Paper, Spirit and Time - Exploring my collections

Vintage clock and timepiece collection

old man looking at his collection of clocks

Here are some photo's from my collection of all kind of clocks:

Master and slave clock systems are early electro-mechanical timekeeping networks designed to provide perfectly synchronized time throughout a building or complex.
The master clock served as the central controller, producing a regular electrical pulse—typically every 30 or 60 seconds—while each slave clock responded to that signal by advancing its hands in exact alignment. This ensured that every room, hallway or workspace displayed the same time, long before electronic or digital systems existed.
These synchronized clock systems were widely used from the early 20th century in factories, railway stations, schools, government buildings, workshops and offices. A typical setup featured a high-precision pendulum or motor-driven master unit combined with a series of wall-mounted secondary clocks. The engineering behind these systems varied by manufacturer, but all relied on a combination of mechanical accuracy and simple, reliable electrical impulses.
Collectors and horology enthusiasts value master and slave clocks for their technical ingenuity, historical importance and distinctive industrial design. Many models feature beautifully crafted mechanisms, visible electrical contacts and elegant wooden or metal housings. Well-known makers include Brillié, Gents, Pragotron, Westerstrand, IBM/ITR, Siemens, and several others.
Today, these systems remain fascinating artifacts from the era when synchronized timekeeping was still a mechanical art supported by early electrical innovation. Master and slave clocks continue to be appreciated in private collections, museums and restoration projects, preserving an important chapter in the history of precision time control.


Old kWh Electricity Meters - Historical Power Measurement Instruments
Old kWh electricity meters were used to measure the amount of electrical energy consumed in homes, businesses and industrial installations. These mechanical meters played a crucial role in the early electrification of Europe, providing accurate readings for billing and monitoring power usage. Most vintage kWh meters feature a rotating aluminum disc, precise mechanical counters and durable metal or bakelite housings.
Collectors and technical enthusiasts appreciate these historical electricity meters for their craftsmanship, reliability and unique industrial design. Many of the older models were built to last for decades, with high-quality internal components that still function today. Their serial numbers, manufacturer plates and calibration seals provide interesting insights into their production period and former use.
This page presents a selection of original antique kWh meters from various decades and manufacturers. Each meter is carefully documented with photos, specifications and condition notes. These authentic devices are perfect for collectors of electrical history, museum exhibitions, educational purposes or decorative industrial displays. They represent an important chapter in the development of electrical measurement technology.


Antique Time Switches- Vintage Electrical Time Control Devices
Antique time switches are early electrical devices designed to automatically switch lights, appliances or industrial equipment on and off at fixed times.
These mechanical time controllers were widely used in factories, workshops, shops, farms and households before the arrival of digital timers. Most models operated with a rotating clock mechanism and adjustable pins or cams that allowed the user to set daily or weekly switching cycles.
Collectors value these vintage time switches for their robust engineering, precision mechanics and historical importance in the development of automated electrical control. Many units were built with metal housings, high-quality gears and clear indicator dials, which makes them ideal for technical collections, museum displays or restoration projects.
On this page you will find several original antique time switches from different manufacturers and periods. Each device is photographed in detail and described with its key technical specifications, condition and any markings. These historic time switches offer a fascinating look into the evolution of electrical automation and remain highly appreciated by collectors of vintage industrial technology.


A Antique time recorders, also known as punch clocks or time clocks, are early mechanical devices used to record employee working hours. These machines were widely used in factories, workshops, offices and industrial sites from the early 1900s onward.
By inserting a time card into the machine, workers would “punch in” and “punch out”, creating an accurate printed record of attendance and working times.
Many manufacturers produced highly reliable and beautifully engineered time recorders, combining wooden or metal housings with precise clock movements and sturdy stamping mechanisms. Well-known brands include Gledhill-Brook, Simplex, Seiko, International Time Recording (IBM), Cincinnati Time Recorder, and others.
Collecting antique punch clocks is popular among enthusiasts of early industrial technology. Their craftsmanship, mechanical sound, and visible internal mechanisms make them fascinating display pieces and important artifacts of workplace history.




part of a Brillie dial

The master clocks, time switches and time recorders:

For all of the clocks I'm looking for the manuals and / or user instructions

My YouTube channel    

Back to Homepage

My social media pages:

My YouTube Channel My Facebook Channel My Instagram Channel My LinedIN Channel