Double Pendulum Clock with Planisphere and Wandering Moon by David Walter

Double Pendulum Clock with Planisphere and Wandering Moon
David Walter
Circa 2015

This extraordinary double pendulum regulator clock represents the apex of contemporary horology and stands as a monumental achievement of David Walter. It is the most complicated double pendulum clock ever made. Inspired by Abraham-Louis Breguet’s celebrated double pendulum created for George IV, Walter elevates the concept to unprecedented complexity by incorporating two independent movements that simultaneously track solar and sidereal time.

Among the most sophisticated mechanical timekeepers ever constructed, this extraordinary clock features dual independent movements enriched with a suite of astronomical complications. These include a planisphere star map, wandering moon display, perpetual calendar and equation of time—each representing a pinnacle of horological achievement. Both movements are equipped with fully jeweled trains, Riefler-style brass pendulum bobs and fused silica quartz pendulum rods selected for their exceptional thermal stability, underscoring the clock’s uncompromising precision.

The left dial presents solar time with an equation of time display, sunrise and sunset indicators, and an annual calendar. It also incorporates a perpetual calendar with a retrograde date and equation date function. The right dial displays sidereal time beneath a rotating planisphere carved from solid lapis lazuli and studded with 22-karat gold stars. This is complemented by a gold sun hand and an intricate wandering moon mechanism indicating lunar phase, age and angular position relative to the sun.

Encasing this mechanical virtuosity is a commanding flame mahogany cabinet enriched with ebony inlays. The case houses the twin dials in a balanced architectural composition that reflects the artistry and gravitas of classical precision clockmaking.

Born in Perth, Western Australia, David Walter’s career in horology has spanned more than half a century, establishing him as one of the most accomplished independent clockmakers of his time. Beginning his clockmaking practice in the 1970s, Walter has achieved numerous technical triumphs, including a double pendulum table clock created as homage to Antide Janvier and several wall and floor-mounted double pendulum regulators. A Liveryman of London’s Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, Walter was awarded the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors’ prestigious 2018 Dana J. Blackwell Clock Award, along with two People’s Choice and two first-place awards in the 2002 and 2012 NAWCC craft competitions. Working entirely alone in his workshop, he fabricates every component by hand to meet his exacting standards—a complete mastery that allows him to pursue mechanisms few horologists would dare attempt.

84 1/4″ high x 19 5/8″ wide x 12 3/4″ deep