9^th October 2024. Dr Stephen Johnston: In the summer of 2023, the Cheltenham Branch summer outing had included a tour of the clock and scientific instrument collections of the History of Science Museum. Our guide then was Dr Stephen Johnston, Senior Research Curator of the museum. At the October Branch meeting, members welcomed Stephen to present “Time, Sun and Stars: the Astrolabe and the Cosmos”. Having previously shown us a small part of the world’s largest collection of astrolabes, Stephen now explained their astronomical and astrological significance in Ancient Greek and Islamic culture. Then with reference to an illuminated manuscript, their position amongst the horological marvels of the European Renaissance. Stephen then boldly went one step further and explained exactly how they worked. This could have been bewildering even for horologists used to visualising complex geometries. However, with the aid of an interactive computer model, Stephen showed how philosophers and scientists, astronomers and astrologists were able not just to tell the local time, but to predict the layout of the heavens when viewed from any position on earth on any day of the year. Cheltenham members are indebted to Stephen for (literally) broadening our horizons as part of a most entertaining evening.

11^th September 2024. David Poole: David Poole FBHI addressed a very well attended Cheltenham Branch meeting in September, presenting his dilemma: “Which Regulator?”. The title arose from an invitation from another group to speak about “a complicated regulator clock”. In reality, David has made several such clocks with a variety of complications. His talk to Cheltenham Branch picked details from five of his table regulators, to illustrate different approaches to fulfilling the standard definition of a regulator. David then went on to describe and illustrate a range of complications that can be applied to enhance a regulator’s appeal. Apart from the exquisite detail and perfection of finish of these five regulators, perhaps the most intriguing aspect of David’s talk was the explanation and illustration of his iterative approach to the design and construction of clocks. Fundamental decisions (such as the duration of these spring driven fusee movements) were delayed until construction was well underway. Far from the traditional engineering design process of technical sketching followed by detailed drawing and prototype development, or the modern approach of CAD drawing and 3D modelling, David was clearly making up these clocks as he went along! Remarkably, David’s technique avoided any possibility of misplaced and plugged holes in the plates, slotted pillars to accommodate the wheel train, or other altered components which would mar the perfection of the finished clock. Everything down to the method of fixing the movement in the case had to be purposeful, correct…and right first time. Indeed, one of David’s throwaway lines was that the most disappointing thing about all English bracket clocks are the randomly positioned brackets that fix the movements in the cases. Cheltenham members are indebted to David for a fascinating and inspirational evening’s entertainment.

8^th May 2024. Mr Martin Rowling: Single Handed Forging. Unfortunately this had to be cancelled at short notice and a members night was held instead.

10^th April 2024. Member’s Night: At the Cheltenham Branch April meeting Branch members were invited to bring and discuss items of horological interest. A good turnout of attendees were treated to a range of projects in progress and unusual mechanisms, including: a longcase clock marriage being retrofitted with an “original movement”; a year going German fusee movement with no setting up click, accessible fusee ratchet or other obvious means of letting down the mainspring; and most astonishingly a 3D printed miniature working replica of the Prague , astronomical clock. Cheltenham members and guests were again intrigued by the range of curios, ingenuity and skill demonstrated.

13^th March 2024. Mr Robert Wren: At the Cheltenham Branch, March meeting, Robert Wren introduced members and guests to the life and work of Roland Jarvis FBHI 1926-2016 , painter, draughtsman and teacher. Roland had appeared in Roberts workshop many years ago in Hastings and introduced Robert to his ever-expanding collection of home-built clocks. It was immediately apparent that this was not just a series of everyday timepieces, but a sequence of clocks of increasing astronomical complexity. What made these clocks even more remarkable was the fact that they were mostly built from re-used parts of standard domestic clocks. Indeed, Roland seems to have been an early adopter of “upcycling”. Apparently, Roland never sold any of his clocks and disposed of very few, with the result that the locations of most are known. Although Roland’s work seems to have been under appreciated in his day, many of his clocks are now in museums. Robert explained the challenges of conservation vs. restoration of clocks made from spare parts and unconventional materials, via a process of evolutionary design. Cheltenham members are indebted to Robert for a fascinating insight into unconventional horology.

14^th February 2024. At the Cheltenham Branch February, meeting, members welcomed Tobias Birch who engaged us with his account of Thomas Mudge and Willam Dutton, their apprenticeships with George Graham, their partnership, descendants and successor businesses. The talk encompassed Mudge’s development of the lever escapement, Dutton’s fine longcase and bracket clocks, the deception and enlightenment of the King of Spain and a hair-raising Iberian car chase in pursuit of perhaps the most prized of all of Dutton’s clocks. Cheltenham members were honoured to have such an insight into one of the most important periods of English watchmaking and examples of some of the finest Georgian clocks.

8^th November 2023.

11^th October 2023.

