Antique early 20th century large enamel metal trunk with name C.Nixon Royal Navy. This incredibly decorative, large trunk or chest once belonged to C.Nixon r.n ( Royal Navy). It would make a fantastic coffee table or tv stand etc ( see pictures illustration only for sale separately).
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Some age related wear.
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95 cm wide
26 cm tall
37 cm depth
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Lots of labels from travel and an original brass name plate Gieves - rare !!
Possibly owned by
C. Nixon in the Royal Navy - likely refers to Captain Charles A. B. Nixon-Eckersall, a distinguished Royal Navy officer and submariner who commanded the frigate HMS Boxer and later served in NATO staff roles. He was known as one of the outstanding officers of his generation, despite not being selected for flag rank.
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Key Details about Captain Charles Nixon-Eckersall
Rank: Captain
Service: Royal Navy
Career Highlights:
Commanded the frigate HMS Boxer from 1985 to 1986.
Held senior NATO staff appointments in Norfolk, Virginia (1987–89) and Northwood (1989–90).
Also commanded a Royal Australian Navy submarine, Onslow.
Post-Retirement: He retired from the Navy in the 1990s and engaged in charity work and served on a parish council.
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Other Potential "C. Nixon" in the Royal Navy
A historical foot locker owned by a "C Nixon" of the Royal Navy was sold on an auction site, as seen on eBay UK. This suggests there may have been other individuals named C. Nixon in the Navy's history, but Nixon-Eckersall is a prominent figure associated with the Royal Navy in recent times.
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Gieves metal trunks were produced by a historic London company, originally founded in 1785, to supply naval officers with durable, compartmentalized storage for their uniforms, equipment, and personal effects. Starting with Galt & Gieve in 1854, these sturdy, often iron-banded pine trunks, featuring mahogany trays and secure compartments, became essential for naval cadets and officers. The company later became Gieves & Hawkes after a merger in 1974, continuing the legacy of providing high-quality military and court attire and accessories.
Origins and Purpose
1785: The company that would become Gieves was founded, later evolving into Gieves & Hawkes.
1854: The firm Galt & Gieve began offering its first naval trunks, recognizing a market need for a comprehensive storage solution for officers.
Functionality: These trunks were designed to protect uniforms, telescopes, and other equipment, featuring sturdy pine bodies with iron banding and secure, fitted interiors.
Evolution of the Brand and Product
Late 19th Century: Under James Gieve's ownership, the company's name changed to J. Gieve & Sons and expanded its presence in major ports to supply the vast majority of Royal Navy cadets.
Early 20th Century: The company became Gieve, Matthews & Seagrove Ltd in 1904 and then Gieves Ltd in 1916.
1974: Gieves merged with Hawkes & Co, a rival tailor, to form Gieves & Hawkes, a renowned tailoring house at 1 Savile Row.
Legacy
Quality and Craftsmanship: The trunks were a testament to the company's commitment to quality, with finely finished interiors and robust exteriors built to withstand the demands of naval service.
Enduring Charm: Today, these antique trunks are cherished not just for their historical significance but also as decorative storage pieces, blending functionality with a rich past.