Pocket Watch
1992/23/1
1750-1800 / Glass / Jewellery / Metal / Metalwork / Ministers, Preachers & Associates
Metal, enamel, glass
c.1740-80
This splendid pocket watch belonged to Thomas Coke (1747-1814). Coke was close to John Wesley and became one of the first Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America, in a controversial move. Coke later took an increasing interest in overseas mission. He died at sea on his way to fulfil his dream of a mission to India in 1814.
The watch is very elaborately moulded and chased, in the manner of the mid 1700s. Probably, it was made from then fashionable 'Pinchbeck'. This metal alloy looks very much like gold, but is lighter and cheaper. The watch may have been an inherited piece, or possibly a wedding present.
c.1740-80
This splendid pocket watch belonged to Thomas Coke (1747-1814). Coke was close to John Wesley and became one of the first Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America, in a controversial move. Coke later took an increasing interest in overseas mission. He died at sea on his way to fulfil his dream of a mission to India in 1814.
The watch is very elaborately moulded and chased, in the manner of the mid 1700s. Probably, it was made from then fashionable 'Pinchbeck'. This metal alloy looks very much like gold, but is lighter and cheaper. The watch may have been an inherited piece, or possibly a wedding present.
