History - Claphams National Clock Museum

The legacy of Archie Clapham

Claphams National Clock Museum began with one man’s passion for the curious and the mechanical.

Archibald Clapham, a Yorkshire-born engineer and clock collector, moved to Whangārei in 1922, and began assembling a collection of clocks that was as eccentric as it was educational.

Archie believed clocks should be fun, interactive, and accessible to everyone. His original collection of around 400 timepieces grew into a public treasure, and in 1962, the museum officially opened its doors.

Today, with kind donations from the New Zealand people, the collection has expanded to over 1,400 clocks and timepieces from around the world.

From backwards clocks to French dancing girl clocks, Claphams continues to honour Archie’s vision – making timekeeping a magical experience for all ages.