Our cherished clocks don’t just tell the time — they are heritage and heirloom pieces that appeal to enthusiasts, collectors and families that cherish their traditions. Every timepiece, from the majestic grandfather clocks to the dainty mantel clocks, has a unique story to tell.
Many antique clocks face the inevitable wear and tear that comes with age — or they might have been in storage for a while and need adjusting. Repairing clocks isn’t just about keeping them in working condition: it’s a labour of love dedicated to honouring the skills of the artisans who created them.
A repair will involve a combination of understanding the intricate mechanisms of the clockwork, metalwork and woodwork. Most clock repairers can also help with barometers or automata, as they share similar mechanisms. If a clock is on the larger side, there are experts for steeple and turret clocks too.
ome horologists can trace their business history back to the 19th century, such as William Haycock Clockmakers (1826) and Constable Clocks (1873). Rupert Parsons’s claim to fame is that one of his ancestors built the world’s largest telescope in 1845. More recently, in 2021, Ashley Streather started Chalfont Clocks, after working for Carlton Clocks and Motionwork in London. He now runs a team of 3 other full-time horologists to tackle a wide range of repairs. “We take on any clock restoration from a 1930-‘s Westminster chiming mantel clock to longcase clocks and 17th-century verge mantel clocks.” Ashley confirms the emotional connection people have with their timepieces: “From the reaction of our customers, it is clear that clocks hold a special place in people’s hearts. We have had customers cry when they heard their clock chime again for the first time in decades or the memory of a grandparent comes back to them. This makes the job feel so rewarding.”
Last year, Chalfont Clocks restored a French table regulator, which had been as an exam piece by a graduate to become a master horologist in 1901. Every component had been either gilded or silver plated, so it was a truly exceptional piece.
Restoration of a French table regulator from 1901 © Chalfont Clocks 2023
In our fast-paced and digital world, our heritage clocks and timepieces serve as poignant reminders of beauty and precision. Don’t let your clock sit idle — find a local repairer to give it some TLC.
