Early Antique Timber Cased Pul-Syn-Etic Slave Clock by Gent & Co Limited, Leicester
IG221237
A very early Gent Pul-Syn-Etic slave clock in a sectional timber case with brass bezel, the dial carrying the early Pul-Syn-Etic Electric · Gent & Co Limited, Leicester markings. It retains its original early slave movement and dates to circa 1915–1920.
The Case
The case is of sectional timber construction in a medium brown, polished to a soft sheen, and fronted by a polished brass bezel that has mellowed and darkened gently with age. On the top of the case are the two original brass screw terminals by which the clock was connected into the impulse circuit. Remnants of two original paper labels survive on the back; the centre label reads Impulse Clock — if any complaint, return to the maker, its serial number now faded.
The Dial
The dial carries the early Gent & Co Limited, Leicester and Pul-Syn-Etic Electric markings. The paint used on these early dials was prone to flaking, and this dial shows extensive flaking consistent with that, leaving a characterful, honest surface that has been left untouched.
The Movement
The original early Pul-Syn-Etic slave movement is retained. Its construction marks it as early production: the components are solid brass throughout, and the ratchet wheel is of solid section. Later Gent movements adopted lighter materials and drilled, smaller wheels to save weight; the earliest examples, like this one, are noticeably heavier in construction.
Gent of Leicester — Pul-Syn-Etic
Gent & Co. Ltd of Leicester developed the Pul-Syn-Etic system to synchronise networks of slave dials from a single master clock, each electrical impulse advancing the slave dial. The system was specified across British railways, hospitals, factories, schools and public buildings. Timber-cased examples pre-date the pressed metal and Bakelite housings of later production.
Power
The clock retains its original slave movement and can be run as an original slave from an impulse driver, supplied with associated parts at additional cost. Alternatively, the hands can be fitted to a modern quartz movement. As an early movement, retaining it in original form is recommended where possible. Please enquire.
Ideal For
- Collectors of early British electric and horological artefacts
- Edwardian and period interiors
- Railway and institutional heritage settings
- Study, library and workspace environments
Technical Specification
Maker
Gent & Co. Ltd, Leicester, England
Type
Pul-Syn-Etic slave clock, original impulse movement retained
Origin
England
Era
Circa 1915–1920
Stock No.
IG221237
Diameter
11¼ inch (286mm)
Dial
8½ inch (216mm)
Depth
3¼ inch (83mm)
Weight
3 kg
Case
Sectional timber construction, medium brown polished finish, polished brass bezel, original brass connection terminals
Movement
Original early Pul-Syn-Etic slave movement, solid brass construction
Power
Original slave operation via impulse driver, or quartz conversion, please enquire
UK Export HS Code
9105 21 00
Condition
Fully refurbished and sympathetically cleaned. Polished timber case with a soft sheen; brass bezel gently darkened with age. Original dial with extensive period flaking. Remnants of original labels to the back.
Shipping
Worldwide shipping available — please enquire for a quote. All shipments are fully insured through Secursus.
