Gents of Leicester Copper Factory Wall Clock, circa 1920s, 50 cm, Pulse Restored, Made in England

The name Gents of Leicester appears on clocks that have kept time in British railway stations, factory floors, public buildings, and school corridors for over a century. When architects and engineers in early 20th-century Britain needed a clock that would run accurately, read clearly at distance, and require minimal maintenance, they specified Gents. This copper-cased example, dating to approximately the 1920s, is a direct product of that reputation.

The maker

Gents of Leicester was formed in 1872 by John Thomas Gent and later registered as Gent & Co. In 1903 they produced an electric clock system labelled as the 'Pul-syn-etic', a master and slave series of clocks that would go on to revolutionise the workplace and public spaces alike. The system worked on a simple principle: a master clock sends a precisely timed electrical pulse to each slave clock, advancing the hand by one step per minute. The result was synchronised timekeeping across entire buildings and stations without mechanical complexity at each clock face. Gents' electric clocks can still be found in public buildings, railway stations and factories all over the world to this day, a testament to their superior design, build and quality. 

The restoration

The original clockwork mechanism has been preserved and remains in place. A custom-made 12/24V pulse driver, produced by Dutch specialist manufacturer Het Uur, has been fitted to the movement. It sends an adjustable electrical pulse once per minute, exactly as the original Pul-syn-etic master clock system would have done. The clock connects to a standard power outlet via an included adapter. It runs automatically from the moment it is connected.

The original hands are intact. The copper case has been semi-polished by hand, bringing back warmth to the metal while preserving the character of its age rather than erasing it. A new clear plexiglass lens has been fitted for durability.

The dial face shows natural discolouration consistent with its age and working life. This is not a defect. It is the visual record of a hundred years.

Specifications

Condition

Original vintage object. The dial face has natural discolouration and age marks. The copper case has been hand semi-polished and retains honest patina. Fully functional. No hidden damage.

One piece. No reissue. No reproduction.