Circa 1875, gilt spelter and slate, seated figure of a soldier likely cast from a 19th century French or English model, resting atop a round enamel and gilt dial signed "William Moir / New York," the works and pendulum both numbered 1965, the whole upon slate terrace with heraldic figural mounts and paw feet.

24 1/2 x 22 x 8 in.

Private Collection, Martinsville, Virginia

Born 1826 in Aberdeen, Scotland, William Moir was a well-known jeweler and watchmaker in New York City. He was an apprentice to Alexander Martin in New York City around 1840, and from 1842-1844 worked as a watchmaker in New York City and as a journeyman in the shop of jeweler Emmet T. Pell at 315 Hudson Street.
William Moir was partner with John Moir in New York City (1844-1869) after buying Pell's shop at his retirement. In 1870, William Moir commissioned a five-story, cast-iron-clad structure (Theodore A. Tribit, architect) for his own business at 711 (originally 373) Sixth Avenue, at the southwest corner of West 23rd Street. Moir’s business in 1872 included a fine selection of French clocks and bronzes, specially imported by him, and a yet larger stock of watches, native and foreign, jewelry, diamonds, and silver wares.

Scattered loss to gilt; some chips to slate; lacking bell and key. Please see Terms and Conditions of Sale: Clocks and Watches.