This is a fine Marine Chronometer built by T.S. and J.D. Negus , circa 1870. The marine chronometer was the primary instrument used throughout the nineteenth and most of the twentieth centuries to calculate one's longitude at sea. The crew's and ship's survival at sea depended on the chronometer! Therefore the chronometer had to be a superbly made instrument. Ships still carry chronometers for situations when electronics fail.

The chronometer was invented in Englad in the late 18th century and the majority were built in England throughout the nineteenth century. American built chronometers are quite scarce. Thomas and John Negus were two of the few chronometer makers working in the United States. they began operations in New York City in 1845 and the business carried on until 1930. During the nineteenth century they also became well known as providers of all kinds of ship's instruments.

This chronometer is an excallent example of Negus' work. It was built circa 1870 to the highest standards with 56 hour duration fusee movement with 'deadbeat' Earnshaw chronometer escapement. The silvered dial is in fine condition with original gold hands and blued steel second hand and up/down indicator. the movement is in fine condition and the heavy brass 'Tub' case and gimbal ring retain original laquer with nice patina

The case is brass mounted mahogany of three tier design and excellent quality. It retains its original varnish finish and has the fine 'untouched' patina collectors appreciate.

This is a very handsome example of a top quality, difficult to obtain, American marine chronometer built in the heyday of the Clipper ship, China Trade, and Whaling industry.

Please view the several pages of overall and detail pictures of this instrument found by clicking on the top picture

Dimensions: case - 7 1/2" x 7 1/2" x 7 1/4"h.
Price $3450.00