The Prince of Wales and his entourage on camels posing for camera in front of Pyramid of Cheops and Pyramid of Cephrenes, Giza, Cairo. The Prince is seated on the camel fifth from the left. The man in the white suit with a cigar, gazing up at the Prince,

Royal Travel

Modes of travel and travelling accessories used by monarchs past and present

DAVID BOUQUET (<I>C.</I>1607-65)

Desk clock/watch

1650

RCIN 63758

This silver clock-watch was used by William IV (1765–1837) during his journeys and was said to have been his favourite timepiece for travelling. It not only strikes the hours like a clock but is also fitted with an alarm, which was considered a useful accessory for the traveller away from the routines of home life. The back cover is decorated with parrots and flowers. A protective outer case made of leather and wood was probably supplied to protect the watch's fine decoration while on the road. 


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