MASSIVE THREE-DAY SALE SLATED FOR JULY 31-AUG. 2 BY PHILIP WEISS AUCTIONS WILL FEATURE TOY TRAINS, OCEAN LINER AND RAILROAD ITEMS, MILITARIA, MORE

Contact: Philip Weiss
(516) 594-0731

MASSIVE THREE-DAY SALE SLATED FOR JULY 31-AUG. 2 BY PHILIP WEISS AUCTIONS WILL FEATURE TOY TRAINS, OCEAN LINER AND RAILROAD ITEMS, MILITARIA, MORE

Then, in September, a rare and genuine 5-pound pearl will be offered (time and date to be announced).

(OCEANSIDE, N.Y.) - Around 1,200 lots in a wide array of categories – to include toy trains, transportation, advertising, militaria, ocean liner, World's Fair, railroadiana, automotive, Hollywood memorabilia, historical items and more – will be sold at a three-day event slated for July 31-Aug. 2 by Philip Weiss Auctions, in the firm's spacious gallery facility located at #1 Neil Court in Oceanside, N.Y.

“We had several well-attended and successful sales in the first half of 2009, and now we'll continue in the July 31-Aug. 2 auction with some of the best collections we've ever offered,” said Philip Weiss. Previews will be held on Wednesday, July 29, from noon to 5 p.m., and on Thursday and Friday, July 30-31, from noon to 8 p.m. each day. Online bidding will be facilitated by Proxibid.com.

The Friday, July 31 session (starting at 4 p.m.), will be dedicated to toy trains -- about 450 lots, 95 percent of them mint in the box. Featured will be an important attic find of 1940s-'60s Lionel trains (most with original boxes and many outfit boxes), group lots of 1970s-'80s mint-in-the-box Lionel and other makers' trains and accessories, modern Lionel trains, Rail King, MTH, K-Line, Weaver and more.

The Saturday, Aug. 1 session (with a 10 a.m. start time) will feature transportation items, advertising memorabilia and militaria, plus around 150 lots from the estate of Ken Schultz, a dedicated collector of ocean liner, World's Fair and Hollywood collectibles. Ocean liner china and silver from other collections will be included as well. Also to be sold will be about 100 antique advertising signs.

The Aug. 1 session will continue with a nice selection of railroading items and automotive material, to include a run of vintage Pennsylvania Railroad calendars, lanterns, an original lamp from Grand Central Station in New York, stock certificates, 100+ lots of vintage advertising agricultural signs, vintage soap advertising and other related material. Additional items are being regularly added.

The Sunday, Aug. 2 session (also with a 10 a.m. start time) will feature 500 lots, to include Hollywood memorabilia such as celebrity-worn items, movie props and posters, autographed photos, a collection of Clarence Bull photos, and photos from the LOOK Magazine archives. Historical items will include the lock box belonging to Maj. Gustavus S. Dana (an organizer of Lincoln's Honor Guard).

Also to cross the block Aug. 2: a nice selection of authenticated Civil War-era carte-de-visites (early photographic images), and an important archive of material pertaining to Charles J. Guiteau, the assassin of President James A. Garfield in 1881 (to include two actual pieces of the rope used to hang Guiteau, a cabinet card of Guiteau, letters written to him while he was in prison, an archive of Garfield photos (to include the earliest known daguerreotypes of him), illustrations, a strong box and more. Also to be offered: an original Apollo 10 flag and patch flown to the moon during an historic lunar mission.

Military material to be sold Aug. 2 includes a Thomas Griswold & Co. Confederate officer's cavalry saber, an authentic Civil War bugle, a U.S. percussion musket, and more items a collection that includes all major wars, highlighted by both World Wars, posters from World War I & II, and more. All purchases will be subject to a 13% buyer's premium. Terms are cash, check and all major credit cards.

Sometime in September, on a day and time still to be determined, Philip Weiss Auctions will offer a truly unique object -- a pearl weighing an incredible five pounds and measuring six inches in length. The brain-shaped specimen – a giant non-nacreous natural blister pearl – was found in the waters off the Philippines, in the giant clam Tridacna Gigas. It is one of the largest pearls ever found.

A team of expert gemologists analyzed the pearl, using digital radiography, close magnification and data provided by a hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF) unit. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime look at one of nature's most unique treasures,” said Mitch Jakubovic, a gemologist with EGL USA. “A pearl this size is not only the largest one we've ever seen, it is among the largest pearls ever seen anywhere.”

David Bidwell, a senior appraiser with Universal Gemological Services (EGL USA'a appraisal affiliate), said, “This is clearly one of the most valuable pearls of its kind in the world today. I will be very curious to see what it sells for.” The pearl was consigned to Philip Weiss Auctions by its current owner. “To coin a phrase, you might say the pearl world is his oyster,” Bidwell said of the consignor.

Philip Weiss Auctions is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them directly, at (516) 594-0731, or you can e-mail them at phil@prwauctions.com. To learn more about the company and its calendar of upcoming sales, to include the July 31-Aug. 2 auction, log on to www.prwauctions.com. Updates are posted often.


Garfield:
Material pertaining to slain President James A. Garfield, including many rare photos, will be auctioned.



Guiteau:
Actual pieces of rope used to hang Charles Guiteau, President Garfield's assassin, will cross the block.



Pearl:
This astounding 5-pound pearl, found in the waters off the Philippines, will be auctioned in September.



Dana:
Historical items belonging to G. S. Dana, one of the organizers of President Lincoln's Honor Guard.



Rifle:
Vintage 1880s Springfield rifle, in excellent condition.



Sword:
Early U.S. sword, one of many pieces of militaria to be sold.



Life ring:
Genuine life ring from the RMS Queen Elizabeth, from the estate of Ken Schultz.

STUNNING 5-PIECE ROSEWOOD VICTORIAN BEDROOM SUITE, SIGNED MITCHELL & RAMMELSBERG (CIRCA 1860), BRINGS $51,700 AT KATHERINE CREAMER ESTATE SALE

Contact: Dwight Stevens
(662) 369-2200

STUNNING 5-PIECE ROSEWOOD VICTORIAN BEDROOM SUITE, SIGNED MITCHELL & RAMMELSBERG (CIRCA 1860), BRINGS $51,700 AT KATHERINE CREAMER ESTATE SALE

June 13th event was held in Aberdeen, Miss., by Stevens Auction Company; 500 lots change hands.

(ABERDEEN, Miss.) - A stunning 5-piece rosewood Victorian bedroom suite, signed Mitchell & Rammelsberg (circa 1860), soared to $51,700 at the living estate sale of Katherine Creamer, a discerning collector from Mobile, Ala., whose stately mansion was built to contain her vast collections. The sale was held June 13 by Stevens Auction Company at the firm's gallery facility in Aberdeen, Miss.

