Asprey 1895 London Desk Travel Clock In 925 Sterling Silver With Lapis Lazuli
Desk clock designed by Asprey of London.
A gorgeous and imposing antique desk travel clock, created in London England by Charles & George Asprey in 1895. It was crafted with very unusual geometric patterns in very fine solid .925/.999 sterling silver and decorated with six squared and rectangles beveled elements carved from natural Afghani Lapis Lazuli. Fitted at the reverse with a hidden hinged door with a push safety lock.
Movement: Mechanical, brass mounts and key wound lever escapement, key winding with two keys; one for the hour setting and the other for winding up.
Dial: White plain porcelain, with black roman numerals, blued iron hour and minutes hands, and crystal glass.
Weight: 272.35 Grams (174.58 Dwt)
Measurements: 73 mm by 53 mm by 43 mm (2.87 x 2.09 x 1.69 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with British control marks; the Rampant Lion cartouche for the assay and guaranty of the .925 silver, the mark for the city of London, the gothic letter U for the year of production 1895, the maker;s mark "CA&GA" associated to Charles Asprey and George Asprey and signed, "ASPREY 166 NEW BOND ST".
Asprey, was established in England in Mitcham, Surrey, in 1781. Founded as a silk printing business by William Asprey, it soon became a luxury emporium. In 1841, William Asprey's elder son Charles went into partnership with a stationer located on London's Bond Street. In 1847, the family broke with this partner and moved into 167 New Bond Street, the premises Asprey occupies today.
From its central London location, Asprey advertised 'articles of exclusive design and high quality, whether for personal adornment or personal accompaniment and to endow with richness and beauty the table and homes of people of refinement and discernment.' An early specialty was dressing cases. Asprey crafted traditional cases and designs, mostly in leather, suitable for the new style of travel ushered in by railways.
As the business grew, the company acquired manufacturing facilities and hired silversmith, goldsmith, jewelers and watchmakers. In the 1920's, commissions poured in from around the world, from American millionaire J. P. Morgan to potentates such as the Maharaja of Patiala, who commissioned a huge teak travelling trunk for each of his wives, in which each trunk was fitted with solid silver washing and bathing utensils with waterspouts of ornate tiger head and lined with blue velvet. Asprey cigarette cases and humidor boxes became collectable amongst young sophisticates who delighted in its other modern products, including travel clocks, safety razors and automatic pencil sharpeners.
Note: This piece has been produced in 1895 during the reigning period of Queen Victoria I (1837-1901).
Note: Extremely rare piece and one of the best ones we have ever seen.
Collateral: It is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.
Condition: The overall condition of this clock is good. Beside the normal wear, there is no damage to the silver. All gemstones are secured. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity. It is in great antique condition, with minimal traces of use and wear as usual for a piece of 130 years old.
INVENTORY REF: D022723MSNM/8.074