13^th September 2023. The speaker for our September meeting was our Chairman, Richard Stuart, on his experiences of installing a turret clock in his workshop. The talk was perhaps more horticulture and DIY than horology as he led us through the practical aspects of strengthening the structure of his workshop and his handy work with the secateurs clearing the wisteria to enable the clock dial to be seen. The movement was manufactured by J W Benson but they could not provide any information as their records had been lost during WW2. Some information came with the movement which confirmed that it had originally been installed in St Mark’s Church in Cheltenham and was sold for scrap in 1972. The movement was an unfinished project that only required final painting and reassembly. To complete the installation Richard had to obtain a suitable dial, hands and bell all of which required pains taking restoration. The clock is now running, although it still needs a bell hammer and presumably his neighbour’s agreement to fit it!

10^th May 2023. Discussion night: The April Branch meeting was a (Bring and Discuss) Members Night. Items brought for consideration included a Waltham tourbillion watch, a collection of miniature replica lantern clocks, a fine Swiss mandrel, a Staartklok 30-hr longcase movement with a triple-autometon of the Judgement of Solomon in the arch, early (C1865) Lange pocket watch and two 1880’s Benson Pocket Watches complete with their original receipts. Additionally, a number of items remaining unsold at the Clock Watch and Tool Fair which had been donated to the branch, were sold at knockdown prices to benefit Branch Funds.

29^th April 2023. In April Cheltenham Branch held a fourth annual Fair, this year designated as a Clock, Watch and Tool Fair to reflect the rising importance of tool sales. As in previous years the demand for tables exceeded the capacity of the venue. Footfall at the fair was the highest to date and stallholder turnover was at record levels. Whilst sales of fine clocks remained in the doldrums, trading in vintage watches and clock parts and materials was good. The disposal of a Branch member’s workshop drove buoyant tool sales to a new high. Particularly satisfying were several major tool purchases at affordable prices by current students of horology.

12^th April 2023. Steve Philips: Cheltenham Branch members and guests were treated to a live demonstration of clock design and clockmaking. Not with drawing boards and wheelcutting engines, but a computer and 3D printer. In the space of an hour or so, Steve Phillips had shown us how to calculate and lay out a wheel train, then design and manufacture a wheel and pinion. The ease with which Steve operated the process and the functionality of the component produced was impressive. More so as Steve explained that he was no clockmaker. Members and guests are indebted to Steve for an eye-opening demonstration.

8^th March 2023. Cheltenham Branch’s March meeting was preceded by a snowfall the night before. Despite this, there was an extremely good turn out to hear Keith Scobie-Youngs’ talk on the restoration of the Westminster Great Clock (“Big Ben”), with many new faces in the audience. Having been hands-on in the restoration project undertaken by The Cumbria Clock Company which he co-founded, Keith’s insights ranged from the purely historical through technical and anecdotal, to downright wistful This made for an informative and entertaining talk appreciated both by the dedicated horologists and the purely inquisitive in the audience. Members and their guests were introduced subjects ranging from: Lord Grimethorpe’s horological legacy; the lost skills of Victorian sand casting; a scene that could have been from Indiana Jones; and the traces left by clock winders long gone. The members of Cheltenham and other branches, together with their guests, are deeply indebted to Keith for his unique insights and engaging perspective on a once in a lifetime project. See also Restoration of “Big Ben”

8^th February 2023. Our first meeting of 2023, Cheltenham members were privileged to welcome author and curator David Rooney, speaking on the subject of John Bennett of Cheapside. This was David’s “first outing” for this talk which he delivered with exceptional clarity and gusto, charting the illustrious but chequered career of a London retailer of Clocks, Watches, Jewellery and Plate. The depth of research into the man himself, his development of the business, the evolution of the premises, and subsequent history of the firm was riveting. Cheltenham members and guests were grateful for an entertaining and enlightening evening.

9^th November 2022. The Cheltenham Branch November meeting was our AGM, which combined Branch Business with a “Members Night” of wine, cheese and curiosities. The routine business included the re-election of the existing seven Branch Officers and Committee members, and reports outlining the continuing health of the branch. Attendees agreed upon the Summer Outing for 2023 and the date and venue for the 2023 Cheltenham Branch Clock, Watch and Horological Tool Fair. These formalities were followed by a cheese and wine supper, with the chance to examine the curiosities brought for discussion. These curiosities included a 3d printed replica of the 6th Century Byzantine sundial/calendar in the Science Museum –and a version in brass, both made by a Cheltenham member; and a Birge and Peck triple decker 8-day Connecticut shelf clock with a Joseph Ives patent strap movement with “rolling pinions”.

