This bobbin hourglass is a historic piece of art that measures 60 minutes of time. the timer is composed of antique wood spools found in abandoned textile mills in england. the spindles and wooden base were used from 1939-1945 during world war ii in a factory in barrowford mill, nelson. these particular spools held tire cord for the morris and austin car groups. the spindles were pewter shielded to protect the edges of the spool. each timer has a cotton sticker from placed on its base. these stickers were made in new york in 1917 and found in cupboard in an abandoned sewing thread factory in leek, derbyshire. the sand glass is mouth-blown in the united kingdom. as with all antique and hand-made items, the colors and decorations vary slightly. we consider this to be a special part of their history and character.