If you’ve ever said “meet you by the clock, Duck” in Nottingham, brace yourself — Victoria Centre has confirmed that the iconic Emett Clock is being carefully removed from the centre from today as part of refurbishment works.
But before you start mourning, East Midlanders, it’s not going anywhere permanently — it’s just heading off for some well‑deserved TLC.
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The clock will be looked after by specialists while it’s away, with detailed checks and maintenance carried out to protect its delicate moving parts and make sure it keeps ticking for years to come. Basically, it’s a spa break, not a goodbye.
First installed back in 1973, the Emett Clock has been confusing, charming and occasionally hypnotising shoppers for decades.
Standing at a whopping 23 feet tall (yes, really), the clock — officially named The Aqua Horological Tintinnabulator — is famous for its moving figures and those unmistakable chimes that go off every 15 minutes and on the hour, often catching you off guard while struggling with numerous bags of shopping from Boots.
Designed by British artist, cartoonist and inventor Rowland Emett — the same man behind the wonderfully weird inventions in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang — the clock is one of Nottingham’s most recognisable and beloved pieces of public art. It’s equal parts art installation, meeting point and accidental time thief.
And it’s done some serious good over the years too. Thanks to generations of shoppers flicking spare change into its wishing well, the Emett Clock has helped raise over £300,000 for charity, officially making it one of Nottingham’s most generous landmarks.
The removal is part of Victoria Centre’s wider refurbishment plans and is all about keeping the clock protected while works take place. It’s not the first time it’s had specialist care either — previous maintenance has involved everything from polishing and oiling tiny components to making sure all those moving bits behave themselves.
Leading the restoration is Pete Dexter, a specialist craftsman and long‑time engineer who’s been looking after the clock for years. Alongside other expert partners, every piece of the clock will be carefully handled to make sure its character, charm and slightly chaotic energy stay exactly as they should be.
So yes, the Emett Clock is leaving Victoria Centre — but only temporarily. Nottingham’s favourite landmark will be back, refreshed, restored and ready to steal everyone’s attention all over again.
Hooray!
