At Newgate, we’re famous for our railway - or station - clocks. In fact, one of our most iconic clock designs, the Putney, is inspired by the mid-Century railway station clocks that Newgate's founders, Jim and Chloe Read, collected on their travels across Europe. Now a design classic, our station clocks adorn the walls of some of the world’s most stylish homes and hotels.

Railway clocks aren’t just practical instruments for telling time; they have evolved into stylish interior pieces that evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication. But how did railway clocks transition from station platforms to the walls of our homes? Here, we’ve taken a dive into the fascinating history of railway clocks and how they’ve become such icons of interior design…

The origins of railway clocks date back to the 19th century, when the advent of the railway system revolutionised travel across Britain and beyond. With the increasing number of train journeys and the need for precise coordination across various stations, the importance of accurate timekeeping became paramount. In 1840, the introduction of 'Railway Time' standardised time across the country for the first time, with clocks at railway stations becoming the official reference for local communities.

Railway clocks were designed for practicality and precision. They had to be large, legible, and reliable so that passengers and staff could easily read the time from a distance. The classic design, featuring a bold face, roman numerals, and black hands on a white dial, became synonymous with railway stations across Britain. Station clocks quickly became a symbol of punctuality and order.

While railway clocks were originally designed to serve public spaces, their simple yet striking design eventually found its way into homes. By the mid-20th century, as railways became a romanticised symbol of industrial innovation and travel, people began incorporating elements of railway design into their interiors. The railway clock, with its clean lines and functional appeal, became a popular choice.

Part of the appeal of station clocks in home interiors lies in their blend of industrial style and vintage charm. These clocks evoke a bygone era when timekeeping was a public spectacle, and they remind us of the importance of structure in our daily lives. The oversized clock face, often encased in metal or wood, serves as a statement piece in modern and traditional homes alike. Whether hung above a mantelpiece or placed in a hallway, railway clocks add a timeless aesthetic to any space.

At Newgate, we love railway clocks: we love creating them, and they continue to be some of our bestsellers. And it’s not just us: railway clocks have become a beloved trend in interior design.

One of the reasons why station clocks continue to be a mainstay of interior design is nostalgia. Railway clocks connect us to a period when the railway was the lifeblood of cities and towns, evoking memories of travel and adventure. They bring a touch of vintage elegance into our homes, making them ideal for creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

The simplicity and functionality of railway clocks also contributes to their ongoing popularity. The minimalist design of station clocks complements a wide range of interior styles, from industrial to contemporary. Their large, easy-to-read faces make them both practical and stylish additions to any room.

Railway clocks are also very versatile pieces that work well in different areas of the home. Whether in the kitchen, living room, or office, their timeless appeal can elevate the look of any space.

Whilst in some ways quite simple in their design, railway clocks are certainly a statement piece. The bold and classic design of railway clocks allows them to stand out in any setting, making them an ideal wall clock. As a focal point on a wall, they draw the eye and add a sense of structure and sophistication to any interior space. 

From their origins in the 19th century to their place in modern interiors, railway clocks have truly stood the test of time. As station clocks continue to be a favourite trend in interior design, they offer a perfect blend of history, style, and practicality. Whether you are looking to add a touch of vintage charm to your home or simply love the sleek design of a classic timepiece, a railway clock can be the perfect addition to your interior space.

At Newgate Clocks, we celebrate this iconic trend with our range of beautifully crafted railway clocks. Our railway clocks have become design classics: equally at home in an industrial, retro or minimalist interior, our station wall clocks are much more than just a time-keeping device- they’re a focal point and a design statement with a rich history.