British, WW2, Smiths English Clocks Ltd Type II Military “Austerity” Wall Clock – Dated 1943, Broad Arrow Marked
An original 1943 British Army Smiths Type II “Austerity” wall clock, Broad Arrow marked and retaining its classic white dial, spun brass bezel and front S–F regulator — a superb wartime military timepiece with strong period character and presence.
*British, WW2, Smiths English Clocks Ltd Type II Military “Austerity” Wall Clock – Dated 1943, Broad Arrow Marked*
A scarce and highly desirable wartime British military wall clock by Smiths English Clocks Ltd, London, clearly dated 1943 to the dial and bearing the Government Broad Arrow ownership mark.
This is the classic Type II “Austerity” white dial military pattern, produced during the height of the Second World War when material shortages forced British manufacturers to simplify and economise production.
The 42cm painted white dial features bold black Roman numerals with outer minute track, steel hands, and the original S–F (Slow/Fast) rate adjustment arbor accessible from the front — a practical military feature allowing regulation without removing the clock from the wall. The dial is signed: “Smiths English Clocks Ltd, London, 1943”. The case measures approx. 42cm diameter and 15cm deep, wall mounted, with a spun brass bezel and glazed front. The rear housing is of wartime economy construction consistent with Type II production. The clock retains its winding key and is stamped “Made in England.”The movement winds smoothly and appears to run; timekeeping accuracy has not been formally tested.
Historical Note: Smiths was one of Britain’s foremost precision instrument makers and by the outbreak of WWII had become the largest clock manufacturer in Europe. During the war the company transitioned heavily into government contracts, supplying timing instruments to the British Army, RAF and Royal Navy.
The Type II “Austerity” clock was introduced as wartime shortages intensified. This 1943 example perfectly illustrates Britain’s wartime shift to “Austerity” production. With U-boat attacks severely disrupting the importation of hardwoods and brass, traditional pre-war mahogany fusee clocks (Type I) were abandoned in favour of simplified, economical designs. The present clock retains the characteristic thin spun brass bezel rather than the earlier heavy cast type, and its functional rear housing reflects wartime economy construction rather than fine cabinet work. Internally, these models utilised Smiths’ robust Astral spring-driven movement instead of the expensive fusee mechanism, allowing for faster, high-volume production while maintaining reliability. The result was a practical, durable military timepiece built specifically for wartime conditions — exactly as seen in this 1943 Broad Arrow-marked example. These clocks were installed widely in: officers’ messes; barracks and administrative offices; hospitals and training facilities. The Broad Arrow (pheon) marking on the dial confirms British Government ownership. While thousands were produced, many were discarded post-war, making intact 1943-dated examples with original dial markings increasingly sought after.
*Condition* An honest and original wartime example showing expected service wear. The movement winds smoothly and appears to run; however, long-term accuracy has not been formally tested. The S–F regulator is present and functional. Winding key included. The dial retains strong, clear printing including the Broad Arrow and 1943 date. There is age-related toning, light surface marks and minor scuffs consistent with military use. Three of the small dial retaining pins are missing, with the vacant fixing holes visible around the perimeter; this does not prevent the dial from sitting correctly. The spun brass bezel displays attractive period patina and light surface wear. The case shows typical wartime economy construction with surface marks and wear commensurate with age. Hinges and bezel operate as intended. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
