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Nautical Antiques & Maritime Antiques
Ship's Fittings
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Royal Navy Gun Tompion from HMS Windsor - HMS Windsor, pennant number F12 was of the V/ W class destroyer of 1,100 tons, launched in 1918. She was based at Scapa Flow in the Orkney Islands, from where she served for the rest of World War and was present at the surrender of the Imperial German Navy's High Seas Fleet in November 1918. Her pennant number was changed between the wars to D 42 and she served with distinction throughout WWII, winning Battle Honours for the Atlantic 1939–1940, Dunkirk 1940, Arctic Convoys 1942, English Channel 1942–1943, North Sea 1942–1945 and Operation Overlord and the invasion of Normandy in 1944. During Operation Dynamo, the evacuation from Dunkirk, Windsor came under repeated attack but still made an amazing 6 trips and in total safely evacuated 3,991 of the stranded troops. She was then back off the coast of France for the invasion or Normandy in 1944 on convoy escort duties. Following the Japanese surrender she was decommissioned and broken up in Charlestown, Fife, Scotland, in June 1949 after 27 years of outstanding, and predominantly wartime, service.
Windsor was a 'W' Class Destroyer and following the Warship Week National Savings campaign in March 1942 she was adopted by the Urban District of Windsor, Berkshire who raised an impressive £300,000. We assume the ships badge features the famous Royal residence of Windsor Castle. The earlier 'V' Class proved to be a sturdy, reliable workhorse with sufficient stability to carry a heavier gun armament which led to the modified 'W' class on which the 4" guns were replaced with 4.7" to produce what were the fastest and most heavily armed destroyers in the world at that time. Our tompion measures 4.5" diameter (12 cm) so would have been fitted to a 4.7" gun. It is mounted on a more recent oak display shield and is cast from a substantial piece of solid brass, depicting a Kings Crown in relief. This design forms the top section of HMS Windsor's ships badge that features a silver castle, surmounted by the same Royal Crown, set against a red field, as shown for illustrative purposes only in our picture section. The official design was submitted and approved in November 1919 and likewise the ships motto "Stat fortuna domus" which translates to "May the fortune of the House stand". Below the tompion is an engraved plaque with the ships name, whilst on the reverse is a label indicating 'Gun tompion from the forward gun turret of HMS Windsor (acquired) on the ships visit to Bristol in 1936'. How this piece of Royal Naval (and His Majesty's) property came to part company with the ship 88 years ago is lost in the mists of time, but we surmise this 'loss of inventory' might be defined in retail terms as 'shrinkage'?
Whatever the story this is a rare survivor from an outstanding vessel and is the first item we have been able to acquire from HMS Windsor in the quarter of a century we have been trading and it remains in excellent original condition. Small but beautifully formed, it is definitely a one off that we are most unlikely ever to be able to repeat. It could make the ideal Christmas present for the naval collector in your life.
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£175.00
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Greek Navy 'Hunt Class'Destroyer 'Miaoulis' Badge - Another unusual Naval badge that formed part of a small collection we have purchased, that we understand were displayed in a now defunct service club. 'Miaoulis' (in Greek: Μιαούλης) was a Type III Hunt-class destroyer that was built in 1942 for the British Royal Navy and was to be designated 'HMS Modbury' but was never commissioned. Prior to her completion, she was transferred to the Royal Hellenic Navy and commissioned on 25 November 1942 as 'Miaoulis' in order to relieve heavy losses of ships sustained by the Royal Hellenic Navy during the German invasion of 1941. 'Miaoulis', with pennant number L91, served in the Mediterranean Theatre throughout the Second World War. On 10 October 1943, during the Dodecanese Campaign, she saved the crew of the British destroyer HMS Panther and later served during the Greek Civil War. She was finally returned to the Royal Navy in 1959 and broken up for scrap in 1960.
This small unmounted badge is carved from wood with a scrolled rope border, picked put in gold with a blue insert to the shield that is superimposed with a silver cross, in the same design and colours of the Greek Navy jack or ensign. This is surmounted by an 'M', we assume representing the ships name 'Miaoulis'. We believe the vessel was named after Andreas Vokos, who was better known by his nickname "Miaoulis" (Greek: Ανδρέας Βώκος Μιαούλης 1765 – 24 June 1835), who was a Greek revolutionary, admiral, and politician who commanded Greek naval forces during the Greek War of Independence. A small and modest badge but one with a most unusual history. We can only assume it was removed from the ship[p when she was broken up for scrap here in the UK in 1960. Measures 6.5" x6.25" (17 cm x 16 cm) Good general condition, with some age-related wear.
