Nestled within the iconic Big Ben, a landmark of London that has been chiming since 1859, this majestic structure is not only one of the most photographed sites in the world but also serves as a crucial symbol of the United Kingdom and an extraordinary feat of engineering. As New Year's Eve approaches, the significance of Big Ben becomes even more pronounced, as it plays a pivotal role in ushering in the new year.
Three dedicated technicians are employed year-round to maintain this historical icon along with approximately 300 mechanical clocks found in the nearby Palace of Westminster. Recently, the ABC had the opportunity to visit the tower to observe how preparations are underway for December 31st.
"All eyes are on this clock, on Big Ben, waiting for it to strike midnight and signal the beginning of the New Year," shares Andrew Strangeway, one of the skilled clockmakers. "The fireworks display is coordinated precisely to coincide with the chimes of Big Ben, which means we have to be impeccably on schedule. Last New Year’s Eve, remarkably, we struck midnight with an accuracy of about five-thousandths of a second, an impressive feat for a clock that has been ticking for 166 years!"
At just 39 years of age, Mr. Strangeway is the youngest member among the clockmakers, while his two colleagues are both in their 60s. It's interesting to note that while many refer to the entire structure as Big Ben, the name actually belongs to the largest bell housed within the tower. The official name of the tower is Elizabeth Tower, a tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, established during her Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
For technicians like Mr. Strangeway, working inside the tower necessitates the use of ear protection, particularly when the bells sound. "When Big Ben strikes, the noise reaches around 110-115 decibels, so wearing ear defenders is essential," he explains as the heavy 200-kilogram hammer is poised to hit the bell, sending out powerful vibrations throughout the space.
Mr. Strangeway has a background in mathematics and retrained as a clockmaker because he desired a hands-on profession. The clock mechanism inside the tower is both complex and immaculate. "The clock itself is responsible for lifting and dropping the hammers that ring the bells at quarter-hour intervals and on the hour. Given the size of the bells, a large clock mechanism is required," he elucidates. "This clock has been operating since 1859 with essentially the same mechanism, functioning as it has for over 165 years. It truly represents the pinnacle of clock-making during its time, marking a significant advancement in public timepieces."
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, either Mr. Strangeway or one of his colleagues ascends the lift and spiral staircase to wind the clock, which operates on a system of weights. In modern times, they also utilize a mobile app to assist with this task. "It’s a genuine honor to work in such a historic space alongside this clock. I am part of a long lineage of caretakers ensuring its preservation; without diligent maintenance, it wouldn’t still be standing here today," Mr. Strangeway remarks.
The four clock faces adorning the top of the tower consist of more than 300 individual glass panes set within cast iron frames, and intriguingly, no two panes are identical. Pink Ross, an education officer at the Palace of Westminster, who hails from Australia and has lived in London for two decades, expresses her sentiment: "Every time I hear Big Ben chime, my heart skips a beat. It makes me feel at home, almost as if I have two homes—one in Australia and one in London. It gives me goosebumps; I absolutely love it. Seeing it ring in the New Year is the perfect way to conclude one year and welcome another."
While Ms. Ross will enjoy the New Year’s celebration from the street level, Mr. Strangeway and his fellow clockmakers will have a front-row view right next to the famous bell. "Once we’ve fulfilled our duties and the clock has struck, we can enjoy watching the fireworks across the River Thames; we really do have the best seat in the house," he concludes.