The bedroom suite was the top achiever of the 500 lots that crossed the block. “I'm surprised it didn't bring more, frankly,” said Dwight Stevens of Stevens Auction Company. “A similar suite that wasn't even as nice sold for over $100,000 some time ago, but that was before the economy took a hit. I guess it was a sign of the times, but the winning bidder – from Buford, Ga. -- got a fabulous bargain.”

The suite included a half tester bed, wardrobe, dresser, wash stand and half commode. It was a spectacular grouping, but Ms. Creamer only bought the finest furnishings and wasn't afraid to spend her money. “She would go to New Orleans to shop, on Royal Street, and if she saw something she liked she bought it, regardless of cost,” Mr. Stevens said. “She was very choosy. Everything had to be the best.”

A crowd of around 300 people packed the Stevens Auction showroom, located at 609 North Meridian Street in Aberdeen, while more than 250 phone and absentee bids were recorded. “We sold for eight solid hours, and the people who were there when the auction started were still there at the end, too,” Mr. Stevens said. “It was an unusual sale, but then, Mrs. Creamer was a remarkable collector.”

Additional highlights from the auction follow. All prices quoted include a 10 percent buyer's premium.

Monumental beds, prevalent at so many Stevens auctions, were offered at this event, too. A rosewood half tester plantation bed by C. Lee, queen size and supreme grade (126 inches tall by 79 inches long, circa 1855), rose to $22,000; and a rosewood cluster column full tester plantation bed with original testers, attributed to Mallard (112 inches tall by 77 inches long, circa 1850) realized $13,200.

A Victorian rosewood sofa by John H. Belter in the Rosalie pattern with grapes, with a matching set of four rosewood Victorian side chairs and a matching arm chair, gaveled for $15,400; and a solid rosewood parlor suite by Alexander Roux (circa 1850), including a sofa (79 inches long), a pair of solid rosewood arm chairs, and a set of four rosewood side chairs, went to a determined bidder for $12,100.

A 19th-century figural bronze work by Emile Picault (Fr., 1833-1915), titled Victoria, 34 inches tall on the original red marble case (Fabrication Francais, Paris), hammered for $2,640; and an oil on canvas portrait of a Southern belle in the original frame, topped out at $2,420. Also, a stately German mahogany grandfather clock with 9-tube Westminster chime, 8 feet tall (circa 1890) reached $4,675.

Mirrors reflected well on the winning bidders who scored them. An Anglo-American giltwood convex looking glass mirror in the Regency style (circa 1800-1825, 45 inches tall) garnered $9,900; an ornate Victorian oval mantle mirror (circa 1850, 82 inches tall by 55 inches wide) climbed to $5,720; and a standing gold leaf Victorian pier mirror (circa 1870, 90 inches tall by 37 inches wide) hit $3,300.

Back to furniture, a rosewood marble-top etagere attributed to Daniel Pabst (circa 1855), with pierce-carved crowns, achieved $13,750; an oversize double-door rosewood rococo linen press with pierce-carved crown, attributed to J.& J.W. Meeks (circa 1850), made $12,100; and a flamed mahogany Federal sideboard with starburst doors, attributed to Anthony Quervelle (circa 1820), realized $11,000.

A set of eight heavy Irish Chippendale dining chairs (circa 1860) brought $11,880; a rosewood Victorian chair by Meeks in the Hawkins pattern made $2,420; a period Empire marble-top center table with carved wood gold leaved swans (circa 1840) fetched $5,280; a rosewood rococo 2-door wardrobe by P. Mallard (circa 1865) earned $4,730; and a rosewood single-door armoire (circa 1860) hit $4,070.

An early mahogany wine cellaret with metal liner and bronze handles (circa 1860) demanded $4,400; a rosewood Empire block-front secretary signed Thomas Brooks (8 feet tall, circa 1850) went for $3,960; a rosewood laminated Victorian sofa by John H. Belter in the Rosalie pattern with grapes coasted to $3,960; and a rosewood marble-top etagere by John H. Belter (circa 1855) sold for $3,190.

Lamps and lighting performed well, too. An American Rococo Revival lacquered brass 8-arm gasolier, attributed to Starr & Fellows and Co. (N.Y.), lit up the room for $8,800; a French Empire crystal chandelier, 4 feet tall, breezed to $3,960; a pair of 19th-century French bronze whale oil lamps with tulip shades reached $1,320; and a blue Meissen figural banquet lamp, still oil, garnered $1,320.

A Victorian Wave Crest porcelain jewelry box with bronze mounting, 7 inches tall, hit $2,420; a rare and unusual Bohemian cranberry decorative carafe with glass stopper (circa 1820) fetched $2,420; a pair of 19th-century Sevres scenic capped urns realized $1,760; a Victorian Wave Crest porcelain collar box with flowers (circa 1880s) sold for $1,210; and a Brilliant Cut Glass powder jar made $660.

A hand-blown cranberry art glass with applied rope handle went for $990; a Victorian cranberry pitcher with applied handle achieved $440; a pair of Old Paris mantle vases topped out at $990; a pair of Old Paris with ships, 14 inches tall, earned $990; a Thomas Webb & Co. art glass pitcher with butterflies, dated 1888, rose to $880; and a pair of Moser-style cranberry mantle vases brought $1,760.

Rounding out the top lots: an oak Victor music machine by Victor Talking Machine Co. (Serial #1816, Type D, circa 1900-1920) played a sweet tune for $4,290; a rosewood Victorian baby’s cradle soared to $2,970; a bronze desk box signed Louis C. Tiffany, Inc., climbed to $1,100; and an Alaskan Polar Bear rug, mounted in 1969 (before the 1972 Endangered Species Act took effect) brought $990.

Stevens Auction Company will conduct on-site auctions on Saturday, July 11, in Oxford, Miss., and Saturday, Aug. 1, in Macon, Miss. Featured will be fine furnishings and antique items from the living estates of two prominent residents, one of them an interior designer. The Aug. 1 sale will be held in a huge antebellum home built in 1844 for Judge Jernigan and later owned by a prominent landowner.

Stevens Auction Company is always accepting quality consignments for future auctions. To consign an item, estate or collection, you may call them directly, at (662) 369-2200, or you can e-mail them at stevensauction@bellsouth.net. To learn more about Stevens Auction Company and the July 11 and Aug. 1 sales (to include photos of many of the lots to be sold) log on to www.stevensauction.com.


Bedroom suite:
Five-piece rosewood Victorian bedroom suite, signed Mitchell & Rammelsberg, circa 1860 ($51,700).



Wave Crest:
Beautiful Victorian Wave Crest porcelain jewelry box with bronze mounting, 7 inches tall ($2,420).



Regency mirror:
Anglo-American giltwood convex looking glass mirror in the Regency style, circa 1800-1825 ($9,900).



Cranberry carafe:
Rare and unusual Bohemian cranberry decorative carafe with glass stopper, circa 1820 ($2,420).



