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Fob chain
Fob chain

Fob chain

Date1925
Object number00054743
NameChain
MediumMetal
DimensionsOverall: 43 × 5 × 5 mm, 4 g
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Isabel McBryde
DescriptionThis fob chain, likely from a watch, was probably worn by Captain McBryde during his work with the Straits Steamship Company and then the Federated States of Malaya Customs Service from 1924 to 1927, and later in the 1920s in Western Australia.HistoryThis White Pattern pattern sextant relates to the career of John Smyth McBryde (1896 - 1987) who, after serving an apprenticeship in sail, served on active service during both the First and Second World Wars, returning to the merchant service after 1945. The sextant was possibly acquired by McBryde during his work with the Straits Steamship Company and later the Federated States of Malaya Customs Service in the 1920s. McBryde served as Fourth Officer on KANIMBLA as a merchant vessel, then later as 1st Lieutenant when the vessel was requisitioned into the Royal Navy (1939-43). After WW II McBryde was Chief Officer of the KANIMBLA 1950-57 and then Master 1957- 61. He retired in 1963. Originally based in London, instrument makers Lawrence and Mayo opened offices in Egypt, Spain, Portugal, India, Ceylon [Sri Lanka] and Singapore during the 19th century. The company opened its first Indian office in Calcutta in 1877. The company became wholly Indian owned in 1967. SignificanceThis watch chain relates to the career of John Smyth McBride who, after serving an apprenticeship in sail, served on active service during both the First and Second World Wars, returning to the merchant service after 1945.