Thomas Tompion No. 343. A longcase clock movement and dial, London, circa 1700, in a later mahogany case

11-inch latched dial with winged cherub and scroll spandrels linked by foliate engraving, signed along the lower edge Tho: Tompion Londini Fecit, finely matted centre with subsidiary seconds dial and date aperture, finely pierced hands, the movement with five latched knopped and ringed pillars, anchor escapement with cut-out to the backplate, internal locking plate striking on a bell, numbered on the backplate 343, the associated and later case with flat top moulded cornice above a frieze fret and gilt-capped hood pilasters, rectangular trunk door and plain plinth with bracket feet

Sold in these rooms 7th October 1993, Lot 261.

Dial in generally good clean condition, spandrels probably replaced, good original hands. Movement is complete and appears to retain the original wheelwork throughout, but is very much in need of a clean and fresh oil, crutch repaired and could be improved. With the original seatboard. The later associated case in generally good condition throughout, some damage to hood side frets, other old minor marks and scuffs. With pendulum, 2 brass-cased weights, winder and 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."

Thomas Tompion (1639-1713), the greatest of English clockmakers was born the son of a blacksmith in the parish of Northill, Bedfordshire. 

There is no record of Thomas Tompion serving as an apprentice in a clockmaker's workshop but in 1671 he was admitted to the Clockmakers' Company in London as a `Brother' and two and a half years later was made a 'Free Clockmaker upon Redemption' and allowed to set up his own workshop and take apprentices. During this important year he moved into an influential circle where he met Robert Hooke and John Flamsteed who introduced him to the distinguished scientists of the day, the nobility and King Charles II.

Shortly after 1680 Tompion devised a numbering system for all the clocks and watches that he made and this was continued after his death by his successor George Graham. Towards the end of the century Tompion was employing several apprentices, the most famous of whom was Edward Banger with whom he formed a partnership in 1701. Some years later they quarrelled and after about 1708 ceased to collaborate. Thomas Tompion died in 1713 and an indication of the high esteem in which he was held during his lifetime was demonstrated by his burial in Westminster Abbey.