Grandfather clock:
German mahogany 9-tube grandfather clock with Westminster chime, 8 feet tall, circa 1890 ($4,675).



Rosewood etagere:
Rosewood marble-top etagere, double-stack, attributed to Daniel Pabst, circa 1855 ($13,750).



Music machine:
Oak Victor music machine, by Victor Talking Machine Co., Type D, circa 1900-1920 ($4,290).

Universal Live Auctions

Universal Live Auctions (ULA) is proud to announce the launch of its new internet Live Auction platform (www.universallive.com) on July 2, 2009.

ULA was one of the two companies contacted by eBay to aggregate non-auctioneer sellers into eBay's Live Auction platform. ULA also ran and participated in auctions on Sotheby's, Proxibid, Live Auctioneers and Go Antiques.

ULA President, Martin Shape, is proud to present the many valuable features and benefits that their new Live Auction platform offers to sellers and buyers:

No listing or feature item fees for sellers
Database of over 100,000 bidders and buyers
15-20 exciting live internet auctions each month
8,000 items auctioned each month
20,000 to 50,000 emails sent each week highlighting current auctions
Platform accommodates both non-auctioneers and auctioneers
Industry's lowest buyers premium
Free collectible gift with every registration
Focused (categorized) auctions with focused bidders
Personalized watch list
Free gift with every winning bid

Mr. Shape has over 40 years experience in the collectibles, coins and art fields, including 15 years experience conducting internet and Live Auctions. His experience in matching buyers and sellers of fine art, antiques, coins, currency, militaria, sports and many other collectibles is part of ULA's strategy of matching focused bidders with specific auctions. Martin Shape believes "buyers busy lifestyles do not permit them the time to go through thousands of lots in ’general auctions.’ The more focused the auction, the more likely a potential bidder will find what they are seeking."

Mr. Shape is a renowned collector of the Chicago World's Fair 1933-1934. He has lectured on this popular Fair and displayed his voluminous collection numerous times. Martin Shape assisted in creating the only known catalog on the fair titled, "World's Fair Collectibles" by Howard M. Rossen.

Harry Ross, V.P. of Marketing for ULA is a longtime collector of Three Stooges memorabilia. He was the founder and former owner of "Soitenly Stooges", a mail order catalog for Three Stooges memorabilia. Ross has appeared on numerous television shows and was a regular contributor to the "Three Stooges Journal". He also collects contemporary art glass.

Most members of the ULA staff are devoted collectors and are passionate about Live Auctions. They understand what buyers and sellers expect in this competitive marketplace. The whole ULA team is excited about this growing marketplace and is available to assist in any way.

For more information go to www.universallive.com or contact Martin Shape at marty@mebmail.com or 847-412-1802.

Rare German Fire Police Visor Hat Original

http://a.uliv.us/af/p_ds/list.aspx?xid=176&ahid=2&sid=auctionzip

Football HOF Signed Super Bowl XXIX Ball - Moon Bettis

http://a.uliv.us/af/p_ds/list.aspx?xid=172&ahid=2&sid=auctionzip

Peter Max Original Acrylic Painting Canvas - Phonograph

1902 $20 Dollar National Currency note

http://a.uliv.us/af/p_ds/list.aspx?xid=178&ahid=2&sid=auctionzip

Pablo Picasso Signed Framed Print Still Life

http://a.uliv.us/af/p_ds/list.aspx?xid=186&ahid=2&sid=auctionzip

OVER 500 LOTS OF CIVIL WAR ITEMS, FIREARMS AND MILITARIA – INCLUDING TWO GATLING GUNS AND SEVERAL CANNONS – WILL BE SOLD BY FONTAINE’S AUG. 15th

Contact: Bob Burke or John Fontaine
(413) 448-8922

OVER 500 LOTS OF CIVIL WAR ITEMS, FIREARMS AND MILITARIA – INCLUDING TWO GATLING GUNS AND SEVERAL CANNONS – WILL BE SOLD BY FONTAINE’S AUG. 15th

(PITTSFIELD, Mass.) – Over 500 lots of important Civil War items, rare and vintage firearms and all manner of militaria will cross the block in an auction slated for Saturday, Aug. 15, by Fontaine’s Auction Gallery, beginning at 11 a.m. Featured will be the lifetime collection of the late George J. Bisacca, whose mainly Civil War collection was housed in the Eastover Resort complex in Lenox, Mass.

It is the first time Fontaine’s will have dedicated an entire auction to war memorabilia. Company president John Fontaine said the early buzz has been encouraging. “The initial reaction to the news within the collecting community has been tremendous,” he said. “Mr. Bisacca owned an astounding, museum-quality collection that will be selling to the highest bidder, without reserve. This is an opportunity for collectors that may never come along again.”

Included in Mr. Bisacca’s collection is a Colt M 1883 Gatling Gun, named after the man who invented it and a precursor to the modern-day machine gun. It had ten barrels and pumped out over 600 rounds per minute. The one being sold is fully operational and is in fantastic condition. There is also a second Gatling Gun in this auction.

The cannons in Mr. Bisacca’s collection are no less impressive. These include a British 1812 Naval mount cannon, a Coehorn mortar cannon, an 1861 Civil War ordinance rifled cannon with CSA markings, a Mann Smooth Bare prototype cannon, a Mann rifled prototype cannon, an 1892 Hotchkiss mountain rifled cannon, other cannons, and cannonballs.

Also from the Bisacca estate: hundreds of firearms (including dozens of rifles), cannon shells, drums, bullets and other projectiles, pistols, muskets, saddles, swords, bayonets, canteens, belts and buckles, period uniforms, spurs, daguerreotypes, powder horns, ramrods and more. Most items are from the Civil War, the Spanish-American War and World Wars I and II.

The Bisacca collection comprises well over half of what will be offered. “His has been called one of the largest privately owned Civil War collections in the world,” Mr. Fontaine remarked. “It has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors to Eastover, from visiting schoolchildren to seasoned Civil War buffs. We will have people from every part of the country coming to this very important auction.”

Mr. Bisacca died in 1983. His collection has remained, virtually untouched and on display, at the Eastover Resort ever since. He was an Italian immigrant who came from humble beginnings, only making it through the ninth grade. But he developed a fierce passion for the Civil War and devoured countless books on the subject. He also went on excursions to hunt for relics from the era.

Eastover Resort, a longtime Lenox landmark and vacation destination, was originally built in 1910 by New York City stockbroker Harris Fahnestock, as a summer cottage for his family. The property comprised a main building (which he called “Eastover”), a stable (now called “Tally Ho”), a chauffeur’s home, an eight-car garage (now called “The Lodge”) and a pump house, all on 1,500 acres.

