Code: C22180
Type 2, Smiths Coventry Astral, 1942 dated Air Ministry stamped 8-day, lever escapement movement. 14" dial with approximately 17" diameter 'economy' tiger oak surround. The dial is generally very good, completely unrestored and original. It has some scratches, ingrained grime and there is minor paint loss around the edges near some of the screw holes but this does not detract. Minor associated corrosion is visible at some of these points and also around the winding hole and advance/retard lever. As is usual, the dial attachment screws are probably not original. The clock retains an original unpainted spun bezel and has the glass retainer ring in place on the inside (these often seem to fall out and are replaced with plaster type material). The single piece wooden surround is less ornately shaped than those found on earlier clocks and made from 'Tiger' oak with a distinctive striped patination. It is in good condition bar minor knocks and scratches. The back is double stamped 'Smith 1942' and also with the 'GVI' cypher. The movement itself is in very good clean condition, the rear plate with clearly stamped 'Astral', A.M.', King's crown and 1942 date. Being a non-fusee movement, this clock has the advantage of being less temperamental than the pendulum driven Type 1 and will run without being hung exactly straight on the wall. The dials on Type 2 clocks are normally 'tinned' which gives some protection from corrosion and explains why most are in better condition than their predecessors. We prefer to have clocks with totally original dials even if this means some dirt, rust and paint loss. A rare opportunity to own one of the classic clocks as used in the WW2 Operations Rooms of RAF stations. Additional photographs available on request. Stock code C22180.
