Description

Modelled as a Rolls Royce Radiator with Spirit of Ecstasy Radiator Mascot 

From our Silver collection, we are delighted to offer this rare example Rolls Royce Novelty Silver Desk Barometer. The Desk Barometer modelled in the form of a Rolls Royce Radiator raised on a stepped plinth base is surmounted by the iconic spirit of ecstasy radiator mascot. The barometer with an engine-turned grille decoration and black enamel badge features a central glazed panel with a barometer fitted. Engraved to the plinth base W.T.L and hallmarked Sterling, London by silversmiths Saunders and Shepard dated 1933 to the Art Deco period.

Rolls Royce Desk Set The Rolls Royce desk set was a collection of Sterling Silver Objects that were commissioned directly by Rolls Royce Motors between 1926-1937. They were given strictly as corporate gifts to those who were considered particularly important that year and therefore never came to market. It is believed Rolls Royce commissioned 12 different pieces over an 11 year span missing one year in 1931. Saunders and Shepard silversmiths were chosen for all the products except the first one which was an Ashtray made by Crown jewellers Garrard of Regent St. Due to their rarity and unknown number pieces from the so-called ‘desk set’ are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. Recipients of desk sets included Clyde Automobiles of Glasgow, Watson of Liverpool, Cockshoot of Manchester, Rippon Bros of Huddersfield, Car Mart of London, Roltes of Maidstone and Croal of Edinburgh.

Saunders and Shepherd was founded in London 1869 by Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders Sr & James Francis Hollings Shepard. They were a manufacturing jewellers out of 23 Bartlett’s Buildings in Holborn Circus. They specialised in mourning jewellery but branched out into all other avenues of jewellery from earrings to necklets. In 1890 Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders passed away and the business was taken on by his three sons and converted into a limited company in 1916 Saunders & Sheperd Ltd and factories in London, Birmingham and Glasgow and continued manufacturing until the company dissolved in 2021.

Sterling Silver is an alloy composed by weight of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum millesimal fineness (parts per thousand) of 925.

With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.