Upon Mr. Fahnestock’s passing, his heirs sold the Eastover estate at auction in 1941, and it became a boy’s school. But when that went bankrupt in 1944, Mr. Bisacca expressed an interest in acquiring the property (by then pared back to 500 acres). He made the purchase in 1946, for a mere $41,500. On Memorial Day weekend the following year, Eastover Resort officially opened for business.

Over the years, Eastover Resort has hosted high school proms, company gatherings, school field trips, holiday parties, weddings and family reunions. It has also served as the site of the Massachusetts Special Olympics Winter Games for more than 20 years. Sadly, all that will come to an end later this year, as the current owners – Mr. Bisacca’s daughter, Dorothy H. “Ticki” Winsor, and her daughter, Betsy Kelly – have made the painful decision to close the Eastover Resort’s doors for good, on Nov. 1. They cited increased operating costs, a slumping economy and local and state regulations as reasons for the closing. Eastover will be sold, on a date still to be set.

Meanwhile, Mr. Bisacca’s legacy – his prized collection – will be brought from its special room at Eastover to Fontaine’s Auction Gallery for the Aug. 15 sale. A packed house is expected. Online bidding will be facilitated by LiveAuctioneers.com and Proxibid.com, and directly through the Fontaine's website, www.fontainesauction.net. Phone and absentee bids will also be accepted. A color catalog may be ordered by calling Fontaine’s at (413) 448-8922. Previews will be held the week prior.

Fontaine’s Auction Gallery is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. The firm is actively seeking quality lots for its summer and fall auction series. Wanted are firearms, clocks, watches, barometers, antique lamps and lighting. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, you may call them directly, at (413) 448-8922; or, you can e-mail them, at info@fontaineauction.com.

To learn more about Fontaine’s Auction Gallery and its calendar of upcoming events, please log on to www.fontainesauction.net.


Gatling Gun:
The expected top lot is this Civil War-era Gatling Gun, Model 1883, with Accles feed mechanism.



Cannon:
Coehorn mortar mounted cannon on carriage.



CSA buckle:
Belt buckle work by a CSA (Confederate States of America) soldier during the Civil War.



Drum:
Civil War drum from the 70th regiment, Ohio infantry.



Gun:
Civil War-era flintlock powder tester pistol.



Uniform:
Civil War frock coat in excellent condition.



Armorers tools:
Armorers' tools and gauges, used for building cannons during the Civil War.

132-PIECE MODERN HAMMERED STERLING FLATWARE SERVICE BY ALLAN ADLER COMMANDS $15,525 AT JUNE 13-14 ESTATE SALE HELD BY LELAND LITTLE AUCTION & ESTATE..

Contact: Leland Little
(919) 644-1243

132-PIECE MODERN HAMMERED STERLING FLATWARE SERVICE BY ALLAN ADLER COMMANDS $15,525 AT JUNE 13-14 ESTATE SALE HELD BY LELAND LITTLE AUCTION & ESTATE SALES, LTD.

(HILLSBOROUGH, N.C.) – An important and complete 132-piece modern hammered sterling flatware service for twelve, by the renowned California silversmith Allan Adler sold for $15,525 at an Historic Hillsborough Auction held June 13-14 by Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd. It was the grand opening event for the firm in its new gallery location, at 620 Cornerstone Court in Hillsborough.

Allan Adler honed his craft in California in the 1930s, and developed a strong following among many Hollywood celebrities (he once hosted Katharine Hepburn at his workbench as an apprentice), as well as presidents, museum curators and silver collectors. He once described his work as “clean lines with a bent toward the unconventional,” and that was evident in the large service that changed hands.

The silver service was the top earner of the more than 800 lots that crossed the block during the two days. About 250 people packed the showroom for the Saturday session, while around 150 bidders were counted on Sunday. A little less than 1,000 pre-absentee and phone bids were recorded going into Saturday. Internet bidding was brisk via LiveAuctioneers.com, with 450-500 registered online bidders.

“There was a great deal of anticipation leading up to the premiere event at our new gallery,” said Leland Little of Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd. “The results exceeded our expectations. The auction was a hit, and everyone was favorably impressed with our modern, 10,000-square-foot facility. It’s a great environment for buyers and sellers to view items from our collections that come to market.”

The sale was preceded by a week-long preview, highlighted by an Opening Night Gala on June 11, at which the noted antiques expert Albert Sack had kind words to say about Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd.; and a special lecture presentation on June 12 by Johanna M. Brown, director of collections and a curator at the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA). Another MESDA curator, June Lucas, will be the guest speaker at the firm’s cataloged auction scheduled for Dec. 5-6.

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

The runner-up top lot was a French mid-19th century Raingo Freres figural mantle clock that served as cover art for the auction catalog. Featuring a porcelain signed dial and unmarked time and strike brass movement set within a gilt bronze urn on a matching acanthus footed base, the clock brought $9,775. Also, an ornate German wall clock made in 1880 and with nice color and patina realized $2,990.

A signed Tiffany Studios counterbalance desk lamp with heavy patinated bronze construction throughout and a webbed damascene shade lit up the room for $8,912; an Irish sterling silver soup tureen with cover (Georgian, 1821), with figural engravings, soared to $8,050; and a Staffordshire historic blue plate (circa 1820s), commemorating Gen. Lafayette’s 1824-25 tour of the U.S., hit $2,530.

Fine art was offered in abundance. A 19th-century American still life theorem (watercolor on velvet) rose to $8,625; a pastel on paper portrait of a child by Lila Cabot Perry (Am., 1848-1933), went for $6,038; an 18th-century American School portrait of a young boy, oil on canvas, made $5,750; and a signed oil on canvas depiction of a shepherd by George Turner II (Br., 1843-1910), gaveled for $4,140.

An Egyptian bronze statuette depicting a seated Isis suckling the infant Harpokrates coasted to $3,680; an oil on canvas by James Yarborough (Am., 20th century), titled Noreen & Laurie, hit $2,990; an oil on canvas work by Jerome Blum (Ill./ N.Y., 1884-1956), titled Woman in Green (1911), achieved $2,530; and a red chalk drawing on paper by Giovanni Francesco Barbieri (It., 1591-1666) made $1,150.

Fine period furniture pieces from prominent local estates wowed the crowd. Top earners included a mid-Atlantic early 19th-century butler’s chest with figured mahogany veneers ($2,300); and an 18th-century Continental pine pewter cupboard with original mustard paint and hardware ($2,070). Also, a Karabagh rug (circa 1910) brought $2,185, and a Shahsavan bag (circa 1900) realized $3,105.

Estate jewelry did well. A Mikimoto triple-strand pearl necklace with 18k yellow gold clasp, four diamonds and four pearls fetched $3,680; an 18k yellow gold men’s emerald and diamond ring, appraised at $5,200, went for $2,185; and a 14k platinum and diamond lady’s Hamilton watch found a new wrist for $1,610. Also, a mourning miniature with hair brooch (S.C., 1802) hammered for $2,990.