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£10.00
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HMS Minotaur Vice Admiral's Pinnace Badge from a 'Dunkirk Little Ship' - HMS Minotaur was a 14,600-ton armoured cruiser, built in Devonport Dockyard and launched in 1906. On Completion she joined the Royal Navy's 5th Cruiser Squadron in May 1908 but transferred in April the following year to the 1st cruiser Squadron, serving on the China Station until 1914. After the outbreak of World War One, HMS Minotaur escorted Australian troop ships during November 1914 serving at the Cape of Good Hope, as flagship under the command of Vice Admiral Herbert King-Hall. In December she was ordered home and on arrival, Minotaur became flagship of the 7th Cruiser Squadron, under the command of Rear Admiral Arthur Waymouth. In 1916 she then became flagship to the 2nd Cruiser squadron and took part in the Battle of Jutland; she survived the war but was then placed on reserve and was sold for scrap in 1920.
Our plaque features a solid brass (or bronze) Vice Admirals ensign, applied to a later oak shield, with lettering below naming it to HMS Minotaur and dated 1912-1916. This Vice Admiral's badges would originally have been mounted on the bow of the ships Admiral's Pinnace and another would have been fitted on the oposite side. See the attached imaged of a similar set up on HMS Nelson's Admirals Pinnace. The story does not end in 1920 as Minotaur's Pinnace survived and in 1929, she was located at Chatham Dockyard and purchased by the Sea Scouts association. Restored over 2 years she served with the Scouts until WWII, when she was again requisitioned for military service. In May 1940 'Minotaur' took part in the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force (B. E. F) from the Dunkirk beaches, as part of 'Operation Dynamo' and thus became one of the "Dunkirk Little Ships". She survived WWII and was returned to the Scouts in 1945 but was sold by them in 1948 to a private owner and was based at Heybridge Basin, near Maldon, Essex. Her story thereafter is a little hazy but in 1978, the 'Little Ship' was hauled out of the water for repair, which unfortunately led to breaking her 'back' and her keel was fractured. It was decided the historic vessel was beyond economic repair and she was burnt.
It can be seen our plaque is of great historic interest with a story that extends through service in WWI, to a significant contribution as a Dunkirk Little Ship in WWII and direct associations with the Sea Scout movement. It is unclear when the plaque was removed from the pinnace but pictures of her in WWII (see final image attached) do not show it in situ so is likely to have been removed when Minotaur ceased to be a flagship or possibly when she was broken up. The shield measures 12" x 8" (31 cm x 20 cm) and the flying ensign is finished in its original paint, with sections of the brass showing through. The oak shield remains sound, with some age wear to the varnish. This represents a one of opportunity to purchase and own a unique piece of Royal Naval /Scouting history with 'Operation Dynamo' associations thrown in for good measure!
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£265.00
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HMS Oakham Castle Ship's Nameboard - We offer for sale a very fine original nameboard from HMS Oakham Castle, a 'Castle' class corvette from WWII. Launched on 20th July 1944, she carried pennant number K530 and was 225 ft long (69 m) with a displacement of 1,100 tons. On entering service she operated on anti U boat convoy escort duties in the North Atlantic. Post-war 'Oakham Castle' joined the 2nd Training Squadron, based at Portland, but was transferred to the Air Ministry in 1958 and converted into a weather ship and renamed 'Weather Reporter'. She served in the Atlantic, to collect weather forecast information and to provide a navigation beacon service for RAF aircraft. She was finally retired and then subsequently scrapped in 1977.
Fortunately both the 'Oakham Castle' nameboards were acquired by Royal Navy collector extraordinaire Tom Ferrers-Walker; one subsequently found its way into the Oakham County Museum, appropriately located in Oakham, the county town of Rutland, and also the home of the ship's namesake castle. The other has been in my personal collection for many years; the full story is told on our website home page so does not need to be repeated here.
Suffice to say, this is a one off opportunity to acquire a very fine historic item relating to a wartime vessel which has the rare, if not unique, distinction of serving with both the Royal Navy and the Air Ministry! It is of a substantial size, measuring 93" (236 cm) in length and 9.75" (25 cm) deep. The board itself is made from hardwood - the front is now waxed and polished, whilst the rear remains exactly as it was when it came out of service. It is is fitted with its original suspension brackets. The substantial polished brass letters stand out in relief with red painted edges.
