Clock

The present clock was made and installed by Smiths of Derby in 1932.
It is a three-train pendulum clock with a gravity escapement, driven by
automatically wound weights.

It has two dials, one on the west face of the tower and one above the
east window. The latter is driven by a rod that runs through the roof for
the whole length of the church.

Before the bells were rehung in 1973, it used to chime the Westminster Quarters and strike the hour. Insufficient space was left in the new bell frame for the refitting of the clock hammers, so it has not been heard since 1972.

Following recent investigation it was decided that the hour hammer could be re-connected, but not the chimes without expensive modification to the clock.

The hour striking was recommissioned by Joyces of Derby, in time for the St Swithun's Festival in July 2007, following a fundraising effort by the Friends of St Swithun's and with the assistance of the Churches Conservation Trust. It is hoped to re-commission the striking of the quarters as a ting-tang at some time in the future when funds allow.

The remains of a previous 18th century wooden-framed clock are still in the tower. It would have been similar to the one now on display in Old St Martin's church, Worcester. Also in the tower are the remains of a wooden chime barrel that once played a tune upon the six bells.

Notes on St Swithun's clock by David Beacham FBHI, Diocesan Bells Adviser