We have developed a Master Guide to Purchasing a Custom Grandfather Clock. This is a valuable resource that will help you understand all the components of a Grandfather clock and better decide which features are most important for you. Fill out the form to get access to our guide.
Time is a precious commodity, and what better way to cherish it than with an iconic and impressive timepiece? While the origins of the grandfather clock can be traced back to 17th century England, it still stands tall today in many homes that embrace the old-world charm.
Beyond timekeeping, both Amish grandfather clocks and Howard Miller Grandfather clocks are known for their ornate design and wood elements, long pendulums, weights, and clock face dials that fuse craftsmanship and elegance.
When it comes to grandfather clocks, the Amish-crafted clocks and the Howard Miller brand reign supreme. Both are stately and regal additions to a home’s interior and are often chosen for their renowned top-tier quality and beauty.
If you’re unsure which one to choose, it’s time to closely examine their distinctions. Whether you want them as an heirloom piece or as an elegant accent to your home, selecting one that suits your spatial and personal style is essential.
Here are the differences between these two magnificent timepieces.
Amish artisans are globally known for their dedication to details and wood crafting traditions. Their meticulous work process has been diligently passed down through the generations, making each timepiece not just a work of art but an imprint of their rich heritage.
Amish clocks are popular for their artistry, traditional designs, and high customization options. They are created using only the finest hardwoods like oak, walnut, and cherry that are sustainably sourced from local forests.
And since the Amish are known for their conservatism, faith, and closely held traditions, they prefer crafting these timepieces by hand using traditional tools instead of modern technology.
On the other hand, the Howard Miller grandfather clocks are created using both traditional woodworking methods and modern manufacturing processes. They are primarily created through automation and then hand-finished and assembled by skilled artisans.
Howard Miller artisans also use high-quality hardwoods and incorporate their own modern touch into each clock they create.
The Amish are known for their hard work and strong work ethic. And because they make each clock by hand, they can provide customers with a range of customization options—from the choice of wood, hardware components, stain colors, finish, engraving, carving, painting, and more.
The Howard Miller grandfather clocks are less customizable, as they are generally mass-produced. Howard Miller designers conceptualize the design style, size, features, and materials to be used, and customers may choose from the product designs made available to them.
The Amish clocks retain the traditional pendulum, weights, and dials used in grandfather clocks of the past generations. Amish artisans have stayed true to the time-honored design and functional elements of their clocks. Their period-style craftsmanship makes them stand out for their intrinsic value and timeless charm.
Because Howard Miller combines modern technology in their processes, they can incorporate modern features in their grandfather clocks. Their clocks have illuminated dials, automatic chime shut-off, or even Bluetooth connections.
Both Amish and Howard Miller clocks offer precise time-telling functions.
Interestingly, many Amish artisans in the U.S. migrated from Germany, carrying with them the high level of precision work the Germans are known for. You can expect American-made Amish grandfather clocks to be highly reliable, durable, and well-crafted, even in the most minor details.
On the other hand, Howard Miller clocks are also known for utilizing precision engineering and computer numerical control (CNC) machines to ensure exacting wood processing methods.
Your choice ultimately comes down to your preference, need, lifestyle, and the ambiance you want for your home. If you love the grandfather clock’s true-to-tradition character, made uniquely to your liking, you can never go wrong with an Amish-made timepiece.
If you prefer innovative features and design elements in your clock to suit your modern lifestyle, you may find the Howard Miller a suitable fit.
The grandfather clock is about bringing the timeless, exquisite beauty of the past to our present. It is a symbol of how memories we cherish can transcend time. So go for something that gravitates you toward what you truly value, whether it’s a reflection on a treasured past or a legacy you can leave behind.
Leaning toward Amish clocks? Shop here.
