Metamec 5868 White Bakelite Wall Clock — 1960s, Brass Bezel, Former Wind-Up
1960s Metamec white bakelite kitchen wall clock, Model 5868 — a clean, classic dial with bold black numerals, a slim brass bezel, and a soft-tick stepped seconds hand. 20.3cm (8 inches) diameter, new quartz movement, fully working. Ready to hang.
A genuine survivor of Metamec's original 30-hour wind-up era.
Metamec — The Pride of Dereham, Norfolk
Metamec was founded in Dereham, Norfolk in 1947 and grew to become the largest clock manufacturer in the United Kingdom, at their peak employing around 750 workers and producing 350 different models and 25,000 clocks every week. Many of Metamec's earlier 1960s clocks, including this one, were originally fitted with a 30-hour wind-up mechanism rather than mains power or battery quartz — wind-up examples from this era are now especially sought after by collectors for their original mechanical character. This clock's movement had stopped running and has been carefully converted to a new quartz movement, retaining its practicality while keeping the original hands intact.
Clean, confident kitchen design
The model 5868 is one of Metamec's most straightforward and enduringly appealing designs — a crisp white bakelite case, a slim polished brass bezel, and a bright white dial with bold black Arabic numerals. The hands are original, carefully matched to the new movement, including a stepped seconds hand fitted to give a soft, gentle tick reminiscent of the clock's original wind-up mechanism rather than a silent sweep — a small but genuine detail for anyone who remembers the sound of a real ticking clock. The bezel has been repolished and the bakelite case cleaned, bringing the whole piece back to a bright, fresh presentation.
At 8 inches across and just 2 inches deep, this is a practical, well-proportioned kitchen or hallway clock — simple, honest 1960s design that suits almost any room.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Metamec, Dereham, Norfolk — Made in England |
| Model | 5868 |
| Era | 1960s |
| Frame/Material | Bakelite case, brass bezel |
| Diameter | 8 inches (20.3cm), depth 2 inches (5.1cm) |
| Movement | New quartz — originally 30 hour wind-up, converted for practicality. Stepped seconds hand with soft tick |
| Style | White dial, black Arabic numerals, brass bezel |
| Ready to hang | Yes |
Condition
Very good vintage condition. The brass bezel has been repolished and the bakelite case cleaned. Some slight age-related wear is present but does not detract from the overall appearance. Original hands retained and carefully matched to the new movement. Please review all photos carefully, as they form part of the item's description.
A genuine piece of 1960s British clockmaking, originally wind-up and now practical for everyday use.
Shipping
Free tracked delivery across the UK. We ship to the US and internationally. US orders only: all duties/taxes covered upfront. Non-US buyers may face local import charges outside our control — check with your customs authority before ordering. Every item packed carefully.
Please note: as stated in our shop policy, buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply outside the UK. US orders are the exception — duties are covered upfront by us.