12^th October 2022. At our October meeting, Cheltenham Branch members and a good turnout of guests were treated to Owen Gilchrist (Bristol Branch) giving a practical demonstration of the assembly of a Smiths 1215 watch movement, which was then housed in a Dennison two-piece COSD case with screw-down crown. This was a live demonstration with video of the assembly process projected onto a screen, accompanied by a commentary from Owen on the assembly process itself and on the background to the movement type and the cases which it was (and could subsequently) be fitted into. This was well received, not just by the Cheltenham members and usual guests, but also by guests from a Facebook group dedicated to Smiths watches. Cheltenham members and guests are indebted to Owen for an informative and entertaining demonstration.

14^th September 2022. At our September meeting, Malcolm Pipes returned yet again to deliver the third part of his series of talks on “Horological Experiments”. Malcolm recapped and updated members on his research into the corrosive properties of horological lubricants and tantalisingly reported the results of initial trials using automotive engine oil instead! There were also more results from Malcolm’s quest for precision horology, recapping on available time signals and warning that one valuable time standard now depends on the continued functioning of irreplaceable C20th valve technology. In contrast, Malcolm also described how C21st satellite components can be repurposed to create precision timers with almost incomprehensible levels of accuracy. Cheltenham members are grateful to Malcolm for his stream of entertaining insights both practical and theoretical.

11^th May 2022. The Cheltenham Branch was fortunate in being able to invite Bill Wolmuth to speak to members in person. Bill, whose last talk to the branch by Zoom was on C20th clocks, is co-author of Clockmaking in England & Wales in the Twentieth Century and a co-founder of the British Museum collection of C20th English Clocks. However, 19th century French clocks are an especial interest for Bill, who has been an amateur horologist since 1981. Bill treated a good turnout of Branch members and guests to a talk entitled “Black Marble Clocks for the Connoisseur”. Bill explained that the title of the talk had evolved in order to counter the general assumption that black marble clocks were not worthy of study. Indeed Bill took members through a range of black marble clocks of types that few of us have had an opportunity to handle. Examples included twin wheel escapements, rack strikes without gathering pallets, year going, calendar, perpetual calendar, centre seconds, subsidiary seconds, mystery, and keyless winding black marble clocks. Bill started his talk with guides to dating such clocks, based on technical innovations, and in doing so dispelled many commonly held assumptions on dating count wheel striking and silk suspension examples. To conclude, Bill gave members his own experience on cost and time effective methods for the restoration of black marble clock cases, from repolishing, to chip repairs and even the fabrication of major missing case parts. Cheltenham members are indebted to Bill for a deeply insightful presentation.

30^th April 2022. At the end of April Cheltenham Branch held our third Clock and Watch Fair. This was the second in our current venue (Parklands) and the first to be advertised widely outside of the BHI membership. The Branch was limited to 20 tables by the facilities available and were rapidly oversubscribed, so priority was given to external stallholders. Footfall at the fair was significantly higher than usual, giving a similar buyer / seller ratio to that of the more established fairs. Sales of tools, parts, and clocks and watches for restoration went well, but there were few buyers for fully restored watches and clocks. Feedback from stallholders rated the fair as amongst the most friendly that they had attended and most indicated that they would attend future Cheltenham fairs. The Branch would like to thank all BHI members who supported the fair, and hope to repeat this event in the near future.

13^th April 2022. In April, Steve Phillips gave members an insight in to the life and works of the C18th Scottish Astronomer, James Ferguson. Steve explained that with only 3 month’s formal education at the age of 7, James Ferguson started to make machines at the age of 10, graduating to wooden clocks before becoming a painter, then getting diverted into the writing of scientific and astronomical papers and building astronomical instruments. Possibly the most intriguing of these was Ferguson’s “Spark driven Orrery” This fascinating talk took us through the complexities of the Mechanical Paradox, Sarus Cycles and epicyclic gearboxes with worms and inclined wheels. Fortunately the talk was well illustrated not just with original diagrams of the mechanisms, but also examples which Steve has recreated using modern technologies such as 3D printing. Cheltenham Members were grateful for an evening of entertainment and enlightenment in some of the most complex horological and astronomical matters.

9^th March 2022. The speaker at our March meeting was one of our own members, Michael Richards. Michael explained that having retired from the medical profession, his first experience in horology was the purchase of a three train fusee bracket clock. This had been inexpertly modified by a previous owner and functioned as a time piece only. Undaunted, Michael had signed up for a week’s practical horology course, and successfully serviced and repaired the clock. The clock now works well and Michael’s fame as a clock repairer has spread amongst his family members. As a result, he was asked if he would repair a family heirloom acquired in the 19th century by one of his medical predecessors. From this point on, the talk became a fascinating insight into mid-19th century medicine, particularly surgery, taking the audience round the world on his predecessor’s travels as a doctor. The clock had been purchased as part of the contents of a house, on his predecessor’s return to the UK. Michael’s investigations then turned up photographs of paintings, made by his predecessor’s wife, of the Naval Hospital that his predecessor had founded in Chile, the first outside the UK, of which no Chilean records survive. Michael gave our members and guests a riveting account of his introduction to Horology and the successful repair of the family heirloom, together with a wealth of historical insights, which was greatly appreciated.

