Smith of Derby

New clock at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:55:20 +0000

Those who know their football will be aware that the clock at Arsenal’s old Highbury ground was one of the great iconic images of its time; we are proud to still maintain the upkeep of the clock in its current position on the outside of the Emirates Stadium. We also built a half-size replica of the original clock and this sits proudly in the stadium’s ‘Diamond Club’.

Bob Betts, Smith of Derby managing director said “Naturally we are delighted to be maintaining our close relationship with Arsenal by securing the commission to provide a new clock for the Emirates Stadium; we’re confident that this will become just as popular a feature of the ground as the original clock was.”

DNA Clock

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 15:20:46 +0000

With a reputation for outstanding creativity in clock design, the Smith of Derby solution was driven by the need to develop a timepiece that would perfectly complement this prestigious research institute.

The clock takes its inspiration from the fact that every DNA is unique and this incredible design has its own very distinctive identity. At 7 metres high it has a DNA like appearance that delivers time with incredible accuracy and, for many, will be viewed as a work of art.

From the first meeting with Smith of Derby it was clear that they had the creative vision to interpret our brief and deliver an exciting and innovative design for this state of the art research faculty; however we were also impressed with their track record of technical and engineering excellence. At every stage of the project they have delivered everything that we’ve needed – on time and on budget. We couldn’t have asked for more.

The DNA Clock has a spiral centrepiece that rotates at one revolution per hour. The glass beads on the twelve horizontal bands light up as each hour is passed. Midday or midnight is signified as the top band lights up

We relished the opportunity to work with the university on such an important project. We always work very closely with our clients to produce a design that blends perfectly with the location, structure and theme of the building it is an integral part of. We are delighted with how the DNA clock fits perfectly within its environment. Bob Betts, Smith of Derby Managing Director

Royal Wedding Celebration Clock

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:13:29 +0000

PRESS RELEASE - MARCH 2011

Today two British icons announce a collaboration rarely seen since the great artesian works of the 17^th and 18^th century. Royal Crown Derby and Smith of Derby, two giants in their respective fields of porcelain and grand horology, have combined their craft to create the ‘Royal Wedding Celebration Clock’.

These two very British companies, both steeped in tradition with a rich and wonderful heritage that stretches back hundreds of years, share the same roots in the City of Derby, cradle of the industrial revolution.

Royal Crown Derby is no stranger to creating pieces to celebrate the Royal family’s greatest events, such as Jubilees and Royal Weddings. With 300 years of heritage behind the company, they have witnessed more global and national events than most, recording them in breathtaking and timeless, classical porcelain work.

Smith of Derby, since 1856, with their luxury brand of clock, ‘Whitehurst’, create horological pieces that adorn the greatest homes and palaces the world-over. John Whitehurst was one of the greatest thinkers of his day and pioneered artisan horological collaboration, working with friends such as Matthew Boulton and Franklin.

Today’s collaboration celebrates his true pioneering spirit and marks another historic chapter in this great family story. Creative collaboration is alive and well in the heart of England. The excitement in this announcement offers the discerning collector and admirer of British craftsmanship at its best, the opportunity to own a very limited horological treasure.

‘The Royal Wedding Celebration Clock’ is available in brass with 24ct gold plate. The bone china dial and cameo is decorated in wonderful Royal Crown Derby hand-finished livery. For the client who seeks something totally unique for their personal celebration, a customised cameo can be hand painted as required.

The new spring-driven timepiece – with its design based on the original turret clocks of the 17^th and 18^th century, incorporates much of the original engineering found in well known Whitehurst pieces. It is meticulously hand built, piece-by-piece, marrying new technology and three hundred year old techniques.

Wheels, crafted in brass, have been carefully hand polished through an eight-stage process and finished in a protective, 24 carat gold, to ensure a flawless result that can only be achieved through original techniques.

The Royal Wedding Celebration Clock is available at £9,950 (+ VAT).

As with all Whitehurst clocks, past and present, they feature the official Whitehurst trademark within the workings of the clock. Family crests can be hand engraved into the workings of the clock at the client’s request.

You will receive an official certificate of provenance & ownership upon delivery, wherever you are in the world. The care and support you receive is in keeping with the flawless Whitehurst experience. Each piece is designed to require minimal care from the owner.

To secure your item, click here to visit the Royal Crown Derby web site today for more details.

But remember, these pieces are strictly limited and unfortunately - ‘time waits for no man’.

