June 2012 page 31
Dennis Cowan

In the Footsteps of Thomas Ross. Pt. 1. Scotland’s Oldest Sundials – the forerunners to lectern dials?

This article is the first part of a quest to track down and photograph sundials identified by Thomas Ross in his late 19th-century work. It focuses on Scotland's oldest dials, specifically three 16th-century examples at Cockburnspath, Oldhamstocks, and Seton Palace, and a fourth at Fogo, all similar in type and potentially forerunners to lectern dials.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 2012 page 44
Jérôme Bonnin

The Dial from the ‘Palais Farnèse’: Roman or Modern?

This article investigates a spherical sundial in the 'Palais Farnèse', Rome, questioning its Roman origin due to its perfect state of conservation and lack of gnomon hole. It hypothesises the dial is an 18th or 19th-century copy of a Roman original, potentially with a symbolic rather than functional purpose related to the palace's 'Trophées Farnèse' compositions about Time.
Dials: Scaphe, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2012 page 16
Dennis Cowan

In the Footsteps of Thomas Ross. Part 2: The sundials at Craigiehall

This article details two sundials at Craigiehall: a 4-metre high obelisk dial, restored in 1965 after being found in fragments, and a horizontal brass dial by John England, dating from 1702-1714. The obelisk is unique due to an 18th-century globe base, while the horizontal dial features an Equation of Time table and armorial devices.
Dials: Multi Faced, Equation of Time, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2012 page 22
John Davis

Lost Bonar Dial Resurfaces (Briefly!)

This article reports the brief reappearance of a 1634 slate equatorial dial by John Bonar, originally from Loudon Castle, Scotland, at a German auction. Unsold, it subsequently disappeared from public view. Despite missing its gnomon and moon volvelle, the dial is considered an important artefact of early Scottish dialling, featuring detailed engravings.
Dials: Equatorial, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2012 page 2
Peter Kunath

Lost And Found: The Long Journey Of An Unusual Sundial

This article details the history and journey of a Henry Moore sundial, from its 1965 commission for The Times in London to its re-alignment in Schwäbisch Hall, Germany. It covers the creation of models, its sale, damage, recovery after theft in 2012, and precise re-installation, highlighting its remarkable travels and survival.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

December 2012 page 9
J. P. Lester

Blemish Or Blessing?

This article discusses lichens on stone sundials, defining them as symbiotic organisms and classifying their external forms. It explores their slow growth, substrate preferences, reproduction, and sensitivity to pollution. The author considers whether lichens enhance antiquity or are a disfigurement, touching on removal methods for restorers.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2012 page 34
Malcolm Barnfield

The Restoration Of A 19th Century Noon Cannon Sundial

This article describes the restoration of a 19th-century Negretti & Zambra noon cannon sundial. The author recreated missing brass parts, noting design anomalies like incorrect latitude calibration and an inappropriate date scale. The true maker and date remain uncertain, highlighting the common practice of firms selling goods made by others.
Dials: Noon Lines, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

December 2012 page 42
Tony Moss

Secure Fixings And Fastenings For Sundials

This article addresses methods for securely fixing sundials, focusing on preventing theft and damage. It discusses replacing rusted iron gnomons with stainless steel, using shaped stone blocks with acrylic paste, and cross-bolting for heavy gnomons. For dial plates, methods include recessing them into plinths and using threaded holes with retaining bolts.
Construction Projects, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

December 2012 page 47
Christopher Daniel

The Meridies Media Greenwich Noon Dial

This article details the 2012 reconstruction of the Meridies Media noon mark mean time sundial at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. Originally designed by Dr Tadeusz Przypkowski in 1967 with a design error, the new Kirkstone slate dial, carved by Ben Jones, was meticulously crafted and unveiled on 10 October 2012.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members, Dials: Noon Lines

March 2011 page 2
Harriet James

The Restoration of the Sundial at Stutton Hall, Suffolk

This article details the restoration of a Tudor sundial at Stutton Hall in Suffolk. It covers the history of the house and dial, archaeological findings suggesting its originality, and the methods used for cleaning, realigning the gnomon, and repainting based on known Tudor designs.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

