The Synchronome clock is designed to allow the pendulum to swing freely while receiving a propelling impulse only once each half minute. The impulse is delivered to a single pallet on the pendulum rod by a roller on the "L" shaped gravity arm. The arm is released and allowed to fall on the pallet after fifteen strokes of the pendulum. The gravity arm is restored to a rest position immediately after delivering the impulse by a unique electromagnetic system.

Many astronomical observatories used the Synchronone until well into the 1950s. Thousands were manufactured in England and Australia by the company from about 1915 until as late as 1968. A single master clock can control hundreds of slave or secondary dials scattered throughout a building or campus. Many examples have no attached dial within the case and are referred to as "time transmitters."

The synchronome company freely permitted single copies to be constructed by amateur mechanical horologists such as this example. The company supplied drawings, raw and finished parts and often allowed the use of their facilities to one-off makers. The genuine factory made Synchronomes are always serial numbered. Very few are cased as standing clocks. Optimal performance requires that they be fastened securely to a brick wall.

Height: 70.5 inches
Width: 14.5 inches
Depth: 10.75 inches