Electric mystery clock by Smiths English Clocks
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1938
This electric mystery clock was produced by Smiths English Clocks Ltd, based in Cricklewood, England, circa 1938. The design consists of two squares of glass housed within a metal frame, which is mounted upon a rectangular metal base.
The dial features numerals transferred into the inside surface of the front glass pane. The clock is powered by an electric synchronous movement contained within the base. To operate the hands, the motor oscillates an internal piece of glass that engages a ratchet mechanism, which subsequently turns the minute hand. The underside of the base contains manufacturer inscriptions regarding patent information and operating instructions, noting that the clock starts automatically when connected to an electrical current.
This item was acquired by the museum through a loan and subsequent bequest from Mr. John Askew in September 1940.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Date
- circa 1938
- Type
- Mystery clock
- Maker
- Smiths English Clocks Ltd
- Mechanism
- Electric synchronous movement
- Dimensions
- 16 cm x 7 cm x 20 cm
- Provenance
- Acquired via Mr John Askew
- Place recorded
- England
- Patent Information
- Made under English patents 374713, 366710, 11058/34
- Maker / attribution
- Smiths English Clocks Ltd
- Registration Number
- ST 21430
Design
- Visible features
- • Rectangular metal base supports a square glass-cased clock head • Numerals 1 through 12 displayed in individual squares on glass • Central hand assembly appears to hold hour and minute hands • Overall dimensions are 16 cm length, 7 cm width, and 20 cm height
- Movement and Operation
- The clock operates using an electric synchronous movement integrated into the base. This motor provides the necessary power to oscillate an internal piece of glass. The oscillation of the internal glass serves a specific mechanical purpose: it operates a ratchet system that effectively advances the minute hand. The base also features instructional text regarding the automatic starting sequence upon connection to a power current.
- Case and Dial Construction
- The mystery clock utilizes a minimalist construction style comprising two primary squares of glass held within a simple metal frame. This housing is supported by a solid rectangular metal base that conceals the electrical components necessary for the timepiece to function. The dial layout deviates from conventional designs by displaying individual numerals within squares. These numerals are transferred onto the internal surface of the front glass pane, creating an impression of suspension for the hands.
- Provenance and Documentation
- The clock is associated with the manufacturer Smiths English Clocks Ltd, based in Cricklewood, England. The object carries registration number ST 21430 and is documented with several patent references inscribed on the base. The object entered the museum collection following a loan and subsequent bequest from Mr. John Askew, which was finalized on September 9, 1940.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Specific patent model identification beyond the listed numbers
- Research required: Functional status or electrical safety as of current date