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£700.00
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Vintage Department of Trade Standard Lifejacket - An original Department of Transport issue ships life vest stamped 'Standard', 'Front' and for 'Persons of 32 kilos or more' and the same message on the reverse indicating 70 Lbs. It is also stamped 'FOSCO' who we assume was the manufacturer. It appears to be kapok filled and the outer is finished in a dayglo orange cloth with reflective strips. It carries a DT acceptance stamp for September 1982 but despite being nearly 39 years old it is in very good issued condition. It comes complete with various straps and a Mk II Perry emergency whistle which is attached to a lanyard, for attracting attention at night and all original securing straps.
Our research indicates The British Board of Trade was merged with the Ministry of Technology in 1970 to form the Department of Trade. This item is sold as a collectable only and would add an authentic touch to a nautical themed room and would of course be ideal if you should be attending a 'Titanic' or 'What you were wearing when the ship went down' themed party! The final picture attached shows our Boss Mr Oldnautibit's himself wearing a similar lifejacket, borrowed from our stock inventory at just such a party - in those long lost pre Covid times when we could still attend such events! We have also supplied examples to the BBC costume department for that popular long running series set in Poplar. Sadly our supplier has now exhausted his stock when we purchased the last remaining 4 of these vests and when they are sold that will be the end of the line, so grab an example whilst you can! The jacket weighs in at over 2 kilos unpacked so please check delivery charges before ordering. It measures 34" x 20" (86 cm x 51 cm).
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£68.00
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Original Library Key from 'RMS Pendennis Castle' - One of the most famous passenger vessels of the Union Castle Line, she was built by Harland and Wolff as a replacement for the ageing "Arundel Castle". The ship's keel was laid on 8 November 1955 but the following year Union-Castle merged with Clan Line Steamers Ltd. to form British & Commonwealth Shipping Company. The new management decided to enlarge Pendennis Castle whilst under construction and her length was increased by 18ft. "Pendennis Castle" was launched on 24 December 1957.
"Pendennis Castle", named after the castle of the same name looking over Falmouth bay, served 1959-1976 on a regular route between Southampton to Las Palmas, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London and Durban on what was called "the Cape Mail service". On 23 April 1976 "Pendennis Castle" sailed from Southampton on her final voyage to South Africa. On arrival back in her home port on 14 June 1976 she was withdrawn from service and sold to the Panama registered Ocean Queen Navigation Company and was renamed "Ocean Queen" with the intention to operate her as a cruise ship but this never happened. She was re named Sinbad, then Sinbad I, but she never returned to commercial service and was broken up in Taiwan in 1980.
On offer is an original key with a "Union -Castle" Line paper label attached marked "Pendennis Castle" with information on the reverse side confirming the bookcase to which is related in the ships Tourist Library. We now have just 5 sets available, all with a Union Castle label attached, which show some ageing. Photographs of the actual keys still available can be supplied on request. The keys about 2.25" long (6 cm) and show a little rust as you would expect.
These keys would provide a unique addition to an "RMS Pendennis Castle"or "Union-Castle Line" collection. These are priced at £6.00 individually or we can offer at £5.00 each for a multiple purchase
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£6.00
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Fine 8 Spoke Ships Wheel - An original, decorative and very impressive example that makes a real statement. Sadly the history of the vessel it served on is now lost but she must have been quite a size. This wheel has a wooden hub that is indicative of an early example and we would estimate it dates from the late 19th century. We can't be entirely sure but the wood used on the barrel could well be lignum vitae, timber that is virtually unique in delivering an extraordinary combination of strength, toughness, and density. The wheel carries riveted brass banding front and back with the font polished to a high shine. The barrel also has brass bands fitted front and rear.
Condition is really excellent and the joints all remain firm and no damage or rot to the timber. A nice original touch is two areas of wear to the rim where the wheel has been roped in position to lock the rudder whilst on passage or at anchor. We have simply hand waxed the timber since it came in and is now in fine display condition. It would certainly make a real statement in a nautically themed room or in a pub or seafood restaurant where a modern replica from 'Nauticalia' would simply not cut the mustard! This wheel is an impressive size at 53" diameter or 135 cm diameter and is extremely heavy so we would prefer collection only for this one but depending on your location we might be able to arrange personal delivery by negotiation but it is really too valuable in risking a courier -even if we could persuade on to collect it!
