complainant.
Mr. Hugo Young objected, remarking that two summonses
had been withdrawn and another had been dismissed. The
defendant had been willing to meet all the cases on their merits.
Mr. Barradale said that the last case was clearly investigated.
The Stipendiary allowed the complainant four guineas costs,
and said that if he heard from Mr. Hugo Young within a week
he would grant an appeal.
Further Facilities for the 3nsurance of
UJatches an6 Jewellery.
Mjf HE Postmaster-General has issued the following notice : —
|^| With the view of affording further facilities for the trans-
mission by Registered Letter Post of watches, jewellery,
and other small articles of value, the fee of Id. for the Insurance
up to £5 of a Registered Letter will, on and after the 15th
instant, be discontinued.
Thenceforward, except in the case of Letters containing coin,
compensation for loss or damage to an amount not exceeding £5
will be given without payment of any Insurance Fee, provided
that the Registration Fee of 2d. and the Postage at the ordinary
Inland rate have been prepaid. In the case of letters containing
coin, compensation will still be given up to £2.
Thus, without payment of an Insurance Fee, compensation up
to an amount not exceeding £5
Registered Letter.
The average weight of a watch-packet is from 4 to 6 ozs.,
and that of a packet containing jewellery is probably somewhat
less. The charge for such packets will therefore be as follows : —
I Postage - - - - l^d.
\ Registration Fee - - 2d.
If the weight do not exceed 2 ozs.
will be given in respect of a
If the weight do not exceed 4 ozs.-
If the weight do not exceed ozs.-
f Postage - - -
1 Registration Fee -
Postage- - - -
Registration Fee -
2d.
2d.
4d.
2d.
4ld.
When a Registered Letter is posted a certificate of posting is
always given, and when it is delivered a receipt is always taken.
The arrangement under which for a fee of 2d. compensation
will be given for loss or damage to an amount not exceeding £10
will continue, and, except as altered by this Notice, the existing
rules as to compensation for loss and damage of Registered
Letters will remain in force.
The public are reminded that to secure compensation for
damage, Registered Letters must be securely packed, and the
words " Fragile, with Care " must appear on the cover in bold
and legible characters. These words should, when possible, be
inserted above the address. " Inland Parcel Post — Watches and
Jewellery."
In view of the foregoing regulations, all Packets containing
Watches or Jewellery should be sent by the Registered Letter
Post, and after the 15th instant the Insurance of such articles
by Parcel Post will cease, and compensation in respect thereof
will thenceforth in no case be paid.
Birmingham News,
From Our Correspondent.
And so on, at the rate of Id. for every additional 2 ozs,
^MANUFACTURERS in the fancy trades generally report
.~ii^ a very quiet trade during January ; the new year has
not opened with a "grand flourish of trumpets" as it
did last year, when the prospects of the Jubilee caused a con-
siderable stir of a speculative character, but we are all hoping
that there will be a much firmer tone, taking the year through,
than there was last, as some of the staple trades are picking up
nicely- * * *
The New Merchandise Marks Act is of course a much
discussed subject ; the recent litigation between two Birmingham
houses having brought it before the public in a rather forcible
manner, some manufacturers declaring " that if the recent
decision is confirmed they may as well shut up, as it is impos-
sible to make work without solder ; " others thinking that the
Act will be productive of great good and impart a better tone to
the jewellery trade. There is no doubt that at present it is
causing a considerable stir in the trade as to the probability of
some fancy trade marks holding good, and no doubt that there is
a certain amount of holding back orders in consequence ; and yet
in the face of all this there are a number of manufacturers who
will not take the trouble to read the Act, and in point of fact
quite ignore it, and excuse themselves as I heard one the other day,
by saying, " We do not represent goods to be what they are not,
and therefore it does not apply to us." But it appears to me
that the great question is, of what does a misrepresentation
consist ? I dont think the lawyers quite settled it the other
week — at any rate not to the satisfaction of the practical jeweller.
# # *•
One of the oldest, and at one time one of the largest manufacturing
jewellers, (Messrs. J. & W. Randall, Vittoria Street, Birmingham)
have, during the last month, finally withdrawn from the trade.
The fixtures, dies, tools, &c. have been sold by auction, and the
business premises are in the market and are vacant. As the
premises are one of the largest in the trade there will be difficulty
in disposing of them as a whole, and they will no doubt be
eventually divided up as the best way of utilising them. I think
as a rule, that such extensive buildings for the jewellery trade is
a mistake, as the jeweller is, or should be, an artist, and it is
practically impossible to carry on a huge business that will occupy
premises on such an imposing scale. There are a few instances
of jewellers — so called — occupying premises containing 200
workmen or thereabouts ; but they are scarcely jewellers proper,
making as they do a variety of fancy articles which would better
come under the head of light brass foundry.
* # #
There are still a number of jewellers working short time,
while on the other hand there are a few that are pushed for work,
and are adding to their number of hands,
February 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER ANT) SILVERSMITH.
117
Che Demagnetising of Thatches.
SN an interesting article on the above subject in Scientific
M, News, the writer states that it is only when a watch
becomes magnetised as a whole that harm is done.
Several different methods of demagnetisation have been devised,
but none of them is so certain as the separate demagnetisation of
each part. In carrying out this remedy, there are two conditions
of neutrality, both of which can rarely be attained. The one is
to make the part under treatment unable to pick up the smallest
iron filing, and the other is to leave it so that it will not affect a
compass-needle more than a piece of soft iron, which would feebly
attract either pole. It is as a rule better to aim at the first of
these conditions, unless, which is not likely, it should, when almost
perfect in this respect, exert considerable influence on the compass.
The easiest method of demagnetising the separate pieces is,
after carefully examining how it is magnetised, both by the
compass and by iron filings, to oppose its magnetism by bringing
an ordinary horseshoe magnet near it. A large magnet held at
a few inches distance is better than actually stroking the part
with a magnetised sewing needle, as the magnetisation of the
latter is more liable to be altered than that of a large magnet.
In some complicated parts, such as a compensated balance, it is
necessary to use a needle. Balances have been constructed by
M. Paillard of two different alloys of palladium having different
expansive qualities. Phosphor bronze is used for levers, and
might be used in conjunction with platinum for balances.
The balance is the most important part, for a watch provided
with a non-magnetisable balance, though having spring, lever,
regulator arm and escape wheel of steel, will keep fairly good time
after having been subjected to the influence of a powerful magnet,
although it has been temporarily stopped while in the magnetic field.
To test a piece, such as a lever, with a compass, it is sufficient
to offer first one end and then the other to the needle, holding it
at right angles and at a fixed distance. The needle should be
attracted by either end, but should it be magnetised, one end will
attract the needle, and the other end repel it, or only attract it feebly.
Sometimes the magnetism is destroyed by heating each part
to dull redness, and re-tempering and polishing. Such a method
cannot be recommended, as it not only involves considerably
more labour, but is likely to do more harm to the watch than a
little residual magnetism.
It is probable that the separate parts could be completely
demagnetised by placing them one by one in the centre of a
bobbin of insulated wire, like a small induction coil, but wound
with rather thicker wire. A current should be sent through the
coil, and rapidly alternated by means of a commutator, the
strength of the current being at the same time gradually
diminished by introducing a resistance. The piece under treat-
ment would be magnetised first one way, and then the other, but
with gradually decreasing strength. This method has been
applied in various ways, with some success, to the demagnetisation
of a watch as a whole, without taking it to pieces. It has the
merit of simplicity, and does not need any knowledge of watch-
making. The simplest way of carrying it out is to spin the
watch rapidly, near a dynamo or powerful magnet, and withdraw
it while spinning. This is almost always enough to start a
watch which has been stopped, but its rate will probably remain
affected. Mr. Maxim has constructed an instrument for the
purpose ; it consists of a magnet which can be rotated so as to
present the north and south poles in succession, and a holder for
the watch. This holder is attached to a long screw, and during
the rotation of the magnet, the watch is gradually withdrawn
from its influence. A similar arrangement has been used with
an electro magnet, and provision is made for gradually reducing
the strength oE the current. These methods are free from the
risk of injury which might occur from the violent spinning, but a
very strong magnet would be required to destroy the effect of
bringing a watch nearlyinto contact with the polepieceof a dynamo,
an event which may often happen while it remains in the pocket.
There is one other method of treating the watch as a whole.
It is placed on a table, face upwards, on a sheet of paper with
two lines crossing at right angles. The dial is placed so that
XII and VI are just over one line, and III and IX are over
the other. The deflection of the compass is noted, and the
watch is turned so as to bring I and VII over one line, and IIII
and X over the other. The deflection is again noted, and a
table made for the strength of the magnetism in each position.
The maximum and minimum, or north and south points, can
then be determined, and the watch is removed and passed
backwards and forwards in front of a strong magnet in such a
way as to neutralise the magnetism which has thus been
measured. It must then be replaced and a fresh exploration
made, and the process may be repeated until the compass fails to
detect any unusual distribution of magnetism. Although good
results are recorded as having been effected by this means, it can
hardly be expected to cure effectually, unless in experienced
hands, and it must be a tedious operation.
A complete protection from magnetisation is afforded by an
iron case. It is not necessary that it should completely encase
the watch, but it may consist merely of a piece of tinned iron,
bent over with the corners rounded. The effect is to offer an
easy passage to the magnetic lines of force, which will then pass
round, instead of through the watch.
Exhibition of 3apanese Art.
LOAN Exhibition of Japanese Art, forming by far the
most important collection of the kind that has yet been
seen in England, was opened last month at the galleries
of the Fine Art Society, 1-48, New Bond Street. It contains
some of the choicest specimens of lacquer, metal work, porcelain
and pottery, wood and ivory carvings, enamels, bronzes and em-
broideries that have been brought into the country, and both
Mr. Huish, the able director of the society, and Mr. Kataoka,
whose reputation as an expert is a sufficient guarantee for the
value of his services in anything connected with the art of his
country, have been occupied for upwards of two months in the
work of selecting, cataloguing and doing their best to make the
most of the space at disposal. The gallery leading to the two
principal exhibition rooms has been tastefully decorated and fur-
nished for the occasion by Mr. G. Faulkner Armitage, of Altrin-
cham, in well-harmonised tones of red, brown and russet.
Although many of the exhibits, especially the smaller objects,
are necessarily somewhat crowded, being packed in as many cases
as there are letters in the alphabet, they are so classified and
arranged that it is easy to study and compare them without
fatigue. In the catalogue, temporarily provided by Mr. Kataoka
while a more exhaustive illustrated volume is in the press, will
be found an interesting introductory note, to which we may refer
our readers for special and technical information on the various
branches of work exhibited. Here we may make acquaintance
with the great "old masters" of the Land of the Rising Sun,
and if their names are not destined to become household words
like those of their illustrious contemporaries in art in Italy,
Holland, France and other European countries, they must at
least be revered in the abstract for the relics of patience, inge-
nuity and taste which they have left behind. Many of them
were highly esteemed in their day, and held Court appointments
and titles of honour. Until 30 years ago, Japan, as far as its
art-wealth was concerned, was to the Englishman an unexplored
country ; but so many treasures have accumulated over here since
that time, and are so highly prized for their beauty, that col-
lectors are ready to pay fabulous sums for choice pieces of lacquer
and ivory carvings. Amongst the principal contributors to the
Exhibition are the Duke of Edinburgh, Mr. G. Salting, Mr.
Seymour Trower, Mr. Marcus Huish, Mr. Ernest Hart, Mr. W.
J. Stuart, Mr. Cyril Flower, Mrs. Ahrens, Mr. E. Gilbertson,
Sir Frederick Leighton, M. Bing, Sir Trevor Lawrence, Lieut.-
Col. Alt, Mr. Phene Spiers, Mr. W. C. Alexander, Mr. Massey
Mainwaring, Mr. F. Y. Edwards and Dr. Anderson. There are
upwards of 2,000 objects on view, and days might be spent in
studying them before any adequate idea could be formed of the
wealth of art produced in a country where patience and skill
are so wonderfully combined.
118
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[February 1, 1888.
American 3tem$.
fHE Trenton Watch Company are said to be turning out 200
complete watches a clay, and are selling them as fast as
they can make them. They are only waiting for some
new pinion cutting machines to largely increase their output.
The cases are now made with a hinged bezel, which is a great
improvement.
According to the "Jewelry Neivs" the watch industry must
be in a nourishing condition, in spite of spasmodic rumors of
over-production. Plans for the formation of new factories are
discussed, and capital for investment in such enterprises is not
wanting. Several parties are said to be prospecting for the
location of sites for the building of such factories : both for the
manufacture of cheap and for the better grade of watches.
Lamenting the disadvantage under which American diamond
cutters are placed owing to foreign competition, the same organ
expresses regret, that an increase of duty on cut diamonds is not
practicable, because it furnishes greater temptations to smugglers.
The smuggling of diamonds is carried on successfully to a
greater or less extent; and one of the reasons for imposing a
low duty on the importation of diamonds is to remove the
temptation to smuggling.
The death took place on the 2nd ult., at Boston, Massachusetts,
of Mr. Henry Dutton Morse, who was well known in the trade
as the first American diamond cutter. By the aid of a machine
of his own invention he cut the first diamond ever cut in
America. It was known as the "Dewey" diamond, and weighed
in the rough about 50 carats. Subsequently he cut the large
diamond known as the "Tiffany No 2," which was described by
Mr. George F. Kunz in our November issue. Mr. Morse was in
his 62nd year at the time of his death.
The recent rise in copper, says the Manufacturing Jeweler,
Prov., R.T., has been so extraordinary, and it affects our jewellers
so materially, that a word here may not be out of place. Chili
bars are used as a basis for speculation, and London is the
leading market of the world for these bars. When Chili liars
go up in London, American copper rises in New York, and vice
i-ersa. A syndicate formed in Paris had been so successful in
forcing up the price of tin, increasing the price from twenty to
thirty-two cents a pound in two months, that they conceived the
idea of cornering copper in the same way. They have been very
successful also in this latest effort. On October 20, Chili bars
were selling for £36 a ton in London. The syndicate bought
all the visible supply in England and on the 27th of December
the price was £85 a ton. As if to aid the bull movement of
this syndicate, the Calumet and Hecla mine, the leading mine of
the Lake Superior district, caught on fire, and this seems certain
materially to decrease the product of the mine. The New York
Evening Post says that at Butte, Mich., new works, with a
capacity of 3,000 tons of ore a day, are being put up by the
Anaconda mines, but they will hardly be ready before April or
May, and then, if the company chooses, it can put out 200 tons
of fine copper a day, at least doubling the output for 1887.