March 2011 page 12
Walter Hofmann

Seven Dials. The Investigations of an Austrian Tourist

An Austrian tourist investigates the mystery of London's 'Seven Dials' monument. The article details the history of the area, the original Doric pillar with six sundials erected in 1693/94, its removal in 1773, its relocation to Weybridge, and the eventual erection of a new column with seven dials in 1989.
Dials: Multi Faced, Restoration projects, Historical Dials

March 2011 page 36
Chris H. K. Williams

English Scratch (Mass) Dials: The Ravages of Time Revisited

This article revisits previous estimates of scratch dial loss, incorporating dial age structure to provide more precise understanding of historical and future loss dynamics. It analyzes the impact of rebuilding and weathering, noting weathering's increasing dominance over time and the implications for conservation.
Restoration projects, Historical Dials, Dials: Mass Dials

June 2011 page 25
Dennis Cowan

Readers’ Letters

This letter provides additional information on Scottish polyhedral dials, specifically clarifying the history of Queen Mary’s Dial at Holyrood Palace and providing an update on the Mount Melville Multiple Dial's restoration plans after its removal for safekeeping.
Dials: Multi Faced, Restoration projects, Historical Dials

June 2011 page 26
John Davis

The John Rowley Dial

This article details the rediscovery and reinstallation of a lost John Rowley azimuth and equation of time dial from Blenheim Palace. It describes its unique features, including the deep double-ogee rim and specific gnomon design, and its historical significance.
Dials: Unusual, Equation of Time, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 2011 page 48
Robert Ovens

Restoring the Sundial at St Nicholas’ Church, Leicester

This article describes the restoration of a 1738 vertical declining Swithland slate sundial at St Nicholas’ Church, Leicester. It details the process of in-situ gilding of the numerals and lines, using specific materials and techniques for durability, and notes a previous gnomon replacement in 1896.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2011 page 36
Peter Ransom

Another West Indies Dial?

Peter Ransom discusses a 9-inch brass horizontal dial, signed 'Parnell, London,' which he acquired online. The dial, optimized for a latitude of approximately 16.05° N (suggesting a potential link to Guadeloupe), features hours from 6 am to 6 pm, half and quarter-hour marks, and a central compass rose. The gnomon was detached upon acquisition and later restored.
Dials: Horizontal, Restoration projects, Historical Dials

December 2011 page 14
Valery Dmitriev

Sundial Festival at the Gatchina Palace, St Petersburg

This article reports on a sundial festival at Gatchina Palace, St Petersburg, which included the unveiling of a replica historical sundial and an exhibition. The replica dial indicates true solar time according to 18th-century standards, based on historical photos and other archival material for restoration. The event celebrated the return of the sundial to its historical place after almost 80 years.
Sundial Design & Layout, Restoration projects, Historical Dials, The BSS and Members

December 2011 page 16
Stefano Barbolini
Giovanni Garofalo
Guido Dresti
Rosario Mosello

The Sundial of the Certosa of Florence (Tuscany, Italy) Restored to Working Condition

This article details the restoration of a pinhole sundial at the Certosa of Florence. The meridian line served as a calendar and true local noon marker. Investigations revealed inconsistencies, leading to the conclusion that the dial correctly determined the spring equinox, vital for calculating Easter, reflecting its religious institution setting. Historical interventions, possibly by astronomer G.B. Donati, are also discussed.
Dials: Noon Lines, Equation of Time, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2011 page 41
John Foad

A Painted Polyhedral Dial

This article discusses a polyhedral dial from Loudoun Castle, Scotland, that was restored and controversially painted in the 1990s using 17th-century colours. The paint was later removed, and the lines re-engraved. The author expresses concern that the dial's current location at Jodrell Bank Observatory is unknown, raising questions about the preservation and tracking of historical sundials.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2011 page 49
John Davis

The Art of Painting Sundials

This article, drawing on John Smith's 1676 book 'The Art of Painting', discusses the techniques and colours used for painting sundials, particularly stone dials. It provides practical advice on preparing surfaces, mixing pigments, and laying out dials, including recommendations for repainting and a note on a misconception about earth's motion affecting dial orientation.
Construction Projects, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

March 2010 page 2
Simone Bartolini
Marco Pierozzi

The Restoration of Egnazio Danti’s Astronomical Quadrant on the Santa Maria Novella Basilica in Florence

