All aboard the Vitascope: a clock with a view
This post was written by Geoff A. Horner
Ever stumbled upon a clock that's more than just a time-teller?
Meet the Vitascope Illuminated Panoramic Electric Clock, a delightful creation from the Isle of Man that has been charming enthusiasts for over 70 years. Forget boring old tickers; this beauty features a miniature sailing ship that actually pitches and rolls on a painted sea, all while the sky behind it magically shifts from sunrise to sunset and moonlight.
Manufactured by Vitascope Industries Ltd between 1946 and 1958, these clocks were truly a product of their time. They were part of a post-war boom in plastic injection moulding, and while they might not have had 'real horological content' according to some, they certainly had real character. The Vitascope seems to attract the interest of even those who are uninterested in clocks.
Joseph Frederick Summersgill, the inventor and managing director, clearly had a flair for the whimsical. Beyond the clocks, Vitascope Industries also created sought-after flying saucers and other plastic novelties.
What made the Vitascope so popular? Its unique, animated diorama and the fact it came in a rainbow of colours. Plus, being mains synchronous, it was accurate and never needed winding – a true convenience for its era.
The Vitascope was marketed worldwide, as its developing patent history indicates, and, as the press noted in 1948, ‘the factory is working at top pressure just now on the Vitascope dioramic electric clock which is finding a ready market in different parts of the world’ (Ramsey Courier, 19 March 1948, 7).
While you might hear claims of them being rare, Vitascopes actually pop up for sale quite often. However, finding one in pristine condition can be a treasure hunt! They came with variations in case colour (from common creams and browns to rarer greens and reds), different hands, and varying chapter rings. Early models often featured specific combinations, like a cream case with brass studs and 'Empire State' hands.
The Vitascope is a testament to inventive design, proving that a clock can be a conversation starter and a miniature piece of art. It's a fun and fascinating glimpse into mid-century design and a reminder that even everyday objects can hold a touch of magic.
