(Book Trade Artifacts). (Watt, James). Portable Letter Copying Machine, ca 1800.

A fin-de-siècle exemplum of that originally patented ca. 1780 by James Watt in collaboration with Matthew Boulton and James Keir ("Patent no 1244"). Brass-bound mahogany case, recessed brass handles; interior compartment with inking tray, original folding hinged writing slope in green baize, integral "damping box", brass rollers, & winding handle. Brass plaque in center of lid; blank, as-issued. Some minor scratches to exterior, one (1) approx 6in split to lid. 15 3/8 x 11 5/8 x 5 ½ in; 392 x 302 x 139 mm.