H. Clarke & Co. (Manchester) Ltd.
Atlas Works, Old Trafford, Manchester (1920)

H. Clarke & Co. (M/CR*), Ltd.
Atlas Works, Old Trafford, Manchester (1926)

Clarke & Co. (M/CR*), Ltd
Atlas Works, Patricroft, Manchester (1932 - 1977)

* M/CR is an abbreviation for Manchester.

Brand: Atlas

H. Clarke & Co. founded around 1916, started with electrical insulation supplies but saw the radio revolution coming. By the 1920s, their Atlas brand dominated the market with innovative radio components – tuning coils, variometers, condensers – for both hobbyists and manufacturers. Recognizing limitations, they introduced the "Atlas" battery eliminator in 1926, freeing radio users from batteries. Capitalizing on their success, H. Clarke & Co. ventured into complete radios like the Atlas Two by 1933. Though details are scarce, this move showcased their ambition to deliver a full radio experience. Their radio production continued into the late 1930s, solidifying their place in the early days of radio technology.

A History of H. Clarke & Co. (Manchester) Ltd.: From Insulating Sundries to Radio Revolutionaries (1916-1977)

H. Clarke & Co. (Manchester) Ltd. carved a niche for itself in the ever-evolving world of electronics. Their journey began around 1916 with a focus on a seemingly mundane product: insulating materials and electrical sundries. However, the company's namesake, H. Clarke, proved to be a man with a keen eye for emerging markets.

The Rise of Radio and the "Atlas" Brand (1919-1934)
Just three years after its official registration in 1919, H. Clarke & Co. recognized the burgeoning potential of radio technology. [1] They strategically shifted gears, leveraging their existing expertise in electrical components to become a manufacturer of radio parts under the Atlas brand.

The early 1920s saw H. Clarke & Co. at the forefront of the radio component market. Their "Atlas" range boasted a diverse selection, catering to both amateur radio enthusiasts and budding manufacturers:

• Tuning Coils: These were crucial for selecting specific radio frequencies and stations. H. Clarke & Co. offered a variety of coils with innovative features like reduced self-capacity for improved performance.
• Variometers and Condensers: These components played a vital role in fine-tuning radio reception. H. Clarke & Co. emphasized high-quality materials and efficient designs in their "Atlas" variometers and condensers.
• Coil Stands and Rheostats: These seemingly simple components provided crucial support and control for radio builders. H. Clarke & Co. ensured their "Atlas" stands and rheostats offered features like adjustable tension and smooth operation.[2]

Crystal Receivers and Battery Eliminators (1924-1929)

By 1924, H. Clarke & Co. had expanded their "Atlas" offerings to include complete crystal receivers like the Imp model. These simple, low-cost receivers were perfect for radio enthusiasts living near broadcasting stations. [2]

Recognizing the growing importance of brand recognition, they trademarked the Atlas name for radio equipment in 1925, solidifying their position in the radio component landscape. [3]

Recognizing the limitations of battery-powered radios, H. Clarke & Co. took a significant step forward in 1926. They introduced their Atlas battery eliminators. These innovative devices allowed radio users to ditch the inconvenience and expense of batteries by converting AC mains power into voltages suitable for powering their sets. [4]

From Components to Complete Receivers: By the early 1930s, H. Clarke & Co. had established themselves as a prominent force in the radio component market. However, their ambition didn't stop there. In 1930, they received a prestigious "Wireless World" competition award for their "Atlas" All-Mains Units, a further testament to their engineering prowess. Emboldened by this success, they took a bold step forward, venturing into the realm of complete radio receivers.

Introducing the Atlas Two Model: In 1932, the company unveiled the Atlas Two radio receiver. Details about this specific model are limited, but its existence signifies H. Clarke & Co.'s willingness to evolve beyond components and offer a complete radio experience to consumers.

1934: They discontinued their previous radio receiver models and introduced a new one with 7-5-8 designation, indicating seven tuned circuits, five valves, and eight functions. They also showcase this model and their popular mains units at the Olympia exhibition. Radio production continued into the late 1930s. [5]

Shifting Gears: Car Battery Chargers and Electrical Insulation (1939-1977)

The landscape of electronics continued to evolve, and H. Clarke & Co. adapted accordingly. By 1939, their focus shifted towards car battery chargers, catering to the growing market for automobiles.

The post-war era (1940s-1950s) saw another significant shift for H. Clarke & Co. They transitioned from radio components and complete radios to a specialization in electrical insulating materials. Their expertise in this area led them to manufacture products like:

• Coil Formers: Used to hold and wind wire coils in electrical circuits. [6]
• Pirtoid: This innovative material, a laminated fabric/paper sheet, offered a combination of mechanical strength and electrical insulation, making it ideal for various electrical applications. [7]
• Copper-Clad Laminates: These laminates, essential for creating printed circuit boards, positioned H. Clarke & Co. at the forefront of emerging technologies.

A Legacy of Innovation:

H. Clarke & Co.'s story, spanning over six decades, reflects the dynamic nature of the electronics industry. They started with insulating materials, capitalized on the radio revolution, and then adapted to the evolving needs of the market. While their fate after 1977 remains unclear.

[1] The Electrical Review Oct 10, 1919, Page 471.
[2] Modern Wireless World Nov 1924, Page 640.
[3] The Electrical Review Apr 3, 1925, Page 535.
[4] Radio Times Nov 5, 1926, Page 390.
[5] Practical Wireless Aug 18, 1934, Page 627.
[6] The Electrician Dec 21, 1945, Page v.
[7] Electronic Engineering Sep 1955, Page 118.