It is believed that this abnormal price of coj:iper cannot be
maintained very long, and that when the crash comes it will be
severe. ■ The winter weather, however, will keep the output of
the American mines down to a low point until spring, and
probably the drop may be deferred until that time. The rise in
copper has of course greatly affected the price of brass. Instead
of forty per cent, discount, buyers now receive ten or less. There-
fore manufacturers of cheap jewellery will be obliged to reckon
a third increase in the price of their brass stock and copper for
alloys.
Che Cheory of Adjustment.
By M. L. Lossier.
After the Memoir of M. Jdles Grossmann. — From the Journal
Suisse D'Horlogerie.
CHAPTER I.— (Continued from page 108.)
Qj^ECTION 2. — In order to find the time occupied by the
^SP pendulum in making a portion of oscillation d B, the same
comparison can still be made use of, and to calculate the
time required for the mobile D (fig. 3) to traverse the corres-
ponding distance D F upon the semi-circle II F H'. The time
/ that the mobile will take to go from D to F will be : —
space traversed —
speed
arc D F
VT
The arc D F is the arc of which the sine* is -v^— f, == —
U B a
it is then : —
arc sin
But if we seek in the tallies a length of arc corresponding to a
given sine, it will be found indicated witli the radius for unit.
To have this length in millimetres, it is necessary then for us to
multiply it by the length of the radius, or by «, and we shall
have : —
7
« arc sin
or, bv eliminating: «.
-y
(2)
Numerical Example. — Find how long in time the lift (30')
of a Graham anchor escapement adjusted to a seconds pendulum
of 3° amplitude will last. The demi-oscillation will have then
an amplitude of 1° 30' or 90', from whence
2- = — = 0.3333 ;
a. 90
the corresponding arc-
arc sin
continuing;
/_/_ / 094
V a V 1)808.
■v 9808.8
from whence t = 0.318 x 0.3403
0.3403
= 0.318
0.108 sec.
angle /3 is
a V
h The sine of any angle /3,
is the length of the line b c
(letdown perpendicularly from
the extremity of the radius
a b upon the diameter d e)
divided by the length of the
radius, and the cosine is the
line a c divided by the same
radius. Thus the sine of the
and the cosine of the same ansrle is — r-
° a b
February 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLEE AND SILVERSMITH.
119
Section 3. — The foregoing formulae (1) — see page 108 — and
(2), found for the pendulum, apply directly to the balance of a
watch.
The balance is maintained in its neuter position, or in repose,
by means of a spiral spring. When it is disturbed from that
position it performs a series of oscillations analogous to those of
the pendulum.
Here, the action of the weight is replaced by the elastic force
of the spring, and the influence of the length of the pendulum by
the influence of the radius and of the weights of the balance.
We shall have then to replace, in the formula for the pendulum,
1
r - \ j :
9
I by a certain quantity A depending on the dimension and the
weights of the balance,, and g by another quantity M depending
on the elastic force of the spring.
This formula will thus become : —
T
V M
(3)
which we cannot admit as exact a priori, but which we will
reserve for demonstration later on. Let us say now that the
quantity A is called the moment of inertia of the balance, and
the quantity M the moment of elasticity of the spring.
Section 4. — Moment of inertia. — It is demonstrated, in
mechanics, that a force, f may be measured by the acceleration,
w, that it imparts to a mass, m* which is expressed by the
formula f = m w. (a)
Take a mass m constrained to turn around a point (fig. 4),
from which it is distant r.
Here the acceleration is not rec-
tilineal, but angular ; that is to
say, that if this acceleration is
expressed in linear measure, this
measure must be in respect to
a unit of radius, because it is
evident that for the same angle
travelled over, the length of arc
will be different according to the
distance of the mobile from the
centre of rotation.
These two kinds of acceleration are connected by the formula :
f iv = w r (b)
in which w expresses the angular acceleration.
On the other hand, the force / must be replaced by its
moment F \ with respect to the point 0, and we postulate : —
/ r = F,
from whence
: /-±
r
In other words, / will be the force which, applied to the unit of
distance from 0, will be able to produce the same effect as f
applied to the distance r.
Replacing in the equation (a) w and / by their values ascer-
F
tained from (b) and (c), we shall have — = m eo r, and the
r
angular acceleration becomes : —
F
r*m (d)
It is easily seen that the mass m, which we have considered as
a point, may be distributed over an infinity of points, along a
distance r from the centre 0, that is to say, upon a circumference
having r for radius.
This term r is what is called the radius of gyration, and the
expression r 2 m, which, in the formula (d), constitutes the
* Mecanique appUquee de Bocquet, I., p. 162.
f Mecanique appliquee de Bocquet, I., p. 94.
\ By the moment of a force is understood the product of that force by
the length of its leverage. — Mecanique de Bocquet, I., p. 32.
resistance to the acceleration, is called the moment of inertia ; it
is applied to a watch balance by assuming all the mass of the
balance concentrated upon a circumference having a radius r.
The circumference of gyration is then, for the balance, what the
centre of oscillation is for the pendulum.
The moment of inertia, which we have expressed by A in the
formula (3), may be defined as — the weight F divided by g and
multiplied by the square of the radius of gyration : —
In practice, the radius of a balance to the interior of the bi-
metallic rim may be taken as the measure of the radius of
gyration.
Numerical Example.— Find the moment of iner.tia of a
balance weighing 0.6 gr., and measuring 16 nmi .5 to the interior
of the rim : — ■
0.6 X 8.25 2
A =
9808.8
0.00416
Section 5. — Moment of Elasticity. — A. spring attached to its
balance, without any action being exerted in any way, is in equi-
librium, or at the dead point. If, at this moment the balance is
rotated a half turn upon its axis, the molecular equilibrium of
the spring will be broken, and it will require a certain force to
maintain the balance in its new position.
The moment of this force will be the force itself p multiplied
by the distance r from its point of application to the axis of the
balance : —
m = p r.
Numerical Example. —
p = 0s r -,3963, r = 10 mm -;
the moment of the force will be : — m = 3.963.
The angle the balance has been turned = \ circumference
= 7r (taking the radius as unit). If yet another turn is given
to the balance, the angle will be 3 nv, and we shall see that the
weight necessary to maintain the balance in this position will be
three times the initial weight ; that is to say, the force is propor-
tional to the angle the balance has been turned.
We shall have then, by dividing the moment of this force by
the angle, a constant quantity dependent on the elastic force of
the spring, and which is the moment of elasticity which we have
denoted by M in the formula (3) : —
m = ILL.
M =
= 1.02725.
In the above example we have : —
3.963
3.1416
the moment of force of the spring will be then M «.
We have found this by experience, and it remains now for us
to demonstrate it by calculation, basing the latter upon the laws
of elasticity.
The laws of elasticity developed by tension, that is, by an
effort exerted in the direction of the length of a body, are the
following : —
1. — For an equal bar, the lengthening which is produced by an
increase of the effort exerted, remains the same, whatever
be the initial tension.
2. — The lengthening is proportional to the increase of the
tension.
3. — It is proportional to the length of the bar.
4. — It is in the inverse ratio of its section.
It is assumed that the limit of elasticity is not passed ; that is
to say, that the body returns to its first length when it is left to
itself.
Let us suspend now to an iron wire of l mm - square in section,
upon which we have measured a given length (1 metre for
example), a weight of 1 kilog. This wire, under the effort of the
weight, will be lengthened a certain quantity (0.05 ram .) which we
will call, I..
It is evident that the more elastic the metal the greater will be
this quantity. In order to compare bodies with one another, the
120
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[February 1," 1888.
lengthening I undergone under a given weight P is ascertained,
and from the figure obtained is calculated the weight E that
would be necessary to produce an equal lengthening to the primi-
tive length L of the wire ; —
P :'i=E : L
from whence
PL
E= —' (5)
If the section is irregular, s, the formula becomes, taking
count of law (4) : —
PL
E = TV' (6)
and in order to have P, or the force of traction corresponding to
a given lengthening,
El s
P -~L-
The quantity E is called the coefficient of Elasticity • it would
be for iron, from the above example : —
1000 y 1000 „.„ A
= 20,000,000.
E =
0.05
For the steel of a spring : —
E = 20,000,000.
V r
Erratum. — In the last equation but one in page 108. for — read -p
(To be continued.)
Che Leuer Escapement .
CONSIDERED WITH EEGAED TO ITS FORM, INERTIA.
FRICTION, &c.
By M. L.-A. Grosci.aude, Professor at the Geneva School
of Horology.
(Translated from the French.)
( Continued from page 107.)
Friction.
UtTr MOTION constitutes, with the inertia of the matter, one
X<9' of tlic points having the greatest influence upon the
, practical result of the performance of the lever escapement.
Our readers will therefore 'perhaps pardon us if we renew the
question from the first elements.
What is friction ? The well-known definition is this : — ■
Friction is the resistance that must be overcome in order to
make one body slide upon another when a pressure exists between
the two bodies. Numerous experiments made under varied
conditions and with different materials, have led to the following
principle laws : — -
When two bodies rub one against the other in a dry state,
that is to say when nothing but the air interposes between the
surfaces in contact : —
1st. — Friction varies according to the degree of polish of the
surfaces in contact, and according to the nature of the
materials ;
2nd. — Friction is proportional to the pressure which exists
between the two surfaces ;
?rd. — It is independent of the extent of the surface in contact ;
4th. — Under the ordinary conditions of practice, it is indepen-
dent of the speed of bodies in motion.
Then, in order to estimate friction, it is necessary, from the
second of the above principles, to know in each particular case,
the pressure which exists between the two surfaces, pressure
which is always normally exerted at these surfaces. If the body
slides upon a horizontal plane it is the weight" of the body itself
which indicates the pressure. Since friction is proportional to
this pressure, it is usual to designate it by a name called
coefficient of friction, which indicates what part of the weight, or
rather of the pressure, should be taken in order to obtain the
friction. It is expressed in centiemes. This coefficient varies
(first principle) according to the nature of the materials, wood,
metal, &c, used, and the degree of polish of the rubbing surfaces.
It can only be determined by experiments, the enumeration, more
or less complete, of which is found in all treatises on mechanics.
It must be stated, however, that there exists on this subject a
great divergence of opinion among writers. It could hardly
be otherwise, the nature of the polish and the quality of the
material being so various.
Since; after the third principle, friction is independent of the
extent of the surface in contact, we need not take the latter into
account.
As regards the fourth principle, it is well to remark that
although it is usual to say that friction is independent of speed,
this is no reason for altogether ignoring the. speed.
The effort required in order to obtain the gliding is the same, it is
true, whatever be the quickness of the movement : but what is very
important, the mechanical toork expended is not. Because this
latter, being the resultant of an effort, and of the distance
traversed by that effort, will be as much greater as the speed is
greater. And let us not forget that it is work which is the
true criterion for judging of the value of a mechanism. At the
risk of repeating ourselves, we recall here that if a machine were
perfect, whatever its mechanism, it would always render an equal
amount of work to that which it consumes. In practice it is not
thus, and this fact proceeds from the prejudicial losses produced
by various causes, among which is friction, which diminishes the
result. In order to explain clearly this difference between ejj'ort
of friction and work of friction, let us take two examples.
Let us assume that an effort of fifteen grammes be required to
move a weight of one hundred grammes upon a polished metallic
surface.
This effort will be sufficient to maintain the movement)
whatever be the speed, but, in this case, the work dispensed will
be much more considerable as the distance traversed is greater. :
The friction of a j)ivot turning in its hole is the same if the
pivot is thick and if it is supported in a long hole ; but, for one
turn cf the arbor, the rubbing surface travels over a greater
distance with a thick pivot than with a thin one, while the length
of the pivot does not increase this distance, nor consequently the
work of friction. It is for this reason that mechanics make
spindles as small as possible but do not fear to make the bearings
a certain length.
We will say later on why watchmakers depart from these rules,
and avoid always having large surfaces in contact.
We have spoken up till now of friction as it exists between
two surfaces without any lubricants ; the use of which last has
the effect of diminishing friction. Here again, books of science
give us coefficients of friction when the rubbing bodies are
covered with different substances, such as water, lard, fats, oils,
&c. Only in this case, these coefficients do not conserve the same
signification. In effect, if any oil has the effect of diminishing
the friction between two metallic surfaces, it introduces on the
other hand a new resistance, that of cohesion of the molecules of
the oil. This resistance, it is true, has not great importance in
comparison with that of friction, above all if the oil is fluid and
if the pressure has a certain importance ; and it is for this reason
that mechanics are accustomed to neglect it. But, in small
mechanics, and especially in horology, where the pressures are
relatively feeble, it would be imprudent not to consider closely
this question.
Here the reader will ask if the principles which we have
enumerated in speaking of simple friction are maintained when
the surfaces in contact are lubricated. The response is negative ;
it may observed in effect that, in these circumstances, the
resistance to the sliding becomes proportional to the surfaces in
contact, and moreover, it is so much the greater as the surfaces
approach one another. In fact, two metallic plates perfectly
joined and thoroughly lubricated, so as to prevent the air from
penetrating between the surfaces, are found to adhere very
strongly to oue another and thus offer a resistance very much
greater than ordinary friction.
We have here then the explanation of the fact that in watch-
making the frictions of points is always preferred to those of
February 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
121
large surfaces. In fact, if the pressure is feeble, friction properly-
called will be necessarily feeble also, and such a circumstance
may certainly present itself, where, according to the extent of the
surface of contact, the resistance from the oil will be greater.
But if we only rub a fine point, we reduce the resistance of the
oils to a minimum, and it is here the friction properly called
which constitutes the greater part of the resistance to the gliding.
If it be admitted that the oil can produce a greater resistance
than that of the friction which it is intended to diminish, it may
be asked what advantage is there in lubricating certain surfaces.
It is well to represent that, in one way or the other, there is
always a resistance to overcome, a work to do ; and if the surfaces
are not lubricated, this work results in a wear of the rubbing
parts ; but if a fatty substance has been interposed, it is this that
supports a good part of the wear ; and as this last case is
preferable for the good preservation of the mechanism, it is this
means that is generally resorted to, since it is easy to renew the
oil. Meanwhile, when the body rubbed is of a very hard nature
and the pressure is not very great, the lubricant may be dispensed
with. This condition presents itself in certain parts of the spring
detant escapement, where it is known that the absence of oil does
not produce any bad effect.
(To be continued.)
A Simple TJlatch.
By Bill Nye.