From decorative accessories, a gorgeous pair of Japanese Satsuma vases (circa 1860-1880), in tapering baluster form, went to a determined bidder for $7,188; a Belle Epoque figural centerpiece (French, circa 1880-1920), garnered $1,955; a rare Art Deco cast-iron sundial (circa 1930s), spherical in form, demanded $1,610; and an early 20th century Egyptian Revival Sphinx inkwell sold for $1,150.

Regional folk art pottery was a hit, per usual. A Burlon Craig 3-gallon face jug (N.C., circa 1980) breezed to $2,645; a 20th century chip carved figural of a black preacher, titled Man of the Cloth (circa 1900), reached $1,150; and a Billy Ray Hussey cat doorstop, signed on the bottom, went for $748. Also, a restored pre-Columbian Guatemalan pot with polychrome decoration changed hands for $3,450.

Decoys struck an impressive pose. A handsome Brant decoy (Ocracoke, N.C.) was a hit for $5,060; a Southern swan decoy by an unknown maker (but probably crafted in Virginia or North Carolina) commanded $1,150; and a Canada goose decoy by Ira Hudson – an early production example, with tack eyes, a belligerent pose and old paint – saw a top bid of $1,610. Other examples did well, too.

Top earners among firearms were a flintlock long rifle with no maker’s mark (circa 1790-1820), with an octagonal barrel and 3/8-inch bore ($2,185); a North Carolina percussion long rifle by Enoch Kennedy (Moore Cty., circa 1830-1850), with 36-inch octagonal barrel and walnut half stock ($1,725); and an English flintlock over/under double-barrel pistol (approx. .45 caliber, circa 1780-1820, $920).

Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd., is still accepting quality consignments for its big Sept. 19-20 cataloged sale, as well as for all future estate auctions. To consign an item, an estate or a collection, you may call them directly, at (919) 644-1243. Or, e-mail them, at info@LLAuctions.com. To learn more about Leland Little Auction & Estate Sales, Ltd., log on to www.LLAuctions.com.


Allan Adler service:
Complete 132-piece modern hammered sterling flatware service for 12 by Allan Adler ($15,525).



Japanese Satsuma vases:
Gorgeous pair of Japanese Satsuma vases (circa 1860s-1870s), in tapering baluster form ($7,188).



Theorem still life:
Beautiful theorem still life (watercolor on velvet painting), executed in the 19th century ($8,625).



Burlon Craig jug:
North Carolina folk pottery 3-gallon face jug by Burlon Craig, stamped, done around 1980 ($2,645).



Tiffany desk lamp:
Signed Tiffany Studios counterbalance desk lamp with heavy patinated bronze construction ($8,912).



Raingo Freres clock:
Raingo Freres French figural mantle clock from the mid-19th century with signed porcelain dial ($9.775).

RARE AND VINTAGE MOTORCYCLES, PETROLIANA ITEMS, ANTIQUE TOYS AND MORE REALIZE STRONG PRICES AT DON FIEDLER ESTATE SALE, HELD MAY 2nd-3rd IN ILLINOIS

Contact: Dan Matthews
(217) 563-8880 or (217) 259-7059

RARE AND VINTAGE MOTORCYCLES, PETROLIANA ITEMS, ANTIQUE TOYS AND MORE REALIZE STRONG PRICES AT DON FIEDLER ESTATE SALE, HELD MAY 2nd-3rd IN ILLINOIS

(CEDAR POINT, Ill.) - The lifetime single-owner collection of Don Fiedler – comprising over 700 lots of vintage toy trucks, cast-iron and tin motorcycle toys, full-size antique motorcycles and bicycles, advertising signs and displays, petroliana items, coin-op machines and more brought strong prices at an auction held jointly May 2-3 by Matthews Auctions, LLC, and Gavin Pope Auction Co.

“The final hammer prices on many of the lots surpassed initial estimates,” said Dan Matthews of Matthews Auctions, LLC. “That was a testament to the quality and variety in Mr. Fiedler's amazing collections. And attendance was excellent, with almost 400 bidders registered on-site. Bidders were present from all over – even one from the Netherlands. Internet bids poured in from all over the world, through Proxibid, from places like Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.”

Following are highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 10 percent buyer's premium.

Vintage motorcycles fetched the highest dollar amounts. Top earners included the 1948 Indian Chief Roadmaster that roared away for $25,300, followed by a 1949 Harley-Davidson ($22,550); a 1948 Harley-Davidson with V-Twin pan head motor ($22,000); a 1965 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide ($20,350); and a 1941 Indian Chief with V-Twin engine ($20,075). Vintage bicycles also did well.

Mr. Fiedler was especially proud of his petroliana collection. Star lots of the group included a rare AFM Register Repair Shop (motorcycle) porcelain flange sign ($10,725); an Art Deco style Milwaukee model #860 cash-recording clockface gas pump ($5,170); an original Harley-Davidson motor oil 5-gallon rocker can ($3,630); and an embossed Coca-Cola fountain service sign ($2,585).

From antique toys, a rare Hubley “Popeye” patrol Indian motorcycle soared to $2,310; a Hubley 4-cylinder Indian motorcycle sped away for $1,870; a Keystone private label truck changed hands for $1,760; another Hubley 4-cylinder cast iron motorcycle topped out at $1,760; and a Budy “L” pressed steel wrecker went to a determined bidder for $1,540. In all, nearly 350 toys and coin-ops were sold.

The auction was conducted at a former schoolhouse building in Cedar Point, Ill., a small town located just off I-39 and south of I-80, about 90 minutes southwest of Chicago The collections were amassed over the course of more than 40 years by Mr. Fiedler, a resident of nearby Spring Valley, Ill. Mr. Fiedler is 66 years old and less active today. He simply wanted others to enjoy what he's collected.

“Don Fiedler is one of the most interesting and colorful characters you will ever meet,” said Dan Matthews. “He's six-foot-six, has been married twice, is a cancer survivor and has long white hair down to his waist and a beard to match. He's a gentle giant who's owned several saloons, a trucking company and the House of Powder paint coating business. It was while in these lines of work that he amassed his many and varied collections. He was extremely pleased with the results of the auction.”

The first day of the auction, on May 2, featured nearly 175 lots of advertising and petroliana signs; floor and counter-top displays; nearly 50 vintage oil cans; 75 lots of paper goods, from posters to parts boxes; six gas pumps, fully restored; vintage motorcycles, including Indian, Harley Davidson and Cushing models; rare vintage bicycles; and a 1954 Mack semi truck (which failed to meet the reserve).

Day Two – Sunday, May 3 – featured close to 350 lots, mostly collectible antique toys and coin-ops.

