Lot # 61: Osmond’s “Automaton” Club Caddie

Category: Miscellaneous

Starting Bid: $250.00

Bids: 15 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Inaugural Auction",
which ran from 3/6/2019 12:00 PM to
3/23/2019 8:00 PM



J. Osmond received a British patent dated February 16, 1893, that covered the Automaton club carrier.  According to an 1895 advertisement, “The Legs which support the “Automaton” Caddie open out automatically when the lower end is placed on the ground, and fold up close when it is lifted for carrying.”  Furthermore “A sling can be used for carrying the Caddie in the ordinary way, when a boy is employed.”  It should be noted that Automatons were made with either wire or wooden legs.  The 1895 ad shows the wire legs.

This example is in good working condition.  The leather handles and the single latch strap up near the top are impeccable replacements.  The workmanship is excellent and those pieces are made out of leather and completed as originally made.  The original canvas ball bag and grip holder at the base of the stand are still in good shape, as are the wire legs and wood frame.

Osmond’s Automaton speaks to golf in the 1890s, when the game was new to so many people. Inventors were trying to tap into the rapidly growing market and make their fortune.  Not sure how much money J. Osmond made, but his club carrier is more desirable today than when new!  A great piece!!

Views: 1510