Antique clocks

The programme

Successful study on the clocks programme leads to a prestigious West Dean College Award. The environment, accommodation and workshops at West Dean are unique, providing the facilities to equip students with advanced practical skills. Tutors practise at the highest level in their field and the small group of students, usually 9 in total, means a high degree of personal tuition. You will collaborate with organisations such as the British Museum through work placements, and with programme advisers from the museum and private sectors who help to evaluate your progress.

You will learn new skills and develop a deep knowledge and understanding of conservation and restoration by working on objects of historical importance from museums and private collections. Experts in the field will teach you how to produce condition reports for the artefacts and objects placed in your care, as such primary source material demands careful analysis before any work is carried out.

Established in 1972, the conservation programmes are recognised by leading public and private sector organisations worldwide. The programme is supported by the British Antique Dealers' Association (BADA) and recognised by the British Horological Institute (BHI).

The tutors

• Roger Still
• Robert Wren

Click to view the tutor profiles

The facilities

The programme is delivered in the purpose-built clocks conservation workshop. You will have your own workstation with a personal lockable cupboard for your tools and equipment. The workspaces are equipped with a basic set of handtools. There is a specialist machine area, a cleaning room and a testing room. IT facilities are available within the clocks workshop, including a scanner, digital camera and Internet access. Additional computers are sited within the College Library and IT suite. 

All necessary basic materials used throughout the programme are supplied. Students are encouraged and advised on how to build up their own set of tools.

Programme advisors

BRIAN BASKERVILLE: Member of BADA, Antiquarian Horologist.
NEIL BROWN: Senior Curator, Classical Physics, Science Museum.
MICHAEL HURST: Antiquarian Horologist.
DAVID PAY: Antiquarian Horologist.
DAVID POOLE: FBHI, Master of Worshipful Company of Clock Makers.

Lecturers

DAVID THOMPSON: Curator of Horology, British Museum.
JONATHAN BETTS: Curator of Horology, National Maritime Museum and Adviser to the National Trust.
FRANCIS BRODIE: Freelance Clocks Conservator & Adviser to the Victoria and Albert Museum.