Next up for Matthews Auctions, LLC, will be a spectacular John Deere New Generation tractor auction in Le Mars, Iowa, on Wednesday, July 8, beginning at 5 p.m. CST. The auction will feature over 350 lots of John Deere toys, literature and memorabilia. Many rare items will cross the bock.

The next day, July 9, the sale will continue, with an 11 a.m. start time, CST. The headliner will be Robert Plendl, an owner of John Deere tractors who has gathered an outstanding collection of hard-to-find New Generation tractors, to go with a great selection of 30 Series tractors (to include a Model 730 High Crop). The auction will be held at the Plymouth County Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa.

On Friday, Aug. 7, the Iowa Gas Show & Petroliana Auction will be held in Des Moines, with a 10 a.m. start time. Cans and signs will be sold. Quality consignments are still beeing accepted for this auction. A little further out, on Friday, Oct. 16, th Fall Peotone Petroliana & Advertising Auction will be held at noon. The Fall Chicagoland Advertising Show has been moved up by one weekend.

Matthews Auctions, LLC, is based in Nokomis, Ill. The firm is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign an item, estate or collection, you may call them toll-free, at (877) 968-8880, or you can e-mail them, at danm@matthewsauctions.com. To learn more about the company and its calendar of upcoming auctions, you may log on to www.MatthewsAuctions.com.


Indian motorcycle:
The top lot of the sale was this yellow 1948 Indian Chief Roadmaster motorcycle ($25,300).



AFM sign:
Rare AFM Register Repair Shop (for motorcycles) porcelain flange sign ($10,725).



Popeye motorcycle:
Hard-to-find Hubley “Popeye” patrol Indian toy motorcycle ($2,310).



Toy plane:
Steelcraft “Lockheed Sirius” single-engine toy airplane ($825).



Coin-op machine:
Master Peanut coin-operated vending machine ($275).

ULTRA-RARE WINCHESTER THREE-PANEL TRIANGLE MOBILE-STYLE DIE-CUT POSTER COMMANDS $18,858 IN AN INTERNET AND CATALOG AUCTION HELD BY SOLDUSA.COM

Contact: Chris Roberts
(704) 815-1500

ULTRA-RARE WINCHESTER THREE-PANEL TRIANGLE MOBILE-STYLE DIE-CUT POSTER COMMANDS $18,858 IN AN INTERNET AND CATALOG AUCTION HELD BY SOLDUSA.COM

(MATTHEWS, N.C.) - An ultra-rare Winchester three-panel triangle mobile-style die-cut poster – the mate to a similar example that sold in March for $13,080 – soared to $18,858 in an Internet and catalog auction that concluded May 30-31 by SoldUSA.com. The die-cut triangle poster was the top lot of the auction and featured a canvasback duck, a bear and a squirrel. Its mate showed different animals.

“The version we sold in March was one of several known examples, but there are no known examples of the one just sold, nor is it pictured in any reference book that we're aware of,” said Chris Roberts of SoldUSA.com. The poster, patented in Feb. 1909 by John Igelstroem Co., measured 15 inches by 21-½ inches and had never been folded. It still had the original instructions on the reverse.

The die-cut was one of about 1,000 lots that sold in an auction that featured hunting and fishing collectibles, firearms and militaria, ammunition, general store items, Samurai swords, armor and more.”We had about 13,000 registered bidders worldwide,” Mr. Roberts said, “and bidding was brisk in certain countries, especially Canada, Italy, France, Australia and New Zealand, in addition to the U.S.”

The sale attracted around two million hits to the website in the final two days alone. “What this showed was that hunting, fishing and military antiques continue to thrive as a sought-after investment,” Mr. Roberts commented. “We saw very high and in some cases new world record prices set for high-end, investment-quality collectibles. It was the latest in what has been a string of very successful sales.”

Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer's premium.

An original still life watercolor painting by Adolf Hitler, signed and dated 1912 when the former German leader was living in Austria, realized $11,046. The work, done on period rag paper, depicted a vase filled with flowers. It measured 9-5/8 inches by 11-½ inches and was signed “A. Hitler 1912” in the lower right hand corner. Hitler was an aspiring artist before politics consumed his life.

A Winchester 1897 “Double W” bullet board in near-mint original condition chalked up $18,645. The same board sold in 2003 for over $25,000 and its mate brought $32,000 a week later. Except for a couple of small nicks in the gold inner frame, which were tended to by a SoldUSA.com restorer, the piece was flawless. It exhibited no fading and there was no corrosion of any of the shells.

A rarely seen Winchester 1879 lithograph cartridge board in a narrow replacement wooden frame garnered $7,062. It was the second cartridge board produced by Winchester in 1879 and is often referred to as the “double oval.” The depiction of cartridges included many early rim fire cartridges, Berdan primers, Remington, Sharps, Martini calibers and some other early-style Winchester cartridges.

A new auction record price of $3,616 was paid for a Peters Quick Shot 10-gage single shell box (the yellow background version). An example of the box appears on page 77 of The Encyclopedia of Shotgun Shell Boxes. It is a transition box, with an over label end panel in the buff color. The box had had no restoration work and had the correct bottom. Some edge and corner wear were its only flaws.

Another world record was established when a determined bidder paid $3,266 for a Leroy L. Leland hand-load 12-gage partial shell box (made more desirable by the fact that it is not pictured in The Encyclopedia of Shotgun Shell Boxes). The box had no restorations and contained 19 original shells. A variation occurred in the non-scripted name “Leroy L. Leland” at the top portion of the box.

Yet another auction record was set when a top bid of $1,188 was paid for a Winchester “World Champion Ice Skates” pinback. Measuring one inch in diameter, the rare pinback had no paper on the reverse and featured Bobbie McLean on the front. It had mild yellowing, with some light edge foxing.

SoldUSA.com's next big sale (already online, at www.SoldUSA.com) features the largest collection of hunting and gun company advertising to come on the market in the last 20 years. Over 300 lots of rare tin signs, die-cuts, posters and calendars have been offered to the highest bidder. “This is an auction that serious collectors cannot afford to miss,” Mr. Roberts said. It concludes August 1-2.

SoldUSA.com is one of the oldest Internet companies in the world. It was launched in 1990 as the brainchild of Ronnie Roberts, who started the firm as Dixie Sporting Collectibles. Mr. Roberts very shrewdly took note of the company’s success with Internet sales and grew it into what it is today -- SoldUSA.com, the premier hunting collectibles Internet auction site, with over 30,000 registered users.

To learn more about SoldUSA.com and the Internet and catalog auction that ends August 1-2, please log on to www.SoldUSA.com.


Triangle die-cut:
The sale's top lot was this rare Winchester three-panel triangle mobile-style die-cut poster ($18,858).



Hitler painting:
Original still life watercolor painting by German leader Adolf Hitler, signed and dated 1912 ($11,046).



Double W board:
Winchester 1897 “Double W” bullet board in near-mint original condition, nearly flawless ($18,645).



