The Kinross Spindle Back Gig shown below was sold on eBay on 3rd February 2005 for £2,150 and went off to Wales. Previously it had been advertised on www.carriagesales.com with the following description:-
“One of the finest spindle back gigs in the country. Suitable for a 13hh to 14hh pony. Made by Kinross of Stirling. circa 1900. Has won numerous championships and concourse d'elegence classes in recent years and is in excellent condition, ready for the 2005 show season. Black with gold coach lines. Beige Bedford cord cushion.
A beautifully well sprung and balanced vehicle, a dream to drive in and the sort of carriage that very rarely becomes available for sale.
Price: £2,950 - No reasonable offer refused!”
Vivien purchased this gig from Willie Hendry who had owned it for approximatley 40 years. As the founder member of the British Driving Society in Scotland he is a much respected face in carriage driving. The gig was originally built for the owner of the Glasgow Transport Department. Various people have had the pleasure of using this gig while it was owned by Willie, one being Sanders Watney and apparently others wanted to buy it, but Willie would not sell. Viviens says “I have been very privaliged to own this vehicle and enjoyed it enormously. It's a bit like driving a Bentley as apposed to a Mini!”
The eBay description for item number 7130202723 added that it was:-
- Suitable for 13hh to 14hh pony.
- Wheel height: 47.75"
- Tug stop to ground: 43"
- Approximate distance between tugs (i.e. inside measurement from one shaft to the other): 22"
- Tugs to swingletree: variable from approximately 50" to 57"
A Kinross Spindle Back Gig was sold for £2,300 as lot 34 in The Reading Carriage Sale on 5th September 2007 by Thimbleby & Shorland, Auctioneers.
“SPINDLE BACK GIG by Kinross of Stirling circa 1900 to suit 13-2 to 14-2 hh; in a show finish of black with gold lining and beige bedford cord upholstery. A light and elegant show vehicle on fine springs and 16-spoke warner wheels, which is fitted with patent leather dash and splash boards.”
Note the latest description mentions 16 spoke Warner wheels, but the gig shown above has 14 spoke wheels. The details suggests that it is the same vehicle, which has been sold on with new wheels. Do you know where this gig is now?