A walnut marquetry longcase clock, Ann Hawkins, Exeter, circa 1705, movement and case associated

11¼-inch dial with wheat ear border, double cherub and crown spandrels and signed Ann Hawkins, Exon, matted centre with seconds dial, ringed winding holes and engraved calendar aperture, the movement with ring-turned knopped pillars and outside count wheel, the associated case with flat top moulded cornice, with trailing flowers around the hood door, rectangular trunk door inset with a lenticle and veneered with finely cut bird and flower marquetry on an ebony ground, the plinth similarly decorated, the sides crossbanded and divided into panels, later base

Dial would benefit from a clean. Movement with later escapement and much in need of a clean. Associated case with re-built hood, trunk door with horizontal crack and some loss to the marquetry, the plinth with later base, old marks and veneer cracks throughout. With pendulum, 2 brass-cased weights and a winder but no case key.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Ann Hawkins was the wife of Ambrose Hawkins of Exeter. Little is known of the early life of Ambrose Hawkins but it is recorded that he was working as a clockmaker in Wells, Somerset before moving to Exeter around 1695.  In 1696 he was given permission to set up shop as a clockmaker in the Cathedral Close. He was a talented maker and repairer much in demand across Devon and he produced some very fine and unusual longcase clocks.  He died in 1705 and it would appear that his widow Ann continued the business in her own name for a short while after his death.