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For further information or images, please contact Jane Arnold at Smith of Derby Ltd on 01332 257118, or email jane.arnold@smithofderby.com

For further information on Royal Crown Derby, please contact 01332 712850 or email ABushell@royalcrownderby.co.uk

Background

Royal Crown Derby Ltd

Established in 1750 producing English fine bone china tableware, giftware and collectables. In the early eighties the first paperweights were produced and have been a great success attracting increasing numbers of collectors from around the world.

The Collectors Guild was established in 1994 with its own magazine to provide collectors worldwide with interesting and exclusive information about the products we make and the people who create them.

The decoration of the Royal Wedding Celebration Clock

The Rose depicted is a Sweet Briar, a lovely old fashioned wild pink Rose. It represents Catherine as an English rose, emerging from the marriage of the sweethearts as a Princess. The sweet briar is beautifully scented.

The Shell is a central emblem of the coat-of-arms of Prince William.

Wheat explores the fertility and fruitfulness of the joining together and a sheath of wheat is the traditional symbol for weddings. It also symbolises plenty, a wish for the future prosperity of the country. A ribbon and bow ties the knot.

On the cameo is the monogram - intertwined C and W, with crown above.

The crown is Prince William's coronet as worn by the grandson of the Monarch. Finally, a symbol of heraldry is depicted by the circlet of gold showing on the outside with two strawberry leaves, two fleur-de-lis and a central cross patty.

Smith of Derby Ltd

The Smith of Derby team has been in the ‘business of time’ for over 150 years and has incredible testimonials from clients all around the world. There are few names in the world of grand horology that carry the reputation and heritage of Smith of Derby Limited. John Smith started his own account in 1856 and today the Company, Smith of Derby Limited, has created and now cares for over 4,500 of the world’s public and private timepieces in over 50 countries.

Other examples of Smith of Derby work includes architectural and kinetic art pieces, such as the revolving Globe above the London Coliseum Theatre and the famous clock on St Paul’s Cathedral, London. As a Group they operate with multiple and wholly owned brands. Their luxury brand is ‘Whitehurst’, with which they create unique timepieces for the most discerning clientele.

John Whitehurst – Scientist and clockmaker

John Whitehurst started making clocks in England in 1708. He was a clockmaker, innovator and renowned scientist; Whitehurst was a close friend of Benjamin Franklin, founding father of the United States of America. A Whitehurst timepiece was gifted to Franklin by Whitehurst as Franklin signed the ‘Declaration of Independence’.

Clockmaker to Royalty and some of the world’s greatest families, Whitehurst timepieces can be found in 33 Royal and Country Estates, including clients such as Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia and he created the famous ‘King’s Clock’ for King George III. Whitehurst died in 1788 and clockmakers and timepiece creators at Smith of Derby continue his work today creating the world’s grandest timepieces.

During the 18^th century, John Whitehurst, famous English industrial revolutionary, was working alongside some of the world’s greatest minds in his hometown of Derby, including Benjamin Franklin, to create most advanced and aesthetically challenging timepieces.

This is a standard that remains at the heart of Whitehurst, where, to this day, expert craftsmen in Derby are still practising his art of hand making some the most advanced, precise and mechanically beautiful clocks in the world.

And now, Whitehurst unveils its brand new timepiece in collaboration with Royal Crown Derby, Whitehurst, it seems, is again creating heirlooms of the future. Many of Whitehurst’s original pieces can only be admired in museums, stately homes and palaces. Today, luxury Whitehurst clocks are available to order and are most definitely ‘back in commission’.

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For further information or images, please contact Jane Arnold on

01332 257118 or email jane.arnold@smithofderby.com

or Amanda Bushell on 01332 712850 or email ABushell@royalcrownderby.co.uk

From the world's largest to the smallest.....

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 13:48:26 +0000

The British clockmaking company behind the world’s largest mechanical clock has now created the smallest, to celebrate the 40^th Anniversary of the UAE.

Smith of Derby, world renowned clockmaker, has produced a limited edition gift clock using the same design more normally found on original turret clocks of the 17^th and 18^th century, and more frequently used on clock towers or in stately homes.

The National Day Celebration Clock was on show for the first time at the Index Exhibition between October 22^nd– 25^th, where Smith of Derby exhibited it along with their luxury Islamic Prayer Clock and other clocks.

The UAE celebrates its 40^th Anniversary on December 2^nd 2011, with a range of high profile events planned. This year also marks 40 years of Smith of Derby working in the region designing and installing public clocks, tower clocks, turret clocks and luxury clocks.

The company commissioned the leading engraver David Whyman, whose clients include The British Royal family, the Sultan of Brunei and the Sultan of Oman, to engrave the crystal dial of the clock. The clock, which stands at 42cm, also features a hand engraved crystal glass cameo of the UAE Falcon.

