A stunning little industrial clock made in England circa 1930 by The Synchronome Company Ltd.
Synchronome were the preeminent clock maker throughout the early & mid 20th century, commercially producing the most accurate electric clocks globally despite strong competition from companies such as Gents of Leicester.
Stunning stepped copper case retaining its wonderful original aged patination.
The attractive aged hand painted dial bearing Roman Numeral indices and the Synchronome Electric makers marks.
The clock currently retains its original 30 second impulse movement which we can run via a impulse driver which would mimic the original master the clock would of ran from, alternatively we can convert the original hands to run from a modern high torque battery quartz movement.
The artists figure in the images is 6ft 1" to give a representation of scale.
Technical Details
| Movement Type | Single AA Battery Powered Quartz |
| Clock face width | 240 mm (9.5 Inch) |
| Overall Width | 295 mm (11.5 Inch) |
| Depth | 75 mm (3 inch) |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Colour / Materials | Copper, Glass, Aged White |
The Synchronome Company, established in 1895 by Frank Hope-Jones and George Bennett Bowell, became one of Britain’s most influential manufacturers of precision electric clocks. Specialising in master clock systems, Synchronome revolutionised timekeeping with their innovative mechanisms, which distributed accurate time signals across large networks. Their clocks found widespread use in observatories, railway stations, and public buildings, becoming synonymous with reliability and precision.
One of their crowning achievements was the development of the Shortt–Synchronome free pendulum clock, created in collaboration with horologist William Hamilton Shortt. Released in the 1920s, this was the most accurate pendulum clock of its time and was used as the primary time standard in many observatories worldwide, solidifying Synchronome’s reputation for technical excellence.
Synchronome’s rise to prominence brought them into fierce competition with another titan of the industry—Gents of Leicester. Both companies vied for dominance in the electric clock market, offering master clock systems that set the standard for accuracy and reliability. While Gents focused on robust, functional designs that served a wide range of public and industrial applications, Synchronome honed its reputation in scientific and observatory-grade timekeeping.
The rivalry spurred innovation, with each company striving to outdo the other in design, precision, and reliability. Gents became renowned for its large-scale installations in landmarks like Waterloo Station and the Houses of Parliament, while Synchronome distinguished itself with pioneering technology, particularly in the field of astronomical timekeeping. This competitive dynamic not only elevated the standards of timekeeping in the early 20th century but also left a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and innovation that collectors and enthusiasts value today.
Today, reclaimed Synchronome clocks are treasured for their industrial design and historical significance. Known for their sturdy construction and clean, minimalist style, these clocks are perfect for adding vintage charm to modern interiors. Whether it’s a classic Synchronome master clock or an industrial wall clock, each piece tells a story of innovation and craftsmanship.
The enduring appeal of Synchronome clocks lies not only in their precision but also in their historical narrative, including their role in the golden age of electric timekeeping and their competition with Gents of Leicester. Incorporating one of these clocks into your space adds authenticity and character, as well as a tangible link to the evolution of timekeeping technology.
A reclaimed Synchronome clock is more than a timepiece—it’s a piece of horological history. These clocks embody the engineering brilliance that defined the Synchronome Company and reflect a bygone era of British industrial ingenuity. Their clean aesthetics, durability, and association with groundbreaking innovation make them a standout feature in any interior. Whether you’re drawn by their scientific legacy or their timeless design, Synchronome clocks remain an enduring testament to the artistry of electric timekeeping.
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info@industrialglow.co.uk
We ship worldwide weekly.
We aim to dispatch items within 3 working days depending if or what customisations are required to the order.
Our original items are reclaimed from industrial settings between the early 1900’s up to the 1970’s and due to the nature of their original life most of our product have received wear and tear which as a result have created the wonderful individual character of our pieces.
The pictures of our products are potentially sample pieces from a run or batch of products and we have tried our upmost to offer a true reflection of the product you will receive. However due to the nature and age of the products there will be variations between individual pieces, if you require more information on the condition of specific pieces please get in touch via our contact page.
