RARE BINNACLE TIMEPIECE BY MORRIS TOBIAS. Circa 1820. White enamel, 4" diameter, dial with Arabic numerals from 1-8. Signed "MORRIS TOBIAS/LONDON/PATENTEE". Brass housing fitted with a bayonet cover for access to the works. Pivoting mount that allows it to swing side to side. Fusee movement signed MORRIS TOBIAS/LONDON/No. 556". Foliate pierced balance bridge engraved "PATENT". Original dovetailed mahogany box with an ivory key escutcheon and hinged lid with glass viewing window. 6 3/4" x 6 3/4" x 3 5/8". Condition fine noting only expected wear on the box and the small lid lock on the inside is gone. Running fine having been recently cleaned and adjusted. In 1812 Tobias invented this type timepiece to replace the sandglass for timing the sounding of the bells on board ship. Exhibited at Kennebunkport Maritime Museum for over 20 years.