Run by Smith of Derby’s renowned Whitehurst movement in gold plate, the clock can be personalised to include a family crest at the client’s request.

Buyers will receive an official certificate of provenance and ownership for their clock.. All clocks come with three years’ parts and labour warranty.

With a 12.8 metre diameter dial, and a Whitehurst mechanical clock movement 3metres in length, the Harmony Clock Tower, in Ganzhou, China, is officially the world’s largest pendulum-regulated clock, whilst this National Day Celebration Clock works with the same clockmaking engineering, albeit scaled down.

Kevin Litchfield, Smith of Derby’s Head of Design, said: “Having created the world’s largest traditional mechanical clock, it’s fantastic for us to use our traditional clockmaking skills to create a beautiful clock which can sit comfortably on a mantelpiece.

“We were delighted to collaborate with David Whyman to carry out the engraving on the clock – it gives the clock that added air of exclusivity.”

The National Day Celebration Clock adds to the Whitehurst brand, named after Derby clockmaker John Whitehurst, which can already be found in 33 royal and country estates, including clients such as Catherine the Great, the Empress of Russia and King George III.

Being limited edition, customers are urged to place orders early for this exquisite luxury clock by contacting:

Jane Arnold, Head of Marketing at

jane.arnold@smithofderby.com or

Tel: + 44 (0) 7800 689410 or + 44 (0) 1332 257118.

More details of the National Day Celebration Clock and Smith of Derby products can be found at www.smithofderby.com/brochures

Whitehurst Anniversary Celebrations

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:28:47 +0000

Time is of the essence for Derby in 2013. It’s 300 years since the birth of one of Britain’s greatest innovators, and the city will be working against the clock to introduce the rest of the UK and the world, to clockmaker, engineer and geologist - John Whitehurst. With perfect timing, it is also the 200^th anniversary of John Smith, a former employee of Whitehurst’s company.

John Whitehurst was born in Congleton, Cheshire, in 1713. The son of a watch and clockmaker, he moved to Derby around 1736. Here, he made clocks, thermometers, barometers, and other philosophical instruments, and also pursued an interest in both engineering and geology. Derby has long been a hot spot of genius and invention, and at the same time that Whitehurst was making his name in clock making, Strutt was busy with his new stocking frame, and Duesbury was helping to establish an English ceramics industry.

The clock making traditions continue today in our workshops in Derby and Whitchurch. This has been helped by the fact that Smith of Derby acquired some of the other best known clockmakers in Britain - including the oldest clockmakers in the world, J.B.Joyce & Company of Whitchurch, responsible for some of the most iconic clocks in the world.

A number of events will be held around the City to celebrate these important times – including a special evensong service at Derby Cathedral on Sunday 28th April, 6pm.

As part of the service local historian Max Craven will speak and give further details of Whitehurst’s life.

Potter clock at London station

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 15:00:59 +0000

A classic projecting clock that appeared in the Harry Potter films, now sits in Smith of Derby’s factory waiting for refurbishment.

The clock is over two metres in diameter, and like many others of this style of clock, was used as the standard clock by railway companies in Victorian times.

To read the full article about the clock in Arab news click here.

To learn more about our Projecting Clocks and services click here.

To register your interest contact:

jane.arnold@smithofderby.com or

tel +44 07800 689 410

Smith of Derby on Channel 4 News

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:57:47 +0000

Researchers for Channel 4 News approached the Derby-based clockmaking company for our view of the latest GDP (Gross Domestic Profit) figures for the economy.

Bob’s message was that Smith of Derby is ahead of plan in their Traditional markets in the UK and a pipeline of future opportunity continues to build in our international markets.

The recent crisis in the Euro Zone however, Bob says, cast doubt on the speed of recovery in home markets generally.

To view the full interview click here.

Learn more here about our products and services.

To register your interest in any of our products and services contact:

jane.arnold@smithofderby.com or

tel 07800 689 410

Swiss Glockenspiel returns

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:00:45 +0000

One of London’s best-loved landmarks has been returned to Leicester Square, reviving a sight and sound that has given pleasure to millions of Londoners and visitors. The Glockenspiel that rang out from the corner of the Swiss Centre has been returned as a redesigned free-standing unit and will be formally inaugurated on 28 November.

The original Glockenspiel – consisting of 27 bells, an astronomical clock and a procession of 23 farmers herding their cows to Alpine pasture – was given to the City of Westminster on its 400th anniversary in 1985 by Switzerland and Liechtenstein as a token of centuries of friendship. Redevelopment of the Swiss Centre from 2008 entailed its removal, but it was a condition of planning approval that the Glockenspiel should return to the square.