IpfjOR thousands of years men have sought the best means by
JP| which to measure time. Clocks have ranged all the way
from a plain stick stuck in the ground to the ornate town
clock and gorgeous depot clock of to-day. It mattered little to
the savage how slowly or how rapidly time passed, for he had no
promissory notes to mature, no rent to fall due at a certain day,
and no bills to pay. The dial, of course, was about the first open
face timepiece of which we know, but it was not satisfactory to
the employer, because the hired man spent so much time walking
from the farther side of the farm to the dial to ascertain the hour,
that it wasn't more than 500 years before an enterprising man,
realising the needs of the time, invented the hour glass, a neat
little instrument which only required two men to run it, one to
up-end it during the day and one to perform a similar office at
night, whenever the sand in one end had sifted into the other.
King Alfred next patented the candle scheme, consisting of
twelve candles so graduated as to burn two liours each, which
was a great boon. It required only a little over three hundred
pounds of candles per year for such a timepiece, and to snuff
them and light one as soon as the other had burned out, was a
light and cheerful occupation for two men with a common
school education at say 30 dols. per month and board.
The clepsydra was a water clock which consisted of a jar,
the contents of which would run out of a graduated orifice in
twelve hours. The man who attended to it, however, might
or might not have graduated.
This jar was opaque, and so you might ascertain the hour by
stabbing a notched stick into the water and observing carefully
how far up it got wet. It was indeed a cheerful sight to witness
the old gentleman stealing down the stairway on Sunday night
while his daughter and a young friend, who could never be aught
but a brother to her, sat in the parlour. The parent immerses a
graduated shingle in a crock of rain water, looks at it thought-
fully, and then sets the dog on the now thoroughly terrified youth.
The clepsydra was introduced into Rome 158 B. C. by Scipio
Nasica, who sold a great many of them and warranted them for
one year.
They were a poor clock, however, in a cold climate, for they
would most always stop in northern Asia or Dakota during the
extremes of temperature peculiar to those climes. Still they
were durable and versatile, for if you wearied of them in the clock
line you could readily use them as butter crocks.
This instrument was finally arranged to operate a water-
wheel, and from that the weight was introduced into the
clock-economy. The machinery was added in the eight or ninth
century. Then the escape was introduced, so that about nine hun-
dred years ago tower clocks began to show their faces to the world.
We cannot help comparing the crude dial and the hour glass
of two or three thousand or more years with the gorgeous and
elaborate Waterbury watch of to-day.
I know that much sport is made of the Waterbury watch on
account of its great simplicity, but that is an error. This watch
is not simple. It is the man who thinks he can fix the
Waterbury watch himself that is simple.
Two years ago I left my handsome gold watch at a place in
Chicago, where the proprietor agreed to regulate it. I had it
there over a year getting it regulated, until the charges had
reached 45 dols., though I must state frankly that 43 dols. was
money that the proprietor had advanced to me out of hisown pocket.
That is the reason I hated to go and ask him for the watch
even after I knew it must be thoroughly regulated.
I therefore purchased a Waterbury watch nine months ago
and began the arduous task of winding it up. I had not owned
it a week before I could wind it up partially at least without
being frightened at the sound. A Waterbury watch can now be
wound within ten feet of me without scaring me much.
But my great mistake was, that after a few months I got
foolhardy and opened the watch to learn its ways. One dreamy,
hazy afternoon in October, while the early apples were falling
with a mellow plunk on the soft bosom of the earth, and the
gaudy glory of a full-grown year was bursting forth on the brow
of the mountain like the first rich red blossom on the bugle of
a man who can drink or let it alone, I sat in my room in a
reclining position meditating.
Some claim that I meditate too much, but I do not think so.
Let others pitch in and work if they feel like it, but give me
enough plain food and time to meditate and I am content.
But that has nothing to do with what I was speaking of.
In a thoughtless moment I decided to open my Waterbury
watch and see what made it tick so loudly. I did so.
When I opened the rich and highly-chased case, I began
to see strange, fantastic forms flashed before my eyes. In a
short time my lap was full of little wheels and small fragments
of the future which this watch had concealed about its person.
I accumulated a bureau drawer full of fly-wheels, hair
triggers, cams, eccentrics, doflickers, bull wheels clogged with
forgotten moments, ratchets with a thin falsetto voice, small
brass wheels with axle grease on their circumference, brassy
smelling axle trees, little yellow screws, large steel screws with dark
blue heads, and other things that I do not know the names of.
Then there was a low, asthmatic sound in among the
intestines of this timepiece and a big, blue backward spring
sprang forth, hit me between the eyes, danced back on its hind
feet, jumping up and punched a hole in the ceiling, tried to spit
on its hands, smote its heels together and darted up my trousers
leg, meanwhile snarling at me in that gutteral, mean, quarreh
some way that a Waterbury watch knows so well how to assume.
I arose to go out into the hall when three bushels more of the
spring boiled out of that yelping, muttering turnip, and gliding
to the door shut it in my face.
The front end of the spring had now emerged through my
shirt collar and began to bore holes in my head. I called for
help but nothing save the low and desolate murmur and rumble
of the watch answered me.
In a short time the room was full of this spring. I was on
the bed doing the Laocoon act in my poor, weak way, and
everywhere I could see evidence of the spring.
Finally the landlady came to see if I had them again. She
opened the door just as the watch seemed to slip a new cog and
betray some more of its true inwardness. It shot some more
of that blue steel out into the hall, caught the lady by her back
hair and hurled her down stairs.
When the police got there and got a line repairer to come and
unwind me, that Waterbury watch had entire possession of the first
and second floors of the house and was on its way down cellar.
And yet we meet men most every day who claim that the
Waterbury watch is a model of simplicity.
122
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH. [Fekruary 1, 1888.
tUo ifJur young Frienbs.
WHAT OUGHT TO-BE DONE.
(From Eugene Fontenay in La Revise Professionnelle.)
We know too much. Our knowledge renders us useless and paralyses
our imagination. It would be better to throw overboard — first, all this
cumbrous load, viz., the acquaintanceship of different styles — and then
after that set ourselves to work. Augtust, 1880.
X HAVE purposely taken the above as an epigraph, to comment
g£L on it and develop it as may seem suitable — for, although the
author, I cannot disguise from myself that it seems to
express a rain and unrealisable desire.
Before then discussing the matter, it will be well to know
exactly the meaning to be attached to the two words which are
to be frequently referred to in this discourse ; these two
words are character and style. I do not wish to enter into
rivalry with the dictionary, but you have doubtless remarked,
that in conversation, misconstructions often crop up, because in
spite of the definitions of the dictionary — with which we should
all assuredly be acquainted — one cannot always very well catch
the value of an expression, this value being always subject to
vaTy according to the surroundings in which each finds himself.
Each thing, each individual, has by nature, through some
peculiarity, a form, a turn or trait particularly his own. It is
that that we would call character. Characteristics are not visible
to every one ; one must, indeed, confess that men are for the
most part unconscious of them. Some again endowed with more
attention, with more skill, delicacy or sensibility remark them,
understand them, and give their attention to reproducing them.
Those men are the artists.
But each artist has his particular apprehension, his manner of
seeing, of feeling, and of remarking what he has felt — in a word
his originality ; from whence it results that if a copy of the same
object be made by ten different artists, each of them will have
interpreted the model in his own way ; and the ten copies, which,
I will presuppose have all been done by people of ability, although
they resemble the model, will differ from each other in some point.
This difference certainly proceeds from the personality which each
artist has introduced into his copy. This inevitable and invol-
untary introduction is more or less intelligent, more or less
remarkable. When it is very remarkable, it adds a characteristic
•to the model, or rather it is so identified with the model — all
the traits and shades have been so turned to account, that the
: copy reveals to all, beauties which had hitherto remained
undiscovered.
This art of seizing the characteristic trait of each thing ought
to be the constant endeavour of the designer ; the mind plays a
greater part than merely the hand ; those who possess the
faculty are not numerous, but they know how to put character
into their drawings, and this character borders sometimes even
on the threshold of genius.* We may conclude therefore by
saying that a drawing holds its character, more from the talent
of the artist than from the character even of the model.
Style is the mode of expression employed at each epoch.
Styles are determined by various causes — the form of a govern-
ment — the beliefs of a people — public or private events — the,
fashions make a part of these causes, but the principal and first
of all are as to mode of life. The products of the ground on;
which we live, by their constant action, exercise a considerable
influence on our conceptions. All our imagination springs from
it, but also, so to speak, modified by a certain conventional fashion,
after having been subjected to the influence of current ideas
belonging to each epoch or population.
Thus, for example, the lotus is actually the base of Indo-
Chinese ornamentation, as it has been from a remote period that
of the Egyptian, and yet those two styles have nothing in
common. The palm is employed otherwise by the Persians than
by the Indians. Foliage and flowers are presented differently in
'"It is told (jf a; great' Japanese designer that he had an admirable faculty for
seizing tfee particular character of everything. Ok-Sai, when already at a great age,
'said that if he' could hbpe' to live to 150 years of age, though working steadily, he would
always, he thought, manage to draw a fresh subject. ......
the works of the Greeks and in the illustrations of manuscripts
of the middle ages — in the compositions of the Restoration and
in, the decorations of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
The epoch of Louis XV. in bringing fancy leathers into its
system of ornamentation, changed the former by the style.
Bows of ribbon have been differently interpreted in each different
style employed, and even to the more precise forms which the
animal reign furnished ; all have come under different interpre-
tations. Do we not see in heraldic art, lions, leopards and
eagles extraordinary ? they are not even like each other but van-
according to the place and to the time.
The current, therefore, of ideas of certain favourable periods
furnishes characteristics whence styles are composed, and thoso
characteristics are so marked that they have permitted of a
method of classing and instruction after which we have been led
to study them. #
# #
It results from the foregoing, since the style is composed from
certain recognised characteristics, more than to the subjects
which have been successively employed, that in many cases the
characteristics have existed before the style. If you would
permit me to make a comparison, I would say that the style to
me represents a phrase of which the characteristics form the
words. That may appear paradoxical but rest assured it is not
so — hence, no words, no phrase ; so no characteristic, no style.
When you quit school you are acquainted with the styles, and
have reason to think yourself well armed. In effect you will
draw at first attempt a pretty design of Henry II. for a brooch,
or else a sentimental composition in the style of the eighteenth
century with turtle-doves, torches, quivers, &c.,. &c.
When you have gone on with that for some time and with
success, I am sure your talent will be appreciated ; you will have
earned the reputation of knowing your styles well. By-and-by
they will come and say to you, " Why ! it is always the same
thing, male us then something new."
Do we not in fact hear repeated in conversations, in journals,
in books, everywhere, " Our age is absolutely wanting in
originality ; it has found out nothing new ; it can do nothing
but copy the ancients ;" and why ? it works in the same groove.
It is thus that taking up again my present comparison I would
say to you, " Leave off all phrases composed by the ancients,
that is to say style, and go back to the study of words. Do as
your forerunners have done; put yourselves freely in communica-
tion with nature, it is she who was their master.
Take then a pencil and paper, which you should never omit to
have with you. Go every spare day from morning to night to
the meadows, to the woods, to the wastes by the roadside. At
first— -Ah ! at first, you will find nothing ; it is well to warn you
beforehand against the disagreeable surprise. It is in fact very
rarely that a beginner finds an object that seems to him worthy
of his attention and talent, and beyond all of his pencil and
paper. But persist, and if your fancy does not happen to be
seized upon by some object, well copy ; copy all the same : do
not leave off copying : little by little, conviction will come to you
with experience, with the knowledge of beauties, which you will
be then astonished not to have discovered at the first glance.
Copy the leaves of the trees, the grass of the fields, the thousand
little flowers that lie hidden there, patiently one by one, without
gathering them — they would fade. Especially examine them
thoroughly before commencing your drawing, and try to know
what you are going to do, and to grasp well their characteristic.
You will have, in spring-time, all the buds — those growing on
the trees, as also those of the cultivated flowers and of wild
herbaceous plants, with their mysterious foldings spreading to the
light of day. They will lay before you a store of endless
surprises. In summer you will contemplate the splendid
developments of the vegetable world ; it is the period when the
formation oE outline is confirmed and is the realisation of all the
lovely promises of spring. In autumn you will have the verdure
with its changing colour — fading, curling and contracting — the
fruits, the husks and the seed ; then the uncultivated grasses
spread all around, astonishing you by their infinite variety. Let
everything be the object of your research ; nature, has made
February 1, '1888.] THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
123
nothing that is unworthy of interest ; seek to reproduce in their
movements, insects, and those animals you may happen to
encounter in your wanderings. Unfrequented places and water-
edges will furnish you with subjects innumerable.
But in your pursuit do not allow yourself to be seduced by
grand scenery, for whatever charm that might offer you it would
turn you aside from your work. Do not let it escape you that
you are a jeweller and not a lanclscapist. Study forms and not
their effects ; store them in your brain, if it is possible by
thousands. Especially guard against the desire to draw imme-
diately from your labours or to seek a direct application — you
would make a false start. What is necessary, is to gather as the
bee, which never thinks of making her honey till her harvest of
pollen is abundant. One day you will be astonished to see with
what facility, new arrangements and elegant forms will spring
up from under your pencil, and if nature has gifted you, all that
you draw will have character.
Suppose that others do the same as you, from this assemblage
of work, from the comparison which each of you will make, a
style or particular method cannot fail to spring up. I have
already shown you that the same subjects interpreted by different
people have furnished different styles ; in the same way, the mode
in which you and your comrades will interpret them, if you have
been able to succeed in rendering your mind independent of
school memories, will undoubtedly set up characteristics which
will be personal to the generation to which you belong, and which
one day taken together will form a style. And lastly, remember
that to do a thing well one must have one's heart in one's work.
W. A. Smith, Aberdeen.
Siluer TjrJare Manufacture in the "United States.
MjfHE origin of the manufacture of silver ware in the United
<yM> States is quite within the memory of old silversmiths who
are still in the business : according to an American con-
temporary it dates from the year 1842. Prior to that year there
were no regular factories of plate in the country. The few
silversmiths who had opened shops in the commercial and other
cities for the repair of watches and imported plate, made cups,
snuff-boxes, watch chains and other small articles, in a desultory
way ; but there was no regular manufacture. The few expert
workmen of those days had little capital of their own. They
had only their tools and their skill ; and the usual thing lor them
to do was to go to the jeweller and silver merchant and obtain
from them orders to make special pieces of plate. The merchant
supplied the ingot, or sheet of silver, and the workman hammered
it out and wrought it into the object desired, bringing back to the
merchant the finished work and the surplus scraps of metal, both
of which were carefully weighed to see that the workman had not
abstracted a part of the raw material. In 1842 a number of the
silversmiths of New York City and other places got together to
consult about the interests of their trade. Mr. Clay was agitat-
ing at that time for a protective tariff, and the silversmiths
regarded the hour as auspicious for an effort to obtain some
recognition of their art from the Government of the country.
