Object Description
A 1930s Art Deco glass etched wall clock with “Internalite” pierced brass tubes top and bottom housing electric light strips to illuminate the clock .
The “Internalite” (patent) electric sign was iconic of the period; a Ladies sign from the lavatories at The Ivy, illuminated by an Internalite strip, recently sold at auction for £7500.
According to KFM’s catalogue from c.1934, “”Internalite” electric signs have been produced to meet the demand for a sign of the highest class for advertising, directional and all other purposes. They are constructed of polished plate glass, on the back of which is etched any wording, picture or design which may be suitably coloured or gilded. The design or inscription is cut into and thus protected by the glass, it permanently retains its original brilliancy, and will not discolour…The illumination is obtained from standard striplight metal filament lamps enclosed in a framework along one or more edges of the plate, and is internally reflected except by the etched portions which are brilliantly illuminated” [Source: P. [2], The Corning Museum of Glass]
As part of the overhauling of this clock, the light bulbs within the strips have been replaced with LED strips for economy and longevity. Aesthetically, nothing has changed, but the heat generated is far less!
The clock is wired for mains electricity.
Height: 56cms (22 inches), excluding the chain from which it is suspended which can, of course, be any length.
Width: 54 cms (21 inches)
Depth : 10 cms (4 inches)
Guaranteed for 3 years.