The February 2005 meeting, the workshop  and the private auction has made it a busy year so far.  Lindsay Bramall talked about his special interest - 400 day clocks, and in particular those post World War 2.  These were made in their millions and are readily available for the collector.  Rather than fill your house with lots of these, you can pick on a theme - diamond dials, 4 glass cases, figurine pendulums - or a particular maker - Schatz, Haller etc.  No end to the variety. Some examples of the various types are shown in these pictures.

The workshop covered the use of the graver on the watchmaker's lathe and was conducted by Roger Little, Michael Smith and Doug Minty.  23 members learnt how to look after their grinding and polishing stones, how to sharpen gravers and how to use on the lathe. Each person had the opportunity to turn a piece on their lathes for comment and guidance.

The auction was a resounding success, with members obtaining new clocks, tools and bits to fiddle with.  The selection of books was wide ranging and high quality and many libraries were enhanced.  The families of the members who passed away will appreciate the service the club has provided for them with no hassle to them.  A big effort however goes on behind the scenes in handling, storing, lotting up, transporting and delivering.  Thanks to the committee and many helpers.

Click on the pictures for a larger view
A selection of the clocks with Lindsay Bramall explaining the different post WW2 torsion clock designs.  Greg Kelly in the last picture in this row picks up the raffle prize. 
Plenty of action at the auction with something there for everyone.  John Hubby, long time Chapter 72 member was visiting from the USA with his wife.  He is talking to Doug Minty.  Peter Ekins did a marvelous job in managing the hall and the lots.  I'm sure he counted them many times to ensure they matched the lists.

Limiting the auction to 700 lots and with a 9am start made a huge impact on the finishing time - around 4pm.  Then the backroom boys and girls - Joan, Steve and Noel produced the paperwork swiftly and the handout of the lots proceeded well.

 
   
Lesson detail from the graver workshop attended by 23 members