Sundial Books

A new edition of Jill Wilson’s Biographical Index of British Sundial Makers (BSS Monograph No.12) has just been published. Updated and greatly expanded since the second edition of 2007, it gives details of almost 1900 dial makers working from the 7th to the 20th century, and includes the heyday of British scientific instrument making. Not only is it essential for conducting research into dial making, but it is also a good read, with some fascinating snippets. Arranged by centuries to emphasise changing styles and to show associations between dial makers of their period, it is complemented by an appendix covering sundial makers in London guilds, with a visual representation of master-apprentice relationships mentioned in the text.

The Index is A4 size as before and now has 240 pages. It costs £18.50 plus postage and packing which is £4 for the UK. To order or enquire about postage to other destinations, please contact Elspeth Hill.

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We are delighted to announce the publication of this extensive survey of English language sundial books from the 17th (and even late 16th) to early 20th centuries. The survey describes the books themselves – 99 in total – and gives details of the dials and construction methods they contain. The summaries include notes on the contents as well as reproductions of the text and images.

The survey represents and enormous amount of work and contains a mass of fascinating information. It is available under the Publications menu or by clicking on Old Sundial Books: A Survey by Mike Cowham and Fred Sawyer. Enjoy!