A running mechanical clock in a hotel lobby – now that’s something you don’t see every day

Posted on by rjoiner2021

Every time I climb the stairs to the upper level of our residence, I find myself in awe of the clock perched on the landing. Crafted in 1848, it likely ticked away the hours for years in an upper-middle-class Scottish household, possibly owned by a farmer or landholder.

Scottish tall case clock
Scottish tall-case clock, Circa 1848

These old tall case clocks, which were built to withstand the test of time, stand in contrast to the throwaway culture of the modern world. They evoke a connection to a slower-paced past, providing a sense of calm.

A prominent dial

In November 2023 my wife and I traveled to Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) for an overnight stay and dinner out at a lovely Italian restaurant on Spring Garden Road followed by a play at the Neptune Center for Performing Arts.

La Frasca restaurant, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Upon our check-in at Lord Nelson Hotel and Suites, I observed an old stately clock tucked into a corner and commented to the front desk about the surprise of encountering a fully functional antique tall-case clock in a hotel lobby.

Unknown tall case clock

It’s noteworthy that this establishment, renowned for its classic allure, is recognized for serving a clientele that leans towards the more mature demographic, so an old antique clock did not seem out of place.

The clock face shows a three-train movement

Beyond their practical function, old clocks captivate us with their craftsmanship, and historical significance. They serve as links to the past, reflecting the artistry, engineering, and societal values of bygone eras. The mechanical simplicity offers a stark contrast to our complicated fast-paced digital age.

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7 thoughts on “A running mechanical clock in a hotel lobby – now that’s something you don’t see every day”

  2. Morning, Ron…
    Especially enjoyed today’s story.
    So well said – and oh, what a stately beauty is your Scottish tall case clock!

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  3. Thanks, I always enjoy reading your blogs. It appears that even the moon dial is set correctly. The dial below the 12 is a second hand?

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  4. I read about a retired old sea captain who lived on a large estate in New Haven. His library had 33 antique clocks representing various styles, including 3 similar to the one in your picture. He found it quite a task keeping each clock set to the exact same time, spending hours each day adjusting the clocks. In fact, he became quite obsessed with the pursuit. There was enough variation in the mechanisms in the clocks that the task of keeping the clocks in synchronized was impossible, and he noticed that within 16 minutes he would start noticing slight differences in the minute hands. That number 16 became quite significant for him, and he felt the need to never leave the library for more than a quarter of an hour. Eventually he had to move a trundle bed down to the library. The obsession became very pronounced, and his family became more snd more worried.

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    1. Wonderful story. I know the limitations of each clock I have and understand that each releases its power in a different way. My wife always knows which day the clocks are wound because of the unity of cacophony. But I love it even if they are off time through the week. I understand how some folks can be obsessed, however.

      Ron

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