Civic Clocks

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About Civic Clocks

A forum for sharing images of twentieth century civic clocks, both tower and building mounted, working and static. Although civic tower clocks have for centuries figured prominently in the metropolitan landscape - their proliferation as free standing aesthetic elements, in locations other than the town square, appears to have been a comparatively recent phenomenon.

Civic clock building seems to have experienced a brief boom period post WWII - here in Australia and New Zealand at least - the rich variety of clock fascia and tower styles (and building materials) reflecting a preoccupation with all things post-modern.

That heyday may now be passing with many mechanisms now left unrepaired, their supporting structures, fascia and precincts showing increasing signs of neglect.

Despite its pervasiveness and prominence, the twentieth-century civic clock has thus far attracted little academic or popular interest. It seems timely, therefore, that we should make a start towards documenting these interesting - and universal - elements of our shared cultural heritage.

No upload limits, and it would be helpful if you could, as a minimum requirement, identify the location in either the title or tags. Enjoy.

Mark
Australia

Related Links


Clockcare is a Dutch initiative particularly concerned with documenting and preserving tower clock technologies.

2001 European Seminar - Protection of Public Clocks

Australian register of historic Public Clocks

World Clock Project on Flickr

World Clock Project