It is easy to overlook the clock in the Market Hall other than to check the time to see if it is correct. The clock was custom commissioned by Derby based J. Smith & Son in 1884, the clock tells its own story so far!
The clock company was though, one of the most renown in the country so was very prestigious at the time of install with no expense spared.
Some of the other clocks installed include:
- St Paul’s Cathedral Clock Tower, London 1893
- Trinity College Clock, Cambridge 1910
- St Pancras Station Grand Brassier Clock, London
- Fortnum & Mason Tea Salon, London
- Salisbury Cathedral Clock, Salisbury (complete restoration)
To name but a few of a long list. During the war, the company was commandeered to manufacture dashboard clocks and precision instruments for military vehicles and aircraft including spitfires. After the war, it returned to become a staple manufacturer of large clocks for major buildings, churches, railway stations, schools and colleges etc.
It is comforting that the company still exists and that the Market Hall clock still keeps perfect time but needs regular winding.