Describes the history and function of Egnazio Danti's 1572 astronomical quadrant in Florence. It details the five systems of time measurement it displayed and outlines the methodology used to re-compute the missing gnomons for a modern restoration and the creation of a working copy.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

June 2010 page 24
Mike Cowham

Update on the Tywyn Dial

This article provides an update on the Irish-style dial discovered at Towyn. Originally used as a milestone and later built into Ynysmaengwyn Hall, the dial has now been safely moved from outside the local Tourist Office to St Cadfan’s Church. The article details the process of moving the large stone and its new illuminated position next to the Cadfan Stone.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 2010 page 45
Tony Wood

A Third West Indies Dial

This article introduces a newly discovered West Indies sundial, signed 'DICAS LIVERPOOL' with 'Latt 22°'. The gnomon is missing and the dial is worn, but it is identified as likely from the Turks and Caicos Islands. Research by Jill Wilson and John Davis attributes it to John Dicas (w.1774-1797), a Liverpool scientific instrument maker, or his daughters who ran the business after his death.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2010 page 29
Mike Cowham

The Return of Two Dials

This article recounts the recovery and return of two sundials: a pedestal with carved navigational instruments, stolen from Myddelton House and later reunited with a replica dial plate; and an early Celtic sundial from Tywyn, moved inside its church.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

December 2010 page 26
Christopher Daniel

Meridies Media—An Historical Essay. The direct vertical noon mark mean time sundial at Greenwich

This historical essay details the Meridies Media sundial designed by Dr Tadeusz Przypkowski for the Old Royal Observatory at Greenwich in 1967. It describes the dial's function using an analemma to indicate standard mean time, true noon, and date. The article recounts the author's involvement in its installation, the initial design error, and the eventual reconstruction of the wooden dial in 1969, which remained until 1991.
Dials: Noon Lines, Equation of Time, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2010 page 31
Mike Groom

Newbury 2010

This report summarises the British Sundial Society's Newbury Meeting on 25 September 2010, attended by 36 members. It highlights short talks on scientific sundials in Britain, Essex dial restorations, and Devon/Cornwall dials. Exhibits included devices for determining sun direction, reproductions of historical dials, and modern designs.
Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

December 2010 page 45
Tony Belk

The BSS 2010 Sundial Design Competition

This report covers the fourth BSS Sundial Design Competition, which received 14 entries across restoration, professional, and amateur classes, though no junior entries. Graham Aldred won the Major Prize for his restoration of the Lyme Park dial. Other prizes were awarded for a south-facing vertical dial and highly commended entries for a sun/moon dial, a prototype noon mark dial, and a vertical dial using a 'super ellipse.'
Dials: Unusual, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members

June 2009 page 34
Peter Baxandall

A lead domestic windowsill dial

An analysis of a fragmented lead horizontal 'windowsill' sundial found in Dorset. The author reconstructs its likely original octagonal design, discussing its features, numeral conventions, and a possible skewed layout to compensate for magnetic variation, suggesting a date of around 1710.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2009 page 36
Mike Cowham
Bill Linnard

The recently discovered Irish-style dial at Tywyn

Details the discovery and preservation of an Irish-style pillar dial (c. 700-1000 AD) in Tywyn, Wales. Found in 1986 among rubble, the dial was later used as a milepost. The article describes its features and recounts the successful effort to have the vulnerable stone moved to St Cadfan's Church.
Dials: Mass Dials, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2009 page 20
John Davis

Robert Cutbush—a provincial dialmaker

An investigation tracing the history of a 1699 horizontal dial signed by Robert Cutbush. The author identifies the maker as part of a family of Kent clockmakers and discovers that the dial was stolen from Ightham churchyard before 1978. The article concludes with the dial's successful return.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

March 2008 page 3
Stefano Barbolini
Guido Dresti
Giovanni Garofalo
Rosario Mosello

The Sundial at the Pitti Palace in Florence

This article details the restoration and description of a 1696 pinhole sundial in Florence's Pitti Palace, designed by Vincenzo Viviani. It served for astronomical observations and calendar functions, notably for determining Easter. The piece also explores its historical context within the Medici court and its allegorical frescoes.
Restoration projects, Historical Dials, Dials: Noon Lines

June 2008 page 64
John Davis

Charles Darwin’s Sundial

This article details Charles Darwin's horizontal sundial at Down House, used for regulating his clocks. It describes the dial's unpretentious design, its historical context, and recent restoration efforts after two accidents, including the discovery that the gnomon was a replacement.
Dials: Horizontal, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2008 page 116
Irene Brightmer

Over Three Hundred Years in the Sun: Thoughts of an Old Double Horizontal Dial

This article, narrated from the perspective of a 17th-century double horizontal dial by John Marke in a North Wales garden, recounts its history. It reflects on its past importance for timekeeping, its relocation, slight misalignment, and a recent renewed interest in its preservation, highlighting its rarity and unique survival.
Dials: Double Horizontal, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2008 page 144
Andrew James

A Happy Ending: The Preston Gubbals Sundial

Andrew James recounts the recovery of a stolen 1638 copper alloy sundial from St Martin’s church, Preston Gubbals. He identified the dial for sale, leading to its return. The article details the dial's early 'centred' design and the unique significance of its gnomon supporter being cut from a 15th-16th century memorial brass.
Dials: Horizontal, Restoration projects, Historical Dials

December 2008 page 163
Tony Wood

The Malvern Pillar Dial

This article reports on the Malvern pillar dial, noting its removal from an old cross shaft and replacement with a gabled cross. The original cube dial has been refurbished or replaced, and is now mounted on a short column in the churchyard. It also mentions a modern cube dial by Liz Leighford based on a similar design.
Dials: Cube, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

March 2007 page 2
Maxwell Craven

Derbyshire sun dials

This article provides an overview of sundials found in Derbyshire, from ancient scratch dials on medieval churches to more sophisticated wall and public sundials. It highlights notable examples like the Eyam parish church dial and various works attributed to the Whitehurst family of clockmakers. It also touches on the historical context of timekeeping for ordinary people and the aristocracy.
Dials: Vertical, Restoration projects, Historical Dials, Dials: Cube

March 2007 page 28
John Davis

The restoration of the dial on the Thomas Plume Library, Maldon

This article details the restoration of a vertical lead sundial on the Thomas Plume Library in Maldon, Essex. It describes the dial's historical context, its construction from lead sheet over oak boards, the damage caused by squirrels, and the repair process including repainting and gilding. The dial is a direct south design and dates from around the turn of the 18th century.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

March 2007 page 33
Stefano Barbolini
Guido Dresti
Frank King
Rosario Mosello

The sundial in La Specola Museum, Florence

This paper describes the pinhole sundial in the Grand-Ducal Astronomical Observatory (La Specola) in Florence. It covers the observatory's history, the sundial's design as a string-gnomon meridian line, its restoration in 2005, and a comparison of measured zodiac point positions with calculated values. It highlights the instrument's historical importance for astronomical studies and calendar reform.
Dials: Noon Lines, Historical Dials, How Sundials Work, Restoration projects

June 2007 page 69
Christopher Daniel

Shedding a Glorious Light—Stained Glass Sundials

This article, a re-publication, discusses the history and art of painted or stained-glass window sundials in Britain. It covers their construction, fragility, the challenges of preservation, and highlights notable examples and makers like Bernard Dininckoff and Henry Gyles.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

June 2007 page 75
Carol Arnold

Nailsea Replacement Sundial

This article describes the process of creating a replica stained-glass sundial for Nailsea Court after the original was stolen. The author explains how window declination was measured and new hour lines calculated, detailing the multi-stage artistic and technical process to recreate the dial, with gnomon fixed to leadwork to prevent glass damage.
Sundial Design & Layout, Construction Projects, Restoration projects

June 2007 page 83
Tony Wood
Harriet James

Painswick Pharmacy– the first BSS Grant-Aided Restoration

This article describes the restoration of a faded vertical declining sundial at Painswick Pharmacy, the first to receive a British Sundial Society grant. It details the cleaning, stabilisation of a crack, repainting, and strengthening of the iron gnomon. The article also touches on the dial's possible historical connection to local clockmakers and its asymmetrical placement.
Dials: Vertical, Restoration projects

September 2007 page 111
Robert Scott Simon
John Wall
Graham Aldred

Readers’ Letters

This section features three letters: Robert Scott Simon identifies a dial he made. John Wall comments on a bizarre sundial plot in a TV series, where a pivoted gnomon reveals gold. Graham Aldred discusses corrosion on sundial plates and P&G heliochronometers, suggesting material substitutions and their implications.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

December 2007 page 179
John Davis

John Rowell: Plumber and Stained Glass Dial Maker

This biography details John Rowell (1689-1756), a provincial plumber and self-taught glass painter who became known for stained glass sundials in the 18th century. It covers his life, business, the influence of his clockmaker father-in-law, and two notable dials: the 'IR 1733' dial at Arbury Hall and the 1734 Purley Hall dial. The latter has undergone restoration, with analysis showing engraving errors and the design of a replacement gnomon.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

February 2006 page 23
Peter Ransom

An Irish Dial

This article documents the restoration and analysis of an octagonal slate sundial plate from 1843, made by D. O’Connell for Revd John Pratt of Enniskean. It details the dial's engraved features, including an equation of time ring, gnomon restoration, and a geometric analysis confirming the remarkable accuracy of its construction for the specified latitude.
Dials: Horizontal, Sundial Design & Layout, Restoration projects, Historical Dials

February 2006 page 33
John Davis
Michael Lowne

Henry Wynne’s Double Horizontal Dials - Update

This update provides further information on Henry Wynne’s double horizontal dials, including new historical evidence for the Staunton Harold dial’s position from 19th-century maps and photographs. It also discusses the Wrest Park replica and criticises the National Trust’s decision to preserve a bent gnomon on the Powis Castle dial as part of its history.
Restoration projects, Historical Dials, Dials: Double Horizontal

February 2006 page 35
Tony Moss

Double Trouble - The Realization in Bronze of the Henry Wynne Replica Dial

This article details the intricate process of creating a 30-inch bronze replica of the Henry Wynne dial. It covers pattern making, casting, and challenging precision machining operations, including overcoming issues with a gnomon that was initially too short and perfecting a complex knife-edge. The project required meticulous effort and problem-solving.
Construction Projects, Dials: Double Horizontal, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

June 2006 page 61
John Davis

Sir Christopher Wren’s Dial to be Moved?

This article discusses the potential relocation of a sundial designed by Sir Christopher Wren at All Souls’ College, Oxford. It details the long-standing grievance of traditionalists about its current misaligned position and the condition in a will left by Oxford librarian John Simmons for its return to its original location.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 2006 page 96

Tailpiece

This short note reports that the Heath & Wing dial in the Tiltyard Garden at Hampton Court Palace was badly damaged by contractors who dropped a lopped tree branch onto its pedestal. The dial is now awaiting restoration.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

September 2006 page 110
Ben Jones

The Recreation of a Negretti & Zambra Vertical Dial

This article describes the challenging recreation of a slate vertical declining dial by Negretti & Zambra after the original was severely damaged. The process involved meticulous replication of the design, adapting features for better readability (without gilding), and installing the new dial with modern, durable fixings while preserving the original gnomon.
Dials: Vertical, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

September 2006 page 128
Graham Aldred

A Review of the Heliochronometers by Pilkington and Gibbs - Part 2, Procedures for setting up the Helio-Chronometer

This article provides comprehensive, practical procedures for calibrating and reinstalling Pilkington & Gibbs Helio-Chronometers. It covers essential steps such as precise levelling, accurate co-latitude setting, meridian alignment, and adjustments for the equation of time and longitude, offering detailed guidance for both Northern and Southern Hemisphere models, aimed at owners and restorers.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Equation of Time, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

September 2006 page 137
Doug Bateman

Penshurst Dial Stolen, a Twin Found

This report details the theft of a distinctive vertical sundial from Penshurst Place in Kent. Coincidentally, an almost identical twin dial was discovered in a private country garden, raising hopes for its potential replication to replace the stolen artifact. The article describes the unique design and features of these large, elegant vertical dials.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2006 page 145

Editorial

The editorial summarises the results of a Readership Survey, noting the introduction of solar ephemeris data and ongoing work for new articles. It highlights the importance of BSS members identifying and proposing restoration for old sundials and draws attention to the BSS Grants Policy.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

December 2006 page 172
Peter Baxandall

A Very Public Sundial

Peter Baxandall details the restoration of the 18th-century triangular sundial on St Peter and St Paul's church in Blandford Forum. The prominent dial, designed by William Bastard, features a unique numerical layout along the base and Aries symbols suggesting an equinoctial line. The restoration, led by Harriet James, preserved its original paintwork and clarified its seasonal indications despite pediment shadows.
Dials: Vertical, Sundial Design & Layout, Restoration projects, Historical Dials

March 2005 page 15
Rosario Mosello
Guido Dresti

The Courtyard of Time of Cascina Picchetta, Cameri, Piedmont

Examines the sundial ensemble in the courtyard of Cascina Picchetta, a 17th-century Italian villa. Analyses six wall-mounted sundials across two façades with varying hour systems (Italian, Babylonian, French, temporary), equatorial orientations, declination corrections, and historical decorative motifs. Explores Jesuit influences and conservation considerations.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

March 2005 page 42
Tony Wood

Newly Discovered Saxon Dials and Their Prospects for the Future

Reports recent identification of likely Anglo-Saxon sundials at English parish churches. Analyses stylistic features such as relief circles, gnomon placement and line patterns. Compares regional examples, explores reuse and church reconstructions, and discusses prospects for future discoveries, preservation strategies and scholarly classification.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2005 page 160
Graham Aldred

The Lyme Hall Horizontal Equinoctial Sundial

This article details the discovery and reconstruction of a unique 1683 combined horizontal equinoctial sundial at Lyme Hall. The author describes deciphering the inscription "R Legh 1683," examining its robust bronze construction and innovative two-hole sight/screen system. The article also explores the dial's historical context, its owner Richard Legh, and a possible link to George Gibbs's Helio-Chronometer.
Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Unusual, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

September 2004 page 96
John Davis

Restoration of the Houghton Hall sundials — a study in patience

Account of discovering four large vertical dials on an octagonal cupola, surveying gnomon positions, choosing vitreous-enamel steel faces, manufacturing setbacks (overseas enamelling) and the final installation with alignment and conservation choices.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Vertical, Restoration projects

September 2004 page 105
Harriet James

Restoration of the sundial on Market Lavington Church

Conservation report for an east-declining carved sandstone dial: cleaning, uncovering original fixing holes, mortar repairs, paint-infill of hour lines and fitting a new brass gnomon; includes measured declination and assessment of layout inaccuracies.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2004 page 163
Michael J. Harley
Harriet James

Five sundials at Dunmore, Co. Donegal

Survey of five McClintock sundials at Dunmore estate, including the 1843 Melville slate dial and its 2003 restoration, the 1936 vertical dial, the 1939 heliochronometer, construction details, inscriptions, and the estate's dial-making history.
Dials: Heliochronometer, Dials: Horizontal, Dials: Multi Faced, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 2003 page 47
John Davis
Michael Lowne

Henry Wynne's Double Horizontal Dial at Staunton Harold

An analysis of one of the most sophisticated 17th-century dials made by Henry Wynne. The article describes the history, features (including its use as a moondial, star dial, and geographical dial), and modern restoration efforts of this large bronze dial.
Dials: Double Horizontal, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2002 page 167
Cate Pawluk

Sundial Sees the Light of Day

Announcement and brief description of a sundial installed in a school setting, promoting educational and public engagement.
Dials: Horizontal, Restoration projects

September 2001 page 117
John Davis

Tudor Dials in Ipswich

This article details the discovery of an earlier pair of wooden Tudor sundials hidden beneath later ones during demolition at Smart's Wharf in Ipswich. The original dials, dating around 1600, featured a "Protestant work ethic" motto. Analysis revealed the replacement dials were more accurate and likely installed in the mid-1700s, showcasing the efforts made to maintain dial accuracy.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

December 2001 page 156
John Moir
Peter Ransom

Newbury 2001

This report covers the well-attended BSS meeting at Newbury. Presentations included astronomy software, 'Spot-on-Sundial' development, and a 'Sundial Seekers Companion' kit. Updates were given on dial restoration. Exhibitions showcased diverse designs, including a rainbow dial, a hemispherical dial made from a bird feeder, and an electronic biscuit box sundial. Various other dials, a nocturnal, and calendars were also displayed.
Dials: Unusual, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members