As with all our stock if you have possible interest just drop us a mail requesting a range of more detailed pictures.
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£525.00
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Original Library Key from 'RMS Pendennis Castle' - One of the most famous passenger vessels of the Union Castle Line, she was built by Harland and Wolff as a replacement for the ageing "Arundel Castle". The ship's keel was laid on 8 November 1955 but the following year Union-Castle merged with Clan Line Steamers Ltd. to form British & Commonwealth Shipping Company. The new management decided to enlarge Pendennis Castle whilst under construction and her length was increased by 18ft. "Pendennis Castle" was launched on 24 December 1957.
"Pendennis Castle", named after the castle of the same name looking over Falmouth bay, served 1959-1976 on a regular route between Southampton to Las Palmas, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London and Durban on what was called "the Cape Mail service". On 23 April 1976 "Pendennis Castle" sailed from Southampton on her final voyage to South Africa. On arrival back in her home port on 14 June 1976 she was withdrawn from service and sold to the Panama registered Ocean Queen Navigation Company and was renamed "Ocean Queen" with the intention to operate her as a cruise ship but this never happened. She was re named Sinbad, then Sinbad I, but she never returned to commercial service and was broken up in Taiwan in 1980.
On offer is an original key with a "Union -Castle" Line paper label attached marked "Pendennis Castle" in pencil, with information confirming the bookcase to which is related in the ships Tourist Library. We had a total of 8 sets available but now we have just two now remaining, both with a Union Castle label attached, which show some ageing. The keys about 2.25" long (6 cm) and show a little rust as you would expect. One has two keys attached and the other a single key. Grab them whilst you can as when they are gone they are gone!
These keys would provide a unique addition to an "RMS Pendennis Castle"or a "Union-Castle Line" collection or as a souvenir to passengers or crew who sailed on her. The key and label illustrated here is the one you will receive.
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£6.00
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'Britannia' Yacht Pennant - A very fine and imposing example mounted on an aluminium mast. The yellow Britannia image is sewn onto the navy blue cotton background and not simply printed as on many examples we see. Sadly we have been unable to identify the club to which it was associated and the closest we can find is the British Kiel Yacht Club although their design is not the same as ours. If any visitors can help us with an identification please get in touch and we can add it to our description. The pennant measures 18" x 11" and the flag staff is 48 1/2" long (124 cm) so would have been used on something rather lager than a Mirror dinghy! It would sit very proudly atop the mast of the classic 1930's ocean-racing yacht Bloodhound, which was owned by Her Majesty The Queen and Prince Philip in the 1960s and aboard which Prince Charles and Princess Anne learned to sail and is operated today by The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust.
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£28.00
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Ship's Mast with Stainless Steel Fitting Kit and Accessories - Here we have a unique opportunity to appeal to architects, interior designers, or those contemplating their own "Grand Design" project! We have been fortunate in purchasing a strictly limited quantity of ship's masts that were intended for use in an overseas retail interior design scheme that reflected the nautical look. To this end, the company who won the contract to make these items was a genuine ship's mast manufacturer - the laminated design used is identical to that employed on traditional sailing ship's masts. The round timber section is made from best quality Redwood and is laminated from 8 sections with a hollow interior. The base plate is made from 8mm stainless steel and is complemented by two stainless facia panels made from polished stainless steel to again reflect the nautical theme. When used in store, a Redwood cross beam (100mm x 45mm) was mounted on the stainless steel 16 gauge wall bracket (which is included with this set), which in turn was fitted through the slot cut in the top section of the mast and was then locked in position by a beautifully engineered stainless wedge. We do not have any cross beams remaining, but these are an off-the-shelf item although it is likely the new owners of these masts may wish to adapt them to their own use and spaces.
Whilst these were manufactured back in the late 1990's, they are brand new and have never been used and became surplus when the design scheme was replaced. We have now sold the final stock of the mint and boxed masts but we still currently have x17 unboxed examples where aspects of the timber have minor storage issues resulting in the odd scratch to the mast's finish, so we are describing these as "seconds" but this would be very easy to tidy up where required. To reflect the condition we have reduced the list price to just £50.00 a set to include the stainless steeel fitting kits. We would imagine these would sit equally well in a marine themed environment, a wine bar, restaurant, club house, or in a loft space. The applications are as wide as your imagination! We do not exaggerate to say the original purchase price of a single set back in the late 1990's was close to £1,000 a time so our current price represents a 95% discount! Quite clearly this is a one off opportunity and when these last few sets are gone they are gone.
