When do the clocks go back in October? UK set for change to GMT

Clocks go back

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Clocks go back - Figure 1
Photo BBC News

Approximately 90 clocks that are described as intricate and fragile at the Clockmakers' Museum require manual adjustment.

On Sunday, the clocks will be set back, giving most of us an additional hour to sleep in. Our smartphones and devices will handle the time change smoothly.

However, the process of turning back the clocks by an hour at 02:00 is not a straightforward affair at one of the most extensive assemblages of timepieces in the United Kingdom.

The Clockmakers' Museum boasts approximately 90 clocks that are intricate and fragile in nature, requiring manual winding for operation.

According to Anna Rolls, the curator, resetting the clocks is a task that can be done by only one person and is usually carried out in the evening after closing time. Completing this task may take up to three hours.

According to what she told BBC News, if the clocks are moved backwards, their handles can get damaged. Therefore, they have to be moved forwards by 23 hours. She mentioned that this task can be quite challenging, especially if not done correctly.

At times, clocks may be too large to be conveniently adjusted manually.

Fans who are familiar with the enchanting Harry Potter series refer to the large clock located on Platform 8 of King Cross station as the Harry Potter clock. However, in the past, the process of adjusting it was not at all magical.

According to Jon Burden, who has been employed at the station for a quarter of a century, the employees would turn off the clock's power at 11:00, pause for 60 minutes, and reactivate it.

He acknowledged that the technique "has caused some confusion among customers" - however, it's a relief that the procedure has been computerized since the clock was restored in 2012.

Clocks Back: When To Turn The Time?

In the upcoming fall season, the timepieces will be set back one hour at 02:00 on Sunday, October 29th.

The clocks are changing from British Summer Time (BST), which is also called Daylight Saving Time (DST) or GMT+1, to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

What's The Reason For Daylight Saving?

According to BBC Bitesize, during World War One, the German military advanced the clock as a way to save energy. Soon after, many European governments, such as the UK, also adjusted their clocks.

"Why Clocks Fall Back On Weekends?"

The Royal Museums Greenwich declared that they selected this particular pattern of change as it happens during the weekend night and morning of Sunday. By doing so, they intended to minimize any trouble caused to schools and companies.

Some clocks do not need to be changed. The renowned Shepherd Gate Clock located at the Greenwich Royal Observatory was the initial clock to exhibit GMT directly to the people.

Francis Brodie is a professional in the field of horology, which encompasses the study of clocks, watches, and devices for measuring time.

According to him, the Shepherd Gate Clock remains in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year in order to provide a more genuine ambiance for those who want to learn more about the history of time.

Until the 31st of March 2024, the UK will continue to observe the Greenwich Mean Time.

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