I expect many of you know the Clockmakers Museum in the Guildhall in London, but for those who don't, it's amazing. I went there today and had the place to myself for over an hour!!
I got there just before twelve and when the clocks all started striking it was magical! To be honest, I was impressed by all of it, but here are a few highlights:
Lots of early clocks and watches from the 16th and early 17th centuries - some of the watches are absolutely exquisite, and I was amazed at how small some were.
Some clocks and movements by Tompion.
Several lovely longcase clocks (running) by Justin Vulliamy, Chr.( ) Pinchbeck, George Graham and others.
Lignum Vitae movements and clocks by the Harrisons...and H5 of course!
Marine Chronometers by Kendall, Mudge, Arnold and others.
Lots of 18th and 19th century watches, including some by Breguet.
Early wristwatches (trench and converted pocket watches), and Ed Hillary's Smiths that he wore to the top of Everest and donated to the Company.
Lastly, a very touching display devoted to George Daniels, including one his watches made up by Omega, and a Roger Smith.
I could go on...it was fantastic!

Steve - very grateful for this as it is 3 mins from my office but I simply wasn't aware it existed.... until now

I wish I could see it. Do they have a virtual tour?

It certainly sounds like my kind of place. It is truly amazing what these crafstman created before the age of modern machinery and computers.

Colin - do make time to visit, you will love it!
Kip, I think if you went in you would never come out I can't find a virtual tour but the website is here
It's only one fairly small room, but beautifully set out and intimate. Entry is free, but there is a donations box. Looking at the guest book, it doesn't seem to be busy!

Damn! Been to London on holiday two consecutive summers but didn't know about the museum. Oh, well, something to look forward then. So, thanks for the info!

Thanks for the information... and it's only a few minutes from my office. I don't suppose that I could see much in a lunchtime though ?!

http://www.clockmakers.org/museum-and-library/museum/
600 watches!

Amor Vincit Omnia wrote:Kip, I think if you went in you would never come out I can't find a virtual tour but the website is here
It's only one fairly small room, but beautifully set out and intimate. Entry is free, but there is a donations box. Looking at the guest book, it doesn't seem to be busy!

Thanks for the link. It looks like I will have to spend some time there. A lot of great info it appears.

A lot of the pieces, pictures etc are also here

Sounds like a good place to pass some time, would have to loose the wife somewhere else though.

alphajet wrote:Sounds like a good place to pass some time, would have to loose the wife somewhere else though.

Just pick a real good spot and we won't help you look for her.

Kip wrote:

alphajet wrote:Sounds like a good place to pass some time, would have to loose the wife somewhere else though.

Just pick a real good spot and we won't help you look for her.

There are too many decent shops nearby now for that - One New Change is open in Cheapside (not chap prices) - with watch delights too!

Thanks Steve, I didn't know about the museum. I work in the City now (since changing career in October) and I'll definitely get over there at some stage. The little horology department in the Science museum is worth a visit too and the kids aren't too interested in old clocks so it is relatively peaceful.