Each mast stands 2030mm (80") to the base of the slot and the total height including the base to the top of the mast is 2500mm (98.5"). In view of their size, these are offered at an ex-warehouse price with the buyer being responsible for collection and delivery. Clearly final use is up to the end user, but these kits were designed for interior use and we believe this would remain the most appropriate application for them.
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£50.00
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Ship's Bell named to T.S.M/Y Corgi - A nice original example finished in chrome on brass with clapper, bell rope and bulkhead mount. We understand the engraving indicates the vessel "Corgi" was a Twin Screw motor yacht although we don't have any information on her. The bell has minor wear to the chrome plate but it is a good honest example that would serve equally well ashore as it has done afloat. It would also suit a palace setting if any Royal enthusiasts should be reading this listing! Measures 6" high (without mount) and 7" across the mouth (16 cm x 18 cm)
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£75.00
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Pitch Pine Folding Yacht Table - Like the mahogany ships table we have also listed for sale today we have owned and used this table ourselves for close on 30 years but a new design scheme forces us to reluctantly offer for rehome. Whilst its origins are unknown it was purchased by us in the port town of Falmouth, Cornwall back in c.1990. It probably originally served on a yacht or launch where space below decks was at a premium. Our picture shows the top in the extended position and this gives a surface area of 32" x23.5" (82 cm x 60 cm); when the top leaves are closed the top dimensions reduce to a modest 32" x 11.75" (82 cm x 30 cm). It stands 24.75" high (60 cm) in the opened position.
Manufactured from a varnished pitch pine in sound condition but with marks and scuffs commensurate with use and the nautical origins are endorsed by six solid brass hinges. Sometimes on these table the legs also fold in to aid storage when not in use; this clearly was the case with this one but the legs were in the locked position when we purchased and we have left it as such although the original hinge mechanism is still in place but now non-functioning. We have found it a fine and practical piece of nautical furniture to own and whilst for sale a collectable we see no reason, if you should require a table for use on your classic boat, why it should not again go back to sea.
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Island of Sark Nautical Pennant - This is an original item made from cotton overlaid with a red motif showing 2 separate rampant lions stitched to the top left corner. It has its original line and toggle attachment.
Whilst its origins were unknown when purchased we have been advised this represents the personal standard of Dame Sibyl Hathaway who was Seigneur of the Channel Island of Sark during the Second World War Occupation. She gave permission for the island to use it when the Island Games were started and it has been the island flag ever since.
It features a white background with the red Cross of St George, which is a common theme through the Channel Islands flags. The red canton in the upper left corner contains two yellow lions. This is similar to the arms of Normandy, which the Channel Islands were part of until 1204.
The pennant measures 30"x 8" (33 cm x 21- cm) and is in good flown condition.
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HMS Worcester Transom Board Seat Back - A unique item of treen with interesting provenance. Built as a first rate screw ship in 1860 called "Frederick William", she was subsequently renamed "Worcester" and became a training ship for merchant navy cadets and was moored on the Thames at Greenhithe. She foundered on her moorings 30.08.48 with the hulk being raised for breakup in 1953. This seat back, which we believe to be from one of the ship's boats (possibly the Admiral's barge), was recovered from the Thames foreshore shortly after the sinking 62 years ago. Made from polished hardwood with marquetry inserts to centre. Measures 50" x 19" (127 cm x 48 cm)
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Board of Trade Life Jacket - An original ships life vest stamped 'Standard', 'Front' and for 'Persons of 70 Lb. or More.' It appears to be kapok lined and the outer is finished in a dayglo orange material, which has some stains and minor paint splashes commensurate with age, but is generally in very good condition. It comes complete with various straps and a Mk II Perry emergency whistle which is attached to a lanyard, for attracting attention at night. This item is sold as a collectable only and would add an authentic touch to a nautical themed room and would of course be ideal if you should be attending a 'Titanic' or 'What you were wearing when the ship went down' themed party! The jacket is surprisingly not dated but the British Board of Trade was merged with the Ministry of Technology in 1970 to form the Department of Trade and Industry so we estimate this probably dates from the 1960's. The jacket weighs in at over 2 kilos unpacked so please check delivery charges before ordering. It measures 34" x 20" (86 cm x 51 cm).