The historic world-leading clockmaking company, Smith of Derby, was asked by the developer, McAleer & Rushe, and Switzerland Tourism, to design and create the clock from a basic concept. The brief required it to retain a strong Swiss identity and harmonise with the surrounding buildings and urban context.

The Glockenspiel will be formally inaugurated at 12.30pm on Monday 28 November by Councillor Susie Burbridge, the Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Westminster, HE Mr Anton Thalmann, Ambassador of Switzerland to the UK, and Mr Urs Eberhard, Executive Vice President of Switzerland Tourism. A past President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr Adolf Ogi, is honouring the occasion with his presence.

The ceremony will include a demonstration of the way that the Glockenspiel has been designed so that it can be played live by plugging in a keyboard. Six Alphorn players will be placed on various roofs around Leicester Square, some hidden so that people in Leicester Square will wonder where the sound is coming from. At street level traditional bell-playing folklore groups from various parts of Switzerland will parade towards the Glockenspiel and create a circle around the guests. The Glockenspiel will give solo performances and in unison with the bell-ringers.

Speeches of welcome will be made by the Lord Mayor of Westminster, the Swiss Ambassador, Mr Adolf Ogi and Urs Eberhard of Switzerland Tourism.

To read the full press release click here.

Learn more about Smith of Derby products here.

Contact:

jane.arnold@smithofderby.com or tel:

01332 257118 or 07800 689 410

100 'Objects of Desire'

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:47:21 +0000

The world's most exclusive Islamic Prayer Clock, recently launched by the British clockmaker Smith of Derby, has been included in the prestigious publication 'Objects of Desire'.

The book, produced by Commercial Interior Design and featuring 100 luxury and inspirational products and items, was unveiled this week at a glitzy ceremony at the Ayyam Gallery, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Bob Betts, Smith of Derby Managing Director, said he was 'thrilled' at its inclusion, adding "To make it into such a high-end publication so soon after the clock's launch is a testimony to the work, research and design that the team at Smith of Derby has put into the timepiece.

It is great to see our Prayer Clock sitting next to the most elaborate chandelier in the world, made by Faustig, which hangs in the Grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque Abu Dhabi."

The coffee-table book's launch event was attended by more than 150 industry experts from the world of architecture and interior design.

Jenny Eagle, Editor of Commercial Interior Design, said the prayer clock was selected because it was "unique" and desirable to people in the UAE.

To view the article please click here

Historic Pierhead Clock back in Cardiff...

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 14:05:24 +0000

The historic Pierhead clock that stood in Cardiff docks for nearly 80 years was unveiled on Tuesday November 8^th, 2011, after being restored to its former glory by world renowned clockmakers, Smith of Derby. A special parade was held to mark the unveiling of the Pierhead Clock, which returned to Cardiff after an absence of nearly 40 years, including a Royal British Legion marching band.

The restoration of the 114-year-old clock was a special moment for the firm’s engineers as the original was made by Potts of Leeds, which is owned by Smith of Derby, when installed in the Welsh capital’s Pierhead building in 1897.

It was auctioned off by British Rail in 1973 and then sold on to an American collector, Alan Heldman, three years later. In 2004 he decided that the mechanism should be returned from Alabama to Cardiff, and having been restored, its unveiling will mark the completion of major city centre improvements in Cardiff.

Eric Beardow, Senior Clockmaker at Smith of Derby, said the restoration work included replacing lost parts and making a completely new strike second wheel, part of the gear structure which allows the bell to be struck, which engineers were able to do using original Potts parts. The clock was then repainted in traditional Potts livery of burgundy and black. “We found an old photograph showing a clock of a similar vintage which allowed us to repaint this one in traditional Potts colours,” he added.

New dials, a bell, hammer, gears and dialworks have also been used, as well as the inclusion of the latest technology in a pendulum regulator to help preserve accuracy, and an automatic winding system.

Bob Betts, Managing Director of Smith of Derby, said: “The challenge was how to take an antique clock and adhere to all the regulations surrounding antiques whilst creating an iconic clock for the people of Cardiff. There is a great story and history to the clock and, being one of our own originally, to see it up and running again is something everyone at Smith of Derby is very proud of."