A delegation was accordingly sent to Washington to see Mr. Clay.
Mr. Clay asked the men what the prosperity of their business
required, and promised to do what he could for them. It was
a very easy matter to obtain recognition in the bill which was
being drawn up, silver ware being so exclusively an article' of
luxury ; and accordingly, when the Act passed in August of that
year, a duty of 30 per cent, was levied by it upon all importa-
tions of gold and silver ware, whether solid or plated. This
protection is said by old silversmiths to have given the industry
in this country its first decided impetus. Nearly all the shops
enlarged their business immediately after the law was passed.
About this time the art of electro-plating came into use ; and
this gave a still more remarkable impulse to the industry in the
United States by cheapening the cost of silver table ware, and
vastly extending its sale. Early in the century it had been
discovered that copper or gold held in solution might be made" to
settle upon the faces of objects suspended in the solution, and to
form upon them a thick film, by passing a current of electricity
through the bath to the object to be gilded or coppered. It was
found. that the film of metal, once formed, might be taken off
and used as a mould to produce an exact copy of the original upon
which it had been deposited. It was thenf ound that metallic objects
might be gilded by this process, and made to appear like solid
gold. The invention was at first regarded as a curiosity. It was
not until about 1840 that its value for the gilding and silvering of
articles of common use was realised. .Numerous experiments
were then made with the invention both in the United States and
Europe. Professor Silliman suggested that prussiate of potash
would hold silver in solution without oxidising the baser metals.
This was a step in advance. Subsequently it was found that the
solution of cyanide of potassium would do the work better, and
silver plating then became practical and popular. The idea was
taken up by New England manufacturers, and several very
important factories of plated ware and cutlery were started to
manufacture for the American market. It was found that the most
elaborate dinner and tea sets could be produced by the new
process, coated with the purest silver to any thickness, for about
one-fourth the expense of solid ware ; and Yankee push and
enterprise soon found a way to create a demand for it in every
part of the country. The public taste had begun to crave elegant
table sets, and the low cost of the new class of goods secured for
them a ready recognition and great favour. Iron forks and knives
were virtually banished from the tables of all people of taste, and
from hotels and steamboats ; plated ware and dinner and tea sets
made their appearance everywhere.
The earliest silversmiths of the United States made their
dinner and tea sets, punch bowls, goblets, &c, by hammering
the various dishes from flat sheets of solid metal, shaping them
upon iron forms called " stakes." The process of building up
all round and oval dishes is still the same in principle, only that
the hammer is no longer used, and the iron stake is thrown
aside for a block of wood. Suppose the dish to be a sugar bowl :
A perfectly round disc is cut from a flat sheet of solid silver,
weighed, and turned over to a workman, to whom it is charged
on the books. The workman has a block, made in pieces like a
hat block, so that if a certain key be removed it will fall apart.
The block is put together and keyed, and put into a lathe touch-
ing the flat disc of silver. The block and silver disc are then
made to revolve at great speed. A smooth steel tool is pressed
against the disc, and the malleable metal is made to bend down
upon the block little by little, and gradually enclose it, forming
the body of a perfectly symmetrical and smooth sugar bowl,
without joint or flaw. The top and bottom are properly trimmed
with a sharp tool, and the bowl taken from the lathe. It would
be impossible now to get the wooden block out of the silver bowl
were it not that the block is made in pieces. The workman
loosens the key which binds the block together, and shakes the
pieces out of the narrow mouth of the sugar bowl. The bottom
of the sugar bowl is shaped upon an appropriate block by the
same process, which is called " spinning up." The handles are
cast, and the different parts fastened together by soldering under
a blow-pipe. This is in principle the manner in which all round
and oval dishes, presentation-pieces, goblets, &c, are made from
solid silver. For convenience the bodies are sometimes made in
several parts, so as to permit the insertion at different places
of a flat strip of decorated metal which has been rolled in
a machine, and they are then subsequently assembled by the
silversmiths proper, and united by soldering. The soldering is
so perfectly done that the finished article is in fact one piece of
solid work, — as much so as though it had been cast. All scraps
are carefully collected and weighed, and credited to the workman
to whom they were previously charged. Large objects like
punch bowls, and all others of irregular shape, are hammered out
by hand from flat sheets of metal and put together by soldering.
Projecting ornaments, like monograms, flowers, handles, &c, are
frequently cast solid and put upon the piece in the usual way ;
but by far the greater part of the decoration is done by chasing
and engraving. The pattern is drawn in black and white upon
sheets ef paper. The workman goes all over the inside of the
124
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[February 1, 1888.
goblet, teapot, or other piece, whatever it may be, with a delicate
hammer, and beats clown the metal, so as to raise the large
leaves, flowers, scrolls, &c, of the pattern into relief on the out-
side of the piece. The dish is then filled with melted pitch and
resin, which is allowed to solidify and form a backing, in order
that it may not lose its symmetrical shape in the subsequent
processes. The workman next goes carefully over the whole of
the surface outside which is to be decorated, and fashions it by
indenting and beating down the metal with little chisels and a
hammer, so as to leave a clear, sharp-cut pattern raised in high
relief upon the beaten-down background. The pitch is then
removed by melting, and the dish goes on to be smoothed, bur-
nished, frosted, satin-finished, or gilded, as the case may be, for
the store. The ornamentation of flat surfaces is sometimes done
by etching. Spoons and forks are made by rolling in a machine,
the pattern of the fork or spoon being engraved on the surface
of the rollers. The edges of surplus metal are removed by
clipping and filing, and the article receives its final shape under
a die. The. handles of nut-picks and knives, when hollow, are
stamped in a die, in halves, and united by soldering. In the
solid-silver shops great care is exercised to prevent waste of
metal. The waste in polishing, clipping, filing, &c, is enormous,
amounting to, in large shops, from four to six hundred ounces a
week in the progress of polishing with leather and cotton alone.
All the refuse of the shops, the grease, the dirt of the floor, the
water in which the silver is washed, &c, is carefully saved, and
sent to the furnace for the extraction of the metal. With all the
precautions that intelligence can suggest, it is still found that
five per cent, of the metal weighed out to the workmen is never
recovered.
In the factories of plated ware a large part of the work is done
by stamps, dies, and presses, and more of the ware is cast than
in the solid-silver shops. The metal forming the basis of the
pieces is usually German silver (an alloy of nickel, copper and
zinc), britannia, white metal, and brass and copper arc some-
times used for very cheap work. The original method of plating
the ware with silver was to dissolve the metal in nitric acid and
precipitate it as a cyanide by cyanide of potassium. The preci-
pitate, being washed, was dissolved in a solution of cyanide of
potassium. The object to be silvered was then connected with
the negative pole of a powerful battery, dipped in nitric acid,
and then suspended in the solution of silver. After a few
moments it was taken out and well brushed, and then replaced
in the solution. The silver begins to make its appearance on the
surface of the object, and in a few hours has covered every part
of it with a uniform deadwhite coating of pure metal. The pro-
cess may be stopped when the plating has reached the thickness
of tissue paper, or may be continued until the piece is double or
triple plated. The stronger the current of electricity, the harder
will be the plating. When taken from the solution the piece is
washed and then burnished and finished in the ordinary manner.
Latterly, plating is carried on by a variation of this process.
The silver is not dissolved and held in suspension, but is put
into the bath of cyanide of potassium in the form of a plate
attached to the positive pole of the battery. The electrical
current decomposes the silver, and the dish attached to the
negative pole then becomes covered with the dissolved metal as
before.
British Horological Institute. — The half-yearly general
meeting of the members of this institute was held at the Institute,
Northampton Square, E.C., on Tuesday, 17th ulto., Mr. J.
Tripplin, V.P. presiding. The report for the half-year ended
December 31, 1887, submitted a financial statement for the first
half of the year ended June 30. It showed an increased income
as compared with the corresponding half of the previous year,
and a balance in the hands of the Treasurer of over £75. An
alteration, increasing the number of vice-presidents to six was
carried by a large majority, and it was arranged to present to
Mr. Jones an illuminated address recording his eminent services.
A silver medal was offered for competition by the Worshipful
Company of Turners for 1888, among students- of the practical
classes for the best specimen of hand-turning left from the
graver. By the kindness of Mr. Samuel Jackson and Messrs.
Henry Picard and Frere, who each gave five guineas for the
purpose, the Council of the Horological Institute had been
enabled to offer a prize of five guineas for the second best
practical essay on "Modern methods of turning, drilling, boring,
pivotting, and polishing applicable to watch work, by means of
modern appliances, and either the hand or foot wheel." There
were at present 369 members and nineteen associates on the
books. The report, which was moved by the chairman, was
seconded by Mr. D. Buckney, and adopted, and after the usual
thanks, the meeting adjourned.
lilorkshop jTlemoranba.
Easv Flowing Silver Solder. — The following ingredients
make an easy flowing silver solder : 2 dwts. coin silver ; 1 dwt.
brass ; 3 grains zinc.
The Welding of Metals by Electricity. — Professor
Elihu Thomson, of Lynn, Massachusetts, has invented a process
of welding metals by electricity. The welding of iron and steel
by means of excessive heat is nothing new, but one of the great
advantages of the new process is, that it is applicable not only to
the metals named, but also to cast iron, alluminum, brass, copper,
zinc, German silver, &c. The last named metals have always
been considered as metals to which the welding power could not
be applied successfully for practical use, but by the new process
anv two of the metals named can be welded successfully. The
reason of this lies in the following particular nature of applying
electricity to the heating of metals : — Cold metal is a better con-
ductor for electricity than hot metal, and by this feature metals
are heated evenly during electric welding, and brought up to the
necessary degree of heat simultaneously.
Particulars of a new departure in brazing and welding have
been communicated to the Society of Art* Journal by Mr. Thos.
Fletcher, of Warrington. The cheapening of oxygen by BriVs
process of manufacture has put into the hands of metal workers
a new power. Having recently made a few experiments with the
compressed oxygen and coal gas, he found that with a half-inch
gas supply a joint could be brazed in a two-inch wrought iron
pipe in about one minute, the heat being very short, the redness
not extending over one inch on each side of the joint. The
appearance of the surface after brazing led him to experiment
further with welding, a process which is not possible with
ordinary coal gas and air, owing to the formation of magnetic
oxide on the surfaces. Contrary to his expectation, a good weld
was obtained on an iron wire one-eighth of an inch diameter with
;i very small blow-pipe, having an air jet about ^V-inch diameter.
This matter requires to be taken up and tried on a large scale,
for such work as welding boiler plates, which, it appears to me,
can be done perfectly with far less trouble than would be required
to braze an ordinary joint. The great advantage of this would
be that the boilers would require no handling, but could be
welded with an ordinary large blow-pipe in position, and with
about one-tenth the labour at present necessary. The cost of the
oxygen is trifling, and it is evident, from the results obtained in
brazing, that the consumption of gas would be considerably less
than one-fourth that necessary with an air blast, irrespective of
the fact that welding is possible with an oxygen blast, whereas
it is not possible if air is used. The surface of iron, heated to
welding heat, by this means comes out singularly clean, and free
from scale, and a small bottle of compressed oxygen, with a
blow-pipe, and a moderate gas supply, would make the repairs
of machinery, boilers, brewing coppers, and other unwieldy
apparatus, a very simple matter. The trouble and difficulty of
making good boiler-crowns, which so frequently "come, down,"
would be very small indeed, when the. workman has an unlimited
source of heat at command, under perfect and instant control.
February 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
125
(Bazette,
Partnerships Dissolved.
Seear, Hasluck & Co., Holborn Viaduct, E.C., chartered accountants.
Skinner & Co., Birmingham, goldsmiths. W. Tilley and J. E.
Wilkins, Forest Gate, pawnbrokers. J. Rosenthal & Son, Man-
chester, wholesale jewellers. Anthony Schwarz and Augustin
Schwarz (trading as A. Schwarz), Holywell and Flint, watchmakers.
T. Wilkinson & Sons, Birmingham, electro-plate makers. Thwaites
& Reid, Bowling-Green Lane, Clerkenwell, clock manufacturers.
Collis & Co. and S. W. Smith k Co., Birmingham, electro-plate
manufacturers. Ward '& Frith, Sheffield, steel manufacturers. Bash
& Rodrigues, Hatton Garden, diamond polishers. Raban & Son,
Luton, watchmakers. Ebenezer Stacej' & Sons, Sheffield, Britannia-
metal manufacturers. W. Osborn and J. H. Bailey, Birmingham,
manufacturing jewellers.
THE BANKRUPTCY ACT, 1883.
Receiving Orders.
To surrender hi London. — William Fitch, Mare Street, Hackney, watch-
maker.
To surrender in the Country. — David Elias and John Elias (trading as
David Elias & Son), Bangor, watchmakers. Louis Desgardin,
Bristol, jeweller. Clara Foord and Ellen Pickersgill (trading as
J. B. Foord &: Son), Hastings, jewellers.
Public Examinations.
In the Country. — H. N. Ray, Brighton, watch-maker; February 9, at 11.
F. J. Tyers, late Aston, Birmingham, jeweller : February 2, at 2.
L. Desgardin, Bristol, jeweller ; February 10, at 12. Clara Foord and
Ellen Pickersgill, Hastings, jewellers ; February 13, at 1.
Adjudications.
In the Country. — H. N. Ray, ^Brighton, watchmaker. D. Elias and J.
Elias, Bangor, watchmakers. F. J. Tyers, Aston, Birmingham,
jeweller. R. Stuart, Bolton, clock-spring maker. L. Desgardin,
Bristol, jeweller.
Notices of Dividends.
In London.— W. Van Walwyk, Clerkenwell Road, diamond mounter ;
3s. 10d., first and final ; any day except Saturday, Chief Official
Receiver, 33, Carey Street.
In the Country. — G. W. Barrow, late Cheltenham, jeweller ; 2s. 6d., first
and final ; January 24, J. Villar. Cheltenham. J. Sutton (trading as
J. P. Cutts, Sutton & Sons), Sheffield, optician ; 3s. 6d., first and
final : W. H. Tasker, Sheffield. J. Sharpe (trading as J. Sharpe &
Co.), Birmingham, wholesale jeweller; 3s. 3Ad., first and final; 77,
Colmore Row, Birmingham. T. O. Judged Chard, clockmaker ;
3s. 4d., first and final ; January 23, 17, Colmore Row, Birmingham.