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Ex Trawler 5 Spoke Brass Ships Wheel - This one is an absolute beauty! It was recovered from a redundant trawler when she was broken up in Devon, South West England in the late 20th century. Sadly the name of the vessel was not recorded so we know nothing of her history but she certainly had a very fine helm, typical of the type used on a working boat.
When it came in it was nearly black but with some careful polishing it now glows, with a great patina that has an almost orange tint and could actually be bronze rather than brass, but we will leave that for the experts to decide. It is also heavy weighing in at 6 kilos, so please check delivery costs with us before ordering. It would look stunning in an appropriate nautical collection or as a focal point in a marine themed room. And whilst like all our stock it is for sale as a collectable we see no reason why it could not go back to sea, were you to own the appropriate classic little ship! The design is typical of wheels used on working boots and made without separate spokes but instead features a steering wheel rim and a 'lazy handle' to enable the helmsman to turn the wheel quickly when manoeuvring and without fear of the wheel spinning and the spokes catching and causing injury.
This wheel measures a modest 15.75" diameter (40 cm) so it is a very useful size for display and it will not dominate its surroundings and so much nicer than the mass of modern replica wheels now flooding the market. This one has been there and earned a hard living over the years but it is not finished yet!
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Vintage Mahogany Folding Yacht Table - We have owned and used this little table ourselves for close on 20 years but a new design scheme forces us to reluctantly offer for rehomeing. Whilst its origins are unknown it probably originally served on a yacht or launch where space below decks was at a premium. Our picture shows the top in the extended position and this gives a surface area of 29" x22.75" (74 cm x 58 cm); when the top leaves are closed the top dimensions reduce to a modest 29" x 11.5" (74 cm x 29 cm).In the folded position the top also has lips on either side to prevent items stored on top falling off during passage. It stands 25" high (64 cm) in the opened position.
Finished in a lightly waxed mahogany, the nautical origins are maintained by solid brass butterfly hinges and below the table is a useful storage compartment that would have been entirely practical at sea, when space is always at a premium. The base of the legs have holes drilled where the table would originally have been bolted to the saloon floor. Sometimes on these table the legs also fold in to aid storage when not in use; this is not the case with this one and the legs are fixed in position, which makes it eminently suitable for continued use ashore. We have found it a fine and practical piece of nautical furniture to own and whilst for sale a collectable we see no reason, if you should require a table for use on your classic boat, why it should not again go back to sea.
Please also check out the pitch pine ships table we are also listing today.
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Original Cunard/White Star Line steamer Chair - Now these do not turn up very often! On offer is a genuine 'Cunard' embossed vintage steamer chair which we believed dates from the 1930's. The Cunard Line, one of the most famous names in shipping was established 1839 Samuel Cunard, a Halifax shipowner. For most of the next 30 years, Cunard held the Blue Riband for the fastest Atlantic voyage. By the late 1920s Cunard faced new competition from the Germans, Italians and French so in 1934 the British Government offered Cunard loans to finish Queen Mary and to build a second ship, Queen Elizabeth, on the condition that Cunard merged with the then ailing White Star line to form Cunard-White Star Ltd. The Cunard fleet has welcomed the most illustrious members of society on board, and has a guest book which includes everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Liz Taylor and we can only speculate who may have enjoyed this chair on the sundeck of those Queens of the seas although sadly the provenance of this chair has been lost down the years.
Our steamer in very original condition having been taken back to its original natural wood finish although it has received some light restoration to restore it to display condition. As well as the all-important Cunard branding on the seat back it also carries a brass plaque which would originally have held a name card confirming the passengers entitlement to enjoy it- so no need for any towels to reserve this sun bed from fellow passengers! We believe it is made from oak and is still sound but after all these years it is for sale, like all our stock, as an historical collectable rather than to be used for its intended purpose. A similar but slightly earlier chair, one of the only ones recover from the Titanic disaster, was sold at auction recently for £85,000! The last 'Cunard' branded chair we saw sold on UK e Bay back in 2012 made £200. Our Cunard/White Star Line example is rather more modestly priced so grab yourself a bargain whilst you can!
