Sporting and Collectors Auction Preview
The next Sporting and Collectors Sale (postponed from November) has a number
of lots to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain as well as various
militaria and swords lots on offer. There is a collection of historic photographs
and some interesting textiles too.
Rosemary Rees MBE (1906-1995): A Set of Six Pilot's Log Books dating from 25th June 1933
(SC32/131) offered in our Sporting and Collectors Auction starting on 15th December 2020
at our salerooms in Exeter, Devon.
As 2020 is the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Britain, it is fitting that Bearnes
Hampton & Littlewood's next Sporting and Collectors Auction of 15th December 2020
has a number of pieces that relate to this historic period.
Rosemary Rees MBE (1906-1995) took her first flying lesson in 1933 and obtained
her instructor's licence in 1938. In 1940, she was one of eight women pilots to
join the ATA (Air Transport Authority). A truly remarkable woman, Rosemary began
to fly a wide range of aircraft including Spitfires, Hurricanes and Mosquitos as
well as larger four engine aircraft. In 1941, she became deputy to Margot Gore at
the all-female ferry pool at Hamble-on-Solent, eventually flying 91 different types
of aircraft. In 1946, she began her own charter company called 'Sky Taxi'. Her log books, flying helmet and gloves
(SC32/131) are included in the auction and should easily reach the upper range of
the £400-£600 estimate.
A WWII Period Leather Flying Helmet, formerly the property of Major Robert Hickman
Holmes RAF (SC32/132).
Major Hickman Holmes qualified as an instructor on Anti-Aircraft Defence in 1942
and was appointed as adviser to Air Officer Commanding 9 Group RAF. In October
of the same year, he was promoted to GSO II and became significant in the planning
and operation of exercises and combined training between Fighter, Bomber and AA
commands. He also operated on High Altitude Surveillance. Included in the auction
are his flying helmet, goggles, face mask and Mae West life preserver
(SC32/132), which again should attract collectors with their originality.
Collectors of RAF and World War II piece will also be keen to obtain an original Spitfire clock
(SC32/115) or even the oak cased RAF ward room clock
(SC32/127) that pilots would have sat beside waiting for the bell to ring, calling
them to 'action stations'.
A WWII Spitfire Cockpit Clock Mk IIIB, by Smith & Son, London (SC32/115).
A WWII RAF Ward Room Mantel Clock (SC32/127).
A reminder of the bravery of those who flew is the George VI Distinguished Flying Cross, dated 1941
(SC32/188). Another important piece that will be eagerly sought after by collectors.
Along with the militaria and swords included in the auction, there is an interesting
collection of late 19th and early 20th century photographs. Collected over the past
20 years, there are some fascinating images as well as some of local interest like
the sight of the crowd in Barnstaple at the Proclamation of King Edward VII
(SC32/506) and an image of General Buller at the Rougemont Hotel, Exeter in 1900
(SC32/507).
A George VI Distinguished Flying Cross, dated 1941 (SC32/188).
An Early 20th Century Photograph 'Proclamation of King Edward VII in Barnstaple
Square...' on 28th January 1901 (SC32/506).
A photograph of General Sir Redvers Buller VC GCB KCMG and Lady Audrey Buller at
the Rougemont Hotel in Exeter on 22nd November 1900 (SC32/507).
If fashion is your passion then the collection of vintage textiles will certainly
be the thing for you. From the Edwardian dress
(SC32/684) to the funky 1970s evening dresses, there is sure to be something to
brighten any collection.
The sale also includes a range of specialist sections from coins, stamps, postcards,
scientific instruments and many more.
An Edwardian Green Cotton and Silk Dress (SC32/684).
- Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood
- Sporting and Collectors Sales
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