Credit: © The Royal Society
Image number: RS.8496
Looking for a special gift? Buy a print of this image.
Chronometers
Date
1771
Creator
John Arnold (1736 - 1799, British) , Horologist
Object type
Archive reference number
Material
Subject
Content object
Description
Two mahogany box chronometers. One [left as viewed] with its winding key, each with an enamel clock faice, Roman numerals, spade hands and subsidiary dial. Each framed by a brass oval.
One [left] bears the inscription 'Royal Society 36' on its brass frame, the other [right] 'Royal Society 37'; and both inscribed 'ARNOLD' on their main face.
Number 36 carries a label with a handwritten inscription: 'In removing the chronometer from the box it should be depressed at XII in order that the long lever on balance cork may clear the wood work. Replace in same manner.' Number 36 also inscribed 'John Arnold London invt. et fecit no.3' on the back plate.
John Arnold (1735/6-1799) watch and chronometer maker was not a Fellow of the Royal Society.
One [left] bears the inscription 'Royal Society 36' on its brass frame, the other [right] 'Royal Society 37'; and both inscribed 'ARNOLD' on their main face.
Number 36 carries a label with a handwritten inscription: 'In removing the chronometer from the box it should be depressed at XII in order that the long lever on balance cork may clear the wood work. Replace in same manner.' Number 36 also inscribed 'John Arnold London invt. et fecit no.3' on the back plate.
John Arnold (1735/6-1799) watch and chronometer maker was not a Fellow of the Royal Society.
Object history
These two mahogany box chronometers were made by John Arnold for Captain James Cook's second voyage in 1772. Arnold was a watch and clock maker keen to improve marine timekeepers. Although these particular instruments did not perform well at sea, his later chronometers included newly designed components and were used by the British Admiralty and the East India Company.
Associated place