Contemplating this unrestored, 1930s, Hunt & Roskell and J.W. Benson table clock, it is easy to understand why Art Deco design has come to be revered. Every detail appears to have been well thought out. It feels timeless, yet modern. Minimalist, yet distinctive.

J.W. Benson was a retailer of clocks, watches and jewellery, based on Bond Street for a period of time, having obtained Royal Patronage in 1879. Additionally, it was one of the most respected watchmakers in London from the second half of the 19th century. In 1889, the company took over Hunt & Roskell, a renowned jewellers and silversmiths on Bond Street. Together, they set out to foster and preserve British craftmanship.

This table clock is pure and elegant in its design. The main body of the clock sits on a miniature two-tiered base, a detail which, however simple, adds presence and distinctiveness to the piece. The dial design is quintessentially from the period, with imposing blued steel sword hands and applied hour markers; an outer minute track adds a welcome touch of complexity. The lack of any branding on the dial further reinforces the minimalist design. Having faded to an even creamy brown, the lume adds a touch of warmth to the overall appearance of the clock.

Despite the British provenance of the clock, the movement is Swiss-made, due to the fact that following a bombing raid on the Hunt & Roskell and J.W. Benson factory in 1914, the brands sourced mechanisms from a number of first-rate producers in Switzerland. Inspected from by our watchmaker during servicing, the movement appears to be a high-quality ébauche. As indicated on the dial, the mechanical movement features an 8-day power reserve.

An elegant remnant of Art Deco design, this has a discrete, yet characterful presence.