Preliminary identification

Smiths 8-Day 'Time of Trip' Aircraft Clock, c. 1950s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a genuine mechanical cockpit instrument designed for high-altitude precision, featuring an 8-day movement and a specialized 'Time of Trip' complication.

Story

The cockpit of a mid-century British aircraft was a dense forest of mechanical dials, but the Smiths clock was arguably the most vital for a pilot's survival.

Maker / Origin

S. Smith & Sons was the titan of British horology, famously providing the gauges for the Spitfire and the watches for the first successful Everest expedition in 1953.

Condition & Value

The dial and crystal appear to be in excellent condition with very little of the 'crazing' often seen in aged aviation plastics. There is some visible surface wear and scuffing on the wooden mount, particularly around the lower left knob, which is consistent with decades of use as a desk clock.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD