History and Symbolism of Masonic Clocks and Timepieces

The History and Symbolism of Masonic Clocks

Freemasonry, often simply referred to as Masonry, is a fraternal organization that emerged in the early 1700s. Freemasons use various symbols and symbolic imagery to convey philosophic and moral teachings. One of the more intriguing masonic symbols is the clock, which holds deeper meaning and represents key masonic principles.

The Significance of Time

Time plays an important role in Freemasonry. The 24-inch gauge and common gavel are two iconic masonic symbols that emphasize proper use of time. Masons are taught to divide their time appropriately between work, prayer, charitable endeavors, and refreshment. Time is therefore symbolic of balance, wisdom, service, introspection and well-being according to masonic teachings. Clocks and timepieces are therefore very emblematic within Freemasonry.

Tempus Fugit

The Latin phrase "tempus fugit" meaning "time flies" is often depicted on masonic clocks and watches. This phrase stresses the fast passage of time and the importance of focusing one's energy on morality, charity and self-improvement rather than materialism or selfish endeavors. The temporality of human existence is central to masonic values.

Common Design Elements of Masonic Clocks

There are several design elements commonly associated with masonic clocks and timepieces reflecting core masonic principles and imagery:

The All-Seeing Eye

The Eye of Providence, also known as the All-Seeing Eye is a very well-known and ubiquitous masonic symbol representing the watchful presence and wisdom of the Supreme Being observing human events. Masonic clocks very frequently incorporate an image of the All-Seeing Eye, emphasizing divine oversight over the passage of time.

The Square and Compasses

The square and compasses, representing faith and reason, are the single most identifiable symbol of Freemasonry. Nearly always depicted together, these iconic tools are often featured alongside or near clock faces as a clear marker of the Masonic affiliation of the timepiece.

Sun, Moon and Stars

Celestial bodies carry astrological and philosophical meaning within Freemasonry. The sun signifies warmth, growth and the masculine force; the moon signifies stability, imagination and the feminine essence; while stars connote infinite possibilities and constant self-improvement. You will find these cosmic elements integrated into masonic clock decoration.

Mosaic or Checkered Pavement

The checkered floor or mosaic pavement is an iconic masonic "furnishing" of the lodge room traced back to King Solomon's Temple meant to instill perspective and balance between positive and negative, good and evil, light and darkness, life and death. This emblematic flooring often serves as the background to clock faces as a reinforced masonic reference.

Examples of Masonic Clocks Through History

Masonic clocks appeared early on the in fraternity's history, first as mantle and pocket watches for personal use, expanding to a variety of masonic timepieces as awareness of the organization grew. Here are some seminal examples that have survived into modern times:

William Woodnutt Pocket Watch

This antique gold pocket watch created by English watchmaker William Woodnutt dates back to the late 1700s and features a range of masonic imagery including the all-seeing eye, stars, the square and compasses and what may be an early rendition of the mosaic pavement in the background. This watch exemplifies some of the most iconic and enduring masonic symbols still used today.

Henry Capt Mantle Clock

Prominent politician Henry Clay served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky in the early 19th century. This beautifully preserved wooden mantle clock owned by Clay features the square and compasses symbol with a sun and crescent moon clock face. The sun and moon represent new beginnings and closure, dawn and dusk, appropriate for a clock face counting the hours.

'The Tyler' Mechanical Clock

The Tyler is the guardian or sentinel who stands watch outside the door to the lodge room during meetings. Mechanical clocks and figures depicting the Tyler became popular in the 1800s. 'The Tyler' clocks show a muscular man wearing a fur hat and sword holding a bell and lantern with clock face drawn on his hip apron. These whimsical and rare clocks highlight a key masonic officer and protector of the group's secrecy.

Modern Masonic Timepieces

Today you can find many types of clocks and watches targeted specifically to the masonic community or that feature classic masonic aesthetic elements. These modern options keep historic masonic symbols alive and relevant.

Desktop Clocks

Small desktop clock options abound with masonic designs perfect as gifts or personal items for home or office. These modern quartz clocks often feature stained glass, metal or wooden square and compasses images or All-Seeing Eye faces with custom text like the motto "We Strive to Improve". Desktop masonic clocks offer subtle symbolic touches.

Wristwatches

Modern masonic wristwatches allow members to take symbolic reminders of their affiliation and teachings anywhere. Masonic watch designs incorporate elements like the compass, checkered floors, Pythagoras' Tetractys geometric diagram, multi-colored ribbon representing the various degree levels and other discreet square and compasses markers.

Grandfather Clocks

Large stately masonic grandfather clocks are available today as beautiful showpieces for homes or lodge spaces. These customized clocks feature stained glass masonic motifs, intricate wood carvings of figures like the Tyler sentinel, specialized clock faces with Latin phrases or unique mosaic background designs.

The clock holds special importance within Freemasonry where core teachings emphasize morality, charity and reverence for a Supreme Being alongside proper use of time. Masonic clocks emerged early in the fraternal organization's history, first as pocket and mantle watches and expanding over centuries into a wide array of timepieces conveying spiritual concepts and deeper philosophical meaning through symbolic design elements still recognized today.

FAQs

What do the symbols on masonic clocks represent?

The most common masonic clock symbols are the all-seeing eye representing the watchful presence of the Supreme Being, the square and compasses symbolizing faith and reason, celestial bodies like the sun, moon and stars conveying deeper spiritual meanings, and the checkered mosaic pavement highlighting moral duality.

How old are masonic clocks?

Masonic clocks emerged in the early 1700s shortly after the fraternal organization Freemasonry was established, first as personalized pocket and mantle watches for members.

What jobs are associated with masonic clock symbols?

The image of a muscular Tyler figure holding guard outside the lodge room doorway is featured on some old masonic clocks, representing the officer appointed to admit only authorized attendees to meetings.

What are some examples of early masonic clocks?

Two examples are the William Woodnutt pocket watch from the late 1700s with a range of masonic imagery, and the 19th century wooden mantle clock owned by Grand Master Henry Clay featuring a square and compasses sun clock face.

Where can I buy a masonic clock today?

Many online retailers offer modern masonic clocks ranging from desktop quartz clocks to engraved grandfather clocks featuring stained glass masonic motifs, customized clock faces, and intricate symbolic wood carvings.