9^th February 2022. In our first Branch Meeting of 2022, Cheltenham members were addressed by Seth Kennedy on the subject of Watch Case Making and Repair. At the outset, Seth explained that he had not started his career as a case maker, but as an engineer, transitioning firstly to case repair and then to the manufacture of sympathetic replacement cases for orphaned pocket watch movements During the evening, members gradually discovered how Seth had successfully applied his engineering skills to solving the issues faced in small scale manufacturing in precious metals. Seth contrasted the traditional raising processes with his engineered solution using modern tooling materials and techniques to produce consistent component dimensions and his wire drilling solution to produce small quantities of material which would now be rolled or extruded in large pieces. Scrap recovery is vitally important when working with precious metal, and Seth detailed a simple process for converting his shruff into case components. The finished products that Seth showed, reproducing C17th – C19th designs, were as amazing as the techniques used to produce them. Cheltenham members are indebted to Seth for a highly entertaining and informative evening.

13^th October 2021. There was a good turnout also at the Branch meeting a few days later, where after a long delay due to the pandemic, Malcolm Pipes was at last able to return to deliver the second part of “Horological Experiments”. As in his previous talk in 2019, Malcolm captivated and bamboozled the audience with details and practical demonstrations of experiments which produced important, but counter-intuitive results. Members were given an update on the corrosive properties of certain proprietary horological lubricants and the (in)effectiveness of traditional horological lacquers. Malcolm then explained the process of manufacturing jewelled dead beat pallets for a fully compensated regulator, to high tolerances without requiring hand fitting; and outlined his quest for a time standard by which to monitor the accuracy of such an instrument. The audience was then challenged to guess the relative effects of: temperature, pressure, latitude, height, tides, planetary alignment…and leaving the door open on such a regulator, followed by challenges to predict the effects of adding weight to pendulums at various points, Several members were caught out by some of the demonstrated results. Cheltenham members are grateful to Malcolm for the continued stream of practical insights and look forward to the possibility of Horological Experiments Part 3 in the future.

8^th September 2021. Our September meeting was the first at our new venue and, due to Covid, was the first face to face meeting for 18 months. Our speaker for the evening was David Cottrell who introduced members to co-axial Tourbillon watch construction. David was apprenticed as a toolmaker and went on to take a degree in engineering but had no experience of horology. However, on reading Watchmaking by George Daniels, David had been inspired to declare that he could make a watch in the Daniels style. David then explained that his starting point had been to get into the Daniels’ mind set and had concluded that, although Daniels had chosen the best escapement available to him at the time. if working today Daniels would have chosen a co-axial escapement. We were entertained and amazed as David set out the stages of his approach: first a proof of concept with both a co-axial escapement and a Tourbillon ; then refining the design and manufacturing process for a second watch. This involved first optimising the accuracy of his basic equipment, then investing in and modifying more specialist tools and eventually making his own machines. Cheltenham members are grateful to David for his tale of challenges, setbacks, and occasional failures, and have been entranced by the exquisite watch that he finally produced.

14^th July 2021. The Cheltenham Branch Members and guests met virtually for a Clock and Watch Clinic, with everyone invited to share their recent experiences and seek advice. Attendees ranged from young students of horology, to experienced professionals and seasoned enthusiasts. A wide range of workshop issues were covered, including a cuckoo clock with an irregular call, balance spring straightening, safely extracting broken mainsprings and the identification of a clock which had been repaired on behalf of the National Trust. Harry Waymouth illustrated his sage advice with a range of tools, including his own design for a traditional English mainspring winder and a vintage balance wheel comparator. Steve Philips entertained and educated members with a description of the workings of the Hampton Court clock dial and his construction of a working replica. Cheltenham members look forward to our first face to face meeting for many months, which will be at Parklands Community Centre Cheltenham on Wednesday 9th September at 7:30pm when David Cottrell will give a presentation on his Tourbillon watch project. This new venue will provide adequate facilities for social distancing and exterior ventilation if required.

9^th June 2021. Cheltenham Branch and guests enjoyed an excellent and informative presentation via Zoom of his trials tribulations and successes with dial etching by Richard Stuart (Chairman).
Richard wanted to make a William Gray replica lantern clock from a kit but found that the chapter ring was of an inappropriate size, so he decided to make his own and etch it; at the same time making his own kit.
He designed a process drawing on his internet research into toner transfer etching for printed circuit boards. The whole process was one of experimentation, further research, trial and improvement: knowing what doesn’t work being as valuable as knowing what does. “Temperature stability and handling hot materials was a problem, but preheating the brass worked reasonably well, although handling it at 130° c was a (potentially) painful process”, said Richard. This was just one of the conclusions that Richard came to before he began work on a more sophisticated Dry Film Photo Etch process.
We look forward to Richard’s final success at a future branch meeting.

