About our armillary sphere sundials
This collection now contains 17 active armillaries, rather than ordinary horizontal sundials. Two solid-brass spheres fit an existing base. The other 15 arrive with cast-stone pedestals in medium and large proportions. Prices run from £79 to £629, with free UK delivery on every model.
An armillary uses intersecting metal rings to represent lines around the celestial sphere. Some models can show solar time when correctly aligned. Others are chiefly decorative, so check the individual product description if timekeeping matters. For flat brass dials and carved columns, use our stone garden sundials collection instead.
Why we chose this range
"The medium pedestal models are the safest choice for most gardens. Their rings sit high enough to read without overpowering nearby planting. Choose a large armillary only when it has open space around it. The two freestanding brass spheres make sense when you already own a suitable plinth."
Matt W, Co-Founder and Lead BuyerWhich armillary should you buy?
| Type | Model to start with | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freestanding brass sphere | Medium Solid Brass Armillary | An existing plinth or sheltered courtyard | £79 |
| Medium armillary with pedestal | Medium Armillary on Stone Pedestal - Matt's pick | Borders and path junctions | £475 |
| Large armillary with pedestal | Large Armillary on Athenian Pedestal | Open lawns and formal centres | £629 |
Positioning and setting an armillary
Choose an open position with as much direct sun as possible. Avoid afternoon shade from trees, walls and buildings. The rings need clear space around them, especially on larger models. Position the finished piece where it remains visible from a path, window or seating area.
| Step | Action | Check |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare a level, stable base | The pedestal must not rock |
| 2 | Set the pedestal upright | Check both directions with a spirit level |
| 3 | Align a working sphere | Point its polar arrow towards true north |
| 4 | Check after severe weather | Retighten fixings and confirm the level |
Matt's installation tip
Do not use magnetic north for a working armillary. Use true north and keep the pedestal level. Our sundial setup guide explains the correction.
Read our armillary buying guide for sizing and history. Our formal garden guide covers sightlines and focal points. Use stone plinths or stone pedestals when buying a sphere without a base.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I put an armillary sphere?
Place it in an open, sunny position. Avoid tree shade and afternoon shadows from buildings. Leave clear space around the rings.
Do armillary sundials tell accurate time?
Working models show solar time when correctly aligned. Decorative armillaries may not have calibrated hour markings. Check the individual product description before ordering.
Which size armillary is best for a garden?
Medium models suit most borders and courtyards. Large pedestal models need an open lawn or a formal path junction.
Does an armillary sphere need a pedestal?
A separate pedestal is only needed for freestanding spheres. Fifteen active models in this collection already include a cast-stone pedestal.
How much does an armillary sphere sundial cost?
Current prices run from £79 to £629. Freestanding brass spheres cost less than complete stone-pedestal models. Every active model qualifies for free UK delivery.