Antique Clocks - Discover The Amazing World of Vintage Timepieces

Different books and antique clocks experts may call the same type of clock by different names according to geographical differences and trade custom, sometimes causing confusion. What may sometimes be called a “Bracket clock” in England may simply be called a “Shelf clock” or “Mantle clocks” by a US dealer.

For those of you learning about clocks, there are several basic categories for antique clocks, in which are contained subcategories. For example, there is a basic category of clocks called “Beehives,” which contains the subcategories of Gothic and Ripple beehives. Similarly, the basic “Drop Trunk” category contains the subcategories of “Schoolhouse,” “Act of Parliament,” and other types of Drop Trunk clocks.

When a clock face or casing is used to promote advertisements they are commonly called advertising clocks. Sometimes a clock may be used for advertising by including it in a larger sign. Long-case or ‘Grandfather’ clocks are a rarity in this form of advertising, while wall or shelf clocks are more common. These are all wonderful examples of antique wall clocks.

Human beings are fascinated by time, and the passage of time. It is that deep interest that has led to seemingly mundane inventions such as the alarm clock. People’s need to measure time and use time have led to technological advances over 6 millenia.

The first mechanical clocks did not have pendulums. It is likely that they were created by central European monks in the late 1200s and were used in their churches. They tolled on the hour, but their faces lacked dials and hands.

In order to make better use of the church bell already in place, these mechanized devices were installed in the church belfry. One hundred years later, dials and hands were added. The clocks from this era were huge, and made from very heavy metal materials forged by local metal smiths. Smaller clocks suitable for homes began appearing around the fifteenth century. Today, these antique clocks are very valuable in the antiques market.

The Antique Clocks Shoppe features a wide variety of antique clocks, Mantle clocks, antique wall clocks, and other vintage clocks. Be sure to check out our antique clock blog and antique clock videos!

- Daniel Wright


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