Peters shell box:
Peters Quick Shot 10-gage single shell box, the rare yellow background version ($3,616, a record).



Leroy L. Leland:
Leroy L. Leland hand-load 12-gage partial shell box, no restorations, with 19 original shells ($3,266).



Cartridge board:
Rarely seen Winchester 1879 lithograph cartridge board in narrow replacement wooden frame ($7,062).

OVER 2,500 LOTS OF RARE AND AMAZING TREASURES WILL CROSS THE BLOCK ON JUNE 20-21 WHEN RED BARON OF ATLANTA HOLDS ITS ANNUAL SUMMER AUCTION

Contact: Chrissy Will
(404) 252-3770

OVER 2,500 LOTS OF RARE AND AMAZING TREASURES WILL CROSS THE BLOCK ON JUNE 20-21 WHEN RED BARON OF ATLANTA HOLDS ITS ANNUAL SUMMER AUCTION

(ATLANTA, Ga.) – Over 2,500 rare and amazing treasures will cross the block the weekend of June 20-21 when Red Baron -- the Southeast’s premier auction house -- holds its annual summer auction extravaganza. Items will include a rare collection of three museum-quality heads from different parts of the world; a 1958 Plymouth Tornado concept car; and a rare Heli-Bout combination helicopter and boat.

“Summer is a magical season, where the days are longer, the nights are hotter and we’re all infused with the spirit of self-indulgence and leisure,” said Bob Brown of Red Baron. “It’s time for everyone to get out and treat themselves to something extra special. I can’t think of a better way to do that than by joining us in the most exciting event of the summer season – Red Baron’s 79th auction.”

Mr. Brown and the Red Baron team have once again returned from traveling the globe, in search of the grandest treasures and most exotic finds. Many of these were previously unavailable to any buyer, at any price. “But with a little luck, a good eye and some savvy sense,” he said, “we gathered these fine antiques, artifacts, furnishings, vehicles and more. Now, bidders can acquire some magic of their own.”

The museum-quality heads include an amazingly well-preserved, 2,000-year-old Egyptian mummy of a young person, with skin and eyelashes fully intact; an elongated skull from the Van Watu tribes in the New Hebrides (circa 1880-1920), likely used by a native Shaman to honor a revered person who’d passed on; and a shrunken head from the tribes of South America, perfectly preserved and intact.

The bright red, fully restored 1958 Plymouth Tornado is a concept car, built on the frame of a Plymouth Fury but wildly futuristic in design, with the characteristics of a rocket ship: a winged back, oversized dual exhausts and a curvaceous body. Like many other concept cars from the era, this one is exceedingly rare. It was not meant as a hot rod, but a peek at what cars of the future might look like.

The Heli-Bout is also a prototype – a one-of-a-kind helicopter-boat hybrid, created by the world-renowned industrial designer Brooks Stevens in 1960, for Evinrude Motors. The original purpose was to introduce the new Starflight 75hp motor at the 51st National Motor Boat Show, but the Heli-Bout was so over-the-top unique and imaginative, it came to represent what the future of boating could possibly hold.

Monumental bars – staples at many Red Baron sales – will be in this auction, too. One example certain to wow the crowd is a massive Brunswick “Del Monte” front and back bar with columns and mirrors (circa 1900, 147 inches high by 300 inches wide). Brunswick bars were built in Iowa by skilled artisans, from 1890-1912. Each one was different and featured magnificent hand-crafted workmanship.

Other noteworthy bars will include a nautical theme pub bar with ship’s wheel, stained glass ceiling, brass lanterns and sink (96 inches high by 155 inches wide); a “Hunter’s Pub” adorned with a large carved deer and lion’s head, and with a floral stained glass dome, doors and windows, marble sink and gun cabinet; and a 20-foot-tall “Wine Bar & Bistro” with two doors, a canopy with stained glass ceiling, a booth with table and bench, a clock, carved lady figures supporting the canopy, and sconces.

Marvelous outdoor fountains will also be offered. Featured will be a monumental white marble fountain depicting horses, winged lions on plinths, Atlas figures and mythological dolphins, with two bowls towering overhead (approximately 25 feet high and 16 feet in diameter); and a large cut Vincenza stone two-tier stone fountain with three panthers (approximately 12 feet high and 22 feet in diameter).

Speaking of water, how’s this for a surefire conversation starter: a scale model Ben-Hur boat, inspired by the popular movie from the 1960s and complete with tiny men, their oars and sailing rigs. The oars are motorized, to move in synch, so it looks like the men are actually rowing. It’s about 9 feet high, 105 inches wide and 20 feet long. The lot comes with a Ben-Hur movie poster and a ship poster.

If rare, vintage firearms are your thing, Red Baron’s got ‘em. Offered will be unique Frankenau’s patent change purse revolver, designed to serve as both a change purse and defensive revolver; an antique ring gun with six-shot barrel and fine foliate carved detail; a Gatling-type revolving cannon patent model made of brass and iron; a factory engraved Colt pocket model 1849 revolver; a Colt model 1848 baby dragoon percussion revolver; and a signed Bottega C. Yiorlanelli Beretta 28-gauge shotgun.

About 40 rare and collectible cars will be revved up and ready to go. Top lots include a gorgeous 1961 Porsche 356B 1600S/Cabriolet convertible, slate gray, with all matching numbers and just 99,325 certified, actual miles; a 1928 Ford Model A “Red Robin” boatail dirt track race car; a 1924 Chevrolet ”Stovebolt Special” boatail dirt track race car; a 1956 Porsche Speedster replica on a 1969 Volkswagen chassis; a 1987 Mercedes 450SL convertible with hard and soft top; and a black 2000 Bentley Arnage.

Also to be sold will be two elegant, limited-edition Lalique vases (#7/20 and #11/20); a rare Rolex chronograph watch, pink gold and stainless steel (circa 1955); a finely carved small round table, signed Sevres (1842), with a porcelain bowl top; an English saluting cannon, designed for the Royal Squadron (circa 1920); a private collection of fine wines from a prominent Atlanta collector; wonderful decorative lighting pieces; opulent estate jewelry; beautiful garden statues and decorations; and more.

Red Baron Antiques is one of the oldest, largest and widely-known fine antiques sources in the Southeastern United States. The firm is celebrating over 35 years of providing its customers with world-class service and one-of-a-kind inventory, displayed at its landmark gallery facility, located at 6450 Roswell Road in Atlanta (open to the public Monday-Friday, 9-6, and Saturday 9-4; closed on Sunday).

Red Baron also has several affiliate operations, such as The Baron Collection, Gallery 63, Great Gallery, King Galleries and Queen’s Garden. These are profiled in the ‘Affiliates’ tool bar of the Red Baron Antiques website (www.rbantiques.com). Red Baron also owns Southern Seasons Magazine, a high-society lifestyle publication dedicated to promoting arts, culture, entertainment, style and class.

