The city where the clocks can’t keep track of the time
Take a stroll through the centre of Norwich and you may notice something unusual- time doesn’t quite agree with itself. Recently, the BBC found that across the city, dozens of public clocks (some dating back more than 150 years) display completely different times. In fact, of the 48 public clocks scattered around Norwich, many are out of sync, with some differing by as much as ten minutes.
Some of Norwich’s clocks are positioned on civic landmarks, while others were originally installed as advertising features for high street businesses. Walk down London Street and you might find three or four clocks within sight of each other, each pointing to a different moment in time.
Large clocks adorning the Castle Quarter shopping centre, the Guildhall in Gaol Hill and the former National Westminster bank building in London Street are among those that are out of sync or have stopped working.
Perhaps the most famous is the clock at Norwich City Hall, built in the 1930s. Despite its prominence, it has required multiple repairs in recent years, costing thousands of pounds, and even then, it can still stop working.
It’s a quirky but telling reminder that not all timepieces are created equal- especially when they’ve been ticking for over a century.
Why do older clocks struggle?
Experts agree that the older a clock is, the more difficult it becomes to maintain accuracy. Traditional mechanical clocks rely on intricate systems of gears and pendulums, all of which are susceptible to wear, environmental conditions, and the passage of time.
Without regular maintenance, these mechanisms can drift, slow down, or stop entirely. While they remain beautiful pieces of heritage, they are not always the most reliable way to keep track of the hour.
A modern solution to accurate time telling
While historic clocks certainly have their charm, modern timepieces offer something just as valuable- accuracy. If you’re looking for a clock you can rely on (with a touch of heritage design for good measure),
Newgate offers a range of stylish designs powered by dependable quartz movement, ensuring you always know the correct time.
How to keep your clock on time
Even with modern quartz clocks, a little care goes a long way in maintaining accuracy…
Batteries
For the best performance, always use a brand new, high-quality alkaline battery. Quartz clock movements are reliable and precise, but they depend on a steady and consistent power supply. A battery that works perfectly well in a remote control or toy may not be strong enough to power a clock effectively.
Even “new” batteries that have been sitting in a drawer for months may have lost their strength. It’s always best to use a recently purchased battery straight from the shop.
Make sure the battery is inserted correctly, following the + and – markings inside the compartment. Incorrect placement can cause overheating or leakage, and forcing the battery into place incorrectly may even cause a short circuit.
The size and weight of your clock hands also affect battery life. Larger or heavier hands- and especially the addition of a second hand- require more power. To keep your clock running smoothly, replace the battery regularly with a fresh alkaline one. In most cases, a slow or stopped clock is simply solved with a new battery.
Time setting
Always adjust the time using the dial on the back of the clock. If your clock has an open face, avoid moving the hands directly, as this can damage the internal mechanism and affect accuracy over time.
Explore the Newgate clock collection
From charming but inconsistent historic clocks in Norwich to reliable modern designs, one thing is clear: keeping time accurately requires the right mechanism and proper care. If you’re ready to upgrade to a clock that won’t leave you guessing, explore Newgate’s collection, where style and heritage meets precision and accuracy.
