Early gold rack lever by Martin Clayton, Manchester

Early rack lever with Litherland & Co. escapement, in rose gold pair cases.

MOVEMENT : Gilt rack lever movement, with engraved balance cock, diamond endstone, polished steel escape wheel, four round pillars, and blued screws. Signed (M. Clayton, MANCHESTER) and numbered (5615).
The bell shaped balance cock is signed ‘LITHERLAND & Co., PATENTEES’

The movement is protected by a removable gilt dustcap.

This movement is in good condition, with just a few light scratches (mainly around the pillar tops). Running well.

DIAL : White enamel dial which has been restored, and shows some unevenness to the surface,. Gilt hands, a little tarnished.

INNER CASE : 18ct rose gold, with nice clear Chester hallmarks for 1809, maker’s mark TH over G.

In good condition, with some wear to the back. The bow is a replacement (yellow colour rather than rose). The bezel snaps shut correctly, and the crystal is ok except for a couple of small chips right on the edge at the bezel.

OUTER CASE : 18ct. gold pair case with clear matching hallmarks to the inner.

Again in good condition, with just some light scratches to the back. There is an old repair at the hinge, only visible on the inside of the case. The hinge and catch are fine and the case snaps shut correctly.

The case maker’s mark is probably that of Thomas Helsby of Liverpool.

Martin Clayton is listed in Manchester between 1789 and 1833.