Art Deco Wall Clock in Bakelite Case by Gents of Leicester

An Early Art Deco Bakelite Wall Clock by Gents of Leicester.

Made in England circa 1930.

Unusual and rarely seen early 1934 design with two part bakelite case and bakelite face with cream colour arabic numerals and trademark Gents of Leicester arrow hands.

Gents Model Number C201

Beautiful ageing to the paintwork and face giving this wonderful clock even more character.

Some small amounts of damage to the bakelite but still a fab functional feature wall piece that will suit any style of decor and interior design especially for those looking for an original art deco piece.

The clock came from a deceased estate with a large collection totalling 36 Gents of Leicester clocks, the full Birmingham Collection can be found here.

Gents bakelite clocks were generally smaller in dimensions offered from a 6 inch up to a 12 inch dial with many variation in shape and dial style, the octagonal bakelite clocks were offered in the 6 inch dial only and were modelled C110.

The clocks original hands have been convert to run on a modern battery quartz movement which runs from a single AA battery.

As a guide to the size and scale of the clock our wooden model is life size at 6ft 1" tall

The Use of Bakelite Plastics in Mid-Century Britain

Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic, revolutionised manufacturing and design during mid-century Britain. Developed in 1907 by Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland, Bakelite quickly became a popular material due to its versatility, heat resistance, and electrical non-conductivity. During the mid-20th century, it was extensively used in various industries, from household items and telephones to radios, clocks, and electrical insulators. Its unique properties allowed for mass production of durable and affordable goods.

In addition to its practical uses, Bakelite was celebrated for its aesthetic qualities. It could be moulded into various shapes and dyed in a range of colours, although rich brown and black hues were most common. This made it ideal for creating stylish and sleek designs that epitomised the modernist aesthetic of the era. Bakelite clocks, like the Gents of Leicester model, combined functionality with a timeless, sophisticated look that remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts today.