In response to Nigel Perry's appeal for a Black Forest organ clock
movement, the readers may be interested in this.

An auctioneer called me about a "large organ thing" in his auction in
the middle of nowhere (or Wales as its called in England).  Measuring
about 6 feet high, it is in appalling condition so he sent me a rather
poor image.  As he recognised that the item was at one time valuable,
but not now, he tried to contact the vendor as part of his "duty of
care" responsibility.  However, the vendor moved house and didn't say
anything to anyone about it.  The auctioneer decided that the best
thing was to withdraw the organ from sale.

I went to have a look at the thing.  It is wonderful -- the quality of
carving is truly awesome.  The organ is rather basic, having two ranks
of wood pipes, but there are five barrels.  The pipes and much of the
carved detail are contained in several bundles, bags and boxes.  There
is a separate bureau or secretaire department that fits in at the top.

I hope to have this huge project at home next week and will let you
know more details.

Brian Chesters