G. H. Simmons, Builth, jeweller ; 6^d., first and final ; January 27,
Official Receiver, Llanidloes.
APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT.
The following List of Patents has been compiled especially for The Watchmaker,
Jeweller and Silversmith, by Messrs. W. P. Thompson & Boult, Patent Agents,
of 323, High Holborn, London, W.C.; Newcastle Chambers, Angel Row, Notting-
ham ; and 6, Lord Street, Liverpool.
17.493. E. Kohn, a communication from Joseph Pallweber, Germany, for
" Improvement in clocks." Dated December 20, 1887.
17.494. J. H. Pollok, Glasgow, for '■ Improvements in the wet method of
extracting gold from crushed ores or other finely divided auriferous
material." Dated December 20, 1887.
17.495. J. H. Pollok, Glasgow, for " Improvements in the wet method of
extracting gold from crushed ores or other finely dividedaurif erous
material. Dated December 20, 1887.
17,582. E. F. H. H. Lauckert, London, for "Apparatus for indicating the
time during which electricity is used for lighting or other
purposes." Dated December 21, 1887.
17,728. J. Wood, Birmingham, for "An improved, bracelet- fastening."
Dated December 24, 1887.
17,773. C. H. Bingham, London, for "Improvements in motive-power
for clocks and similar apparatus." Dated December 27, 1887.
4. T.Bauerle, London, for "Improvement in lamp locks." (Complete
specification.) Dated January 2, 1888.
289. W. Owston and F. Wilton, Forest Hill, for " 'Multum in parvo '
key case or combination key case pocket book, purse or knife."
Dated January 7, 18S8.
421. H. R. Lewis and 0. B. Phillips, London, for "Improvements
relating to the extraction of metals from refractory, complex and
other ores." Dated January 10, 18; 8.
572. H. Forman, London, for " Improvements in shirt and collar studs,
cuff studs, or solitaires and other dress fastenings andiornaments."
Dated January 13, 1888.
587. W. Becker, London for " Improvements in or pertaining to the
casting of metal ingots." Dated January 13, 1888.
661. A. Lugrin, London, for "Improvements in repeating watches."
Dated January 16, 1888.
662. A. Lugrin, London, for " Improvements in the striking mechanism
of repeating watches." Dated January 16, 1888.
765. E. L. Gyde, Birmingham, for "An improved night clock."
Dated January 18, 1888.
780. W. J. Mayell and A. R. Molison, Swansea, for " Improvements in
pins for brooches and such like ornaments." Dated January 18,
1888.
804.
835.
M. Pulvermann, a communication from Carl Bohmeyer, Germany,
for " Improvements in electric clocks." Dated January 18, 1888.
C. R. Richardson, London, for " The making of a combination
bracelet and purse in all metals." Dated January 19, 1888.
Becent American Patents.
Burnishing Machine. E. B. Allen
Button. Collar. W. Scott
H. Van Hoevenbergh
Button or Stud. W. W. Covell
Button or Stud. B. Lyon
Button or Stud. G. W. Prentice
Casket Handle. W.H.Blackford
Castings. Device for Truing Metal. H. Runt;
Chuck. B. F. Chappell
Chuck. L. D. Jones
Chuck, Drill. A. D. Goodell
Chuck, Lathe. F. L. Gregory
Clock Case. A. Bannatyne
Clock Winding Mechanism. A.E.Hall ...
Coffee Pot. W. A. Krag
Cuff Holder. J. M. Bolton ...
Dial, Timepiece. E. A. Lewis
Electro Mechanical Movement
Eyeglass Holder or Hook. VV. J. Rand
Eyeglasses, Manufacture of Blanks for. H. Lenfant
Files, Machine for Cutting Edges of Flat. C. M. Fairbanks ...
Hammer Tool, Revolving Electric. W. G. A. Bonwill
Horometer, Electrical. B. M. Hammond ...
Jug Cover. E. A. Brownfield
Lathe Tool Holder. J. L. Bogert
Moulding Emery or other Plastic Wheels, Machine for. C.
Heaton
Music Box. L. Campiche
Music Box Motor. C. H. Jacot
Musical Box. O. P. Lochman i.
Musical Instrument, Automatic. J. McTammany
Riveting Machine. C. Hall
Rolling Machine. Metal. Bagaley & Hainsworth
Sheet Metal, Ornamentation of. F.Rudolph
Tag, Jewellers'. E. S. Burbank
Tap Hole Closer. T. A. Taylor
Temperature Controller. R. Newton ..
Temperature Indicator, Electric. J. C. Boyle ...
Tools to their Handles, Device for Securing Edged. T. H. Neal
Tooth Crowns. Instrument for Forming. H. W. VVatkins
'Watch Case Spring. A. Humbert
Watch, Stem-winding. S. C. Smith
Watches and Clocks, Mainspring Brace and Fastener for.
C. T. Higginbotham
374,885
374,429
374,115
374,336
374,626
374,110
373,855
374,732
374,743
374,593—374,594
374,405
374,516
374,061
374,603
374,579
374,605
374,883
374,702
374,546
374,051
374,580
373,975
374,238
373,878
374,065
374,394
374,410
374,127
374,616
373,891
374,335
374,559
374,823
374,855
374,847
374,581
374,369
374.382
374,535
374,760
374,359
A printed copy of the specifications and drawing of any patent
in the American list, also of any American patent issued since
1866, will be furnished from this office for 2s. 6d. In ordering,
please state the number and date of the patent required, and
remit to J. Truslove, Office of The Watchmaker, Jeweller and
Silversmith, 7, St. Paul's Churchyard, E.C.
(Correspondence.
All Letters for Publication to be addressed to the Editor of The
Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith, 7, St. PauVs Church-
yard, E.C.
All communications must bear the name and address of the sender, not
necessarily for publication, but as a yuarantee of good faith.
To the. Editor of The Watchmaker, Jeweller arid
Silversmith.
[IMPORTANT REGULATIONS WITH REGARD TO
THE HALL-MARKING OF SAVISS WATCHES
INTENDED FOR THE ENGLISH MARKET.]
Sir, — The Swiss Government have lately passed a Law with
reference to Watch Cases which seems to me of considerable
importance to the British Manufacturer.
I have therefore had a translation made, and I send you a
copy in case you should think well to insert a notice thereof in
your journal.
Walter S. Prideaux.
Goldsmiths' Hall, London, E.C, January 23, 1888.
DECEMBER 24, 18S7.
THE SWISS FEDERAL COUNCIL
In virtue of Art. 1 of the Federal Law concerning the control and
guarantee of the standard of gold and silver wares of December 23.
1880, and of Art. 8 of the Executive Ordinance of May 17, 1881,
126
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[February 1, 1888.
And making, moreover, use of the powers conferred upon them by the
complementary disposition added by the Federal Law of December 21,
1886, to Art. 2 of the Federal Law of December 23, 1880.
On the proposition of the Federal Board of Trade and Agriculture
Decrees : —
1. — For gold watch cases bearing the 18-carat or 0*753 standard mark
or both these marks together, and for silver watch cases bearing the
standard mark 0*935 or sterling silver 0*935, marking is obligatory.
The signs indicating the standard must be encircled.
2. — Gold and silver watch cases intended for England and bearing
either of the above standard marks, cannot receive the official stamp
unless the assaying practised on each proves that they really are in their
entirety, as well as in all their component parts, including the inner caps,
of the described standard, under reservation of the dispositions of Art. -1
of the Regulations of May 17, 1881 with regard to ornaments placed on
the exterior.
The stamping of bow-rings is obligatory.
3. — The manufacturer who presents for stamping, watch cases intended
for export to England, must make express mention of the same upon the
declaration required by Art. 2 of the Regulations of May 17, 1881.
4. — The marking (stamping) of the articles mentioned sub. Art. 2 of
the present decree must be done in the following manner : —
For the standard 18-carat gold or 0*755: by two imprints of the
stamp, " Large Helvetia," and one imprint of the stamp, " Small
Helvetia."
For the standard of 0*935 silver : by two imprints of the stamp.
"Large Bear," and one imprint of the stamp, " Small Bear."'
These imprints must be stamped on the inside of the cases. Instruc-
tions from the Federal Board of Trade will determine in a precise
manner the way in which the indication of the standard and the assay
marks shall be placed, so as to form a regular and uniform design.
Gold bow-rings destined for cases of the 0*755 standard, and silver
bow-rings destined for cases of the 0*935 standard shall bear, the former
two imprints of the stamp, " Small Helvetia," the latter, two imprints
of the stamp, "Small Bear."
As to the stamping of all other parts of the case the existing disposi-
tions remain in force.
5. — If gold or silver cases which have been presented to be assayed,
are not of the standard indicated thereon, due consideration being
given to the margin allowed by Art. 2 of the law of December 23, 1880.
the assay offices shall proceed according to the legal dispositions.
6. — The present decree comes into force immediately.
DECEMBER 27, 18S7.
INSTRUCTIONS TO THE ASSAY OFFICES.
Art. 4 of the decree of the Federal Council, dated December 24, 1887,
with regard to the control and marking of gold and silver watch cases
intended for export to England, prescribes that the Federal Board of
Trade shall issue instructions as to the manner in which the indications
of the standard and the official marks (stamps) shall be placed, so as to
form a regular and uniform design.
We have the honour to give you in the present circular, the instruc-
tions referred to.
1. Indication of Standard.
The standard shall be indicated in conformity with the following
designs : —
for gold P°,™ 18 C
ou
0.755
ou
encore
18 C
0.755
for silver P° ur .
1 argent
0.935
ou
Sterling Sil
0.935
E R
OU
encore
0.935
Sterling Silver
2. Marking (Stamping).
For gold : two imprints of the "Large Helvetia," and one imprint of
the "Small Helvetia."
For silver : two imprints of the " Large Bear," and one imprint of the
" Small Bear " shall be the characteristics of the marking as prescribed
by the above decree.
The respective marks are to be arranged so as to form a triangle, at the
top angle of which the small mark shall be placed, the two large marks
being placed at the base ; the marks shall be 3 millimetres apart from
each other.
We give below designs of this mode of marking.
The lids (covers) of cut hunters (boites guichet) shall bear on the top,
under the pendant, the signs showing the standard, and below, above the
joint, the three official marks.
It is optional, according to the decree of the Federal Council of
December 24, 1887, to present for assay bow-rings with the cases or
separately, but the marking of bow-rings being obligatory for this kind
of cases, those of which the bow-rings should not be marked would be
considered irregular.
■_ The two imprints which bow-rings must bear shall be placed on each
side of the maker's mark.
3. Composition of the Mode of Marking.
Or (Gold.)
18 C
0.755
18 C
0.755
Argent (Silver.)
0.935
SterlingSilver
935
0.935
SterlingSilver
Dear Sir, — In the Report on the watches rated here last
year, printed on page 104 of your present volume, there is a
misprint in the table, which I shall be obliged if you will kindly
call attention to.
The watches Nos. 13 and 14 on the list should have the
maker's name Jos. White not Jas. White, the depositor being
the same as the manufacturer named higher up as the successful
competitor for the premier position.
Yours faithfully,
G. M. Whipple, Superintendent.
Kew Observatory, Richmond, Surrey. January 25, 1888.
Buyers' $ui6e.
The Sheffield Smelting Company, Sheffield, Sell Gold and Silver
(pure and alloyed). Buy all materials containing Gold and Silver.
Jones, E. A., Wholesale Manufacturer of Whitby Jet Ornaments. A
Large Assortment of the Newest Patterns always in Stock. Export
Orders promptly executed. Persons not having an account open
will avoid delay by forwarding a reference with their order.
Customers' Matchings and Repairs with despatch. 93, Hatton Garden,
London, E.C.
W. Scott Hayward & Co., 59, Deansgate, and Barton Arcade
Manchester. Wholesale Jet Ornament Manufacturers, Jet Cameo
Cutters and Rough Jet Merchants. Approval parcels sent on receipt
of order, if accompanied with trade references. Repairs and matchings
executed on the day received. Works : Manchester and Whitby.
Agents at Liverpool, Leipzig and Paris. <
WANTED.
TTALY.— A FIRST - RATE MERCANTILE FIRM,
JL travelling regularly over the whole peninsula — Sicily, Malta and
Tunis — with large experience and extensive connections in the Jewellery,
Watch and Clock line, is open to enter into correspondence with some
Important Manufacturer for the Sale of their Goods in the above
quarters. References of the highest standing, — Please address, A. A.,
110, Naples. — [Advt.]
TO BE SOLD.
-WATCHMAKER'S, JEWELLER'S and SILVER-
VV SMITH'S BUSINESS.— Established over 100 years in good
Agricultural and Training Districts. Stock moderate, and can be
reduced. — For particulars, apply to Mrs. J. Staniland, Malton, Yorks.
[Advt.]
WATCH MANUFACTURING BUSINESS, for sale
V V of Superior Goods only ; established 35 years, with good Jobbing
Trade attached, extending over England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Incoming can be reduced to Two or Three Hundred Pounds, chiefly or
quite covered by goods, comprising movements, material, tools, <kc.
Owner no objection to remain two or three years to part work at
finishing or assist in any way required. Age only reason for wishing to
decline business. — Address Manufacturer, Office of this Journal.—
[Advt.]
$4\<e>
{XJatcl^akcr, jeweller
1 0il x/ersn^itl^.
Entered at Stationers' Hall."]
Edited by D. GLASGOW, Jun.
[Registered for Transmission Abroad.
Vol. XIII.— No. 9.]
MARCH 1, 1888.
I" Subscription, 5s. ( Post
|_ per Annum. ( Free.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Editorial 127
General Notes 128
Trade Notes 129
Birmingham News. From Our Correspondent. (Illustrated) 130
The Merchandise Marks Act 131
The English Hall-Mark upon Foreign Watch Cases 131
Lord Salisbury on The Merchandise Marks Act ... 132
Fraud on Messrs. Grant & Peake 132
The Theory of Adjustment. By M. L. Lossier. /'Illustrated)... 133
New Book 134
Ancient Microscopes ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 134
The Lever Escapement. By M. L.-A. Grosclaude. (Illustrated) 135
Annual Trial of Chronometers, 1887 137
On the New Artificial Rubies. By. George F. Kunz. (Illustrated) 137
Gazette 139
Applications for Letters Patent 139
Becent American Patents ... ... ... 140
Correspondence .. ... 140
Buyers' Guide ... 140
Che "Watchmaker, jeweller anft
Siluersmith.
A Monthly Journal devoted to the interests of Watchmakers,
Jewellers, Silversmiths and kindred traders.
