THE COLLECTIONS OF JANET & JACK THORNTON
Wednesday, 12 - Monday, 24 November 2025

The collections of Janet and the late Jack Thornton represent a near life-long interest and devotion to two broad spheres. Jack to Scientific and Survey Instruments & Devices, Timepieces and Weights & Measures; Janet to Sewing Antiques, Objets de Vertu and Costume Accessories. Having emigrated to New Zealand from England in 1971 Jack took up the role of chemistry teacher at Palmerston North High School. Janet was already a collector and Jack's passion for the workmanship in the engineering of scientific instruments as well as for the historical stage they reflected led him to follow Janet's collecting passion. For a long time they were regular buyers at Cordy's and other auctions. Their passion saw them share their collections regularly showing at bottle club and other exhibitions. PLEASE NOTE: These are mainly estate, second hand, antique and pre-owned items, their condition will be commensurate with their age. We can not point out every fault. A.F means all faults. Buyer's must satisfy themselves to the condition of any item. Items are sold as is where is. Packing and courier options available at buyers risk and expense. We prefer not to courier within the Auckland area. All enquiries email info@cordys.co.nz or phone (09) 5231049. If you have a question just ask. ALL PAYMENTS TO BE ONLINE, EFTPOS OR PERSONAL CREDIT CARD. CASH & AMEX ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE, we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. COLLECTIONS BY APPOINTMENT. A buyer's premium applies to all Cordy's auctions of 17% + GST = 19.55% this is to be paid on top of any successful bid.