Rare Pilkington & Gibbs Ltd Antique Heliochronometer Sundial

GBP 5,245.00

Contact Dealer To Purchase

Object Description

A rare antique brass heliochronometer sundial by renowned makers Pilkington & Gibbs Ltd.

Suitable for interior and exterior use, this sundial has characterful weathering to create an excellent time worn look, giving viewers a glimpse into its unique heritage. Displayed on timber base, it is the perfect decorative piece for to take pride of place in a period style garden or as an intriguing new feature for a side board or cabinet.

Marked with ‘GJ GIBBS, INVENIT’ (model), this sundial has an excellent patina as it rotates and moves the unusual gnomon.

Also known as Tropical Helio-Chronometer, this time telling instrument was made with efficiency and style in mind as it can be adjusted to latitude and longitude to give an accurate reading in any location throughout the world.

With only a total of 1000 originally made, this model is believed to be type 5 of the 50 that are known to still exist. This is marked with ‘no. 221’.

The angled rotating plate has a fixed back sight and pinhole foresight, which is adjusted via a disc that has been calibrated for the date. This allows a reading for the mean time, that is taken from the circumference by a sector divided for minutes against a movable hour scale.

The mechanism is mounted onto a cast brass bowl fixed by an adjustable pivot for setting latitude onto a base.

An exceptionally detailed and iconic sundial sure to ignite intrigue!

Additional dimensions

Circular bronze base has a diameter of 16cm (6.3in).

Object Condition

Good structural condition. Looks to be original and working – no real issues with this. Moves as it should. Appears to work as it should – when the dial is turned, it allows the other pieces to move side to side.

Object Details

  • Style
  • dimensions
    W:20 x H:30 x D:20 centimeters
  • country
  • year
    1910

Dealer Opening Times

We are open weekly as follows:

Monday
8.00 - 16.00
Tuesday
8.00 - 16.00
Wednesday
8.00 - 16.00
Thursday
8.00 - 16.00
Friday
8.00 - 16:00
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44(0) 1981 541 155
Mobile
+44(0) 7786 916 288
Web
Email

Dealer Location

FROM THE M50 / ROSS-ON-WYE

At the end of the M50, take the A40 towards Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth. Take the A49 Hereford Road (third roundabout after leaving the M50). Ignore the first two signposts for Wormelow, stay on the A49 for approximately nine miles and take the next left turn after passing the Pilgrim Hotel, signed A466 Wormelow. Follow the road for approximately 400 meters. We are located halfway down the hill on the right-hand side. The site is called: Grove Farm / The Grove.

FROM A49 HEREFORD

Follow the A49 south from Hereford for approximately five miles. After the uphill section at the Callow, there is a layby on your right followed by one on your left. Take the next right turn onto the A466 signed Wormelow / Monmouth. Follow the road for approximately 400 meters. We are located halfway down the hill on the right-hand side. The site is called: Grove Farm / The Grove.

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