Subscription. — A copy of the Journal will be sent monthly for one
year, post free, to any address in the United Kingdom or countries in the
Postal Union for 5s. payable in advance.
Advertisements. — The rates for advertising will be sent on appli-
cation. The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith will be found
an exceptional medium for advertising. Special Notices, Situations, &c,
per insertion, is. for two lines, prepaid.
Correspondence.— Correspondence is invited on all matters of interest
to the trade. Correspondents will please give their full address in each
communication, not necessarily for publication, but as a guarantee of
good faith.
Address all business communications to
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER & SILVERSMITH,
7, ST. PAUL'S CHURCHYARD,
LONDON, E.C.
Cheques and Postal Orders to be crossed a?id made payable to J. TRUSLOVE.
Agent for the Australian Colonies :
EVAN JONES,
Hunter Street and Royal Arcade, Sydney, N.S.W.
Editorial.
HE vagaries of public clocks is a theme upon which
writers might have descanted and horologists
waxed poetical.
The feelings engendered, however, by these misleading libellers
of old Chronos have usually found expression hitherto in that
form of deprecable profanity (which has no direct application)
evoked from persons of highly nervous temperament by any
unwonted excitation consequent on disappointment generally ;
and we are not aware that it is on record that any much more
practical method of evincing disapproval of the irregularities
referred to has ever been taken, except in a few isolated cases.
As regards those people who live in the vicinity of public
clocks, their want o f concurrence in their behaviour is manifested
in a precisely similar (but possibly more passive) manner, with
the addition of a strong disinclination to contribute their quota
for the repair and maintenance of the same.
That such a subject should be neglected by writers is the
more surprising in that it contains elements of originality which
might be utilised collaterally and eloquently developed ; but the
negative result is mainly to be deplored on account of the
excellent opportunity which has been missed of adding to the
fasciculus of horological literature a unique contribution, which
might have been treated without any regard to chronological
order.
As compared with the larger Continental towns, London is
vastly worse off in regard to a uniform system of public time ;
while our own provincial towns are likewise far ahead of the
metropolis.
As we are referring here only to the larger public clocks,
we shall say nothing about the various existing synchronising
systems, although doubtless some of them could be adapted,
if desirable, to the control of turret clocks. What we would
draw attention to is the unsatisfactory state of things which
leaves the provision and distribution of public time in incom-
petent and irresponsible hands. Take, for example, our parish
church clocks ; most if not all of them have been purchased out
128
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[March 1, 1888.
The inquiry into the working of the Merchandise Marks
Act by the London Chamber of Commerce has not, according
to accounts received from all sides, been undertaken one minute
too soon; and it is to be hoped that, as watchmaking is the
only manufacturing industry which has been directly interfered
with by special clauses in the Act, special attention is being,
or will be, directed to its effect on and application to that
industry.
An accepted doctrine in modern Parliamentary procedure has
been that protective and repressive legislation is dead ; yet the
Merchandise Marks Act, it' applied literally, would have the
effect of severely handicapping English watchmakers in their
competition with foreign producers — like all special Acts of
Parliament, a good deal depends on the mode in which it is
interpreted and administered.
But although the ethics of watchmakers are so patemallv
cared for by the Act, watchmaking is by no means the only
trade affected ; and as, happily, the shipping trades' interests
are so seriously threatened by recent exploits of the Customs
authorities, the former stand some chance of being relieved
from some of their present disabilities.
We give in another column the translation of a letter from
an officer of Customs to the Swiss Horological Journal, while
the following is a list of a few only (as stated) of the seizures
effected at the port of Harwich during two days of last month,
as given by the correspondent of a contemporary : —
Buttons marked " Not metal," metal buttons marked " The fashion,"
trinkets marked ■' Rivetted Jet Trinkets," buttons marked ''Superior
quality," cards marked " By Boyal Letters Patent," portions of sewing
machines marked " Trade Mark Patent," buttons marked " Winged
Crown," lamp wick marked " Super quality," toys bearing labels marked
in English words, lace . described " Oriental lace," clocks marked "Eight
days' strike clock," case of gold leaf marked '• Deep gold," knives marked
" Superior cutlery," scissors with the word " Bleckmann," tools marked
" H. Boker's best," paints marked " W. Bell & Co., Bombay," telephone in-
struments marked " Telephone Manufacturing Company," buttons called
" Pearl buttons," cigar-ash trays bearing the English words, " Gentlemen
are requested not to drop any cigar ashes on the floor, By order of the
lady of the house;" metal buttons labelled "Fast shanks," sewing
machines stamped " Wiseman's hand-stitch sewing machines," jewel cases
with cartoons marked " Brooch cases," " Earring cases," clocks labelled
on the cartoons " The Darwin 30-hour timepiece," clocks marked " Bade-
win clock manufactory," clocks marked " F. V," egg beaters stamped
'! Dover egg beater" and the words " Great American."
. The following goods seized are all of German make, those described
above being German, Swiss, Austrian, Sec, combined : —
of the rates — yet, what control have the ratepayers, as a rule,
over these clocks ? It was only the other day that a body of
the Southwark vestrymen tried to shirk the responsibility of
paying for the winding of the parish church clock (which
payment, by the way, is the only connexion the vestry has with
the clock), which was originally paid for by the ratepayers.
This is obviously wrong, and is alike opposed to technical and j
public interests and common sense. Every public clock should
be under the immediate control of the_ public. We go further:
Every clock in the metropolis of obvious public utility should be
brought under the control of the public. In the absence of a
central controlling body, surely horology is of sufficient im-
portance in the metropolis to be able to secure local repre-
sentation in vestrydom.
Buttons marked "Eagle make," tooth brushes marked " Extra fine,"
glass inkstands bearing the label " Inkstands," pins labelled " Pins."
Whether the Act is to result in a permanent benefit or
otherwise to the trade is, as we have before pointed out, entirely
dependent on the manner in which it is acted upon. The above
is a slight indication of the present state of the official mind on
the -subject.
Senerat Notes.
rJTHE Birmingham gold and silver spectacle makers have
'^§ resolved to form a trade protection association, in order to
endeavour to raise the price of the work and to look after
the sreneral interest of the trade.
During the winter ten tons of coal per day are said to be used
at the Waltliam Watch Factory.
A syndicate has decided to erect a gold-smelting works at
Burryport, Carmarthenshire for the purpose of smelting gold.
Several hundred workmen will," it is said, be employed in the
smelting.
Mr. David Glasgow, Sen., has resigned the vice-president-
ship of the Horological Institute, as a protest against the last
half-yearly meeting overriding his ruling at the annual general
meeting last year, with respect to the election of officers.
Notice is given by the Hydrographer that the time signals at
Mount Wise, Devonport, now consist of a ball and gun, both
automatically worked by a standard clock, which is daily syn-
chronised with Greenwich by means of the electric telegraph.
The second lecture of. the Third Course of Cantor Lectures at
the Society of Arts on the Modern Microscope (being a con-
tinuation of the recent course of Cantor Lectures on the " Mi-
croscope,") will be delivered on the 5th inst. by John ilayall,
Junr.
The Board of Trade returns issued last month show that the
imports for January amounted to £34,802,988, an increase of
£3,755,566 as compared with the same month last year. The
exports for January amounted to £18,583,671, or an increase of
£774,936 as compared witli January, 1887.
By decree of the Minister, Mons. A. H. Rodanet, President
of the Paris Syndical Chamber of Horology, Officer of the
Legion of Honour, &c, has been nominated Officer of Public
Instruction, and Mons. Albert Villon, Mayor of St. Nicolas
d'Aliermont, has been appointed Officer of the Academy.
A gentleman of the name of James Moran, who made his
way into the kitchen of a house in Gloucester Place, Marylebone,
and was seen by a page who came down the steps to take up a
silver mug, worth £5, explained at the Middlesex Sessions that
he was a dealer in old clothes, and merely took up the mug out
of curiosity. He was sentenced to three months' imprisonment.
The will of the late Mr. Thomas Jessop, whose death we
alluded to in our January issue, for many years head of the
firm of William Jessop & Sons, engaged at Sheffield exclusively
in the manufacture of steel, was proved last month. The gross
value of the personal estate in England is sworn at £656,449.
The probate duty amounted to £19,626. The value of the
personalty in America is not yet ascertained. Mr. Jessop had,
in addition, large freehold estates. He leaves £4,000 to the
Jessop Hospital' for Women, which he erected at a cost of £30,000.
March 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
129
James Taylor, alias Bearder, who was arrested in December
on a charge of being concerned in a robbery at Melbourne, in
which jewellery of the value of £1,000 was stolen, was on
February 6 brought before the Birmingham magistrates, and, in
the absence of the prosecutor, was released on his own recogni-
sances, the police detaining about £200 worth of stolen property
which was found in the prisoner's possession.
Fifteen stamps were at work during last month, at Mr.
Pritchard Morgan's gold mines at Dolgelly, and crushing opera-
tions are now in full play. An Australian gold miner who has
paid a visit to the Dolgelly mines says he believes the average
yield will be about 6ozs. to the ton. He says the mistake the
first prospectors made was to confine their attention practically to
the surface. The deepest shaft hitherto sunk is 140 feet, but it
is Mr. Pritchard Morgan's intention to descend GOO or 700 feet.
The Depreciation of Silver. — In the House of Commons
last month the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in reply to Mr.
Kimber, said he could not anticipate his Budget statement by
indicating the intention of the Government with respect to the
laws relating to the manufacture and sale of articles of silver
plate in the United Kingdom, with a view to remove all
hindrances to the consumption of the raw material, silver, for
manufacturing purposes.
A number of competitive designs and models for the gift from
the Corporation of the City of London to the Prince and Princess
of Wales on the occasion of their silver wedding have, says The
Standard, been submitted to the authorities, who have selected
that of Messrs. Elkington & Co., (Limited). They have been
ordered to produce a model in silver of the Imperial Institute,
at a cost of five hundred guineas, which it is intended to present
to- the Princess of Wales in March next;
Mr. W. F. Nye of oleaginous renown, has just completed
his new vial filler, upon which he was granted a United States'
patent two years ago. The machine consists of a brass plate,
covered by an enclosed pan, which has ; 144 tubes leading from
it to the same number of bottles, every bottle being filled exactly
alike, as each tube is fitted with a self-acting lever, which
regulates the filling, The filler is arranged for one, two and three
ounce bottles, and, it is said, thirty gross can be filled in one
hour.
Since my last, says " Anglo-Australian " in the European
Mail, some of the rubies which have been sent from South
Australia have been shown to the Agent-General. Although
not equal to the famous pigeon blood hue of the best gems, they
are really very fine stones, and may be taken as coming between
a Burmese and a Siamese ruby. There can be no doubt of
their genuineness, for they have been carefully tested by a degree
of heat that, were they only ruby garnets, would have reduced
them to nothingness.' The lowest price of these stones is 40s.
a carat. By the way, I suppose everybody knows that the ruby
is only a red sapphire.
The case of Howard v. Clarke, heard last month before
Justices Mathew and Smith, was an appeal from the decision of
a County Court in a case which was the first of the kind under
the Pawnbrokers' Act of 1872. Some time ago a massive gold
horse-shoe pin, set with seven diamonds, was stolen from someone
in the neighbourhood of Nottingham. The police sent printed
descriptions of the pin to the pawnbrokers. The plaintiff pre-
sented one he had got from a publican at the shop of the
defendant, a pawnbroker, and the latter, thinking the article
answered the police description, gave the plaintiff into custody.
It turned out that the plaintiff acted bond fide, and that the pin
he presented was not the stolen one. The plaintiff sued the
defendant for false imprisonment, and the jury gave him a verdict
for £25, on the ground that the pawnbroker acted without
reasonable ground for suspicion. The Court sustained the
appeal, holding that there was no evidence of want of reasonable
suspicion. ... ".
The Diamond Market. — Although business has so far been
better than it was this time last year, there is nothing very
phenomenal, being done. Medium quality goods sell best, but
the prices to be obtained are very low, and the Dutch organ of
the diamond trade says it requires a thorough knowledge of rough
to guard against losses being incurred.
All the factories are going.
.The buyers at Paris are mostly looking out for bargains on
spec. There is a demand for the best stones, but prices offered
are low.
The "Pembroke Castle," "Spartan," " Roslin Castle" and
" Tartar " arrived at Plymouth during the month, and the
London market has been very active, many foreign buyers are
here and important sales have been effected. The prices coming
from the fields are very firm at a somewhat higher rate.
Latest from Kimberley report increased activity, all classes of
goods in demand. Home reports encouraging, and shipments
profitable.
Silver. — Bars, 44^d. ; Mexican dollars, 42fd.
iTrabe iNotes.
JgtpR. A. W. NEWBOLD, Junior, of 37, Spencer Street,
^Yg§b E.C., requests us to state (in connection with our recent
note respecting the award of prize medals at the Ap-
prentices' Exhibition at Mile End), that the first-class silver
medal for excellence of workmanship was gained by one of his
apprentices.
The "Silver Wedding" jewellery of Mr. J. N. Masters, Rye,
Sussex, should also not escape the attention of jewellers The
designs are of marked originality and artistic merit ; they
consist of various appropriate combinations of the national
emblems : Rose, Shamrock and Thistle ; Prince of Wales'
Feathers, &e, with suitable mottoes.
We call the attention of those manufacturers who are now
seeking for a means of a more systematic and economic produc-
tion of watches, to the new catalogue of the American firm of
Messrs. Mosely & Co., of Elgin, Illinois, which is now before us.
It contains a complete list of the lathes and adjuncts (on the
well-known "Whitcomb" principle) manufactured by the
Company, with other details that cannot fail to be instructive.
We have received from Messrs. Vaughton, of Gothic Works,
Birmingham, their new illustrated catalogue and price list.
Although the firm point out the impossibility of including every
article they manufacture among the illustrations in the catalogue,
the latter is very complete in this respect, and jewellers doing
business in sporting localities with athletic clubs, etc., would do
well to obtain it, before completing stocks for the forthcoming
season.
The Report of the Directors of Messrs. Perry & Co. is just
published. After deducting the usual payments amounting to
£9,645, and adding the balance from last year, £475, there is
shown to remain a balance of £13,523, with which it is proposed,
after carrying £2,000 to the reserve fund, to pay> a dividend at
the rate of 5 per cent, on Preference and 10 per cent, on
Ordinary shares for the year, the latter of which is the same as
that paid for the last four years.
The celebration of the Prince of Wales' silver wedding is
likely to produce as much stir in the fancy trades as did the
past year of jubilation, and signs are visible in many directions
of designers turning their attention to the fact. Among various
specialties that have come under our notice, some very effective
and elegant designs in photograph frames may be mentioned as
deserving attention. They are called " The Prince and Princess"
and .are manufactured by Messrs. King & Sons, Goswell Road,
E.C.
