A well-known early 1900s ‘Federation’ Chess Clock from Fattorini & Sons (Bradford). An open mahogany case, Roman numerals, wooden rocker arm and brass handle make this Timer look absolutely stunning! Its movements are originating from the ‘Badische Uhrenfabrik AG’, which is also recognizable from the ‘Made in Baden’ statement on the clock face. Given model might have been produced before 1909 (as afterwards Fattorini & Sons logo has been already extended with ‘Ltd’). A stamp on the bottom of the clock evidences its maintenance in 1934. Federation Timers (along with a Tanner and Jacques) were actively advertised and used for the majority of central British chess tournaments in the early 1900s (photos: British Chess Championship 1912).

Fattorini or not?

Despite the optical similarity, numerous details speak against Fattorini: no logo, very simplified uncarved wooden case, movements are not from Badische Uhrenfabrik anymore (btw that’s why the second hand is on the bottom). As a hypothesis, it might be a certain European Analogue, however exactly the same model (!) was used in the UK during British Chess Championship (!) 1921. Hypothesis #2: still some British alternative/successor/licensed twin (very similar clocks have been seen with a plaque “The Bohemian. London” – whatever it means), however too less information.

Summa Summarum: not a classical Fattorini which we know, but what exactly – hope to learn one day :)