A piece of art housing the clock mechanism has been created by the artist Marianne Forrest, and the clock will be surrounded by a metallic question mark, providing information about the history of the clock and the docks area. It also houses three replica monkeys, which will strike hourly chimes, which have local historical significance. The clock will stand in the spot where, in the late 18th Century, ships would have operated before Cardiff Docks were built. Cardiff Council Leader, Councillor Rodney Berman, described the new clock as “a really impressive piece of public art”. Pat Thompson, Commercial Development Manager for Cardiff City Council said to Bob Betts. “Thanks for all your efforts and those of your team, not forgetting Marianne. It is a credit to your company and will be a key meeting point for the people of Cardiff.”

To read the write-up on the BBC’s web site click here.

Learn more about Smith of Derby’s products and services here.

Contact:

sharon.thornhill@smithofderby.com

tel: 01332 345569

Maxwell's book marks time at city's famous clock company

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 09:05:26 +0000

Derby Telegraph reports on 11^th April 2012……

There are very few things in which Derby can genuinely claim to enjoy a world-class reputation but clockmaking is one of them.

John Whitehurst established Derby as a clockmaking centre of excellence in the 18th century but it was one of his firm's skilled craftsman who would carry on that tradition and take to the far corner of the globe.

World-leading clockmaker Smith of Derby has its handiwork displayed in many famous places, such as at St Paul's Cathedral, in London. The firm's story is told in a new book by Maxwell Craven.

From the 1980s to the present day, the Smith family of Derby has crafted timepieces from family heirlooms sitting on mantelpieces to magnificent works of precision engineering at St Paul's Cathedral.

That remarkable story has been told in rich detail by Derby historian Maxwell Craven in the new book ‘The Smiths of Derby - A Journey Through Time’.

He says: "This is not a boring company history. There's a lot of anecdotal material from what is a fascinating family.

"As they were running around all over the place installing these clocks, they had all these adventures. The current president Nicholas Smith's father also kept a journal, so we have all these things written down….

………”John Smith's firm was associated for more than 130 years with the Works on Queen Street before moving to Alfreton Road in 1999. It has been responsible for a series of landmark jobs from the Cathedral Quarter Hotel Clock in Derby to the Tower Clock at Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman........”

Maxwell says that the clock they are most proud of is the Cathedral Clock at St Paul's, London.

To read the full article click here.

‘The Smiths of Derby - A Journey Through Time’ is available at Waterstones in Derby at £25 or from the publishers:

Smith of Derby Group Ltd

112 Alfreton Road

Derby

DE21 4AU

T: 01332 345569

To learn more about Smith of Derby products and services click here or

T: 01332 345569

E: enquiries@smithofderby.com

Behind the scenes

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:01:55 +0000

We have been leaders in the expression of time for over 150 years; creating and maintaining time across the globe, the depth and diversity of our business is vast. From the smallest village church clock to the some of the world's most famous iconic timepieces, you'll find that Smith of Derby is proud to be involved.

Take a quick look around the Smith of Derby Works.....

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To learn more about Smith of Derby products and services click here.

To register your interest contact:

E: enquiries@smithofderby.com

T: 01332 345569

Smith of Derby are recruiting

Wed, 08 May 2013 13:28:49 +0000

AutoCAD Inventor Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer - Inventor (latest version preferred)

The Job

• Full time role
• Based in Derby
• Using Inventor to design small to medium sized product from concept to installation
• Design of components and assemblies utilising varied materials and techniques
• Generation of models assemblies and detail drawings
• Liaise with both internal and external suppliers and customers
• Keeping the Inventor Suite up to date
• Carrying out any modifications and relevant paperwork
• Working with the Vault

The Person

• Minimum 5 years Inventor Experience
• A good understanding of drawing practises
• Understanding of manufacturing principles and techniques for a broad range of materials
• Experience of sheet metal work, machining and component design
• Able to work as team member as well as on own initiative
• Design of rotating equipment and gears an advantage
• A design innovator with a creative passion

Salary dependant on experience and skill set. Please forward your career history and skill set and salary expectation to Kevin.Litchfield@smithofderby.com

Fitter Machinist

The Job

• Full time role 39 hours pw with the opportunity to work overtime as and when required
• Based in Derby
• Experienced time served Manual fitter / machinist with the ability to operate milling, turning, drilling and gear cutting machinery
• Responsible for machining precision components and assembly work

The Person

• Time served machinist
• Formal apprenticeship in mechanical engineering
• Recognised qualification in mechanical engineering
• Basic mechanical aptitude
• Previous experience of working on conventional / CNC Machines

Salary dependant on experience and skill set. Please forward your career history and skill set and salary expectation to Kevin.Litchfield@smithofderby.com

Blair Atholl Castle Clock

Mon, 21 May 2012 14:36:58 +0000

When a fire destroyed the clock tower at the historic Blair Castle in 2011, there were fears that the famous clocks would be lost forever.

