Description
Watch Cane
Mechanism invented by L. Holuska of Vienna
Silver Handle by Tiffany & Co.
Circa 1885
This rare and ingenious 19th-century watch cane is a superb example of utilitarian artistry, uniting horology and fine craftsmanship in a single object. The ingenious winding mechanism stored within was invented by L. Holuska of Vienna. The watch face is visible in the malacca wood shaft, which is accented by a horn ferrule and coin silver eyelets. A small knob pulls out from the shaft to set the hands. The sterling silver handle, crafted by the esteemed Tiffany & Co., is adorned with intricate Florentine engraving and twists to wind the watch.
The silver is engraved “Capt. Thebaud” for Captain Paul Gibert Thebaud, who served in the Veteran Corps of Artillery of the State of New York and held the role of Ordnance Officer during World War I. His unit, the 9th Coast Artillery Corps of the New York Guard, was based at the historic 71st Regiment Armory in New York City, the same address engraved on the handle, 125 West 14th Street.
Engraved “Capt. Thebaud / 125 West, 14 St.” and stamped “Tiffany & Co. / Sterling”
35 3/4″ length
Similar Holuska watch canes and patents are illustrated in Catherine Dike’s Cane Curiosa, 1983, p.87.
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