*Early 20th Century Chadburn’s E.O.T or Ships Telegraph Indicator*
An engine order telegraph, abbreviated as E.O.T. or sometimes known as a Chadburn, serves as a communication apparatus aboard a ship (or submarine). Its purpose is to enable the captain on the bridge to instruct the engineers in the engine room to adjust the vessel’s speed to a specific desired level. These devices are sometimes also called “repeaters” because they typically come in pairs, and at each end, they would ‘repeat’ the bell signal to confirm receipt of the command. The serial number of this specific E.O.T. is 70593, and it features a repeating mechanism with a bell signal, possessing a diameter of 26 centimeters. Unfortunately, it is impossible to ascertain the identity of the ship from which this repeater originated due to the loss of Chadburn’s records resulting from damage sustained by their factories during World War II. Notably, this particular model includes commands such as “Stand By” and “Finished with Engines,” which are consistent with pre World War II designs.
The commands are…
“STERN: FULL, Half, Slow, Finished with Engines. STOP. AHEAD: Full, Half, Slow, Stand By.”
The company received the Prince Albert Royal Warrant in the late 19th century. In 1870, William Chadburn patented a communication device for ships. By 1875, Chadburn & Son started making the brass Engine Order Telegraph at their factory in Liverpool. In 1911, the RMS Titanic was launched, equipped with Chadburn & Sons’ E.O.T. In 1898, the Chadburn Ship Telegraph Company Limited was established to take over Chadburn & Sons. By 1903, they had a large factory near Liverpool and were selling their products abroad. In 1920, they developed electric-powered telegraphs. In 1944, the company’s name changed to Chadburn’s (Liverpool) Limited, and in 1946, they removed the apostrophe, becoming Chadburns Liverpool Ltd. At one point, Chadburn’s was responsible for 75% of the world’s marine telegraph production.
*Condition*
This repeater with its cast brass body and components with original dial is a rare find. The glass is missing and the brass dulled but it is in otherwise good condition. It is not mounted on a stand or a base. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMEEXAOO_1916137712
