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For more than 200 years, the tower clock of St John’s Cathedral in Parramatta has marked the passage of time for the community. A gift from King George IV, this grand timepiece arrived in the colony in 1822, becoming an essential feature of daily life when personal timepieces were a luxury few could afford. Now, thanks to a NSW State Heritage grant, this remarkable clock has been carefully restored and enhanced with new technology to ensure it continues to serve the city for generations to come.

A Glimpse Into History

St John’s Cathedral stands in the heart of Parramatta, opposite the Town Hall, with a rich history dating back to 1802. The installation of the tower clock in 1822 was a defining moment for the church and its community, allowing people to structure their days by its chimes. However, maintaining such an old mechanical system presented challenges, with the clock requiring manual winding twice a week—a task that involved climbing steep wooden ladders and cranking heavy weights into position.

The Restoration Journey

The recent restoration project was both meticulous and groundbreaking. Led by Master Clockmakers in Camden, the work involved dismantling the entire clock mechanism, carefully examining each cog, wheel, and lever, and refurbishing worn parts. Traditional craftsmanship met modern innovation, as an automatic winder and regulator were installed to maintain accurate timekeeping without the need for risky manual winding. The addition of smaller, lighter counterweights replaced the original heavy ones, making the system more efficient while preserving its historic integrity.

A Community Celebration

With the restoration complete, St John’s Cathedral proudly celebrated the clock’s renewed life in early 2024. A special event was held on a sunny Sunday, attended by members of the community, church leaders, and the Lord Mayor of Parramatta. Acknowledging the dedication of the skilled clockmakers and the invaluable support of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, the gathering marked the occasion with speeches, gratitude, and, of course, a celebratory cake.

Keeping History Alive

The St John’s Tower Clock is more than just a timepiece; it is a living link to the past, a reminder of Parramatta’s heritage, and a symbol of the enduring value of preservation. Thanks to the NSW State Heritage grant and the expertise of Andrew Markerink and his team at Master Clockmakers, this iconic clock is once again keeping perfect time.

Now, we invite you to witness the journey of restoration for yourself. Watch our video to see the clock in action and appreciate the craftsmanship that keeps history ticking.

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