130
THE WATCH MAKEE, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[March 1, 1888.
Messrs. Nicole Freres have on one of their price lists a
quotation from the press to the effect that the difference between
a musical box made by them, and one of common construction,
is as great as that between an "Erard" pianoforte and one of
those which Mr. Middlewick, in " Our "Boys" would professionally
pronounce to be a "Shop 'un." Certainly, some of the later
productions of this firm are models of finish and development in
many ways, perhaps the greatest advance being that of inter-
changeable cylinders, by means of which, what is practically a
new musical box is obtainable at a small cost The extra cylinders
are contained in a drawer in the box and can be readily changed
at will by inexperienced persons.
Birmingham News,
From Our Correspondent.
'fifjflS proverbial that every black cloud has its silver lining,
^M§ and although the lining is not always visible, it is certainly
consoling to accept the proverb as a fact to be proved
sooner or later. The black cloud floating in the commercial
sky of the jewellers' quarter is the fact that another manufacturer
has filed his petition for liquidation, and to add to the blackness,
there is a considerable amount of gossip abroad to the effect that
there are others following, which piece of gossip may or may not
have some foundation ; in fact, 'tis a weakness of the business
man — this disposition to prophecy — and it always seems to be
most rampant when it would be best if kept in the background,
for although coming events may cast their shadows before them,
yet shadows are very unstable things, and seldom prove anything
better than a Will-o'-the-Wisp to those unfortunate travellers
I have before me a price list of French optical goods for-
warded to me this morning by the manufacturer direct from
Paris, and there are some wonderfully cheap lines in opera
glasses, field and marine glasses, spectacles, &c. It would be
worth while some of our makers who are suffering so keenly from-
this fact, making a deeper study of the matter. Why should
the Frenchman be able to produce so much cheaper an article ?
Do we really know why ? I am aware that numerous reasons
are given, but are they the actual whys and wherefores of
the case ? Why can the foreigner live so much cheaper than we
can ? I am being informed that this is so daily, but I should
like a little more actual proof of the fact.
* * *
I am constantly advising my jeweller friends and acquaintances
who express the difficulty that they find in getting really new
designs, to go to nature and make a closer study of her never-
exhausted supply ; and if they will add to this a search after any
art work of ancient nations or tribes of people, they will often be
rewarded for their trouble. By the kindness of Mr. Dent, the
Librarian of the Aston Free Library, I was able to make a close
inspection of a small collection of some native handicraft, produced
by the Australian Aborigines, at present on loan to the Library
Committee, and was surprised to find a real work of art in the
shape of a calabash knife ; it is very much like a modern paper
knife in shape and would do very well for the purpose ; the
handle, which is carved with some very quaint and appropriate
detail — all the ornamentation being of such a nature as to assist
in holding it firmly in the hand — is turned at a different angle to
the blade, which gives the holder greater power when using it,
and the article as a whole leaves little to be desired, and certainly
contains a good many lessons applicable to modern work. I was
unable to make a drawing of it at the time, but hope to be able
to trespass upon the generosity of the owner so far as to do so at
some future time.
who are sufficiently credulous to believe all that they may chance
to hear. The silver lining consists of the fact that the present
catastrophe is not due purely and simply to bad trade, so much
as to bad trading — obtaining customers by means of champagne
suppers and other expensive and unbusiness-like performances,
which never ends in a steady and reliable connection, as too
many bad business men have already found to their cost. It is
the steady, non-drinking, early-to-bed and early-to-rise part of
the community that make money and pay their debts, while
others are floundering through the bankruptcy court and com-
plaining of bad trade. There are a good few of the steady,
hard-working manufacturers still fairly busy, making overtime,
and their men getting decent wages — these are they who go
with the times and adopt new methods of working, new designs,
and plenty of healthy activity.
Constant complaints of foreign cheap goods coming into the
markets and causing a downward tendency in prices are still
floating about, but we have the remedy in our own hands, as
foreign goods stand a small chance of being sold as English
make (thanks to the Merchandise Marks Act) ; let every
Englishman be true to the cause and refuse to buy foreign
manufactured articles. For instance, a number of the jewellers
prefer French tools to our own make because they are cheaper.
Suppose the public take a fancy to French jewellery — where are
you then ? Oh ! Birmingham working men, say no more about
your foreign competitors as long as you are so inconsistent ; you
have the cure in your own hands, but if you will feed the
foreigner you must not be surprised that he is willing to live upon
you ; and yet you have a greater power in your own hands than
any protective tariff could possibly wield.
The " Precious Stone " dealers are all more or less suffering:
by the failures of manufacturing houses ; as they give long
credit, their accounts generally assume large proportions ; losses
are correspondingly heavy and dividends of three and sixpence
in the pound are something like equal to total loss. Some of
them have been very " badly hit " lately, and long faces and
short purses are the inevitable consequences.
* * *
I have been able at the last moment to make a drawing of
the calabash knife referred to above.
Copper. — Great attraction, says a contemporary, is still
centred in the copper market and the doings of the so-called
French Syndicate, and prices are continually fluctuating. Under
the circumstances, it is not surprising that consumers show no
inclination to purchase except in such quantities as are for the
moment required. Throughout the country the stocks of
consumers have been very materially encroached upon of late,
and are consequently getting low, so that much anxiety is being
experienced in several quarters as to the probable state of the
market a little time hence. There seems to be almost a general
want of confidence in either the legitimacy or permanence of the
rise, and the prevailing opinion is that prices will gradually drop
until about £60 is reached for Chili bars. To show the uncertain
state of the market and fluctuation' of prices, it may be noted
that in the early part of the last week of January one morning
it was reported that transactions had taken place at £79, sharp
cash ; but, while at first there were appearances of higher prices
during the day, £77 7s. 6d., sharp cash, was the price about
middle day, and the afternoon was rather quiet, metal changing
hands at £75 5s. At the close of the week prices were
£73 12s. Qd. at one month, or £73 7s. 6d. cash.
March 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
131
iLhe Jfterchanoise Httarhs Act.
^IiWHE official treatise on the Act by Mr. Howard Payn is
l^g 1 now in the hands of the officers of the various Customs
Houses. With regard to marks on goods which may be
taken to indicate the place of origin, and which have up to the
present been so little understood, Mr. Payn says : —
" The indication of origin may be direct or indirect. With
regard to direct false indication of origin the matter is simple
enough. If knives are imported marked Sheffield, when they
have been manufactured in Germany, it will constitute fraud. In
the case of indirect indications of origin, the matter is less
simple. The use of the English language in descriptions, such
as 'superfine make,' in goods coming from a foreign-speaking
country would be a false indication unless accompanied by a
counter-statement. The same observation applies to the use of
single words, such as ' patent,' ' registered,' or ' warranted,'
or English measures such as yards, feet, inches, or dozens, or
abbreviations of such words. Words which might imply manu-
facture by English firms, such as ' and Co.' if the goods came
from a foreign-speaking 'country, would also require a definite
indication of manufacture abroad. As an instance of false
indications in foreign languages, the description ' Paris mode '
on goods brought from Germany would clearly be a misdescrip-
tion, but such words would be legal if the goods came from
France. Besides the use of the English language there may be
other indirect indications, such as V.R., the Royal Arms, the
Queen's Crown, the Lion of Scotland, the Harp of Ireland, or
similar devices implying a national character. Such marks on
goods of foreign origin must have some counter-statement, such
as ' manufactured abroad ' added to prevent an infringement of
the Act. With regard to goods from America or other English-
speaking country, in the case of towns having similar names to
towns in this country, the place of origin must be distinctly
indicated. The letters ' U.S.A.' would be a sufficient indication
in the case of such American towns.
" False descriptions as to mode of manufacture or as to the
material of which goods are composed, such as goods marked
' hand-made ' when they are really machine-made, or ' cast-steel '
when they are merely run metal, would render them liable to
detention on importation, but, as a general rule, the Customs
would only detain them upon information by persons affected."
Dealing with Sections 7 and 8 which refer especially to
watches, he says : —
" The directions to be observed in applying the new law relate
to — (a) Watch cases with assay marks imported alone ; (b) like
watch cases imported with the watches— that is to say, watches
of foreign manufacture in them. If the cases are wholly un-
marked, or are duly marked in accordance with the Order in
Council, or with a foreign assay mark, and there is not in
addition any wording on any part of the case proper, or on the
dome, indicating make or produce in the United Kingdom, the
goods may be delivered. If, on the other hand, there is any
such wording the goods must be detained and the matter referred
to the Board. If the cases are marked with the British hall-
mark, as placed on watch cases made in the United Kingdom, the
goods will be detained unless they are entered as ' British goods
brought back,' in which case they will be admitted under the
usual regulations, (c) If the cases are wholly unmarked or are
marked either in accordance with the Order in Council, or with
a foreign assay mark, or with a British assay mark as placed on
a watch case made in the United Kingdom, and with an equally
conspicuous statement of make abroad as regards the watch
itself, either above or below the assay mark, and if there is no
wording either as an addition on the case or dome or upon the
watch itself, whether on the dial, or on the plate, or any part of
the works, indicating make or produce in the United Kingdom,
then the goods will be delivered. If, on the other hand, there
is any such wording the goods will be detained, and the matter
referred to the Board. Jf the cases are marked with a British
assay mark as placed on a watch. case made in the United King-
dom, and with no statement of foreign make on the case, as
required, they will be detained as a seizure unless there is upon
the dial of each watch, and also on the top plate (where the
watch is of that construction) or on the bottom plate, visibly
between the ' bridges,' an indelible and definite indication of the
place or country of manufacture. Such a definition should
contain the name of the place or country of origin ; if, in
addition, it contains the name of a place in the United
Kingdom, as, for instance, ' Geneva and London,' or if
there is anywhere on the watch an indication by figures,
words, or otherwise that the watch might be the make of
the United Kingdom, then in addition to the name of place
of origin there must be a distinct statement that the watches
were there made."
iLhe English Hall-jRarh upon Foreign
liUatch itases.
^|]NDER the above heading the Journal Suisse d' 1 Horlogerie
I publishes a letter from a correspondent, of which the fol-
lowing is a translation : —
Mr. Editor, — Being Swiss — and, as such, having at heart the interests
of my country, I should like, if possible, to give some information to
those of my compatriots doing business with England.
Being employed in an English custom house, I am astonished at the
quantity of merchandise which our little Switzerland sends here ; but
that which astonishes me still more is to see these goods, which, nearly
all, do honour to the country which produces them, arrive here without
marks or makers' names.
The French goods we receive here nearly all bear the name and
address of the makers, and I think, Mr. Editor, that the English goods
which you receive in Switzerland bear the name of English makers.
Why are our Swiss afraid of making themselves known ? It is what I
do not understand.
Since the new law upon Merchandise Marks has been in force in
England, I have seen many confiscations here. I think that our Swiss
makers do not well understand all the aims of this law.
Lately we have received many cases of Swiss-made watches, the covers
bearing a mark similar to the adjoining. It is not necessary to tell you
that these watches have been immediately confiscated for two reasons ;
firstly, the alloy - 800 is not of sterling silver, and the English public is
not supposed to know that there is any other silver than sterling silver ;
secondly, Warranted Silver are two English words, and nothing upon
the watch indicates its place of origin ; consequently, these two English
words may very well denote that the watch has been made in England
and be sold as such.
Other watches received here had neither English nor Swiss marks,
but were marked Patent Chronograph ; again two English words, and
nothing to denote the place of origin of the watch, consequently they
are again seized. Others had nothing upon the watch, but the case is
marked : these are stopped ; others yet had only Fast and Slow upon
the regulator, still two English words not indicating the place of origin,
these are confiscated.
All these stoppages could be avoided if our makers would put their
name and address in the watch and on the case, so as to indicate the
place of origin. Many manufacturers prefer to put Swiss Make upon
their watches rather than their address.
All this that is applicable to watches is also so to musical boxes.
Why do not our Genevese makers put their name upon the magnificent
mrsical boxes which we receive ? I do not comprehend.
We receive here quantities of cotton embroideries from St. Gall, silks
from Zurich, &c. I have been here four years, and during that time I
have seen hundreds of cases arrive, but not a single one having its con-
tents marked with the name of a Swiss maker. I mistake, there are
three exceptions : the potteries of Thoune, the machines of Zurich, and
the aniline colours of Bale ; these three merchandises are marked with
the names of the makers, but the cottons and the silks never. Some boxes
of embroideries are marked Swiss -Embroideries, two English words
denoting the place of origin of the goods ; but the greater part have
only English words proving nothing, except that the goods have been
made in England, and in virtue of this new law, the word yard is
sufficient for their detention.
The ribbon makers are the first I have seen to have made a step in the
right direction : two putting their initials and their address, the others
putting Swiss make upon their boxes and ribbon rollers.
Hoping. Mr. Editor, that these indications will be of some use to
your readers,
I am, &c,
A Swiss.
132
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[March. 1,. 1.888.
Loro Salisbury on nhe TOerchanoise Jflarhs Act.
IjKl PUBLIC meeting, convened by the London Chamber of
Commerce, was held at the Cannon Street Hotel, on
February 8, to consider the question of pirating English
trade marks and names by foreign dealers, and the expediency of
altering or modifying the Merchandise Marks Act, as a means of
preventing the evil. Mr. Herbert Tritton presided, and there
was a very large attendance, among those present being Mr.
Heneage, M.P., Mr. Howard Vincent, M.P., and Mr. McArthur,
M.P. The Chairman, in opening the proceedings, said that
while the Chamber of Commerce had not adopted any position
hostile to the principle of the Merchandise Marks Amendment
Act, there could be no doubt that its effects had been detrimental
to different portions of the trading community, both with respect
to some of the details of its provisions and in regard to the way
in which the measure had hitherto been administered. The
Secretary (Mr. R. B. Murray) read the following letter that had
been received from the Under-Secretary for Foreign Affairs on
behalf of Lord Salisbury : —
Foreign Office, February 7.
