Clockwright Wind & Water

Clockmaking is a painstaking craft that requires tremendous attention to detail. Rick Hale is a clockmaker who brings an 18th century craft into the modern age, taking cues from the master clockmaker, John Harrison, who performed his wooden horological craft over 300 years ago. Hale’s work is both artistic and highly detailed since the clocks are more than just aesthetic but truly functional. Hale individually cuts every tooth in each gear and uses Harrison’s lignum vitae wood for all rotating parts for maximum natural lubrication and low friction. His pieces take from months to years, depending on size and complexity. Wind & Water is a 36 x 60″ wall clock that Hale completed just last month. Made with hand-carved aged cherry wood, maple, and lignum vitae, it’s a breathtaking example of what Hale can do. He works by commission only, and you can see why based on the photos.