Project Smiths Astral Clock 

Vintage Smiths Astral Ships Clock Made in GT Britian AP160174Fabulous Vintage Royal Navy Brass Bulkhead Ships Bridge Clock off HMS Cleopatra (F28)

HMS Cleopatra (F28) was a Leander-class frigate of the Royal Navy. Cleopatra was built at HMNB Davenport and commissioned in 1966. She had a very busy operational service particularly in the Far East including RY Guard ship during QE II & Prince Phillip’s tour to South East Asia in 72. She spent time protecting British trawlers in 73 during the “Cod Wars” and was also one of the 1st frigates to be refitted to take the Towed Array Sonar (2031) which was located in the hanger so was no longer able to take a helo to sea. She was finally decommissioned in 1992 before being sold for scrap.  

The clock was removed prior to scrap and can be seen in the picture of the bridge, it’s in fine fettle and working accurately. Overall it’s in great condition with the odd imperfection commensurate with its age and use. The 8” clock face is marked with the makers name “Smiths Astral” of Coventry and has the Admiralty Pattern number (AP 160174). The solid brass 10.5” x 5” case has the the platform escapement starting button to the left, hand adjuster knob to the right and the bevel led glass door lock at 8 o’clock. The hinge is solid and has an engraved car-touche with the ships name on the crest of the flange.

I’ve seen a few of these over the years selling for £750-£1000 but they have never had the affiliation to a ship.