The Lowdown on Shelf Clocks: A Timeless Guide
A Timepiece Masquerading as a Bookshelf: Unveiling Its True Purpose
So, you've got a collection of clocks and you're ready to categorize them all for the average Joe? No sweat! Here's a breakdown of the most common types of shelf clocks, from the Ogee to the Mantel, and everything in between.
Your first taking step in the world of shelf clocks was likely the Ogee, also known as the Ogee clock. Originating around 180 years ago, these were the first mass-produced American clocks, loved for their affordability and adorable design. The Ogee clock got its name from the double-curved S-shaped molding covering the front of the clock, which cleverly hid the weights. Many of these clocks were driven by weights, with 30-hour or 8-day movements, and sported mirrored or painted tablets. These little charmers were typically 25 inches in height and 15 inches wide, and had hardwood veneers covering a softwood frame. Surprisingly, considering their age, Ogee clocks were quite on point and reliable.
Moving forward in time, we come across the more stylish Column clocks. Featuring half-columns or full columns on both sides, or even stacked half or full columns like the one below, these clocks were all about looking good. Molding on the top and bottom would come together with mirrored or painted tablets, and Column clocks were almost exclusively driven by weights, with 30-hour or 8-day movements.
Another popular option in the mid-1800s was the Steeple clock. These clocks boasted a peak center section, surrounded by columns and topped with finials, and were spring driven with 8-day movements. Steeple clocks measured around 15 inches tall, had veneered hardwood over softwood, often showcased reverse-painted scenes, and were made by many well-known companies.
Kitchen clocks, or "Gingerbread" clocks, were a simpler alternative that became popular around 1840. These clocks featured steam-pressed patterns or carvings, measured 22-24 inches in height and 15 inches wide, and showed off a decorative glass sash which could be as simple as a plain design or as elaborate as a reverse-painted glass scene. Inexpensive and visually pleasing, these clocks could be found in the kitchens of lower and middle-class homes and were produced by the thousands. They earned their name due to their resemblance to contemporary gingerbread houses. These kitchen clocks often featured oak, walnut, or even walnut trimmings on oak frames, combined with a metal clock face. One notable example is the Maple Leaf "fan top" by Arthur Pequegnat, produced in four unique styles, each characterized by a maple leaf decal on the glass door.
Some kitchen clocks, like the stunning Hamilton Clock Company (Canada) model, sported intricate carved features and figurines, placing them in the parlor category. Parlor clocks, like this beauty from the Hamilton Clock Company, favored a narrow construction due to their spring-driven movements. These clocks reflected the furniture styles of the time, often showcasing elaborate patterns, bold figurines, and elaborate wooden frames, along with hand-painted floral designs on the sash.
Cottage clocks are not to be confused with their larger counterparts. These compact clocks, usually under 15 inches in height and 8 inches wide, are perfect for those looking for something small and simple. Cottage clocks are known for their basic alarm mechanisms but they do have one standout feature that distinguishes them from other pendulum clocks – a clip or a clasp to secure the pendulum rod for travel. The "round top" model, as illustrated here, was once offered by the upscale Canadian jeweler Henry Birks and Sons. Other Cottage clocks might feature shapes like beehive, flat, or octagon tops.
Smaller clocks are often referred to as desk clocks, which generally sport flat dials and are wound by hand. One example of a desk clock is the Kundo 400-day anniversary German clock. This unique desk clock stands less than ten inches tall, boasts a glass dome, a weighted wheel with four balls suspended by a ribbon called a torsion spring, and an exposed movement. Handy and decorative, these clocks were often given as wedding gifts. Keep in mind that the Kundo 400-day anniversary German clock is also known more specifically as a torsion clock.
Last, but not least, we have the Mantel clock. Mantel clocks can be ornate, large, and make quite the statement in your living space. The Mauthe pendulum mantel clock, for instance, boasts a precision German Westminster chime movement nestled within a simple yet elegant wooden cabinet.
Oh, and a quick aside, regarding the terminology: mantel or mantle? I've always considered a mantle as something you wear, a garment or a part of the earth's crust. A mantel, on the other hand, is that shelf above the fireplace in your home. So there you go!
Like I said, mantel clocks were affordable, easy to make, and perfect for both form and function. Mantel clocks were manufactured in a variety of materials, including brass, wood, porcelain, slate, Bakelite, and metal, and were designed to be lightweight. Thankfully, these timepieces have stood the test of time, lasting over two centuries, making them a staple in many homes.
Of course, the world of shelf clocks is much larger than this, with other popular types including carriage clocks and lantern clocks, but I hope this guide provides a trusty starting point for your exploration into the world of these timeless treasures. Happy collecting!
Vintage Mantel clocks, fashioned from various materials like brass, wood, and porcelain, are considered gadgets that beautifully blend form and function. Often driven by weights, these technology-based timepieces, akin to carriage and lantern clocks, have continued to be popular and maintain their longevity for over two centuries, transforming many homes into a treasure trove of antiquities.
The distinction between clock movements, such as those found in Ogee, Steeple, or Column clocks, and the more modern torsion clocks, such as the Kundo 400-day anniversary German clock, underscores the rich evolution of these gadgets over time, bridging the gap between the past and the present.
