London Hackspace

Over the summer I was introduced to the London Hackspace which resides in Hackney - quite appropriately I think. It's an amazing place where creative things happen and has a treasure trove of resources. I have visited the Brighton and Birmingham version in the past and knew that there was equipment for computer hacking and machines such as 3D printers however I was surprised to find that they had gadgets for all kinds of creative construction. It's a community affair and anyone can use the facilities so I recommend having a look and potentially becoming a member. It would be a great place to use in the holidays away from the college workshop.

Workshop Wednesday 03/12/14

A before and after shot of a balance spring Lance is working on

2 1/2 weeks left of term before the Christmas holidays and deadlines are fast approaching. Second and third years need to hand in half of their repair portfolios of clocks or watches and the first and second years have making projects to hand in - the mini clock and the cock and plate project.

It's been an exciting term with many people showing an interest in the course, most notably The Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla Parker Bowles came and spoke to our students.

Workshop Wednesday 29/10/14

Longcase clocks on test

After a long summer break, we are back in full swing with the third years working hard on their final masterpiece, the second years starting their portfolio of work and the first years on their cube and mini clock. It's been so busy we haven't had time to update the blog so we'll ease in gently with some pictures of what's going on in the workshop.

Watch Case Refurbishment

This week I've been polishing cases on watches that are being serviced. It's not something that's normally done by watchmakers unless they own their own shop, but is a great skill to have. I've documented the process of refurbing a Tag Carerra for you to see how it works. At the end are before and after shots of a selection of other Tag Heuer watches, too!

BHI Practical Exam - Second Year

Over the last few weeks Rosie and I have been working on the BHI practical exam, in which you are given a technical drawing for a multi-part item made from different materials and finishes with tolerances of 0.05mm, and required to make it - this year it was a cock and plate. You're given three weeks, but this is to allow you time to make mistakes. I was definitely glad for the excessive time last year, but this year having made a more similar, but much more complex, practical piece as part of the degree, I found this exam to be largely straight-forward. See after the break for a picture diary!

Class of 2014 Final Clocks

Sadly this is a short post, as we have just two students leaving us. We do, however, still have two excellent clocks to show!

Rosie's Horizon Clock

Another clock design for you to have a look at. My design is very different to James' who has posted below so it's good to have a preview of the variety of clocks that will be on show in 2015.

What's the course like? BCU interview.

The university recently conducted a number of interviews with students to allow people considering the courses a brief insight into what they have to look forward to. You can find the two minute video for horology after the break: