Mantel clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1930-1940
This is an Art Deco synchronous electric mantel clock housed in a compression-moulded brown Bakelite (phenol formaldehyde) case. The case features stepped geometric styling with rounded contours and vertical ribbed mouldings flanking the central dial and extending over the upper section. The circular clock face is set behind a round bezel, displaying Arabic numerals and hands driven by an electric mechanism. The construction includes a cardboard back, internal electrical components, and an attached electrical cord with plug.
The clock was designed in London and probably manufactured in Aberdare, Glamorgan, by Elco Clocks and Watches Ltd. between 1930 and 1940. It measures 14.6 cm in height, 20.4 cm in width, and 6.3 cm in depth.
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.
Historical context
The clock was formerly part of a collection of 'plastic antiques' formed by Fred Bulmer, a collector based in Leeds, Yorkshire. In late 1982, Bulmer offered his collection to the Victoria and Albert Museum, which purchased 59 objects the following year, distributing them among various museum departments.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- Compression-moulded phenol formaldehyde ('Bakelite'); cardboard; electrical components
- Dimensions
- Height: 14.6 cm; Width: 20.4 cm; Depth: 6.3 cm
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Elco Clocks and Watches Ltd.
- Place recorded
- Aberdare
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Victoria and Albert Museum collection record for this single object; how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Museum object name
- Mantel clock
- Museum object number
- W.61-1983
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.