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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Source catalogue · individual objects

Object Catalogue

Individual objects described by auction houses, specialist dealers and collection catalogues. Attribution, dates and specifications remain source-reported unless independently established; rights clearance is pending.

Browse makers and their key pieces · Joseph Knibb profile

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Front view of engraved silver pocket watch showing dial, single hand, and top pendant

Pocket watch · Early watch (16th–17th century)

Engraved and pierced silver watch by Joseph Knibb

This antique silver pocket watch, accession number 1138-1905 in the Victoria and Albert Museum Metalwork Collection, is documented as made in London between approximately 1670 and 1675. The movement is attributed to maker Joseph Knibb, and the museum record notes a signature reading 'Jose(ph) Knibb, London'. The watch case is fashioned from engraved and pierced silver, measuring 5.8 cm high, 4.9 cm wide, and 3 cm deep. Visually, the dial displays prominent Roman numerals and an inner Arabic ring, fitted with a single central hand with a tail pointer.

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collections.vam.ac.uk

Front view of an ebony-veneered timepiece table clock attributed to Joseph Knibb

Clock · Bracket clock

Joseph Knibb timepiece table clock

This late 17th-century William III ebony-veneered timepiece table clock is attributed by the auction source to Joseph Knibb, dating to circa 1690. The rectangular case features baluster-turned finials, a pierced fret panel backed in red fabric, and a brass carrying handle. The dial is fitted with winged cherub-head spandrels and a silvered chapter ring. According to cataloguing, the movement incorporates a verge escapement, a latched dial and movement, and pull quarter repeat mechanism on a bell. The total height measures 32 cm with the handle upright.

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www.fellows.co.uk · 1

The upper portion of the longcase clock, showing the hood, the japanned case decoration, and the brass dial with cherub spandrels.

Clock · Longcase clock

Longcase clock with 8-day movement by Joseph Knibb

This 8-day longcase clock is attributed to the English maker Joseph Knibb, dating to approximately 1690. The movement is a weight-driven two-train mechanism featuring an anchor recoil escapement and a count wheel striking system on two bells, configured for Roman striking. The clock features a 10-inch square brass dial with a matted center, a silvered chapter ring, and cast brass cherub-head spandrels. The dial includes a subsidiary seconds ring and a calendar aperture. The softwood case is japanned to simulate tortoiseshell and is decorated with 20th-century Chinoiserie gilding. The case stands on a plinth that replaces the original bun feet. This object was bequeathed by Brigadier W.E. Clark.

Full description

collections.vam.ac.uk · W.15:1 to 3-1970