Videos tagged with Artemas Wheeler

This entry details the 'Clockwork Basilisk' book set by Ben Nicholson, focusing on the early revolvers of Elisha Collier and Artemas Wheeler. It highlights their 1818 patent, predating Samuel Colt's, and the subsequent patent infringement trials. The set includes historical context, mechanical details, and a comprehensive catalog of surviving examples. The research involved extensive international archives, establishing the significance of Collier's work in early revolver development.

This video delves into the world of fakes and replicas of Elisha Collier's early revolving firearms, highlighting the motivations behind their creation, from professional challenges to financial gain. It discusses the rarity of authentic Colliers, the methods used by forgers, and the subtle indicators that distinguish genuine pieces from reproductions, such as proof mark placement and screw thread precision. The discussion also touches upon the historical significance of the Collier revolver as the 'fountainhead of all modern revolvers' and the psychological aspects of collecting.

This video showcases the meticulous field stripping of a Second Model Collier revolver, highlighting its intricate blend of British bespoke craftsmanship and American machine manufacturing. Presented by Professor Ben Nicholson and facilitated by collector Frank Graves, the disassembly offers a detailed look at the engineering and artistry inherent in these early revolvers. The description also promotes the pre-order of the book "Clockwork Basilisk: The Early Revolvers of Elisha Collier and Artemas Wheeler" on Kickstarter.

This video delves into the complex history of revolver patents, specifically contrasting the innovations of Elisha Collier with Samuel Colt. It highlights how Colt's success was not solely due to his invention but also his legal team's ability to navigate and, at times, obscure prior art and existing patents. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patents in rewarding innovation, while also acknowledging their potential for abuse through legal maneuvering.

This video, featuring Professor Ben Nicholson and Ian McCollum, details the three distinct patterns of Elisha Collier's early revolvers, as categorized by collector Clay Bedford. It covers the 'First Model' prototypes, the 'Second Model' flintlocks, and the 'Third Model' percussion revolvers, including their development timeline, technical differences, and the historical context of percussion ignition's adoption. The discussion highlights Collier's engineering background and his transition to other inventions.

This video delves into the historical research behind the book "Clockwork Basilisk: The Early Revolvers of Elisha Collier and Artemas Wheeler." Professor Ben Nicholson discusses the unexpected discoveries and the extensive international research team involved in bringing the project to fruition. The focus is on the stories and historical context surrounding early revolvers, rather than a direct firearm review or demonstration.

This video announces the launch of "Clockwork Basilisk," Headstamp Publishing's fifth book. Written by Professor Ben Nicholson and a research team, the book is a two-volume study focusing on the early revolvers of Elisha Collier and Artemas Wheeler, predating Sam Colt's innovations. It details their flintlock single-action revolvers, military trials, decorative aspects, fakes, reproductions, and their impact on later revolving firearm designs. Volume two is a comprehensive catalog of Collier revolvers with detailed information and appendices. The book is available for pre-order on Kickstarter with various editions and bonus materials.