BRITAIN
IN TIME
An outline of Britain’s unique relationship with time
The Space Traveller I pocket watch by Dr George Daniels CBE. Exemplifying George Daniels’ unique approach to watchmaking, this watch is also the most expensive British watch to ever sell at auction ($4.6 Million)
Britain in Time
Britain has a unique relationship with time.
As far back as Neolithic times, the world-famous Stonehenge was built using staggering technological innovation as a clock; a clock that foretold the time, not only of the solstices, but also of sun and lunar eclipses.
The spirit of invention
That spirit of invention has stood the test of time.
It is said that around three-quarters of all inventions in mechanical timekeeping came from Britain’s horological heyday in the 18th-19th centuries.
‘Longitude’ is a famously British discovery and our planet keeps time by the prime meridian at Greenwich. And the world’s most iconic working symbol of time? ‘Big Ben’, of course, in London.
Resurgent craftsmanship
From the 1850s, watchmaking in Britain declined to virtual extinction, until Dr George Daniels CBE forced the world to take notice again, thanks to his single-minded genius.
Dr George Daniels CBE
Innovation, creativity, potential
Today, there are over 50 commercial watch and clock makers dotted around the British Isles, ranging from world-leading horologists to major export brands and niche mechanical artists.
An alliance of excellence
In fact, all over the British Isles you’ll find watch and clock companies offering art, design, adventure, technology and ultimately, excellence.
British watch and clock makers are now helping to steer and encourage this exciting resurgence with our dynamic and forward-thinking Alliance.
Thank you for supporting the Alliance of British Watch and Clock Makers. We are a not-for-profit organisation registered in the UK as a company limited by guarantee with No: 12463247.
Your membership dues support our aims to promote and support British Watch and Clock Making.