Sometimes there is confusion amongst antique clocks when different books and experts call the same type of clock by different names due to trade customs or geographical differences. A “Bracket clock” in England may be referred to as a “Shelf clock” or a “Mantle clock” by a dealer in the United States.

The family of antique clocks can be looked as a collection of specific groups of clocks. You can break it down into several groups, or families. Take beehive clocks, which can either be gothic beehives or ripple beehives. Conversely, the term “drop trunk” clock is actually an umbrella term that comprises schoolhouse clocks, act of parliament clocks, wall regulators, tavern clocks, short drop clocks, octagon clocks, and so on.

Collectors call clocks produced for promotional purposes ‘advertising clocks’. These clocks typically display advertising messages on the clock’s dial or case. These clocks sometimes appeared as part of larger marketing campaign, for example on a billboard. Usually found on a shelf, on the wall, or as large grandfather clocks, these clocks make great antique wall clocks for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Human beings are fascinated by time, and the passage of time. It is that deep interest that has led to seemingly mundane inventions such as the alarm clock. People’s need to measure time and use time have led to technological advances over 6 millenia.

The very first early mechanical clocks, which didn’t have pendulums, were developed in the last half of the thirteenth century, probably by monks from central Europe, and were placed within the church. They did not have dials or hands and only struck bells on the hour.

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.

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!

- Daniel Wright