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White Star Line RMS Titanic & Olympic Regent Plate Dish - Manufactured by top London maker Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company of 112, Regent Street and fully stamped to base which confirms its origins. In addition to the quality makers name it is marked 'Regent Ware' and a further stamp reading 'Rd 451002', which stands for the design registration number which with further research indicates it dates from 1904/5. Inside the bowl is the characteristic swallow tail house flag of the White Star Line. Excitingly we found online an original 'Goldsmiths' advertisement that confirms as well as holding a Royal Warrant 'The Companies Regent Plate, as supplied to SS Olympic and Titanic and is the finest substitute in the World for solid silver.' We understand this actual 'Art Nouveau' design was specifically selected by the WSL for use aboard her Olympic Class liners of the period and examples exist featuring the same pattern recovered from the wreck of the Titanic. The design continued in service exclusively on the Olympic Class vessels but in later years it was extended to other ships in the fleet. When WSL and Cunard amalgamated in 1934 many items were re branded 'Cunard White Star' in 1936 and reissued for further service. This did not happen to our dish so seeing the design registration date it is quite possible this served on the Olympic or Britannic.
The dish measures 5.25" diameter (13 cm) and stands 1 1/2" from base to rim (4 cm). The plating is in remarkably good condition with the exception being the inside base which shows wear commensurate with long service. We do not know the intended use but believe this bowl may have been intended for sugar which would explain the scratching to the pate. Another surmise is the design could have been used as a finger bowl but we prefer the first theory. The WSL house flag is in fine condition as are all the manufactures details on the base. Sadly we have no provenance with it other than it turned up at a local antiques fair here in Somerset, South West England. It has almost clearly served afloat and undoubtedly has a story to tell. A fine example of a genuine White Star Line bowl that would have served in the restaurants and of the unique design used aboard the Olympic Class liners including the RMS Titanic and her sister ships RMS Olympic and Britannic.
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8 Spoke Ships Wheel - This is a very sound original example. We believe it to be made from oak and is very solid. It is fitted with a chrome 'lazy handle' so we guess is it may have came from a working boat. The central boss is solid brass (or might even be bronze) and is stamped 15 and on opposite side 1064. A nice touch is the brass acorn on the 12 o'clock spoke used by the helmsman as a guide for straight ahead. This wheel has riveted brass banding front and back although as normal on a working wheel the brass has only been polished on the visible side. The diameter from spoke end to spoke end is 27" (69 cm) so an excellent wall display size. Like all the items offered this is for sale a collectable and we can't guarantee it for its original purpose although it certainly looks strong enough to go back to sea, subject to the necessary checks. The wheel does not carry any makers marks so we have no idea of its origins but estimate it probably dates from the middle of the 20th century. For anyone who has seen the rather nasty replica wheels now flooding the market we can assure you this beauty is in a different league!
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HMS Berwick Screen Badge - Made of cast alloy and features a fine crest in traditional Chatham pattern. Nine Royal Navy ships have carried the name HMS Berwick. The first from 1679 and the most recent the frigate launched in 1959 and sunk in the North Atlantic as a target in 1986. Our badge is cast in relief and finely painted. Berwick is also cast into the reverse of the badge. Measures an impressive 20.5" (52 cm) high.
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HMS Boadicea Boat Badge - Made from cast alloy with image cast in relief and painted. Five Royal Naval vessels have been named Boadicea dating back to 1875 and the most recent a destroyer launched in 1930 and sunk by air attack off Portland, Dorset on 13th June, 1944. Our badge measures an impressive 15" high (38 cm) and the ship's name is cast into the reverse.
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Ship's Triton Portable Foghorn - in elm, brass & leather. Manufactured by Alldays & Onion, Birmingham c. 1880. This item to be featured on a forthcoming edition of Bargain Hunt!
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6 Spoke Launch Wheel - On offer is modest 14.25" diameter (36 cm) small ships wheel manufactured from brass with teak spokes. We have here an original Simpson Laurence marine equipment catalogue dating from October 1965 and have found a near identical example listed that was priced at seven pounds and ten shillings which was a significant price 51 years ago!
Our wheel does not have any makers marks so we do not know its origins but would estimate it dates to a similar period or perhaps a little earlier. The metal work has been lightly polished and glows almost like bronze in the late October sunlight. The teak spokes show signs of wear commensurate with age and use; each is secured by a large brass head locking screw. Seeing the small size this would make a perfect display item in a nautically themed room or if you have a suitable classic launch we see no reason why it could not be used as originally intended. A modest yet decorative wheel on offer at a keener price than in 1965, having taken inflation into account!