Sir, — I am directed by the Marquis of Salisbury to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of the ISth ult., on the subject of the pro mble
effect on British interests in certain cases of the Merchandise Marks
Act, 1887. In reply, I am to state that the Act of last session was
passed with the view of preventing the fraudulent use of marks, and
that it materially strengthened the power of the Customs authorities to
stop the entry of goods so marked in this country. It was foreseen by
Her Majesty's Government that where foreign goods had been improperly
marked and forwarded through this country from abroad for tranship-
ment to the Colonies or to foreign countries, there might be some risk
that the difficulties interposed by the new Act would lead to the importa-
tion into such Colonies or foreign countrns of the goods wrongly marked
directly from the country of origin. To that extent the shipping trades
may be affected. But this possibility was foreseen, duly weighed, and
was regarded by Her Majesty's Government as being an inferior con-
sideration to the purification of trade. One of the main principles of
the Act, as the London Chamber of Commerce is aware, is that every
country should have the credit and advantage of its own manufactures,
and against that principle it is not understood that the Chamber contend.
1 am also to inform you that a circular was addressed on October 8 last
to Her Majesty's representatives in those countries who are parties to
the International Union for the Protection of Industrial Property,
enclosing copies of the Merchandise Marks Act. 1887, with copies of a
Memorandum explaining the nature of its provisions, for communication
to the Governments of those countries. I am to enclose a copy of the
Memorandum in question for the information of the London Chamber
of Commerce. It was also pointed out to Her Majesty's representatives
that, in framing the Act, Her Majesty's Government had sought to protect
not only the interests of British subjects, but also those of subjects of
foreign States, by providing remedies against the fraudulent practices in
question, whether committed to the detriment of British or foreign
manufacture, and that Her Majesty's Government felt confident that the
passing of the Act would be recognised by foreign Governments as an
attempt to carry out in their complete spirit the principles of the Union,
of which the main motive is the prevention of fraudulent practices of
this description. And they were instructed to state, in communicating
the Act and Memorandum, that whilst Her Majesty's Government invited
a careful consideration of the Act, they appealed with some confidence
to the States comprising the International Union to take any steps
which might be in their power to initiate legislation in the same direction,
whereby reciprocal protection might be afforded abroad in similar circum-
stances to British subjects. I am to add that, with a view to minimise
the present evil, the British Colonies have been invited to adopt a law
similar to the Imperial Act. — I am. Sir, your most obedient humble
Servant, (Signed) James Fergusson.
A communication had also been received from the London,
Chatham and Dover Railway Company, stating that a large
quantity of goods which were formerly sent by that line en route
for Liverpool were now sent direct to America from German
ports, in consequence of the provisions of the Act. Mr. Phillips
moved — " That this meeting approves of the initiative taken by
the London Chamber of Commerce in giving the commercial
community an opportunity of expressing its grievances re the
Merchandise Marks Act, and requests the council to take such
steps as may appear requisite to enable the Act to operate with
the minimum of detriment to the distributing interests." Mr.
Buckingham, in seconding the motion, said that the Act would
continue to be necessary as long as British traders had foreign
competitors who were prepared to adopt dishonest methods of
selling their goods. Several amendments were proposed, but
not agreed to ; and after considerable discussion the original
motion was unanimously carried. On the motion of Mr. W.
Leaf, seconded by Mr. V. Barrington, a further resolution was
passed welcoming the formation of an association (the Merchan-
dise Marks Association), to obtain and distribute information as
to the working of the Act, and to protect the interests of those
affected by it, whether by test cases or by promoting such amend-
ments in the law as might prove necessary.
Fraub on Jflessrs. 6rant anb Peahe.
j|T the Marlborough Street Police Court last month, Charles
Max Schroder, 37, a well-dressed man, from Sydney, New
South Wales, having no occupation, was brought up
before Mr. Newton, in custody of Inspector Jarvis, of Scotland
Yard, on the charge of feloniously forging and uttering certain
acceptances to six bills of exchange, amounting in the aggregate
to over £2,200, in the year 1886, with intent to defraud William
Henry Peake, a jeweller, of Gerrard Street, Soho. — According to
the opening statement of Mr. Inman, solicitor (from the office of
Messrs. Wontner & Sons), who prosecuted, it appeared that in
July, 1886, defendant absconded, and for a long period nothing
could be ascertained as to his whereabouts. Recently, however,
it was discovered that he was living near Sydney, where he was
arrested by Inspector Jarvis and brought back to this country.
As the prisoner had only arrived in London on the previous
afternoon, he (Mr. Inman) proposed then only to read the sworn
information on which the warrant was granted, after which he
would ask for a remand. The information stated that the
prosecutor carried on business in Gerrard Street, Soho, as a
jeweller, under the style of Grant & Peake. He became acquainted
with the prisoner some years ago in reference to a bill for £110,
which had been passed over to Mr. Peake for value by a Mr.
Thomas, of Rue Castiglione, Paris. This bill was accepted by
Schroder, who called upon the prosecutor and made various repre-
sentations in respect to his monetary position, and induced him
to hold over the bill and at the same time to sell him a bracelet.
He informed Mr. Peake that under the will of his grandfather, he
was entitled on the death of his father and mother to a very large
sum of money — many thousands of pounds — and that he was at
liberty to raise money on his reversion. Owing to his statement
that he was negotiating a considerable advance upon his reversion,
the prosecutor agreed to accept — and did accept — drafts which
the prisoner should draw to the extent of over £3,000. These
the accused was to discount and to take them up at maturity.
Parcels of jewellery were also sold to Schroder to the extent of
over £1,000, for which he gave his acceptances. The acceptances
were handed to the prisoner, and were discounted by him through
a Mr. Magnin, of the Boulevard Sebastopol, Paris. Some of
them were subsequently renewed, but ultimately when called upon
Schroder failed to take up the bills, whilst the acceptances which
he gave to the prosecutor, after being several times renewed, were
dishonoured. As Mr. Peake had to pay those which he had
given early in July, the prisoner was owing him, without the
expenses of certain actions that had been brought in Paris to re-
cover the money, the sum of £4,400. From time to time the
accused promised that he would pay, and still kept up the state-
ment that he was negotiating a large advance on his reversion,
promising that he would pay the debt on July 30. On the 6th
of that month Schroder called upon the prosecutor in a state of
great agitation, and said that having been pressed for money, and
•in anticipation of the certainty of getting the advance, he had
forged the names of Grant & Peake to acceptances which he had
discounted in Paris, and which were due on the following day,
and had been made payable at the Argyll Street Branch of the
Union Bank. He added that he believed his uncle would pay
them, and begged Mr. Peake to take no action in the matter,
saying that the whole indebtedness would be cleared off. The
accused wrote a memorandum to the effect that the bills were not
genuine, but although his uncle was communicated with, nothing
was done in the matter, and Mr. Peake therefore gave notice to
his bankers that the six bills referred to, did not bear the firm's
March 1, 1888.]
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
133
signature, and had been drawn without their authority. Five of
them were presented during the day, and he (the prosecutor)
again repudiated theni, hearing afterwards that they had been
taken up by Schroder's uncle. Before the end of July, however,
he heard that the accused had left the country without first
making arrangements, and therefore, in order to prevent a repe-
tition of the forgery, he applied for and obtained a warrant for
Schroder's arrest. It had been ascertained that accused had no
power to part with his reversion without his parents' consent,
and that had not been obtained. — At the conclusion of the
reading of the information, the prisoner was remanded for a week.
On the remand, Mr. St. John Wonter conducted the prosecu-
tion, and Mr. Gill, barrister (instructed by Mr. C. 0. Humphreys),
defended. — William Henry Peake having been examined, and
other evidence of a formal character been given — Inspector
Jarvis, of Scotland Yard, said that on the warrant being read,
the accused remarked that he did not understand what it was for,
and on it being further explained, he said "I have had a good
deal of business with Mr. Peake." He admitted, also, the au-
thenticity of certain documents, but said the confession was a
forgery. — Mr. Gill remarked that he did not propose to address
the magistrate for the defence, which would be reserved. — The
prisoner was thereupon committed for trial.
Che Cheory of Adjustment.
By M. L. Lossier.
After the Memoir of M. Jules Grossmann. — From the Journal
Suisse D'Horlogerie.
ness
10mm.
tension.
THIRD ARTICLE.— (Continued from page 120.)
ECTION 6. — Let us see now what takes place in a spring
of circular form. Let A B (fig. 5) be a spring which we
assume is composed of five turns each of mm -,03 in thick-
its radius, R, measured to the middle of its thickness* is
As represented in the diagram, it is free and without
We will designate by /3 the angle formed by the spring around
its centre, o, which is here three-quarters of a turn. The length
of the lamina from the middle will be then three-quarters of a
circumference of 10 mm . radius, or : —
L = 10
or, algebraically : —
3 x 3.1416
2
= 47 mm -, 124,
Li=B-p.
* The thickness of the spring has been, in the figure, considerably
exaggerated, in order to show more clearly the division of the coils.
The length of the exterior lamina will be three-quarters of a cir-
cumference of a radius 10 mm -, plus two thicknesses of lamina?, or
(10 + 0.06)
47 mn % 407,
or, calling the length of any lamina L\ and the distance from the
middle of this lamina to that of the middle lamina k : —
V = (R + k) /3. (7)
Bending now the spring so that it includes a greater angle,
/3 + a , or seven-eighths of a turn, the end A will go to A 1 , and
B to B' ; the radius r will be smaller, the exterior lamina will
become longer and the interior lamina will become shorter; the
middle lamina, on the other hand, will preserve its same length,
which we have found equal to R (3, and which, expressed with
the new radius r for unit, will be : —
L = r (,3 + a);
then
from whence
R j3 = r (/3 +
R ff
r = /3 + « '
0.
(8)
in figures : —
10 x
60
7
57.
The length L
of the exterior lamina becomes : —
L" = (r + k) (/3 + «) ;
or, substituting for r its value taken from the equation (8),
R j8 "
L "=(T+« + ') (/3 + a)
or,
The lengthening that has taken place is then : —
L" — L' = R |3 + k jS + h-et — R — k /3,
or,
L" — V =ku;
or. in figures : —
(9)
0,06 x
= 0"
047.
(10)
This lengthening is positive, but it will become negative for
k negative, that is to say, for the interior lamina? ; it changes
likewise its sign accordingly as the angle « adds to or diminishes
the angle /3.
A negative lengthening is a shortening.
If the two terms are negative, their product is naturally
positive.
It is. to be remarked that the lengthening is independent of
the radius R, and consequently of the curve of the spring, which
may be circular, cylindrical, spiral or otherwise.
To ascertain the effort exerted, we have only to substitute in
the equation (6)* for the term I its value k «, and we shall have
E k a s
~L~- (11)
In figures, taking the width of the spring = l mm ', s will be
worth mm -, 03, and the effort exerted by the single exterior
lamina will be : —
P =
P
26,000,000 x 0, 047 x 0.03
= 773 gr.
47, 407
The interior lamina tends to lengthen itself, and will inversely
exert the same effort.
The moments of the forces will be :
for the exterior lamina,
P(r + k),
and for the interior lamina,
P (r
See Erratum, page 120.
134
THE WATCHMAKER, JEWELLER AND SILVERSMITH.
[March ], 1888.
Their sum will be then : —
m = P (r
or
+ /,) -P(r- k),
m = 2 P k ;
it is independent then of the radius of the spring.
Substituting its value for P (11), we shall have
E k a. s
(12)
m = 2 £ x
or,
L
2 E P a s
TO =
This equation represents the moment of simultaneous efforts,
exerted in inverse senses, of an interior lamina and an exterior
lamina at equal distance from the middle lamina.
The distance k from the middle of the middle lamina to that
of tbe first or of the fifth, is equal to the thickness of two lamina?,
and, if we call / the total thickness of the spring, k will be
k = 0.4 e and k 2 = 0.16 e 2 .
For the second and the fourth lamina the distance k, which is
that of one thickness, becomes
k = 0.2 e and k 2 = 0.04 e 2 ;
the sum of the two values of lc 2 is then : —
0,16 e 2 + 0.04 e 2 = 0.2 e r .
The total moment of the effort exerted by the spring, and
which is the same thing as we have designated at section 5 by
M ot, will thus be : —
2 E x .2 e 2 x a s
L
nf<* =
The section s of each coil being equal to its thickness, 0.2 e,
multiplied by the height of the spring h, or
s = 0.2 e h,
we have, by substituting
2 E x 0.2 e 2 x a X 0.2 e h
M,
or,
M a =
L
0.08 E h e 3 a
L
We have obtained the figure 0.08 by dividing the spring into
five lamina?, but if we make the calculation from dividing the
spring into a large number of very fine coils, we shall arrive at a
more exact figure of
0.08333. ..or -^.
The formula giving the moment of force of a spring becomes
finally : —
E h e 3 a.
12 L " (U)
M ,
i E = coefficient of elasticity.
h = width of the spring.
e = thickness of the spring.
L = length of the spring.
a = angle which the balance has turned.
Or, figuring from the numerical example that we have taken
26,000,000 x 1 x 0.0034 x 0.7854
M* =
12 x 47.124
M « = 122 grammes.
In other words, to make the spring bend one-eighth of a turn,
it would necessitate, on an arbor of l mm - radius, an effort of 122
grammes ; or, on a barrel of 10 mm - radius, ^ = 12? r -, 2.
By eliminating a. from the equation (14), we shall have : —
lr Ehe 3
M ~~V2L* (15)
which is the algebraical expression of the moment of elasticity.
The equation (14) may also be employed for calculating the
force of a mainspring. The angle a. becomes then very large,
being sometimes as much as 2 v that there are turns, less the
turns the spring makes when it is entirely developed;*
Numerical Example. — Being given a mainspring of 628 mm - in
length, 0.18'" m - in thickness and 2.23"""- in height, to calculate its
force when fully wound up.
In the free state, and without the barrel, the spring makes 5^
turns ; rewound it makes 18.
The angle u will be equal to
(36— 10§) 7T = 25^ x 3.1416 = 79.59.
We shall have then : —
Ma =
26,000,000 x 2.23 x (0.18) 3 x 79.59
12 x 628
M ol = 35718% 2.
Direct experience has demonstrated that, in order to hold in
equilibrium the wound up spring, it was necessary to suspend to
a lever 123 mm - in length, fixed to the square of the arbor and
carefully balanced, a weight of 29 grammes,
The moment of this force was then : —
29 x 123 = 3567 grammes,
a figure very near to that found by the calculation,
(To be continued.)
iNeui Booh.
The "Watchmaker's Handbook," f translated from the
French of M. Claudius Saunier by Messrs. Julien Tripplin,
F.R.A.S., and Edward Rigg, M.A. (which has, since the first
edition was published by Mr. Tripplin in 1881, been acknow-
ledged as the most complete work of the kind in the English
language), has now reached a second edition, and the translators
are to be congratulated upon the great improvements, typo-
graphically and otherwise, effected in the new issue, the text of
which is well illustrated by numerous woodcuts.' In the present
edi 
Open Library
