Business Details
Antique Clocks & Restoration Experts in Lewes
W F Bruce Antiques has been a trusted name in antique clock restoration and sales for over thirty years. Founded by Bill Bruce after completing a rigorous BADA antique clock restoration course, the business is based in Lewes, East Sussex. Recognised as a member of the British Antique Dealers Association and a Fellow of the British Horological Institute, we specialise in early English lantern clocks, longcase clocks, and other pre-pendulum timepieces. Our two large showrooms display an extensive collection, including rare examples from renowned makers in Sussex and Kent.All clocks sold come with a two-year guarantee, and our workshop undertakes meticulous restoration using traditional hand skills. We maintain a well-stocked library for research and welcome customers and students to explore our expertise. Our international reputation is built on decades of experience and a commitment to preserving horological heritage.
Services
Antique Clocks
Restoration Services
Lantern Clocks
Longcase Clocks
Wall Clocks
Mantel Clocks
Barometers
Workshop Restoration
International Sales
Research Library Access
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of dedicated experience in antique clock restoration.
- Our team includes a Fellow of the British Horological Institute.
- We offer a two-year guarantee on all clocks sold.
- Our restoration work employs traditional hand skills from the 17th century.
- We maintain an extensive library for horological research and education.
Associations and certifications
- British Antique Dealers Association
- British Horological Institute
Services
Antique Clocks
We offer an extensive collection of antique clocks, including rare pre-pendulum lantern clocks and longcase clocks from Sussex and Kent. Each piece is meticulously restored using traditional techniques. Our inventory features works by renowned makers such as Richard Comber and John Waklin, ensuring historical authenticity and craftsmanship.
Restoration Services
Our workshop provides sympathetic restoration of antique clocks, employing 17th-century hand skills. We conserve both sale items and customer-owned timepieces, ensuring structural and mechanical integrity. All work is conducted in a dedicated 18th-century facility beneath Lewes Galleries, with progress viewable by clients.
Lantern Clocks
Specialising in early English lantern clocks from the 17th century, we hold catalogued exhibitions of exceptional pieces. Our collection includes pre-pendulum designs and rare examples by makers like Joseph Lloyd. Conservation and repair services are available for global clients seeking historical accuracy.
Longcase Clocks
We curate and restore longcase clocks from esteemed Sussex and Kent makers, including Walder of Arundel and Noakes of Burwash. Each clock undergoes thorough assessment to maintain original features. A two-year guarantee accompanies every sale, reflecting our confidence in quality.
Workshop Facilities
Our 18th-century workshop in Lewes handles all restoration projects, staffed by skilled clockmakers. Facilities include a research library with specialist texts for academic and customer use. Clients may visit to observe ongoing work, ensuring transparency and trust in our meticulous processes.
People
Bill Bruce
Founder
Bill Bruce established the business after completing a BADA restoration course. A Fellow of the British Horological Institute, he brings over 30 years of expertise in horological preservation and antique clock sales.
Questions
What types of antique clocks do you specialise in?
We specialise in pre-pendulum English lantern clocks, longcase clocks, and wall clocks from the 17th to 19th centuries, including rare pieces by Sussex and Kent makers.
Do you offer restoration services for customer-owned clocks?
Yes, we provide sympathetic restoration using traditional techniques for antique clocks owned by clients, ensuring historical accuracy and mechanical functionality.
Can I visit your showroom outside opening hours?
Our Lewes showrooms are open Tuesday to Saturday, but appointments can be arranged for alternative times by contacting us directly.
Are your clocks guaranteed after purchase?
All clocks sold come with a two-year guarantee, covering both mechanical integrity and authenticity as described.
Do you sell clocks internationally?
Yes, we have an international reputation and regularly assist clients worldwide with purchases and restoration consultations via correspondence.
