A Rocking Ship Automata Longcase by Bugden of Sodbury. Circa 1815. (Long Case)

This is a very pretty automata longcase in excellent, original condition.

This clock has been in the Codrington family based in Gloucestershire for many years. John Douglas Codrington inherited it from his aunt, Ethel Codrington around 1980. The family had two pubs in Chipping Sodbury and it is believed that this clock was situated in the 'Grapes of Wrath' (now having a different name). The Codrington name is usually associated with Sir Simon Codrington who lived at Doddington Hall and has connections with Barbados where plantations were owned and an ancestor was Governor.

The eight day duration movement with Anchor Recoil escapement - operating the continuous rocking of the ship automata. Rack striking the hours on a bell and having a 'through-the-plates' calendar date-wheel arbor.

The thirteen inch wide, break-arch, painted iron dial being fixed to the movement with a false-dial signed "WALKER & HUGHES" (Birmingham circa 1815 to 1835). The centre having outer, Arabic fives, minute track and inner, large, Arabic hour numerals. Also having subsidiary seconds and calendar dials and signed "R. Bugden (of) Sodbury (Gloucestershire)". The four polished brass hands are matching and ornately decorated and the dial corners are colourfully decorated and depicting wheat sheaves. Finally, the well executed arch shows Royal Navy ratings relaxing by the tower at Portsmouth Naval yard and the seascape beyond has a rocking ship in full sail, depicting Admiral Nelson's 'Victory' embarking on its journey to the battle of Trafalgar. The ship gently rocks to and fro with every swing of the pendulum.

The oak-with-mahogany case has a broken swan-necked pediment to the hood with brass paterea and ball-and-eagle finial, fluted pillars with brass Corinthian capitals and a wavy-edged mahogany door. The oak trunk has Cavetto end mouldings, a full-length door with shaped top, mahogany crossbanding and inlaid shell to the centre and fluted front corners. The plain base has further mahogany crossbanding and stands upon a shaped plinth incorporating feet. Inside the trunk door has a purchase receipt dating from 1960 (see photograph).

We purchased this clock because we were drawn to its originality and condition. It is exactly what it is supposed to be - a simple yet attractive, functioning clock with automata. Simply put, it is - charming. The price that it was offered to us for is reflected in its extremely competitive retail price to you. The price includes a total overhaul of the movement.

The purchased item can be collected at a time mutually agreed or if required, delivery can be arranged for which we are happy to provide a quotation.

For further information, please email us at:

info@bournemouthclocks.co.uk.