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Grandfather clocks are undoubtedly works of art, typically featuring ornate floral patterns or filigree designs that demonstrate top-notch craftsmanship in their details. They are often found in traditionally styled homes along with other fine furniture and antique pieces sought for their old-world charm.
However, there is a type of grandfather clock that you may find in some modern homes and offices that is a lot simpler in design and form. These are called mission grandfather clocks.
These clocks feature clean, straight lines, minimal ornamentation, and straightforward clock faces. While they still come in tall cases made of hardwood like oak and cherry, and with the weights and pendulum that are characteristic of grandfather clocks, the mission style is more minimalist with a more modern aesthetic.
The mission style was a design movement that became popular during the height of the Industrial Revolution in the late 19th century. It promoted handmade crafts and art pieces at a time when products were being mass-produced by machines. The American Arts and Crafts Movement sought to bring recognition back to bespoke handcrafted pieces made by artisans, with a focus on the material more than the design.
Mission furniture and decor focus more on function than aesthetics. It is less ornamental, with simple, clean lines and a sturdy structure—another reaction to the heavily decorated style of Victorian-era furniture pieces.
The idea was to promote artistry that adapted to modern times: less ornate and more practical.
Mission grandfather clocks combine the traditional tall wooden case, large clock face, pendulum, weights, and the quintessential sound of the chime, with a minimalist design that the modern world has embraced.
This makes it a perfect choice for those who want the timeless elegance and nostalgia of a grandfather clock and blend it seamlessly with contemporary styles and decor pieces.
With modern decor’s mostly clean lines, minimalist pieces, and earthy, neutral palettes, a well-made mission grandfather clock would work well in idyllic country homes and even urban spaces.
While their design is streamlined, mission grandfather clocks are still very much works of art.
With the help of modern manufacturing methods, clock artisans carefully put in place each part and component in harmony. These mission grandfather clocks are still handmade by traditional crafters like the Amish, who pay careful attention to every detail. They also still use time-honored methods and tools.
It takes tremendous skill to make something look creative and appealing using only minimal design patterns and woodwork. The key is ensuring that the entire structure is sturdy, the timekeeping function is precise, and the sense of elegance is still very much intrinsic in the timepiece.
Grandfather clocks have evolved over time, with traditional ornate designs still standing strong and mission style having its own following across different generations and aesthetic preferences.
Finding the right mission grandfather clock boils down to your style, your interiors’ overarching theme, and your design objective.
You may go for a custom-made piece that’s crafted to your liking. Amish-made grandfather clocks are a good choice for those who want a say in how their timepiece will be made. It will take time to create, but it will be worth it in every way: as a functional decor piece, a creative expression, and a cherished heirloom for the next generations.
Get your mission grandfather clock from a trusted source and enjoy a timeless, finely crafted piece that instantly brings elegance to your space.
