RARE OCTAGONAL COPPER WALL CLOCK WITH ILLUMINATED OPAL GLASS DIAL BY GILLETT & JOHNSTON
Manufactured in Croydon, England — c.1930
A rare surviving example of an octagonal wall clock by Gillett & Johnston of Croydon, one of Britain's most distinguished clockmakers and bellfounders, held by Royal Appointment and contracted to the War Office, Admiralty, Board of Trade and Post Office throughout their operation.
The case is constructed in cast copper with an octagonal form, the frame carrying the characteristic quality of casting for which Gillett & Johnston — who operated their own foundry — were known. The dial is of the illuminated type: a white opal glass panel, backlit and inset with Roman numerals and minute indices in the same tradition as the illuminated dials supplied by the firm for public buildings, cathedrals and civic installations. A dial of this same type and period is installed in the House of Commons, positioned above the Speaker's Chair — a reference that places this clock firmly within the upper tier of the firm's output.
The clock retains its original impulse movement and is supplied with a modern impulse driver unit, compatible with mains or battery operation. The internal illumination has been updated to run modern LED lighting, controllable remotely via app. Note: mains power is required for the illuminated dial function.
Offered here unrestored. Supplied fully restored and ready for installation. Input on finish is welcomed prior to restoration commencing.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Maker: Gillett & Johnston, Croydon, England Era: c.1930 Case Form: Octagonal
Dimensions: 460mm diameter x 140mm deep (approx. 18.1 x 5.5 inches) Dial diameter: 355mm (approx. 14 inches) Weight: approx. 15 kg
Construction: Cast copper octagonal case — illuminated white opal glass dial — Roman numeral indices Dial Type: Illuminated — backlit opal glass (Gillett & Johnston catalogue type, ref. Figs. D1, D2, D7) Finish: Original copper surface retained Condition: Unrestored. Dial intact. Original impulse movement present.
Movement: Original Gillett & Johnston impulse mechanism Driver: Modern impulse unit supplied — mains or battery operated Illumination: Updated to LED — remote and app controlled — mains power required for illumination
Installation: Wall mounted. Mains connection required if illumination is to be used.
SHIPPING & DELIVERY
Free UK Mainland Shipping. International Buyers: We ship globally via DHL / UPS. Professionally packed and fully insured for transit.