12^th May 2021. At the May Zoom meeting, a good number of Cheltenham Branch members and guests were treated to some unique insights from Bill Wolmuth, a recognised expert on C20th English Clocks. Bill is of course joint author, with John Glanville of the definitive book on this subject “Clockmaking in England and Wales in the Twentieth Century (The Industrialized Manufacture of Domestic Mechanical Clocks)”. Having conducted a decade of research into this subject on behalf of the British Museum and built up a definitive collection of examples of these clocks (now donated to the museum) , Bill was able to share both the results of this research and also the practicalities of acquiring and analysing specimens and supporting information.
Many members would have been familiar with the C20th story of English clock companies set up with German assistance, cloning existing German designs. However, the fact that industrial production of clocks in England started with the manufacture of clones of American clocks by their original English designers, may have come as a surprise. Other curious nuggets involved companies for whom clocks were diversifications from speedometers, gramophones, carpet sweepers and gas streetlamp timers. Bill was also able to identify the locations of the English factories, some of which survive, but much altered, and others now obliterated, in one case by Spaghetti Junction.
Bill and John’s use of eBay was instructive. This was not just as a source of clocks and movements, but also information and pictures of clocks, that they did not necessarily see or handle. Also the use of genealogical research to identify and interview descendants of the key players, who often may have known less about their ancestors’ businesses than Bill or John, but in some cases were able to provide important biographical details, photographs and company records.
Cheltenham members were understandably impressed with the magnitude of the task that had been undertaken, but also grateful for the informative and entertaining insights that Bill was able to provide. Members look forward to the possibility of welcoming Bill to deliver a further talk in person, once face to face meetings resume.

14^th April 2021 There was a good turnout for the April Zoom meeting, where Branch members and visitors were treated to an overview of the Cumbria Clock company’s history and projects by co-founder and director, Keith Scobie-Youngs FBHI. Keith took members on a journey encompassing the development of the company from a local venture operated by Keith and his wife, servicing turret clocks from a base in the Lake District; to an enterprise with 19 employees plus subcontractors operating from some half a dozen locations covering most of England, with occasional projects as far afield as Fiji and Hong Kong. This was horology on a gargantuan scale, with an impressive range of lengths, diameters, weights – and heights. Notable was the number of times that the word “scary” cropped up! Our tour included wine bars, public buildings, museums, churches, cathedrals, the Houses of Parliament, and the Olympic Stadium. These projects went beyond routine servicing, to include dial restoration, the manufacture and fitting of winding, self-regulating and night silencing mechanisms, pneumatic hammers and even the creation of a replica turret clock to replace one lost in a fire. Cheltenham members are grateful to Keith for an evening of education, entertainment and astonishment.

10^th March 2021. The Cheltenham Branch March meeting was our first live presentation via Zoom, following a series of successful Clock and Watch clinics. Using this format, Steve Philips explained some fundamentals of Ptolemaic astronomy, as an introduction to the concept and likely purpose of the Antikythera Mechanism. Steve’s overview of the history and recent research into the mechanical details of the mechanism then led into the details of a replica which Steve has built; which shows (more clearly than the original would have) its workings and functions. The Zoom format arguably made Steve’s presentation using photographs, videos and animated 3D CAD models, easier to follow than would have been the case using a large screen in a live venue. Along the way Steve introduced us to retrograde planetary motion, epicyclic gearboxes, and the use of interpolation and statistical hypotheses testing  for the determination of wheel counts. The regular Cheltenham members and guests in virtual attendance were grateful for Steve’s clear and engaging presentation on what would otherwise have been a complex and baffling subject.     

10^th February 2021. Cheltenham Branch started the year with the now established format of a Zoom Clock and Watch Clinic. A good number of Branch members dialled in to share their recent horological experiences and issues. Topics included: extracting a rusted steel screw stump for a carriage clock handle; relining cuckoo clock bellows; correcting mis-planted arbors; 3D printing of (and winding) a replacement coil for a 1930s Smiths Sectric movement; mainspring oils vs greases; clock cleaning fluids; screw-head slotting files; aluminium mainspring barrels and a regulator which would not stay in beat. Steve Phillips then introduced us to his 3D printed Byzantine mechanical sundials. Cheltenham members eagerly await Steve’s Zoom presentation on the Antikythera Mechanism at the next Branch meeting on March 10^th.

11^th November 2020. In November, the Cheltenham Branch meeting was the A.G.M., where an extraordinary year was reviewed via Zoom. Although the formal business was swiftly concluded as usual, the format provided no opportunity for the usual wine and cheese evening afterwards. Nonetheless, members were able to share recent experiences and issues. Steve Philips then treated members to an unscheduled presentation on orreries. This covered a range of designs, some which are adapted from historical examples, others which are completely novel, all of which Steve has constructed using a range of modern techniques including 3D printing. Members resolved to invite Steve to present on this fascinating topic at a future live meeting.

