Thanks for your prompt reply Bob. I saw the tinderlighter at an arms fair, and hope to do a deal that will bring it my way, it has no stand and it looks small enough to fit into a pocket just as the "Flinker" I think its called? that was used by smugglers for signalling? will get some images to you somehow if I get it, Trace.

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Samuel Gill of Rye

21st March 2022

Brian Houghton:

Such a Big Story Ref a clock making family. I have a Mahogany Long Case Clock. Signed S Gill Rye. It is a workshop clock dated March 7th 1810. However the works are by Robert Apps of Battle. Possibly Samuels Father = Daniel, had it made for his son. upon taking over the family business. Circa 1810

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Clockmaking Family: Gill

21st March 2022

Bob Wilcock:

Trace, while it is not impossible for William Gill to have made the tinder lighter - clockmaking does involve whitesmithing and silversmithing - I think it more likely that it was bought in for sale in the shop. It was quite common for shopkeepers to add their name to items they sold.
It would be nice to see an image, but that doesn't seem possible on this site

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Clockmaking Family: Gill

20th March 2022

Tracy-Leon Barham:

Hello Bob been reading your messages about the Gill family of clockmakers, and would value your opinion on the following. I have been offered a "Tinder lighter" marked "Gill" on one side and "Rye" on the other, would have been made about 1800. Would Gill have made other items other than clocks? I look forward to your reply with interest. Thank you for your time. Kind regards, Trace.

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