Western Railway’s 134-year-old Heritage Clock at Lower Parel Workshop continues to stand the test of time | File Photo
Mumbai: Western Railway’s Lower Parel Workshop is home to a remarkable piece of history – a heritage clock that has been ticking since 1889. This iconic timekeeping device, manufactured by M/s. GILLETTE & Co. of Croydon, England, is a testament to the rich history and legacy of the Railways.
Located on the wall of the FIAT Bogie Shop, facing the main entrance gate, the Heritage Clock stands as a symbol of craftsmanship and heritage. With over 134 years of service, this clock has witnessed the evolution of the Railways and remains a living testimony to the enduring legacy of the Lower Parel Workshop.
“The Heritage Clock was crafted in 1889 at the Union Road facility in Croydon, England, by M/s. GILLETTE & Co., a company renowned for its clock-making expertise since 1844. Its installation coincided with the establishment of the Lower Parel Workshop, making it an integral part of the workshop’s storied past. Over the decades, the clock has witnessed the evolution of the workshop, standing as a silent sentinel to the passage of time” said an official.
Engineering Marvel
The Heritage Clock is a marvel of mechanical engineering. With an overall diameter of 213 cm and a dial diameter of 152 cm, it is an imposing structure that commands attention. The clock operates through a meticulously designed gear train made of brass components, chosen for their resistance to corrosion. The energy required to keep the clock running is stored in a metal spring, which is wound once a week to ensure uninterrupted operation.
What makes this clock truly remarkable is its simplicity and robustness. Its compact mechanism requires minimal maintenance, a testament to the ingenuity of its creators. Despite its age, the clock continues to function with precision, a tribute to the craftsmanship of the 19th century.
Guardians of Time
Parivesh Sahu, Chief Workshop Manager of the Carriage & Wagon Workshop, Lower Parel, advocates for the preservation and maintenance of cultural and natural heritage. It is a commendable effort that contributes to the safeguarding of this long & cherished history.
The upkeep and maintenance of the Heritage Clock is entrusted to two senior technicians, Rajkumar Saroj & Norbert D’mello of the Millwright Shop at the Lower Parel Workshop who with their dedication have been the custodians of this antique timepiece since 1990.
These technicians who have been imparted with specialized training, were given the responsibility of maintaining not only the Heritage Clock but also all GA card time-punching clocks within the workshop. Their unwavering commitment ensures that these historic timepieces continue to operate smoothly, preserving their legacy for future generations.
The Tuned Bell: A Harmonious Companion
Adding to the historical significance of the site is a tuned bell, also manufactured by M/s. GILLETTE & Co. in 1890. Located just below the Heritage Clock, this bell bears the cast number 122 and weighs 57 kg. With a diameter of 425 mm and a height of 430 mm, it is a fine example of the company’s craftsmanship. Together, the clock and the bell form a harmonious duo, echoing the rich history of the Lower Parel Workshop.
A Living Legacy
The Heritage Clock and the tuned bell are more than just artifacts; they are living reminders of the ingenuity and dedication of those who came before us. They stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Lower Parel Workshop and its commitment to preserving its heritage.
“As the clock continues to tick and the bell chimes, they remind us of the timeless values of precision, craftsmanship, and the importance of honoring our past. The Heritage Clock is not just a relic of history—it is a beacon of inspiration for generations to come” said an official.