14^th October 2020.

In October, Cheltenham Branch held a second Branch meeting via Zoom. Building on the success of the September Members’ Night, this was billed as a Clock and Watch Clinic. Encouragingly, our second “outing” in this format attracted an increased number of attendees, without detriment to the visibility or audibility on Zoom. Members were able to join the meeting from their homes and workshops to discuss topics of interest and horological issues that they were facing. Topics included: Wuba floating balance escapements; novel movement stands, fake mystery clocks; longcase clock case restoration; trends in the volume and mix of repair work; and replacing pinions using pinion wire.
Many Cheltenham members have now successfully taken up the Zoom meeting format. It remains to be seen whether face to face meetings will resume in the spring; but, meanwhile interest and participation in Branch activities is being maintained. The last Cheltenham Branch meeting of 2020 will be a Zoom AGM at 7 p.m. on Wednesday 11th November. The formal business of the AGM will be followed by another virtual clock and watch clinic. All are welcome. A Zoom link will be e-mailed to all Cheltenham Branch members. Non-members, please email secretary at bhicheltenham.uk for a Zoom link.

9^th September 2020. Virtual watch and clock clinic.

10^th June 2020. Branch Outing to Lyme Park. Cancelled

20^th May 2020. Malcolm Pipes: Horological Experiments II Cancelled

8^th April 2020. Mike Frost: Jeremiah Horrocks Cancelled

11^th March 2020. Jeremy Hobbins, BA Horology course at Birmingham City University

12^th February 2020. Douglas Bateman FBHI presented Cheltenham Branch with the hypothesis that, while John Harrison’s contribution to horology and to navigation is significant, in that he showed it was possible for a clock to keep time at sea, it has been overplayed to provide good copy. Doug proposed the rehabilitation of Maskelyne and greater recognition of the contributions by Huntsman, Ramsden, LeRoy, Arnold, Mudge and Earnshaw. Members were very appreciative of the broad perspective leading to this controversial take on John Harrison’s legacy.

13^th November 2019. A.G.M., followed by Cheese & Wine party.

9^th October 2019. Malcolm Pipes educated and entertained Cheltenham Branch members with his Horological experiments (part 1). In this illustrated talk, Malcolm turned many of our members’ assumptions on their heads with simple practical demonstrations. Members were challenged to guess how much metal could be abraded, rubbed and polished from a metal surface. Few of us had much clue and were re-assured by the truth. However, much more disturbing was the real behaviours of horological lubricants in daylight contact with brass. Further deliberations and experiments included practical measurement and mathematical analysis of the relative accuracies (and inaccuracies) of pendulums and quartz crystals, together with an assessment of a number of possible corrections. From the simple to the rather complex, these experiments demonstrated above all, not to take received wisdom at face value. Cheltenham members are indebted to Malcolm for some thought provoking revelations and are looking forward to more in future sessions.

11^th September 2019. Clive Steer returned to us to talk to another good turnout at Cheltenham branch about a substantial clock commission. Clive had previously addressed the Branch on the subject of the creation of a sculptural clock for the GSK headquarters in Brentford. This time, the subject was a contract, undertaken jointly with Mike Flannery (one of our Branch members), to renovate and re-install the 1877 Gillet and Bland turret clock at the former West Tunbridge Wells Station, now a restaurant. The account of this project covered areas where horologists seldomly tread, including: contractual scope containment, stakeholder management, intellectual property protection, sponsor succession, funding shortfall and user training. Attendees were possibly more familiar with cleaning, reshaping and centring wheels, re-finishing and re-assembly – but not on this scale! Cheltenham members gave enthusiastic thanks for this eye opening presentation.

6^th July 2019. The Branch held it’s second “Bring and Buy” sale at CACSSA, Cheltenham. This was larger and busier than our first “B&B” (after last year’s AGM). Particular highlights were the Pennyfarthing Tools stand; and the “Workshop Clearance” stand, selling the contents of a former member’s workshop. This latter offering included a number of good quality watches and fine and rare  watchmaking tools. One customer even used the opportunity to take delivery of a clock, which had been professionally repaired and restored by one of the stallholders. The Committee are resolved to repeat this Cheltenham Watch and Clock fair annually as part of our regular July meeting.