Red Baron is always in the hunt for quality items for future sales. If you have an item, estate or collection to be considered, you may call them directly, at (404) 252-3770. The e-mail address is info@rbantiques.com. To learn more about Red Baron Antiques and the June 20-21 auction, log on to www.rbantiques.com. A free color catalog for the June 20-21 auction is available upon request.


Plymouth Tornado:
Beautifully restored, bright red 1958 Plymouth Tornado concept car with futuristic, space age design.



Heli-Bout:
One-of-a-kind prototype of a Heli-Bout, a helicopter-boat hybrid designed and made in 1960.



Lalique vase:
One of two elegant, limited-edition Lalique vases (#7/20 and #11/20), each one 17-½ inches tall.



Ben-Hur boat:
Scale model Ben-Hur boat, inspired by the movie from the 1960s, complete with motorized oars.



Brunswick bar:
Monumental Brunswick “Del Monte” front and back bar, with columns and mirrors (circa 1900).



Museum quality head:
One of three museum-quality heads, this one a shrunken head from the tribes of South America.

E. HOWARD & CO. #61 ASTRONOMICAL FLOOR STANDING REGULATOR CLOCK IN FINE CONDITION GAVELS FOR $161,000 AT FONTAINE’S VINTAGE CLOCKS & WATCHES SALE

Contact: Bob Burke or John Fontaine
(413) 448-8922

E. HOWARD & CO. #61 ASTRONOMICAL FLOOR STANDING REGULATOR CLOCK IN FINE CONDITION GAVELS FOR $161,000 AT FONTAINE’S VINTAGE CLOCKS & WATCHES SALE

(PITTSFIELD, Mass.) – A rare and fine E. Howard & Co. #61 astronomical floor standing regulator clock sold for $161,000 at a sale of vintage clocks and watches held May 30-31 by Fontaine’s Auction Gallery. It was the third such E. Howard #61 sold within a year by Fontaine’s. The other two sold for $195,500 in June of last year and $189,750, in November.

“Being that three of these sold in such a short period of time, we were delighted that it performed so well and shows the sustained strength in the market for these rare timepieces,” said John Fontaine of Fontaine’s Auction Gallery. “Overall the auction was a great success, with dozens of clocks and watches exceeding their high estimates. It was a very good day.”

In all, over 1,000 lots crossed the block at the two-session sale. May 30 was dedicated to antique clocks, while May 31 saw vintage watches take center stage. The gross for both days was over $1.2 million. A standing room only crowd packed Fontaine’s showroom, while nearly 450 registered bidders participated online, via Artfact.com. Phone and absentee bidding was also active.

Another E. Howard & Co. clock – a massive #87 floor standing regulator clock with jeweled pallets, four-jar mercury pendulum and time-only brass movement – took runner-up honors, hammering for $80,500. The top-selling watch was a rare Rolex Model Ref. 4500 two-tone chronograph ($8,625). Also, a Seth Thomas 25-jewel “Maiden Lane” open-face pocket watch found a new home for $3,738.

Following are additional highlights from the May 30 vintage clocks session. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

A large porphyre and bronze annular clock on a pedestal (Raingo Paris) climbed to $28,750; a French figural silk thread “Atala & Chactas” clock (circa 1810) commanded $24,150; a French marble and bronze annular clock with father time depiction achieved $23,000; a French industrial steam clock and barometer rose to $19,550; and a figural carved 9-tube mahogany grandfather clock made $14,950.

Rounding out the top clocks: a French industrial rolling ball clock with figural lion breezed to $19,550; a French bronze annular mantle clock with serpents hit $13,800; a French animated singing bird mantle clock realized $12,650; a Chelsea 10-inch dial ship’s clock with patinated “Verde” brass case and dial brought $12,650; and a French figural owl gilt bronze 3-piece clock set reached $10,350.

Following are additional highlights from the May 31 vintage watches session. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

A Hamilton 16 size box-hinge multi-colored pocket watch chalked up $2,588; a Dudley Masonic Model 2 pocket watch crossed the block for $2,300; a Patek Philippe 45 mm pocket watch gaveled for $2,013; a Waltham 18 size 14k solid gold box hinge hunting cased pocket watch went for $1,955; and an Oscar Waldan International NOS triple-date moon phase chronograph wristwatch topped out at $1,725.

Also, a Waltham 16 size 5-minute repeater went for $1,840; an E. Howard & Co. N Size 14k solid gold pocket watch earned $1,495; a Waltham Riverside Maximus 23-jewel, 14k solid gold case watch brought $1,495; a similar example went for $1,380; and an Omega Speedmaster professional chronograph sold for $1,323; a Seth Thomas 21-jewel Model 260 open-face pocket watch hit $1,380.

Fontaine’s Auction Gallery’s next big sale will be an important Civil War, Firearms and Military Auction, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15, beginning at 11 a.m. Featured will be the lifetime collection of George J. Bisacca of Eastover (in Lenox), Mass. Mr. Bisacca’s collection was accumulated from the 1950s until his passing in 1983. It has remained virtually untouched ever since, and will be offered without reserve. A fully illustrated color catalogue with prices realized is available for this auction.

The 500-lot sale will include a Colt M 1883 Gatling Gun; a British 1812 Naval mount cannon; a Coehorn mortar cannon; an 1861 Civil War ordinance rifle cannon with CSA markings; a Mann Smooth Bare prototype cannon; a Mann rifled prototype cannon; a Hotchkiss mountain rifled cannon (1892); other cannons; rifles; pistols; muskets; cannonballs and other projectiles; saddles; swords; bayonets and canteens; belts and buckles; period uniforms; spurs; daguerreotypes; powder horns; ram rods; and more.

Fontaine’s Auction Gallery’s next Vintage Clocks and Watches Sale will be held the weekend of Nov. 21-22. Quality consignments are being accepted for this sale, the Civil War & Firearms Auction and all upcoming Fontaine’s auctions. To consign a single item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call them directly, at (413) 448-8922. Or, you can e-mail them in confidence, at info@fontaineauction.com.

To learn more about Fontaine’s Auction Gallery and its calendar of upcoming events, please log on to www.fontainesauction.net.


E. Howard #61:
The top lot of the two days was this E. Howard & Co. #61 astronomical floor standing regulator clock ($161,000).



E. Howard #87:
E. Howard & Co. #87 floor standing regulator clock ($80,500).



Annular clock:
Large porphyre and bronze annular clock on a pedestal, Raingo Paris ($28,750).



Rolex chronograph:
The top earner among watches was this stunning Rolex Ref. 4500 register chronograph wristwatch ($8,625).



Waltham repeater:
Waltham 16 size 14k five-minute repeater watch ($2,530).



Seth Thomas:
Seth Thomas 25-jewel “Maiden Lane” open-face pocket watch ($3,738).