
The Collection
The Collection
From minuscule mechanisms and precision engineering to colossal constructions and atomic devices, the many highlights of this collection include the first successful electric timepiece, the personal watch of Captain Scott of the Antarctic, clocks that were made as early as the 17th century, plus no less than three speaking clocks.
This collection has its origins in the foundation of the BHI in 1858 when members of the Institute began collecting clocks, watches and other timepieces and artefacts to support the education of clock and
watch makers. In 1994 the collection was placed in charitable trust, now the Museum of Timekeeping, established to ensure the long-term future of the collection and to provide inspiration and enjoyment of timekeeping by everyone.
At present a large-scale project is being led by the Collections Officer, with the help of Collections Volunteers, to create an inventory which fully documents and catalogues the collection. Due to the historic nature of the collection and varied standards of collections documentation and paperwork utilised during its 160-year-old history, this is a large-scale and complex project, likely to take some years to complete. In the long run this will help improve access to the collection and also support new ways of using the collection in exhibitions, events and wider activities.






Working Exhibits and Conservation
The Museum of Timekeeping is an unusual museum in some respects as many of its exhibits are working pieces. This requires a higher level of maintenance and care, than many museums exhibiting non-working artefacts. The Museum is supported by a voluntary Conservation and Maintenance group of specialist horologists who meet 5 weekends per year to undertake conservation of collection items. It would not be possible for the Museum to afford this work without the kind input of the professional volunteers who give time to this group- and the Museum Trust is incredibly grateful for their support.
Donating Items to the Museum
From time to time the museum accepts donations to help enhance the collection and displays- through the addition of interesting and unique items that will be of interest to visitors and/or researchers.
What can and cannot be accepted?
The Museum Trust must be sure that it can care for items adequately and therefore it is unlikely that incomplete objects or artefacts in poor condition or containing hazardous substances will be accepted. The Museum is regularly offered spare clock or watch parts, which we usually have to turn down as they are unlikely to be of use for display or research. In this situation, we recommend that enquirers contact any local clock or watch repairers that may be able to make use of these items.
Does the Museum purchase objects?
Does the Museum loan in objects?
How to make a donation
Please note as a result the museum is not able to take on the spot donations in person or by post and in this situation donors will always be required to take items away with them, or make arrangements for their return. For this reason, please contact the Museum in advance to discuss your proposal.
You will be asked to provide:
• a description of the item, including condition
• dimensions
• photographs
• relevant background
• to confirm that you as the donor owns the item.
This is all that is usually required by the acquisitions panel to make a decision. If further information is required, or the object needs to be seen in person the Collections Officer will contact you.
You will be notified of the acquisition panel’s decision as soon as possible. If your request is accepted the Collections Officer will arrange a time to meet with the donor and complete the Object Entry Form paperwork to legally transfer the item/s to the Museum.
Does the Museum loan out objects?
The Museum can loan certain artefacts to other ACE accredited museums who meet necessary criteria. Over time the museum hopes to develop handling resources for loan to schools and other groups for educational purposes.
Donation Enquiries

Museum of Timekeeping
Upton Hall, Upton
Newark
Nottinghamshire
NG23 5TE
T: 01636 817601
E: info@museumoftimekeeping.org.uk
Partners & Supporters:
