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British Horological Institute

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British Horological Institute

Training for clock and watch makers since 1858, including on-site courses courses and learning from home.
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Clock and watch courses for the professional, interested enthusiast, and learning for the next generation of Britain’s clock and watchmakers.

03/06/2026

There's always plenty happening in the workshops at Upton Hall!
Our students have been busy developing their skills, working on a variety of clocks under the guidance of professional tutor John Reynolds FBHI. The well-equipped workshop provides the perfect environment for hands-on learning, whether you're just starting out or building on existing experience.
It's great to see so much enthusiasm, concentration and craftsmanship on display as students progress through their courses.
Have you studied in our workshops? We'd love to hear from past and present students.
Tell us in the comments:
⏰ Which course did you take?
🔧 What was your favourite project?
📸 Can you spot yourself in any of the photos?
We always enjoy hearing where your horology journey has taken you since training at Upton Hall.

02/06/2026

The Pragnell-Bray Origins Clock is a remarkable full-size replica of John Harrison’s H1, one of the most significant timepieces in the history of navigation and horology.
Designed by Charlie Pragnell and crafted by Bob Bray, President of the BHI, together with his family firm, Sinclair Harding, the clock is a celebration of British engineering, craftsmanship, and horological heritage.
The Origins Clock was first unveiled at Pragnell’s flagship showroom in Stratford-upon-Avon and has since been exhibited at Goldsmiths’ Hall, Dumfries House—home of The King’s Foundation—and most recently at Pragnell’s Mayfair showroom during London Watch Week (2–6 June 2026).
The British Horological Institute is pleased to welcome Pragnell as a Corporate Member and looks forward to supporting its continued commitment to British craftsmanship and horological excellence.
pragnellwatches Sinclair Harding - Makers of fine clocks

01/06/2026

🕰️ Inside the June Horological Journal!
Discover precision timekeeping and expert engineering in this month's issue.

✨ Highlights:
• The Origins Clock: A stunning, faithful recreation of Harrison’s legendary H1 Sea Clock by Sinclair Harding.
• Expert Guides: Continuing David Poole’s 'Let’s make a clock' masterclass and Ben Tubbing’s pendulum mechanics feature.
• Exclusive Insights: An interview with Mike France and "Bench View" by Mike Flannery.

📖 Read Now:
👉 Read the featured Origins Clock report for FREE: [https://bhi.co.uk/hj]
👉 Not a member? Sign up today to get the Journal delivered every month!

27/05/2026

🔧⏰ Clock & Watch Taster Days at Upton Hall
Ever wondered how clocks and watches actually work?
Come along to Upton Hall for a fun and informative taster day with our professional tutors and explore the fascinating world of horology.
During the session, you’ll enjoy:
• A short history of horology
• Live demonstrations of clock and watch mechanisms
• An introduction to how timepieces are cleaned and maintained
• A relaxed, hands-on learning experience
📅 Dates run throughout the year – please see the website for details.
These taster days are ideal for anyone with an interest in history, craftsmanship, engineering, or simply discovering how things work.

25/05/2026

📐 Technical Drawing – Part 1
📅 22–23 August
👨‍🏫 Tutor: Ross Alcock FBHI
We’re pleased to offer this hands-on introduction to the core principles of technical drawing.
This course is designed to help you build confidence and accuracy in drafting, whether you’re new to the subject or looking to refresh your foundational skills.
Over the two days, you will learn:
✏️ How to produce clear and well-structured layouts
📏 The correct use and meaning of line types
📐 The principles of orthographic projection (turning 3D ideas into precise 2D drawings)
🧰 How to use technical drawing tools effectively and accurately
This course is ideal for beginners and anyone wanting to strengthen their understanding of technical drawing fundamentals used in design, engineering, and manufacturing.
🔗 Book your place via the link in our bio

22/05/2026

Build Your Own Watch 🕰️
8–9 August | Tutor: John Murphy FBHI
Join a unique, hands-on watchmaking workshop where you’ll assemble your own Swiss movement with expert guidance throughout.
Over two days, you’ll learn the essentials of traditional horology and build a stainless steel wristwatch, complete with dial, hands, and leather strap — a timepiece you’ll take home and keep.
No previous experience is required, just an interest in craftsmanship and attention to detail.
📍 Limited places available
Book your place: https://bhi.co.uk/courses/byo

20/05/2026

🕰️ Open Clock Workshop
📅 31 July – 2 August
👨‍🏫 Tutor: Ross Alcock FBHI
Bring your own horological projects and make use of the BHI’s fully equipped workshop during this practical three-day event.
Ideal for those looking to:
• Use specialist tools and equipment
• Practice techniques for examinations
• Develop practical clockmaking skills
Please note: tutors are on hand only to assist with using the tools and equipment.
Sessions are available to book per day.
🔗 Book your place here: https://bhi.co.uk/courses/ocw

19/05/2026

Interested in learning how to use a watchmakers’ lathe?
Join James Welbourne FBHI for our hands-on Watchmakers’ Lathe – Introduction to Lathe Techniques course at Upton Hall, taking place 22–24 July.
This practical workshop is ideal for beginners or anyone looking to build confidence using a lathe for horological work. You’ll learn essential setup and maintenance techniques, hand graver skills, component holding methods, and gain practical turning experience using brass and steel.
No previous qualifications are required, and participants are welcome to bring their own watchmakers’ lathe for additional guidance during the course.
Book your place today — link in bio.

18/05/2026

Congratulations to all students taking their BHI exams! 👏📚
As you reach this important milestone in your studies, we would like to wish you every success and the very best of luck. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to the craft are something to be truly proud of.
The BHI is here to support you every step of the way, and we would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the fantastic staff at Uton Hall for their continued care, encouragement, and support throughout the exam period.
To all our future watchmakers, clockmakers, and horologists — keep going, you’ve got this! 🌟

01/05/2026

Making Small Components with professional tutor John Reynolds FBHI

We’ve just wrapped up a fantastic four-day course, with students achieving a really high standard throughout.

This practical, hands-on programme focuses on the making of small components using traditional hand and machine techniques. By creating a horology-inspired assembly of simplified parts, students gain valuable experience in key manufacturing and machining skills used in the workshop.

Find out more here: https://bhi.co.uk/courses/msc

Address

Upton Hall, Main Street
Newark
NG235

Opening Hours

Monday	10am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Telephone

+441636813795

Website

http://www.bhi.co.uk/

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