A Victorian nickel plated brass mortar cannon timepiece movement, dial and barrel in the manner of Thomas Cole George Betjemann and Sons, circa 1873 The movement with horizontal gilt platform lever escapement with sprung polished steel three-arm balance over four wheel train incorporating five-spoke wheel crossings set between circular spotted frontplate and two-tier backplate, the upper section with four plain pillars pinned at the rear enclosing the train as far as the second wheel, the conforming deeper lower section containing the going barrel wound from the rear and stamped 286 over 274 to backplate, the 3 inch circular silvered Roman numeral dial with blued steel hands set behind a screw-down bevel glazed bezel threaded to the cylindrical inner case with SLOW/FAST regulation slot, integral winding key and stamped 370 to rear, the outer case formed as a simple mortar cannon barrel with simulated touch hole and trunnions to the hemispherical breach and stamped with Registration diamond mark for 4th March 1873 over indistinct G.B. & SONS to underside, (Carriage structure/base lacking), 12.5cm (5ins) long. The firm of George Betjemann and Sons were fine dressing case makers, silversmiths, designers and retailers of other fine quality objects and accessories who initially worked in Clerkenwell before moving to Pentonville Road in 1859. Although not recorded as clock and watchmakers a few novelty timepieces in the form of a kettle drum signed by them are known. The movement of the current lot is particularly well-made, finely finished and is very reminiscent of the work of Thomas Cole. This would suggest that it was probably supplied by one of Cole's successors. IMPORTANT NOTES REGARDING THE CATALOGUING OF CLOCKS: Movements, dials and cases: movements and dials are described as relating to the cases in which they are housed in one of the following three ways: the case.... we are of the opinion that the movement and dial started life in the current case. in a case... we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are in a case of correct period and type (and may well be original to the movement and dial), however there is evidence to suggest that they may not have started out life together. now in a case... we are of the opinion that the movement and dial are no longer in the original case as it is not of correct period and/or type. Pendulums, weights, winding and case keys: unless specifically indicated otherwise in the catalogue description it can be assumed that all clocks with cases are sold with the requisite pendulum and correct number of weights (where appropriate), however we cannot guarantee that they are original to the clock. This excludes lantern clocks or loose movements which are more often than not offered without pendulums or weights. We do not indicate in the catalogue description whether winding or case keys are present with any specific clock. As many clocks are consigned without keys please check with the department to establish whether they are present or not prior to bidding. Condition: due to the mechanical nature of clocks and the fact that most are of great age we cannot offer any guarantee as to whether they are in working order or free from major faults or restoration. Although we endeavour to catalogue items in a fair and informed manner, omission of any comments or observations regarding the condition or originality of a clock in the description does not necessarily indicate that it is free from significant faults, restoration or is in working condition. We would strongly advise any prospective purchaser to view the item in person or request a condition report and/or further images prior to bidding. Measurements: dial measurements are given in inches, other dimensions such as height are given in centimetres and inches. The measurement given for the height of a longcase clock excludes any removable finials in order to provide an approximate minimum ceiling height in which the clock can be accommodated.