For most people, adjusting to the clocks changing involves a simple reset of the oven or car clock. However, spare a thought for the dedicated team of three horological conservators employed by the Royal Family, who have just completed the monumental task of manually updating more than 1,600 timepieces across various royal residences.
The Weekend Work of Royal Clock Conservators
As British Summer Time (BST) began at 1am on Sunday, March 30, these experts worked tirelessly throughout the weekend to ensure every clock in the Royal Collection was accurately set. This collection includes 450 timepieces at Windsor Castle, 350 at Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace in London, and 50 at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
Historic and Significant Timepieces
The Royal Collection Trust emphasises that these clocks are among the finest and most historically significant items housed in the palaces. The assortment features musical clocks, astronomical clocks, and miniature clocks, each requiring careful handling due to their age and value.
One of the most notable pieces is the Anne Boleyn Clock, believed to have been presented by Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn on the morning of their wedding in 1532. This makes it the oldest clock in the collection. Another highlight is Queen Charlotte's watch, which was the first to incorporate a lever escapement and is considered a forerunner of modern wrist and pocket watches.
The Annual Time Change Process
This manual adjustment is a biannual event, with the clocks springing forward by one hour in March and falling back by one hour in October. The next change is scheduled for 2am on October 25. The conservators' work ensures that these historic timepieces not only tell accurate time but also preserve their mechanical integrity, avoiding the potential damage that automated adjustments might cause.
The Royal Collection's clocks are more than just functional items; they are artefacts of British history and craftsmanship. This meticulous process highlights the ongoing dedication to maintaining the Royal Family's heritage, blending tradition with the practical needs of modern timekeeping.