12^th June 2019. This year’s July Cheltenham Branch outing was to Snowshill Manor; a National Trust property packed with antiques, artifacts and curios by its undoubtedly kleptomaniac former owner. The outing was well attended, despite some last minute apologies from members unable to make it on the day. Significantly, the collection includes a large number of early clocks, a group of Japanese Lantern Clocks, C18th and C19th British, European clocks, mass produced US clocks, and even an early  wheel cutting machine. Every conceivable non-horological discipline is also represented in a house packed to the rafters with exhibits. The lack of labelling and lighting (in line with the original owner’s wishes) kept the NT guides fully stretched explaining and discussing this Aladdin’s cave of treasures. All in all this was an excellent day out for our members.

8^th May 2019. Colin Ferguson made a presentation to our members. In this Colin explained and illustrated the breadth and utility of horological and associated workshop tools that could feasibly me made in the home workshop. The was not just a demonstration of Colin’s undoubted ability, but also an example of how much cost could be saved in the establishment of a fully capable workshop; if the initial purchases were standard machine tools, rather than the more specialist horological items. Cheltenham members are indebted to Colin for his insights.

10^th April 2019. Ben Wright started his talk to Cheltenham Branch members by outlining his education in the field of horology  and went on to give us an insight into his experiences with Christies and Bonham’s auction houses before he became an independent specialist. Based on his wide experience he provided us with a list of the top thirteen prices paid at auction for clocks and watches. Ben compared the prices for a mass produced Rolex previously owned by Paul Newman; a Patek Philippe watch; a unique watch by George Daniels, a clock cased in a Faberge Egg and a clock by Joseph Knibb. it was clear that the perceived value of the items was not intuitive, but depended on a combination of maker, rarity, complexity and above all, provenance. Overall a fascinating insight into the world of high-end watch and clock collecting, with more than a few surprises, The talk was well received by the Branch members.

13^th March 2019. Attendees at the Cheltenham Branch March meeting got two speakers for the price if one. John Ward and Grenville Johns presented “Home for a Fusee” based upon their development and delivery of a Fusee Dial case making course at the South London Branch workshops. John and Grenville explained how every student on the course, including those without prior woodworking experience, had successfully made their own case; and how they got round the “no sawdust” rule in the workshops! Not only did our joint presenters give a good account of the construction of such a case, but also a guide to the evolution of fusee case design features over some 250 years of production. Cheltenham members and visitors are grateful to john and Grenville for a very informative evening.

13^th February 2019. “Smiths Speedometers ” by Dr. Mike Flannery. In February, Cheltenham Branch members were treated to something different. Dr Mike Flannery FBHI presented “Smiths Speedometers”. In one sense this was familiar ground to our horologists involving  hairsprings and geared mechanisms, in other ways, this was uncharted territory. Technically members were challenged. not just with escapement-like “chronometric” mechanisms, but also with eddy current speed cups and  centrifugal governors. From a conservation point of view, the combined effects of MAZAK rot and power driven mechanisms meant that, in common with automotive practice, retention of original parts was often a distant aspiration, requiring a wide range of different skills to bring vintage speedometers back into service.  Cheltenham members are indebted to Mike for a very entertaining evening with insights into a parallel world of small geared mechanisms.

11^th November 2018. AGM, followed by a Bring & Buy. This month was the AGM for Cheltenham branch, which was swiftly concluded and was followed by wine & cheese and a bring & buy event. Our stall-holders brought a wide range of items for sale with plenty for everyone to pick through. Sadly there were very few visitors from outside the branch, but those who did come were very happy with the results. We hope to hold a similar event in the future – watch this space!

10^th October 2018. “Building a Month Regulator” by Dave Shires. The introductory part of David Shires October presentation to Cheltenham Branch members was impressive enough, as he described his construction of John Wilding’s 8 day regulator, followed by a C17th style long case clock and two drop dial fusee timepieces. All this and he still had not touched on the subject of his talk: The Construction of a Month Going Regulator. David, trained as a scientific instrument maker, prior to a career largely in double glazing, explained that he had not only made all the significant elements of the movements from scratch but had designed and introduced his own refinements including purpose made pivot jewel assemblies. Most surprisingly rather than an extensive engineering workshop, David showed photographs of his domestic work room with simple equipment that most members could aspire to. As well as information of sourcing custom jewelling, dial engraving and case making, David gave some good advice including that; to maintain the momentum of a project, go into the workshop every day, even if only to tidy up. Cheltenham members are indebted to David for an inspiring evening’s entertainment and sound advice.

12^th September 2018. “Louis XVI Lyre Clock” by Philip J. Gale In September, Phillip Gale addressed a good turnout of Cheltenham Branch members on the subject of a Louis XVI lyre clock that he had once restored. This restoration (and indeed the talk) was exceptional in the breadth of repair techniques that were covered. The task had been made more challenging by the previous restorations of this badly damaged and deteriorated artifact using unsuitable materials. The breadth of inappropriate materials that were encountered (including both pitch and epoxy adhesives) suggested that this clock had C19th repairs as well as a C20^th reconstruction. Worse still, the clock case had been “enhanced” with parts which did not originally belong. Phillip explained how all this damage and desecration had been rectified by specialists in ceramics, metalwork and metal finishing; with the end result that the clock emerged pristine with no visible traces of its chequered history. A lively debate then ensued over the preservation of the skills that had gone into this restoration, with Phillip advising that in the few years since, several of the specialists involved had retired and even where their businesses continued, the capabilities had been lost. Cheltenham members are indebted to Phillip for a thought provoking presentation.

