Smiths Enfield Battersea Mantel Clock 1950s Oak Serviced Mechanical Pendulum
Smiths Enfield Battersea Mantel Clock 1950s Oak Serviced Mechanical Pendulum
Smiths Enfield 'Battersea' Oak Mantel Clock
Circa 1950s · Made in Great Britain
Carefully restored and bench tested · Original case, dial and hands throughout
A Quietly Confident Piece of British Post-War Making
The Smiths Enfield mantel clock is one of the most recognisable objects of mid-twentieth century British domestic life. Produced by the Enfield Clock Co. Ltd. of Great Britain during the 1950s, these clocks were made to a genuinely high standard: honest materials, solid oak cases, and mechanical movements designed to run reliably on a mantelpiece for decades.
This example has the classic arched case profile that Smiths used throughout the decade, known as the Battersea model -- a name that collectors and enthusiasts search for specifically. Here in dark-stained oak with its original grain and finish beautifully intact, the two-tone dial -- cream chapter ring with a contrasting timber-effect centre and applied gilt Arabic numerals -- is a period detail that gives the clock a warmth many contemporaries lack. The original pierced gilt hands, polished brass bezel and convex glass complete a design that has aged gracefully.
It is a clock that belongs on a mantelpiece rather than in a cabinet: present without being showy, and quietly distinguished.
Restored by Mahn & Co
This clock has been fully stripped, cleaned and serviced before listing. The work carried out includes:
- Full movement strip-down and ultrasonic cleaning of all components
- Inspection of pivots, jewels and all wear surfaces
- Correct lubrication applied throughout: synthetic clock oil on pivots and jewels
- Movement reassembled and regulated
- Case cleaned and carefully revived, preserving original finish
- Brass bezel polished and glass cleaned inside and out
- Multi-day bench running test completed prior to listing
Condition
The oak case presents very well, retaining its original dark finish with attractive grain throughout. There are light age-related marks consistent with a genuine seventy-year-old clock, but nothing that detracts from the overall appearance. No splits, cracks or significant losses to the case.
The dial is well preserved with crisp Smiths Enfield branding and legible gilt numerals. The cream chapter ring shows minor age-toning in keeping with the period. The brass bezel has been polished and the glass is clear.
The movement is clean and runs well. This is a good honest example in better than average condition for its age.
Specification
| Maker | Smiths Enfield (Enfield Clock Co. Ltd.) |
| Model | Battersea |
| Origin | Made in Great Britain |
| Date | Circa 1950s |
| Movement | Mechanical pendulum movement, time only |
| Winding | Single keyhole, key included |
| Case | Oak, arched profile with moulded brass base |
| Dial | Original cream chapter ring, timber-effect centre, applied gilt Arabic numerals |
| Hands | Original pierced gilt brass |
| Bezel | Brass hinged bezel with convex glass |