Westclox Quartzmatic Scotland Brass Ships Clock – 1970s Porthole Bulkhead Roman Numeral 8 Inch

A substantial and handsome Westclox Quartzmatic ship's clock from the 1970s — the porthole bulkhead format, in heavy brass construction, made at the General Time Ltd factory in Dumbarton, Scotland. A clock with genuine nautical authority and the satisfying weight of a well-made brass instrument.

The deep-drum brass case is robustly constructed with a hinged bezel opening to a flat glass lens — the classic porthole format that has graced the walls of ships, yacht clubs, studies and hallways for generations. The white dial carries bold black Roman numerals of generous scale with an outer 24-hour ring, the Westclox name printed prominently at the top and the Quartzmatic Scotland designation at the base — confirming both the brand and the Dumbarton factory origin. Black hour and minute hands with a vivid red seconds hand read clearly against the white ground. The brass case has developed a warm, uneven patina consistent with a genuine 1970s piece — character rather than damage. Quartz battery movement, working. Ready to hang.

8 inches (20.5cm) overall diameter. 6 inch (15cm) dial. 3.5 inches (9cm) deep. A heavy and well-made piece.

Westclox Dumbarton — A Scottish Industrial Story

Westclox established their Scottish factory in the Vale of Leven Industrial Estate, Dumbarton, in 1948. By 1949 the factory was producing 10,000 clocks a week, and by the mid-1960s employed 1,100 people. The Quartzmatic brand name was applied to their battery-powered quartz range — a significant technological step when introduced, reflecting Westclox Scotland's position at the forefront of British clock production.

The ship's clock format was one of the most enduring and well-regarded designs in the Westclox Scotland range — a clock made for buyers who wanted something with genuine heft and nautical character on their wall, rather than the lighter domestic designs that made up the majority of the factory's output. The brass porthole construction is entirely in keeping with the maritime tradition, and the Scotland provenance gives it a specific and authentic industrial heritage that adds to its appeal.

Specifications

Condition

Good vintage condition. The brass case has developed a warm patina consistent with a genuine 1970s piece — honest age-related character rather than damage. The white dial is clean and fresh. The Roman numerals are crisp and well-defined. The movement is working. A well-preserved and functional example of a classic Scottish brass ship's clock.

A clock with genuine nautical character — heavy, well-made and built to last decades on any wall it chooses.

Shipping

Free tracked delivery across the UK. We ship to the United States and internationally — please message us before ordering for an accurate quote. All import duties and taxes are covered upfront for US orders, with no surprise fees on delivery. Every clock is carefully packed to ensure it arrives safely.