9^th May 2018. “Wells Cathedral Clock” by Bob Frost At the May meeting of the Cheltenham Branch, members were treated to a presentation by Bob Frost, keeper of the Wells Cathedral Clock. Bob explained that he is responsible for all the aspects of care of the clock, from day-to-day timekeeping to gradually stripping, cleaning and overhauling all its elements. Members learnt that this had given him unparalleled access not just to the ancient parts of the clock still remaining in situ, but also to (literally) hundredweights of documents including 250 years of tradesmen’s bills. Access to the hidden parts of the clock has enabled Bob to assemble and present incontrovertible evidence that the unique dial of the Wells clock is not in its original state, but has been significantly altered. Access to the Cathedral documents pointed to previously unknown aspects of the clock’s history. Bob provided members with supporting evidence for the (now challenged) early date of the “original” mechanism in the science museum and, even more controversially, challenged the primacy of even this ancient mechanism. For the benefit of the members, Bob put the Wells dials and automata in context with other local turret clocks, but left the mysteries of Jack Blandiford and the clock’s “witches marks” to members’ imaginations. Cheltenham Branch members are indebted to Bob for an evening of revelations surrounding this historic clock.

11^th April 2018. “The use of a Milling Machine for beginners” given by Sid Lines MBHI In April, Sid Lines entertained and enlightened a good turnout of Cheltenham Branch members on the subject of milling machines. Sid blended the obscure with the obvious: giving those familiar with milling some useful hints and tips; and those with no knowledge or experience, a basic grounding in the subject. Milling techniques for a range of materials were discussed: not just the usual brass and carbon steel, but also stainless steel; cast iron; aluminium; plastic; and even wood. Lubrication was covered, with typically pragmatic advice on the use of brushing, rather than pumped coolant systems in a home workshop setting. The audience now know when to avoid and when to embrace climb / back / down milling; the role of 2, 3 and or 4 flute end mills; which of these can be used for plunge routing and checks to be made on tip geometry before attempting this. Most astonishing were arcane practices employing pins, plasticine and Rizla papers for centring and aligning cutters, in place of traditional wobblers and new-fangled lasers. Sid gave practical advice on the benefits and shortcomings of carbide vs HSS cutters, and on the feasibility, economics and drawbacks of re-sharpening. Once again, Cheltenham members are indebted to Sid for an evening of insight and humour.

21^st March 2018. “Large Sculptural Clocks” by Clive Steer Clive Steer addressed the March meeting of the Cheltenham branch, with the story of the Sculptural Clock that he built for the GSK headquarters in Brentford. Intriguingly, Clive explained how he approached this as an engineering project with a gearbox, rather than as a clock following horological precedents. The commission required that the clock be of substantial size, without either a dial or visible mechanism; and be suspended and rotated in the GSK atrium. The members present could all relate to the horological issues of counterbalancing, inertia and power, but Clive’s engineering solutions were novel and of great interest to all. Once our speaker showed the finished product, members assumed that the talk was over, but (as on previous occasions) we were mistaken. Clive then launched into a fascinating photographic tour of his workshops and concluded with the aeroplane that he had built and flown! Cheltenham members are deeply grateful to Clive for an entertaining evening with novel insights.

21^st February 2018. “The Cole Family of Clockmakers” by Ron Rose. More Information Ron Rose FBHI At our February meeting a record number of members were introduced to the Cole Family of Clockmakers by Ronald E Rose FBHI. Ron led the audience through the establishment of the Cole family clockmaking business in Somerset, by James “Conjuror” Cole, and his intriguing association with the poets Coleridge and Wordsworth. Interesting questions then followed regarding James’ apparently precocious sons, James Fergusson and Thomas; who signed clocks in their own names in their teens, and were producing clocks with grand complications in their 20s. Plausible explanations followed, with reference to detailed video recordings of the complications and actions of a James Cole year going longcase clock, and a James Ferguson Cole “Humpback” carriage clock. Ron then charted James’ descent into insanity; James Ferguson’s bankruptcy; and the emergence of Thomas Cole as a prolific manufacturer of innovative strut and tripod clocks. Having teased the audiences with glimpses of rare and valuable clocks that they would probably never handle, let alone own, Ron then produced three rare and inexpensive clocks of such a mundane nature that no-one present would otherwise be likely to spot, let alone handle or own. The branch is grateful to Ron Rose for opening their eyes to both the complicated and the unexpected.