February 2000 page 32
Alan Smith

Two Early 18th Century Sundials Restored at Richmond, Yorkshire

Description of restoration of two historical sundials and their historical and technical features.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

February 1999 page 23
Graham Aldred

The Holehird Helio-Chronometer

This article details the restoration and reinstallation of the Pilkington & Gibbs Helio-Chronometer at Holehird. It recounts its history, its protection by a glass bell jar, and the innovative security measures implemented for its current display, allowing it to accurately tell time for another century.
Restoration projects, Historical Dials, Dials: Heliochronometer

June 1999 page 55
Doug Bateman

A Meridian Dial in a Subscription Library, Nottingham

This article describes a rare 1834 meridian dial in Nottingham's Bromley House Subscription Library. It features a brass strip on the first floor, which was covered for 150 years. The dial was used to ascertain Local Apparent Noon and is complemented by two longcase clocks with inscribed time differences. Efforts are underway for its partial restoration, noting its excellent condition in fine surroundings.
Dials: Noon Lines, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 1999 page 98
Mike Cowham

Restoration of a Vertical East Declining Sundial

Details the restoration of the author's first vertical east declining sundial, originally made in 1986. It describes the process of stripping old paint, repainting, and redrawing the dial face with hour, equinox, and solstice lines. Challenges in transferring designs and painting fine lines are discussed, along with the decision to use black numerals for better contrast and adding a computer-drawn Equation of Time graph.
DIY Sundial Projects, Dials: Vertical, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

October 1999 page 107
Ken Head

The Sundial of St Mary's Stoke D'Abernon, Surrey

This article discusses the sundial at St Mary's Church, Stoke D'Abernon, a 7th-century Saxon church. It details the 1933 remaking of the dial after a fall, based on pre-Conquest prototypes shown in 19th-century sketches. The current replica is believed to be unique as the only known Saxon dial replica on a church wall in the UK, with markings consistent with an octaval system.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

February 1998 page 22
Mario Arnaldi

Sundials Painted in the Cloister of an Italian Monastery

Survey of painted dials in a monastery cloister at Taggia (Imperia), noting multiple faces, canonical hours and decorative treatments, with historical context and observations on preservation.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 1998 page 2

Editorial

This article discusses the different approaches to problems of conservation and restoration of sundials in Britain and continental Europe. It also touches on the upcoming tenth anniversary of the British Sundial Society and suggests celebrating with colour photographs in the Bulletin.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

June 1998 page 26
Christopher Daniel

Conservation: The Restoration of Sundials, Some Necessary Questions

An article that defines conservation and restoration in the context of sundials and highlights the ethical and practical difficulties. It discusses the British Sundial Society's policy on the matter and the cautious approach of conservators.
Restoration projects

June 1998 page 33

BSS Awards Scheme 2000

This announcement outlines the new categories for the BSS awards for sundials. It details the classes for professional, amateur, restoration, and junior dials, with an emphasis on the honour of the award itself.
Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout, The BSS and Members

October 1998 page 9

Restoration and Conservation

This article outlines the British Sundial Society's policy on restoration and conservation of sundials. It defines terms like restoration, conservation, and replacement, and specifies BSS involvement, advising on accurate restoration while avoiding legal liability. The policy discourages restoration of Saxon or Mass Dials, prioritising their conservation and detailed recording.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

January 1997 page 16
John Moore

Portable Dials - Care and Restoration

Practical guidance on cleaning, conserving, and restoring portable sundials, including brass, silver, and ivory examples. Covers safe cleaning methods, corrosion prevention, protective coatings, and storage recommendations to preserve both functionality and historical integrity.
Historical Dials, Restoration projects

October 1997 page 8
Desmond Quinn

The Turnbull Dial

This article describes the Turnbull Dial at Corpus Christi College, Oxford, a 26-foot pillar featuring a total of 27 dials. Designed in 1579-1583 by Charles Turnbull, it includes a principal south-facing dial, a perpetual calendar, tables for planetary years and lunar months, and moon-time corrections. The dials use the old unequal hour system, and the pillar has undergone several restorations.
Dials: Multi Faced, Dials: Scaphe, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

June 1995 page 36
Christopher Daniel

A Modern Reproduction of an 18th Century Universal Equnoctial Sundial

An article about recreating historical sundials using modern methods, reflecting on the balance between authenticity, materials, and function.
Dials: Equatorial, Dials: Portable, Restoration projects

February 1994 page 2

Dialogue - La Busca, USA Sundial Society

Editorial discussing international sundial publications, restoration challenges, multilingual gnomonic vocabulary, and reports from Roumania and Sarajevo.
Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

February 1994 page 35
R. A. Nicholls

The Decay of Natural Building Stone...

