Precious Time: "The King’s Clock," 1770

The King's Clock
1770
Blue John, Gilt Bronze, Enamel,
Glass, Steel
The Royal Collection

This mantel clock was ordered around the same time as an ornate chimney garniture for Queen Charlotte’s bedroom at the newly repurposed Buckingham House (now Buckingham Palace) in 1770 and was made according to strict instructions by King George III.


William Chambers was instrumental in creating the design of the clock case which features gilt bronze sphinxes on either side of the base. The clock boasted an 8-day striking movement of a design by the horologist Tomas Wright.

Despite being made specifically for Queen Charlotte’s private chamber, the clock ended up on the chimneypiece of The Crimson Drawing Room where it remained for many years.