Antique Clocks - Will Prices Continue To Rise? Only Time Will Tell
The same antique clocks may be called various names by different experts depending on what region of the world they live in, which can get really confusing. For example, what the British call a "bracket clock" is actually identical to what American dealers call "shelf clocks" or "mantle clocks."
The primary categories of antique clocks can be further divided into secondary and tertiary subcategories. For example, within the wide classification of beehive clocks, one will also find classifications like ripple beehive and gothic beehive. As another example, the wide classification of drop trunk clocks can be further divided into subcategories like tavern clocks, hexagon clocks, schoolhouse clocks, and so on.
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.
Mankind has always recognized the passing of time and has tried to measure and record that passing. The simple alarm clock at your bedside table owes its existence to more than 6,000 years of thinking about time and tinkering with devices to accurately mark its passage.
Invented in the latter part of the thirteenth century, most likely by monks living in central Europe, the earliest mechanical clocks had no pendulums and were situated inside churches. They sounded bells hourly but did not have dials or 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.
About the Author: 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!
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