Grandfather Clocks

The Grandfather clock originated in the late 1600´s in London. Clockmakers invented the long case model, about 6 feet tall. In the United States owning one of these clocks conveyed status. In the 1880´s a popular song about a clock that stopped when it´s owner died, hence the name "Grandfather" clock was created.

Cleaning

Dusting a clock weekly and polishing a wooden clock twice a year with a good wax should be sufficient cleaning. Polishing any gilded fittings should not be done since gilt can be easily removed.

Temperature Control

Keep wooden clocks away from sunlight, fireplaces, heaters and radiators. Heat warps and shrinks wood. In addition, wooden clocks are sensitive to humidity. Ideal room climate is 64 F [18C] and 50 percent humidity, with a 20 percent variation.

Placement of Clocks

Special care must be given to longcase or tallcase clocks in regards to placement. Since they are rather top heavy, anchoring to the wall will prevent them from tipping over.

Dials

The dials on a clock can tell you a lot about the history and quality of a clock. Ranging from painted wood to engraved and inlaid brass, and everything in-between. In early clocks the materials, rather than cost of labor, determines the quality of the dial. An ornate, hand painted wooden dial is often less valuable than a plain brass one.

Horologist

Did you know a "Clock Doctor" is also known as a Horologist.

Shelf Clocks

This type of clock is also called bracket, table or mantle clocks. They are low and shallow. Developed around the same time as longcase clocks and sometimes sharing the same materials and styles.

Carriage Clocks

A carriage clock was designed to be small and convenient for travel by carriage. Usually they have a carrying handle to their top and were produced in larger quantities than the larger ones.

Cleaning a Clocks Movements

About every five to ten years, a clocks movements should be cleaned and maintained by a specialist. While ,you might want to oil a movement yourself, be aware that oil attracts dust that ultimately increases friction in the movements. Leave this up to a professional to do.

Movements

The most common movements of a clock have either a thirty hour or eight day durations, however, there are movements with durations of thirty days, three months or even one year. In general, the longer the duration, the more sophisticated and valuable the movement. Although some thirty hour clocks are in high demand since they represent the most basic form of the clock.

Moving Clocks

When moving clocks, particularly the larger pieces, take extra care and remove the pendulum and any other parts that come off. Pack them separately from the rest.

Wall Clocks

Also called tavern, dial, cartel and banjo clocks. They were developed as a low cost alternative to longcase clocks.

Longcase or Tallcase

Most commonly named "Grandfather" clocks. They can be as tall as ten feet high and by far the most desirable.