How to Identify the Age of Your Big Ben and Baby Ben Clocks

The Westclox Big Ben and Baby Ben alarm clocks are icons of American timekeeping. Known for their durability, charm, and reliable alarm function, they have graced nightstands for over a century. Collectors and owners alike often wonder when their clock was made.

Dating a Big Ben or Baby Ben involves examining design features, manufacturer markings, and movement details. With the right approach, you can pinpoint the production era and learn more about your clock’s place in history.

1. Start with the Manufacturer’s Markings

Westclox marked most of their clocks with company information that can help you narrow down production years. Look for these details:

• Back plate markings – Often include “Westclox,” “LaSalle, Illinois,” and sometimes a patent date.
• Patent numbers – Cross-reference them with known patent issue years.
• Logo variations – Westclox updated its branding periodically; comparing your clock’s logo style to reference charts can help date it.

Early 1900’s models may have “Western Clock Mfg. Co.” rather than “Westclox,” which indicates production before the official name change in 1912.

2. Study the Case Style and Finish

The Big Ben and Baby Ben have gone through multiple design generations. Case shape, finish, and dial style can quickly place your clock in a specific range:

• First generation (1910’s–1920’s): Nickel-plated cases, round bezels, bold serif numerals.
• Second generation (1930’s–1940’s): Streamlined Art Deco shapes, painted metal cases.
• Mid-century (1950’s–1960’s): Smaller bezels, pastel colors, and modern sans-serif numerals.
• Late models (1970’s onward): Plastic cases, brighter colors, simplified dials.

Matching your clock’s overall look to these style eras can confirm serial number research.

3. Check the Movement Design

Inside the clock, the movement type and layout reveal even more clues. Westclox refined its alarm movements over time, and certain components are linked to specific production windows:

• Brass plate movements – Common in early models before WWII.
• Steel and alloy components – Became standard in later mass-produced clocks.
• Different alarm hammer shapes and locations – Can be tied to specific design updates.

If you’re opening the case, use care—these clocks are mechanically simple, but mishandling can still cause damage.

4. Look for Date Codes

Many Westclox clocks include a date code stamped inside the back cover or on the movement itself. This code often appears as a two-digit month and year, such as “4 53” for April 1953.

In some cases, the code may use letters to indicate months or factory locations. Cross-referencing these with collector date charts can pinpoint the exact manufacturing date.

5. Preserve and Maintain Your Clock

Once you’ve determined the age of your Big Ben or Baby Ben, the next step is to keep it in working order. Dust, dried oil, and worn bushings can cause alarms to fail or timekeeping to drift.

At Clockworks, we offer:

• Professional cleaning and repair services for vintage and modern alarm clocks
• Specialized tools for safe movement disassembly and adjustment
• Lubricants, bushings, and parts to keep your clock running smoothly

Whether you want to restore your clock to daily use or simply preserve it as a display piece, the right tools and care will protect its history and value.

6. Use Dial Design as a Clue

The dial face is one of the easiest features to compare against historical examples:

• Early 1900’s: Large, bold numerals with minimal branding.
• 1930’s–1940’s: Streamlined numerals and art deco styling.
• 1950’s: Modern, sans-serif fonts with bright hands.
• 1960’s–1970’s: Bolder, playful designs, sometimes with colored backgrounds.

These stylistic changes often align closely with Westclox’s catalog updates, making them a reliable dating aid.

7. Compare to Catalogs and Advertisements

Old Westclox catalogs, advertisements, and sales brochures often show the exact model and finish of your clock. Many of these references are available in horological books or online archives. Matching your clock to a documented catalog year is one of the most accurate dating methods.

Final Thoughts: A Century of Reliable Alarms

The Big Ben and Baby Ben clocks are more than just alarm clocks—they are pieces of American manufacturing history. By examining markings, case styles, movement details, and dial designs, you can date your clock with confidence.

Once you know its age, taking proper care ensures it remains a working piece of history for decades to come.

If you need help dating, cleaning, or repairing your Westclox Big Ben or Baby Ben, visit www.clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com. Our team can provide the tools, parts, and expertise you need to keep your clock ringing on time.

Updated on: 02/10/2025