Overview

A handsome vintage English mantel clock by Empire, presented in a substantial tambour-shaped case with a beautifully curved architectural profile and decorative beaded moulding around the plinth. The rich, dark case has been carefully restored while retaining the natural grain, character and age-related detail of the original timber, and its warm finish contrasts beautifully with the silvered dial, black Roman numerals and polished brass bezel.

Maker

The movement backplate is clearly stamped with the Empire globe trademark and "Made in England," confirming manufacture by this well-known English clockmaker. Dating to the period is indicative, based on case style, dial design and movement construction, rather than a documented production date.

About Empire Clocks

Empire was a well-established trade name used on English clock movements through much of the early to mid-20th century. Collectors generally trace its origins to the Williamson company, whose "Astral" movement built a strong reputation for quality, with the Empire and Astral names later passing through English Clock & Watch Manufacturers Ltd before being acquired by Smiths in 1932. Smiths continued producing clocks under the Empire name for a number of years afterwards, so the trademark spans several decades and changes of ownership. As with many English clock names of the period, the precise early history is debated among collectors, but Empire-branded movements are generally regarded as sturdy, well-made pieces typical of the English clockmaking industry of their day.

Restoration & Mechanical Condition

The movement has been fully dismantled, ultrasonically cleaned, inspected, reassembled and correctly lubricated. During restoration, the strike mechanism required considerable corrective work due to evidence of previous incorrect adjustment and bent components. These issues have now been properly rectified, and the strike train has been carefully set up and tested. The clock is running well, keeping good time and striking reliably on a coiled gong, producing a rich and resonant tone. It has been bench tested following its service.

The wooden case has been cleaned, revived and refinished by hand, bringing back the depth and warmth of the timber without removing its genuine vintage character.

Strike Sound

The strike hammer is padded, producing a deep, resonant tone from the coiled gong rather than a bright bell-like ring – a warm, mellow strike that suits the character of the case.

Restoration Checklist

• Movement removed, dismantled and ultrasonically cleaned
• Pivots and mainsprings inspected
• Bent and previously misadjusted strike components corrected
• Mainsprings lubricated with Novostar oil, pivots with synthetic clock oil
• Reassembled, regulated and bench tested for accurate timekeeping
• Strike train tested for correct hour operation on the gong
• Case cleaned, revived and hand-refinished
• Pendulum and suspension checked and confirmed swinging freely

Condition

• Movement fully serviced and bench tested, keeping good time on test
• Strikes correctly on the hour via coiled gong
• Silvered dial in generally good order with black Roman numerals
• Case cleaned, revived and hand-refinished, retaining genuine age-related character
• Glazed front door, hinge and catch both working
• Polished brass bezel present and in good order
• Rear access door present and functional

This is a restored vintage clock and therefore retains minor marks, variations and signs of age consistent with its history. These form part of its character and authenticity. Please view all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of this description.

Dimensions

Included

• Vintage Empire mantel clock
• Original pendulum
• Suitable winding key
• Winding and setting instructions
• Carefully packed for safe delivery

Delivery

The clock will be carefully prepared for transit, with the pendulum removed and individually wrapped. It will then be securely packed with generous protective materials and double-boxed where appropriate. As with all vintage mechanical clocks, minor time adjustment may occasionally be required after transport and once the clock has settled into its new position.