The tower is a main feature of the 13^th Century castle in Perthshire, which is one of Scotland’s major tourist attractions, and was devastated in the blaze.

But thanks to Smith of Derby, the clocks have been rebuilt and are better than ever, using the most modern technology behind the face of centuries of history.

The four independent clocks are run off a calculated control unit, with automatic seasonal updates, and are designed to run in powers cuts.

Tony Charlesworth, Smith of Derby’s Scotland-based Technical Sales Engineer, said: “It’s a really clever bit of kit; it keeps running through all weathers and power cuts. The Castle can be in complete darkness for two or three days yet the clock will still be working to the correct time.”

Tony said that the original clocks were too damaged to be saved. “We were asked to see if we could rebuild the original but it was too damaged.

“We replaced the old with the modern, substituting copper for the facing instead of the original wood, ensuriing both longevity and an amazing finish, as well as incorporating the existing hands with the new mechanism.”

The clock tower, a Grade A listed building, had to undergo substantial renovation to restore it to its former glory.

Smith of Derby has looked after the Blair Castle, near the village of Blair Atholl in Perthshire, prior to the fire, for over 30 years, and will continue to look after it for the foreseeable future.

For more information on Smith of Derby products and services:

click here

E: enquiries@smithofderby.com

T: 01332 345 569

BBC East Midlands Today reports on the Global Export Market

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:54:39 +0000

East Midlands Today went to Shanghai in China, the epicentre of the the world's second largest economy, to report on the global export market......

East Asia Union (Holding) Group Ltd turned to Smith of Derby for their signature timepiece and their Chairman, Mr Xu, praised the company for its product and services.

Bob Betts, Managing Director of Smith of Derby Ltd, said of business in China....."it will probably grow to 30-40% of my business and who knows, if I think the opportunity is there to do more we'll keep investing and we'll get closer friends"......

2012 is the 'Year of the Dragon' in the Chinese calendar and 'good for business'.

To register your interest contact:

T: + 44 1332 345569

E: enquiries@smithofderby.com

Watch the full report......

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Guildford Guild Hall Clock Autowound

Mon, 28 May 2012 17:35:58 +0000

It’s the symbol of Guildford – the Guildhall clock projecting over the High Street. But few know exactly how this ancient timepiece works, or that modern technology is now being used in a bid to keep it ticking ’24/7′.

Stories have been circulating over the past few weeks that the old clock is not keeping time and that it’s something to do with it now being ‘automated’.

David Rose of St Catherine’s Village was concerned and decided to investigate. He has written about his findings and published them on the community web site.

Jill Draper, Heritage Manager, Economic Development for Guildford Borough Council is delighted and has directed a few people to it after they’ve complained about the clock being wrong. Jill said “It makes all the difference when they can read about the situation and I think they find it fascinating when they see the photos of the mechanism and hear about the winding”.

For many years the clock has been serviced and cared for by Smith of Derby – a firm who has been in business for over 150 years, and who in recent years has added an increasing number of automated systems to the clocks it services.

The clock mechanism in the Guildhall is old (although beautifully made – some original blacksmith hammer marks are still discernible) and a few problems with timekeeping have been occurring for years. Nick Booth of Guildford Museum has been keeping an eye on the clock mechanism since the autowind system was installed and has been working with engineers from Smith of Derby to iron out a few teething problems.

Nick added: “We have had to allow a period of time for the autowind system to settle down. Smith of Derby, with their special knowledge of this clock, has been very helpful.

So, when you are checking your digital battery-powered watch against the Guildhall clock, bear in mind that if it is a few minutes out, it’s down to its long history. It’s lasted a lot lot longer than the timepiece on your wrist ever will, and, with the care it is getting, will continue to do so.

To read the full article click here.

For more information on Smith of Derby autowinding click here.

To contact us:

T: 01332 345 569

E: enquiries@smithofderby.com

Clocking Up 20 Years!

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 15:26:17 +0000

Smith of Derby is always keen to work with our local schools and colleges as we believe in nurturing new young talent who often bring inspiration and fresh ideas to the table.

We are delighted to report on the progress of a project we have been working on with Yr 12 students from Landau Forte.

Landau Forte’s Special 20th Year Anniversary Edition of ‘NEWSLINK’ featured this article:

Lauren Collings, Year 12 reports…..

