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For any occasion, a grandfather clock is a perfect choice — be it a family heirloom, housewarming gift, or stunning decoration. But have you ever wondered what makes it so elegant and charming? Well, it’s the legacy of meticulous craftsmanship and timeless design.
Today, we are exploring some of the most extraordinary and unique Grandfather Clocks in history and uncovering what sets them apart as distinctive statement pieces.
Keep on reading!
Source: Pinterest
The tall case clocks have been around for centuries. However, Simon Willard, the clockmaking maestro, made specific developments to the design and functionalities.
Crafted in the 18th century, the famous Tall Case Clock speaks volumes of Willard’s extraordinary skills. His unique grandfather clocks are prized and highly appreciated for their unrivaled craftsmanship. Moreover, he earned a reputation as one of the most celebrated clockmakers for his significant contribution to horology during the 18th century.
Simon Willard’s grandfather clock stands tall and proud with the clock face signed as “Simon Willard.” The charming wooden case gives it a classic and enduring appeal, making it perfect to pass on from generation to generation.
The mahogany case features a bonnet with pierced fretwork. Moreover, its painted iron dial has spandrel areas, and the top is designed with floral designs, whereas the bottom has strawberry designs. The dial features a painted moon phase with Roman numerals.
Simon Willard’s tall case clock movement is constructed with premium brass. The bells strike each hour, which is done on the cast iron bell. The clock also includes a winder, weights, and a pendulum.
As Simon Willard was known for his innovative work, the advancement in clock movement is the foremost aspect that makes it distinctive in history. Besides that, the exceptional accuracy, precise timekeeping, and use of high-quality brass, mahogany, and other decorative accents make it highly desirable among collectors.
Source: Metmuseum.org
Thomas Tompion was known as the most famous English clockmaker. His work has been so prominent that he may be well described as the father of British clockmaking.
Thomas befriended a scientist, Dr. Hooke, who invented a spiral balance spring for watches. His invention helped Thomas a lot.
In 1703, Thomas became master of the Clockmakers Company and made unique Long Case Clocks. It is believed that most of his advanced work could be ascribed to the help he got from Dr. Hooke.
Thomas Tompion’s unique grandfather clocks feature a sliding design with a caddy top and gilded wood ball finials. Hands are made of steel, which is pierced and partly chiseled.
The movement is made of brass and steel with an hour striking of 8-day duration. Its internal count wheel controls the hour, striking on the bell. The pendulum is made of brass rod with brass cased bob.
Due to its master craftsmanship, innovative design, and use of the finest materials, Thomas Tompion clocks were highly sought after by royals and wealthy patrons. Speaking of historical significance, Thomas Tompion made clocks for royals, including Charles II, William III, Queen Anne, and Prince George of Denmark.
Source: Projectsmallhouse.com
As evidenced by its name, Bornholm grandfather clocks originated on Bornholm island in the Danish Baltic Sea.
Interestingly, the Danish island had no reputation for making clocks. But one fine day, a Dutch ship headed to England changed its course to Bornholm Island. Luckily, the ship contained five long-case grandfather clocks in its cargo.
Since clocks were a rare commodity, the sailor saved them and sent them to the craftsman Paul Ottesen Arboe. Initially unaware of the clockmaking, the determined team learned thoroughly about the mechanics, design, and components of long case clocks.
What’s more impressive? They went on to create their improved version of long-case grandfather clocks.
The body of the Bornholm clock comprises three main parts: head, foot, and case. Although these sections have straight sides, the foot part often has rounded corners with four-sided molding. Moreover, the clock has lead weights weighing eight pounds. Its total standard weight is between 40 to 80 kg.
Brass and iron are used as the primary materials for making the clock face. The face is adorned towards the corner with lead material. Similar to most classic grandfather clocks, the ornamentation features Roman Numerals on tin along with delicate brass hands. Moreover, the top of the face has a five-pointed crown containing the name of the clockmaker and the year of manufacturing.
With imitation of Chinese lakarbejde (Danish term for “lacquer work”) and painted biblical motifs on the case, Danish Bornholm grandfather clocks exude artistic vibes. Moreover, some variations of this unique grandfather clock featured large board gesims (Danish term for cornice) on the case.
One prominent reason for the Bornholm clock’s significance is its unique origin. The artisans who knew nothing about this craft became one of the pioneers of clockmaking. Moreover, Scandinavian design, clean aesthetics, and Danish craftsmanship also make it an iconic piece of decor.
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Mora clocks originated from Mora, a town in Dalarna province in Sweden.
Mora clocks date back to the 18th century when Mora was struggling with severe drought. This period is marked as the most challenging economic crisis in the town’s history. Even many moved to Stockholm, where they learned several skills along with clockmaking. And when they returned to their hometown, they were able to support the economy with their new skills.
Many families specialized in making different parts of the clock and collectively contributed to making the timeless Mora clocks. The contribution of various families is one of the reasons that the clock featured the most diverse and creative designs ever made.
Clockmaking flourished in different regions, and each region presented its distinctive versions. For instance, clocks from Northern Sweden were typically slender, whereas, in Southern regions, clocks were usually accentuated.
The clock has 80-day movement with cast iron weights. Moreover, spiral wire gongs or two bells were used for the movements to strike the hour.
The diverse design and contribution of various families to the making make the clock one of the most unique grandfather clocks in history.
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Howard Miller Clock Company was founded in 1926 by Howard C. Miller. Howard’s focus was on building products that can be passed from one generation to the next.
Howard Miller Company initially specialized in chiming wall and mantle clocks. However, after establishing a modern factory in 1960 the company began its domination of grandfather clocks.
Howard Miller is recognized as one of the initial clockmakers who brought innovation to the clockmaking industry. The company introduced battery-operated quartz movement in clock technology, which further enhanced the accuracy and precision of timekeeping.
Howard Miller grandfather clocks are prized for their precision and timeless appeal. These clocks often feature classic designs with ornate details like glass panels, brass accents, and elegant carved woodwork. With glass and hardwoods, the cabinets of this grandfather clock are ideal for displaying heirlooms, glassware, and other collectibles.
The company introduced innovative features such as battery-operated quartz movement and atomic timekeeping. This innovation pushed the boundaries in the clockmaking field. The company even earned the title “World’s Largest Grandfather Clock Manufacturer.”
If you adore timeless and classic wood furniture, what could be a better decor piece than a customized and high-quality Amish Grandfather Clock? At Old Time Chimes, we have skilled Amish craftsmen onboard who handcraft exceptional and elegant Amish clocks that are perfect as a gift or an heirloom.
Browse our collection, and feel free to get in touch with us. We would love to help you create a tailor-made and unique grandfather clock.