Addresses deterioration of stone materials used in sundials and buildings. Covers environmental impacts, stone types, and conservation strategies.
Restoration projects

June 1994 page 20
Allan A. Mills

Ancient Sundial Re-created and Refined

Describes the reconstruction of a historically inspired sundial, elaborating on how its design was refined for accuracy and visual appeal. The piece combines historical research with practical insights, showing how ancient ideas can be adapted into educational tools and display dials for modern audiences.
Restoration projects

October 1994 page 10
Charles K. Aked

The Gate of Honour, Cambridge

This article details the history and restoration of the Gate of Honour at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, which features six sundials. It covers the gate's construction, early repairs and repainting efforts, and its decay over centuries due to porous stone and vandalism. The focus shifts to the 1958-1959 quatercentenary restoration, during which the original painted dials were replaced with expensive bronze plates with enamel fillings. The article also mentions a separate pillar in Caius Court that once housed sixty dials, emphasizing the craftsmanship and decorative nature of these historical timepieces.
Dials: Multi Faced, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

October 1993 page 2
René R.-J. Rohr

The Sundial of the Old Franciscan Church in Rouffach

This article details the restoration of a unique astronomical chronogram sundial in Rouffach, France, dating from the early 17th century. It describes the fresco's depiction of planetary orbits based on Ptolemy and Tycho Brahe, highlighting challenges in deciphering faded inscriptions and the astrological significance of a lunar eclipse on the original dial's date in 1617.
Dials: Unusual, Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, Sundial Design & Layout

October 1993 page 24
Frank Evans

A Tyneside Shipyard Sundial

This article tells the story of a sundial from the Neptune Shipyard in Walker, Newcastle-on-Tyne, founded by J. Wigham Richardson in 1860. It traces the dial's history, its motto, and its eventual restoration. The article highlights Richardson's skill as a geometrist and the involvement of his partner, Denham Christie, and describes the dial's characteristics and its journey to the Trinity Maritime Centre.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects

October 1993 page 32
Charles K. Aked

Destruction by Decay

This article explores the rapid deterioration of ancient sundials in the British Isles, attributing decay to factors like stone quality and water-induced damage. It discusses examples like the Bewcastle Cross sundial and the importance of protection and restoration. The article highlights the British Sundial Society's aims in cataloguing and preserving historical artefacts to prevent their complete loss.
Dials: Mass Dials, Historical Dials, Restoration projects, The BSS and Members

June 1992 page 36
Colin McVean

Long Newnton Church Dial

This account describes the restoration of a West vertical decliner church dial at Long Newnton, Gloucestershire, initiated by Brigadier Neilson. Colin McVean assisted in redrawing the dial, correcting for local apparent time, and creating a card model. Mr. E.J. Clark then professionally crafted the painted oak dial with gilded Roman numerals, which was successfully erected and confirmed to be accurate.
Dials: Vertical, Restoration projects

October 1991 page 5
T.W. Cole
Charles K. Aked

Treasures of the Church

This article, originally by Reverend T.W. Cole, discusses 'incised sundials' (scratch or mass dials) found on church stonework in England from Saxon times to the 18th century. It traces their evolution from small, simple markings to larger, more prominent and scientifically designed dials, and highlights early attempts at accuracy, different time systems, and the preservation efforts for these historical artifacts. It also mentions key figures like Dom Ethelbert Horne and A.R. Green.
Restoration projects, Historical Dials, Dials: Mass Dials

October 1990 page 4

Sundials in the Afternoon - Notice of Meeting

This is a notice for a meeting on 10th November 1990 in Crowthorne, Berkshire. Doug Bateman will speak on the restoration of a vertical declining dial with an analemma at Dial House, and Christopher St. J. Daniel will discuss its original maker, Joseph Alfred Hardcastle.
Dials: Vertical, Historical Dials, Restoration projects