Inverness Clockmaker

About

The priorities of Clockmaker are making clocks, making automata, making models, creating sculpture, drawing, painting and studying. These activities make me happy. 

Repairing other people’s clocks, watches, and mechanical items is something I do as a sideline. I can repair or service all types of clocks and watches but expect a wait of at least six months, or in some cases up to a year. I will also accept anything from house or garden (toys, models, tools, sewing machines, etc) that requires repair or restoration.

I do not charge for my work, and my work is conducted strictly under my terms. However, if you feel that I have provided a good enough service, then please feel free to provide a donation once the work has been completed; for whatever sum that you can afford via cash, cheque, or BACS electronic payment. Any sum would be most welcome. Donations received go back into supporting the workshop and studio. 

A little bit about myself…

My background is marine/mechanical engineering with a solid grounding in electrical engineering, control & instrumentation.

I am a former Chief Engineer in the Merchant Navy, I was at sea for 25 years. I officially came shoreside in 2014 after a two year stint as a Marine Technical Superintendent in Aberdeen.

Ranging from welding/turning to high voltage equipment fault finding, marine engineers are adept at many disciplines. I left the marine industry in 2014 but retain the courtesy, integrity, knowledge and experience of a senior engineering officer.

Between 2014 and 2022, I had several different roles including Engineering Manager at biomass power stations and biogas production plants, as a Boiler Inspector for Zurich Insurance, as a Mechanical Engineer at an energy-from-waste power station, and as Property & Facilities Manager at Inverness Creative Academy. I started Clockmaker in November 2022 after securing funding to set up the workshop on Church Street, Inverness.

Machining, metalwork, and mechanical engineering are my bread & butter. I have had a fascination with clocks and modelling since I was a little boy, and would make & repair models and clocks in the evenings during my time at sea.

I am studying for a formal qualification in horology through the British Horological Institute, and very keen to start up a makers’ space in Inverness. I am also studying for a BA in Art History & Creative Writing through the Open University. Once I have the BA in 2030, I will move onto an MA Fine Art course run through the Open College of the Arts. By 2034, the plan is to be :-

1. Running my own art practice, with a BA in Art History & Creative Writing and an MA in Fine Art behind me

2. Operating a fully equipped clock and watchmakers’ workshop

3. Fully qualified as a professional horologist, with employable knowledge and skills for employment as a clock or watch conservator or restorer

4. A Fellow of the British Horological Institute (FBHI)

So here’s to the next ten years!

I am originally from Liverpool but moved to Inverness in 2006. I moved further north to Dornoch this year (2024), where I live in a cabin close to the sea. I walk on the beach every day. I can hear the sea from my cabin.

I was exposed to (and enlightened, captivated & inspired by) the local Inverness creative and cultural scene through volunteering at Clachworks, and from working at Inverness Creative Academy.If there is something I could do for you, or even if this just strikes a chord and would like to know more, please drop me a line at hello@invernessclockmaker.uk or message me at https://www.facebook.com/PatrickRafteryInvernessClockmaker