'As you will be aware from the last issue of Newslink, we were set a project to commemorate 20 years of learning at Landau Forte College by designing a clock for the reception area of the main building in conjunction with Smith of Derby, a local clock making firm with a history spanning well over a century. After our second visit to Smith of Derby we were all extremely enthused and really keen to start developing the details of the concept we had brainstormed.

Since our last article we have been hard at work finalising the details of the clock. Working together we drew out the design using Computer Aided Design. This helped us greatly to work accurately and it allowed us to quickly see if the design was working or to make amendments. Using Google Sketch-up we were even able to construct a realistic representation of how the clock would eventually look in the space above reception.

When we were happy with the final design we produced a range of graphic boards to take with us back to Smith of Derby to present to Mr Bob Betts, the Managing Director of Smith of Derby. Mr Betts was very complimentary about the work and before we had time to worry about it, we were presenting the design to his chief designer, graphic designer and structural engineer. There were also very impressed with both our designs and our level of professionalism and it felt really good to hear this coming from qualified designers working in industry.

The only thing remaining was to get the design signed off by Mrs Coffey and we arranged a date and time to present the concept. Mrs Coffey was thrilled with the design and asked us to present the design to the board of governors.

The design is now with Smith of derby and they have started manufacturing the product. We are excited to see what our hard work will look like after the summer holidays when the clock is finally installed into the reception area.'

Bondholders Celebrate 20th Anniversary

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:10:08 +0000

Smith of Derby has been working with students of Landau Forte College, to create a time piece to mark the 20th anniversary of the college. Our designers worked with product design students to create a clock that would be iconic, and celebrate this event.

The unveiling took place last Thursday at the college, where many students, staff, parents, and others involved in the college gathered to celebrate this event.

Guests including founding sponsors Martin Landau and Sir Rocco Forte joined staff and pupils to celebrate the unveiling, with special performances from the drama department. There were also speeches from Chairman Peter Ashworth, as well as Chief Executive of the college's charitable trust, and College Principal Liz Coffey.

Click here to read more.

Church Funding - an Issue?

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 10:24:35 +0000

Fundraising is something that is part and parcel of parish life.

Churches are having to compete harder than ever to raise money.

If you are raising funds for major projects such as building works or the creation of new facilities, please click here for our latest fact sheet and learn how the information provided has proved to be successful for Smith of Derby Group clients.

The New Celeste Collection

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:24:20 +0000

Take a few moments of your time to explore the new collection from the Smith of Derby design studio - the Celeste Clocks collection, a maritime-inspired range of clock designs.

Experience for yourself, contemporary or classical, clocks and features, limited only by your imagination.

Allow us to bring your design to life or take on the challenge to propose a clock or feature to your specification.

Memorable results, demonstrated time after time, where inspiration thrives.

Click Here to view the Smith of Derby clock gallery and the Celeste collection.

To register your interest contact Kevin Litchfield:

T: +44 (0) 7800 689 404

E: kevin.litchfield@smithofderby.com

To learn more about Smith of Derby products and services click here.

Theresa May MP opens new village clock in Sonning

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 09:48:47 +0000

A traditional village clock marking the Diamond Jubilee has been unveiled by MP Theresa May.

The clock, made by the bespoke Smith of Derby group, was installed for around £8,500 thanks largely to generous donations from the village.

The Sonning MP visited Pearson Hall in Pearson Road, Sonning, in October to pull a Union Flag from the commemorative clock.

The Rev Jamie Taylor said: “The parish commemorated the jubilee in many spectacular ways like festivals and parties.

To find out more and to read the full article on www.getwokingham.co.uk, click here.

Restoration Time in Merthyr Tydfil

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 13:38:43 +0000

Merthyr Tydfil Old Town Hall is currently undergoing restoration, as part of the building's £8m restoration project, we were commissioned to provide four new clock faces which are nearly a foot across.

As well as the clock faces we also provided a replacement mechanism for the clock, the last one was installed in the early 1960's and replaced the original clock that dated back to when the Old Town Hall was built in the 1890's.

The Grade II listed Old Town Hall – owned by Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association is being transformed into a centre for arts, culture, heritage and creative industries. The building will also have a brand new paved area at the front and the roof will be tiled with Heather Blue slate from the Penrhyn Quarry in North Wales.

We raced to King's Cross Station's rescue

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:34:20 +0000

With the deadline fast approaching for the opening of a major station refurbishment at King's Cross in London. Coupled with a long list of dignitaries lined up to attend, Network Rail realised that a clock on platform 1 dating back to 1887 hadn’t worked for 20 years and needed a complete renovation.

The Smith of Derby team had to work around the clock to renovate the timepiece back to its former glory ensuring that all passengers made their trains on time!

