Local Heritage Under the Hammer: Rare Wiltshire Clocks Sold at RWB Auctions
Wiltshire Clock Collection Sold At Auction
A fascinating collection of antique Wiltshire grandfather clocks and a clock movement exceeded expectations when it went under the hammer at RWB Auctions' Antiques and Interiors sale on 4th March.
Seven pieces from a private collection built over more than three decades all found buyers on the day, achieving a combined hammer total of almost £1,400, comfortably surpassing the pre-sale estimate of just over £1,000. The strong result highlights the continued demand for regional antiques and historic clocks, particularly those with a clear local provenance.
A Lifetime Collecting Local Clockmakers
The clocks were consigned by collectors Paul and Jan Succony, who have spent over 35 years researching and collecting clocks made by local craftsmen. During that time, they have assembled a remarkable collection of more than 60 clocks made across the country.
Speaking about the passion behind their collection, Paul said:
"The joy has been in the challenge of finding the clocks and discovering the story of each clockmaker. Today we have well over 60 clocks, and we've sold several to buyers across the globe who want to reconnect with their own history or heritage."
Their collection focuses on regional clockmakers, a fascinating but often overlooked part of Britain's horological history. In the 18th- and 19th-centuries, many market towns and high streets supported their own clockmaker, producing longcase clocks that combined craftsmanship, practicality and local pride.
Wiltshire Makers Represented In The Sale
The seven lots offered a snapshot of this rich heritage, representing clockmakers working across the county, including:
- Peter Bower of Salisbury
- Joel Ettry of Horton
- William Raymond of Calne
- Samuel Hart of Devizes
- Charles Raymond of Lydeway
- Marsh of Highworth
- Oliver Carter of Wootton Bassett
William Walter, Junior Auctioneer and Valuer at RWB Auctions, commented:
"In the past, it seems like every Wiltshire high street had a clockmaker, and it was great to see a group of impressive pieces like these from around the county."
Rare Wootton Bassett Clockmaker Attracts Strong Bidding
The highlight of the sale was Lot 328, a rare brass clock dial and 30-hour movement by Oliver Carter of Wootton Bassett, dating to around 1736.
Signed "Oliver Carter Wootton Basset Fecit", with 'fecit' being Latin for 'made' or 'crafted,' the dial features Roman numeral increments and decorative acanthus spandrels, typical of early 18th-century longcase clock design.
Very little is known about Oliver Carter's life and work. Historical records suggest he also served as the town's coroner, and surviving examples of his clockmaking are extremely scarce. The only other known example is held at the Royal Wootton Bassett Town Hall.
The rarity of the piece sparked strong interest among bidders, ultimately making it the best-performing lot in the group. RWB Auctions was particularly pleased that the movement was purchased by a local resident, ensuring that this rare piece of Royal Wootton Bassett's horological history remains in the town.
Lot 328 invited fierce bidding online, in the room, as well as via telephone, adding to the excitement when the lot was offered
William Walter, Junior Auctioneer and Valuer at RWB Auctions, commented:
"It has been fantastic to handle such interesting local history and a real privilege to deliver the best possible result for the vendor on the day. The Wootton Bassett made Oliver Carter movement exceeded our expectations, and we are really thrilled that it has been sold to a local buyer to preserve its history for many years to come".
Auctioneer Gordon Brockman making the final call before bringing the hammer down on the Wootton Bassett made clock
Continued Demand For Antique Clocks
The successful sale demonstrates the enduring appeal of antique clocks, particularly those with strong regional connections or interesting historical backgrounds.
Collectors are increasingly seeking pieces that tell a story, whether through their maker, their location, or the people who have preserved them over generations.
For RWB Auctions, this collection provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase Wiltshire's rich clockmaking heritage, while connecting specialist collectors and local buyers with historically significant pieces.
Have A Clock To Sell?
RWB Auctions regularly sells antique clocks, longcase clocks, and regional antiques in our monthly Antiques & Interiors sales.
If you own an antique clock or a collection you are considering selling, our team would be happy to provide free auction valuations and advice. Please call our friendly team on 01793 840777 or drop us an email at office@rwbauctions.com.
Wiltshire Clocks Sale In The Press
Grandfather Clocks at Auction (Born Again Swindonian, 27th February 2026)
Wiltshire Grandfather Clocks Go Under The Hammer (WiltsHive, 28th February 2026)
Scores of Grandfather Clocks to be Sold at Auction (BBC, 2nd March 2026)