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Heavy Duty Rope Ladder - Whilst we have no history with this one looking at the manufacturing quality we believe it to be ex marine issue and possibly Royal Navy. Whilst we say 'issued' the ladder is so good we wonder if it actually ever left the stores? The coir rope looks to be in really good condition and is made up of 20 hardwood steps; we believe the wood to be ash but stand to be corrected. The 20 rungs are mounted with each rung 1 foot apart (30 cm) and the extended length of the ladder is 21 feet (6.4 meters).It is 12" wide (30 cm)and at the top end it has two metal fittings designed to bolt the ladder on to a suitable secure attachment point. It is very decorative item and is a real designers piece or perfect for theatrical or film use. This item, like all stock offered on our site, is sold for collectable purposes only. It could well be it is strong enough to be used for its original intended purpose but we can't guarantee this so if this is your intention re strongly recommended you get it checked out by a suitably qualified person first. More detailed pictures can be supplied on request.
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Royal Navy Commissioning Pennant - In the Royal Navy the 'commissioning pennant' (which is also called a commissioning pendant) is exactly what it says, and indicates no more nor less than the ship flying it is a warship 'in commission' and not one which is 'in reserve'. It also has the extra benefit of telling an interested observer that the ship flying it is a "private ship" and does not have a Commodore or Admiral on board. This example we were advised came from the 'O' class submarine HMS Osiris pennant number S18, which was commissioned in 1962 and sold to Canada in 1992. It is in excellent issued condition and marked beside the wooden toggle 5419971 and on reverse 3 YD BK. Extended it measures 108" (274 cm) which we feel may be a trifle long for submarine use.
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Red Ensign and Flagstaff - A genuine ship's ensign in good flown condition but with some minor staining. This comes complete with an original varnished hardwood flagstaff fitted with a securing cleat. This would make an impressive display item in a nautical themed room but likewise is ready to go back to sea! The staff measures 42" (107 cm) whilst the ensign is 36"x 18" (91 cm x 46 cm)
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Ships 'In/Out' Cabin Sign Board - Tom Ferrers–Walker served in the Royal Navy in WWII and when he left the service he decided to collect a range of Royal Navy artefacts and he dedicated the reminder of his life in assembling one of the most comprehensive private collections in the UK. He put in a tremendous amount of hard work (and cash! into the collection and was able to purchase items that included ships helms, tread plates and screen badges, tompions, plaques and much else besides. These were initially acquired directly by Mr Ferrers-Walker when the ships were sold out of service and broken up in the period after World War 11 but he continued his hobby right up until the 1990's when he sourced items from public auctions and private collectors. This Officers In/Out sign board is one of the more modest items from the collection but interesting none the less. Sadly we don't know what ship it came from but no doubt was originally mounted on an Officers cabin door and it is nice to speculate perhaps that of the Captain? It has clearly been made up on board by the ships carpenter and is made from mahogany with a sliding panel to indicate if the officer is 'In' or 'Out'.This would serve equally well today either ashore or afloat, perhaps on the door of the smallest room in the house? Measures 8.5" x 5.5" (22 cm x 14 cm)
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Yacht or Launch Boarding Ladder - Probably made by Davy & Company, London. Manufactured from mahogany and finished in varnish with chrome plated brass fittings. Can be stored folded when not in use and by releasing the hook, can be extended to double its length. While for sale as a collector's item, we believe these steps could be used for their intended purpose although we own a similar set of steps which make a very fine book case in a nautically themed cloakroom! Measures 30.6" x 6" (folded) (77 cm x 16 cm) and 54" (137 cm) extended.
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Yacht or Launch Steps by Simpson Lawrence & Co, Ltd. - This is a small set, probably used to assist crew entering or exiting the cockpit area. The entire unit folds flat when not in use. Fitted with a Simpson Lawrence makers brass plaque with other chrome on brass fittings. Some wear to the original varnish but in generally sound condition. We use a similar example as a book case in a nautically themed cloakroom. Measures 16" x 8.25" (41 cm x 21 cm)
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Ship's Deck Filler Cap - No, this is not a giant's bath plug hole! It is, however, a filler cap and mount, made from solid brass with screw fitted removable cover which is attached with a safety chain to avoid loss whilst at sea. This would probably have been flush fitted to the ship's deck to give access to either diesel or water tanks. The item's diameter is 7.5" (19 cm) and is 3.5" (8 cm) deep. Great for a classic boat restoration project or possibly shore based applications!
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