After completing the restoration, the team were not phased by time pressure and ensured that it was a job well done.

Passing of Time

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:50:20 +0000

A group of ex pupils and staff decided it was time for action when they found out the old Noel-Baker school was being pulled down. They wanted a reminder of their happy school days and felt that a clock to note the “passing of time” would be a good idea. The group raised just over £2000, with many of the contributions being donated from former pupils. With the modern age of social media, news spread fast and donations were even received from Canada and Australia. The colours of the clock were choosen to match the old school uniform, twelve red dots increasing in size to represent the numbers and striped yellow and grey hands.

100 year old clock unveiled

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 14:38:30 +0000

We were delighted and privileged to restore the gatehouse clock at Bishopthorpe Palace back to its former glory. The clock was manufactured by W Potts & Sons Ltd (part of the Smith of Derby group) in 1913 for Archbishop Cosmo Lang, the current Archbishop Dr John Sentamu, spoke of his delight at setting the clock and following in Cosmo Lang’s footsteps.

"Generations of local people have grown up with this clock as part of community life, passing it daily on the way to school or work,” he said. “This restoration, which has been done with great care, is wonderful to see. Hopefully this clock will continue to bring joy to others as it chimes for the next 100 years."

Historic Clock at the School Yard

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:28:39 +0000

Historic clock winds up for first time in decades at The School Yard

The original 150 year old clock which has marked time for Harborne residents since the late 1800's has been fully refurbished with ground-breaking horological technology as part of a £30,000 restoration programme.

Originally manufactured by John Smith and Sons of Derby (now known as Smith Of Derby), the restoration of the clock at Harborne Clock Tower has been completed by the same firm. The works to the listed tower and the clocks are part of the £5m The School Yard scheme by EDG Property, which will see the redevelopment of the historic school building into restaurants and a new residential building.

The clock, which is positioned atop the landmark tower with four seperate dials , has a flat bed hour striking movement that drives the four dials through a double three legged gravity escapement. The work has the full restoration of the four dials as well as routine maintenance. The work has the full restoration of the four dials as well as routine maintenance . The four clock faces have been modernised for the new century with illuminated backgrounds.

Neil Edginton, EDG Property, said :"The clock is an intrinsic part of our redevelopment of The School Yard scheme and of Harborne as a place. It is a real landmark so its careful restoration was of prime importance. There is a lovely synergy in working with Smith of Derby after all these years and as we believe that the clock hasn't struck the hour since the mid - 1980's, we are delighted that it will once again mark time in Harborne village.

Oxford Tourist attraction receives TLC

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 14:36:14 +0000

Carfax Tower’s iconic chiming quarter boys and clock are in our clock works undergoing restoration.The figures are named “quarter boys” because they strike the chimes every 15 minutes, a spectacle which brings tourists to the tower in their scores.

Oxford City Council cultural development manager Ceri Gorton said: “Carfax Tower is a much-loved tourist attraction and it is important for our cultural heritage to preserve these historic figures as well as all that comes with the tower.The quarter boys will be taken down and restored to their former glory. The end process will see a much improved Carfax Tower, which we hope the people of Oxford will continue to enjoy, along with the many tourists who visit the city each year.”

The figures along with the bells, clock and clock hands are being restored.There will also be some stone cleaning and decoration works carried out at the tower.The quarter boys’ blue, scarlet and gold paint will be refreshed during the restoration work, the project is expected to be finished by the end of May.

City council senior building surveyor Jack Bradley said: “This is a really interesting project and I’m pleased to be involved in it.The quarter boys are a famous part of Oxford’s heritage and it is great that we are bringing them back to their former glory.”

Marks and Spencer Kirkgate Market

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:39:57 +0000

Marks and Spencer’s are re-visiting their past; they have opened a Victorian stall in Kirkgate Market, Leeds where the brand first started out over 130 years ago.

The Marks & Spencer stall is right besides the famous M&S clock in the 1904 building of Kirkgate Market.

You will be able to enjoy a coffee, learn about the heritage of the M&S brand and buy branded merchandise. As the new stall launches an M&S Heritage trail will also be launched with Leeds City Council. The self guided walk will start at the market stall and finish at the company’s archive, taking in places of historic interest for the company around the city.

Marks and Spencer Kirkgate Market

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:13:30 +0000

Marks and Spencer’s are re-visiting their past; they have opened a Victorian stall in Kirkgate Market, Leeds where the brand first started out over 130 years ago.

The Marks & Spencer stall is right besides the famous M&S clock in the 1904 building of Kirkgate Market.