Pierhead Clock

A clock that went abroad

The mechanism was made by Potts of Leeds and installed in the Pierhead Building in 1897. British Rail sold it at auction in 1973, and in 1976 it was bought by an American collector, Alan Heldman. Years later he decided it should go home, and it returned from Alabama to Cardiff.

Restoration and display

Clockmakers Smith of Derby restored it, replacing lost parts and adding new dials, a bell and automatic winding, and repainting it in burgundy and black based on an old photograph of a similar Potts clock. It was unveiled in the city centre with a parade in November 2011, set within a sculpture by Marianne Forrest. After water damage, it was fully restored again and reinstalled in a protective glass case on Lower St Mary Street in March 2024, with new lighting so it can be seen at night.

Seeing it

The clock stands in the street, so you can see it any time. It sits among St Mary Street's bars and cafés: Uncommon Ground roastery is a few steps away, and the Prince of Wales and Bonnie Rogues are a few doors along for a drink.

Highlights

• Original 1897 Pierhead Building mechanism
• Made by Potts of Leeds
• Returned to Cardiff from Alabama
• Restored by Smith of Derby
• Lit at night in a glass case

Good to know

• The clock is outdoors on Lower St Mary Street and free to view at any time.

Frequently asked questions