Big Ben is probably the world's most famous clock. That iconic silhouette is instantly recognisable and is one of the most Instagrammed landmarks on the planet. Six monarchs and 41 prime ministers have come and gone since the bells first struck their now familiar music across Westminster.

While "fame" is subjective, Big Ben is statistically the most recognized and photographed clock in the world. It is important to note that "Big Ben" is technically the name of the 13.7-ton Great Bell inside the tower, while the structure itself was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012. Built in 1859 as part of the new Palace of Westminster, the clock is world-renowned for its remarkable accuracy and its role as a global symbol of British democracy. Each of the four clock dials is 7 meters in diameter and contains 324 pieces of pot opal glass. The clock’s accuracy is still adjusted today using pre-decimal pennies placed on the pendulum. While other clocks like the Prague Astronomical Clock or the Makkah Royal Clock Tower are famous, Big Ben remains the "gold standard" for horological iconography, featuring in countless films and serving as the focal point for global New Year’s Eve broadcasts.