CHARLES FRODSHAM
Eight day chronometers are much sort after by collectors and command much higher prices in the market. This instrument has all the attributes that put it at the top of that market.
The family of Frodshams chronometer makers dates from 1758. Charles Frodsham was the third son of William James Frodsham and was apprenticed to him, born 1810-died 1871. His father William Frodsham became a partner with William Parkinson and the firm of Parkinson and Frodsham was founded. They became renowned for the excellence of their marine and pocket chronometers.
These chronometers were used for trials on board ships that were sent to try to find a North West Passage. At the age of 20 years the Admiralty awarded Charles Frodsham a premium of 170 chronometers to be manufactured on his own account. In 1843 he purchased the business of John Roger Arnold. In the year of 1854 and on the death of Lewis Vulliany this business was also acquired.
Charles Frodsham worked from 84 Strand WC. He was awarded the Admiralty prize for the excellency of marine chronometers from Her Majesty the Queen and HRH The Prince of Wales. Also Gold medals in France, Germany, Russia, Italy, Dublin, Philadelphia and London. Charles Frodsham gave an important paper to the Institute of Civil Engineers in 1849 on "The Laws of isochronisms of the balance spring as connected with the higher order of adjustments of chronometers and watches". He also devised a contrivance of a small machine to test the different oils for reducing friction.
References: The Frodshams - The Story of Family Chronometer Makers. Vaudrey Mercer.
Chronometer Makers of The World. Tony Mercer.
My view of this instrument:
This is a fine 8-Day Marine Chronometer signed Charles Frodsham Chronometer maker to The Royal Navy London No.1559.
Of small size for an 8-day the box 7" x 7" x 7" the dial 3.5" dia. the bezel 4.25" The movement has a particularly well-executed detent and escape wheel. A balance wheel guard is also fitted a feature that is more often found on eight day than two day instruments for some reason.
The box is in very good original condition and is of the quality and finish that one would expect of a top of the range chronometer from this eminent maker. It also comes with a period guard box in figured mahogany. These boxes are rare and not always made of such well-figured timber.
c.1840
