Timekeeping champion – Lewis Walduck It was exciting to learn that last year Lewis Walduck landed his dream job as a clock specialist at Bonhams, under the leadership of the inimitable James Stratton. Lewis, now aged 21, completed an apprenticeship sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers while working with the highly experienced Richard Scorey at The Clock Workshop in Kings Worthy, near Winchester. The business specialises in the repair, restoration and conservation of antique clocks. He spoke to Clocktime News about what makes him tick. “The photo on the left is of a lantern clock that I purchased when I was about 13 years old. Although it has been converted to a spring movement, the case was made by John Wise. I was absolutely delighted to buy this because John Wise was from North Oxfordshire, like me. He was also the uncle of Joseph Knibb, who is my favourite clockmaker. When I was 13, there was a very small possibility in my mind that Joseph Knibb could have seen that clock, and for me, that was quite special. The clock in the other photograph is a table clock by Thomas Tompion, the father of British clockmaking.” At school, Lewis studied history, graphic design, religious studies and English, science and maths. He was devastated that the 17th century was not included in the GCSE history syllabus! Discussing advice to people looking for a career in horology, he said, “The most important quality you need is passion. Without full dedication to becoming a clockmaker, success is unlikely, as the path isn’t easy. I would highly recommend pursuing an apprenticeship. While university is valuable - particularly if you’re interested in a museum or conservation career - I believe the best way to learn is through hands-on experience, working directly with clocks on the job.
