25th Feb, 2026 11:00
A large scratch-built 5” gauge live steam LBSCR (London Brighton South Coast Railway) 0-6-0 tank engine, “Box Hill”, built by the late vendor, for which he won 'Third Prize' at the 1969 Derby Locomotive Works Society of Model Engines Exhibition, realistically displayed on a track section, and in a fitted carry case, the model 28 cm high x 71 cm.
From the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years.
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. 'John', as he was known, was an enthusiastic collector and scholar of early English clocks, and a dedicated member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, where he lectured on clocks at Keble College, Oxford, and contributed articles to respected horological publications. His passion for early timepieces—particularly lantern clocks and longcase clocks—resulted in a carefully curated collection that reflects both historical importance and technical excellence.
Sold for £2,400
Condition Report
No boiler certificate present. Moving parts in the cab are working freely. Some surface marks and wear to the body, commensurate with age and use.
A large scratch-built 5” gauge live steam LBSCR (London Brighton South Coast Railway) 0-6-0 tank engine, “Box Hill”, built by the late vendor, for which he won 'Third Prize' at the 1969 Derby Locomotive Works Society of Model Engines Exhibition, realistically displayed on a track section, and in a fitted carry case, the model 28 cm high x 71 cm.
ProvenanceFrom the estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. Known as 'John' to his friends and family, he became interested in steam engines from an early age, and then traction engines and aircraft, before building an extensive knowledge and collection of clocks, notably early Lantern clocks and longcases. He was a very keen member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, and gave several lectures to their members at Keble College, Oxford. John was also a member of the Furniture Society in Groby village, and the Groby allotment Society, being chairman of the latter for over 30 years.
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton
An important collection from the Estate of the late William John Thornton (1937-2025), of Groby, Leicestershire. 'John', as he was known, was an enthusiastic collector and scholar of early English clocks, and a dedicated member of the Antiquarian Horological Society, where he lectured on clocks at Keble College, Oxford, and contributed articles to respected horological publications. His passion for early timepieces—particularly lantern clocks and longcase clocks—resulted in a carefully curated collection that reflects both historical importance and technical excellence.
