One of the oldest clocks in my collection is a Scottish tall case (long case) clock made in the late 1840s. I acquired it in 2020, and I was quite excited—it was my first antique tall case clock. It features what is known as an English bell strike, with a rack and snail striking the … More Rack, Snail, and Risk: Inside a Longcase Clock Repair | Part I
This is a cautionary tale for anyone who owns a long-case or tall-case clock, especially a weight-driven example. I make that distinction because I do own a tall-case clock that is spring-driven, which I can assure you is quite unusual. Most, however, are weight-driven. The other day, I went to investigate an issue with the … More Gravity Never Sleeps: A Tall-Case Clock Warning
Starting an antique clock collection can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. With so many styles, makers, movements, and time periods to choose from, it’s easy to wonder where to begin. The good news is that you don’t need deep pockets or expert knowledge on day one—just curiosity, patience, and a willingness to learn. … More How to Start an Antique Clock Collection: Tips for Beginners
Tick-Talk Tuesday is a special time when I respond to readers’ letters and comments about clock issues, challenges, and recommendations for specific clocks. When the comments and questions are especially complex, I consult with fellow clock enthusiasts within my circle to ensure I offer the most precise and helpful answers possible. David P writes I … More Tick Talk Tuesday #59 | Identifying a Tallcase Clock
In late June 2025, I received an invitation to attend the installation of a historic Nova Scotia family clock. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the July 12th ceremony, but I asked the museum manager if I could publish the public service announcement on this blog. She agreed and gave permission to include photos as … More Celebrating the Return of Nova Scotia’s Bishop Family Clock
In an era when Canadian furniture manufacturers were struggling to compete with international imports, one company stood out not just for its elegant craftsmanship but for the remarkable story behind its founder. Craftline Industries, established in Toronto during the mid-20th century, was the brainchild of Manny Drukier, a Holocaust survivor whose vision, ingenuity, and resilience … More From Holocaust Survivor to Canadian Visionary: The Story of Craftline Industries
Transporting antique clocks requires meticulous care due to their delicate mechanisms and fragile components, including glass panels and chime or strike rods. Whether you’re moving a clock across the house, across town, or shipping it across the country, proper packing and handling are essential to avoid damage. However, this guide focuses on the steps needed … More Moving a Grandfather Clock Even a Few Meters Takes Care and Attention
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that transporting an antique clock can be a nerve-wracking experience. These are not just decorative pieces—they are delicate mechanical systems with components that don’t take kindly to rough handling. I’ve seen firsthand what can happen when a clock is poorly packed, and it’s not something … More Safely Transport and Pack Antique Clocks: Expert Guide
The Science Museum in London, England, is one of the city’s most iconic and popular museums, dedicated to inspiring a passion for science in visitors of all ages. Located in the South Kensington area, it is part of the Science Museum Group, which also includes other major museums in the UK. The museum was founded … More Discover the Wonders of Horology at the Science Museum in London
Thomas Tompion (baptized July 25, 1639– died, November 20th, 1713) was an English clockmaker and watchmaker, often referred to as the “Father of English Clockmaking.” He is renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and significant contributions to the development of clockmaking during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. In fact, Tompion is the most celebrated … More Thomas Tompion: The Father of English Clockmaking
My wife and I recently returned from a three-week vacation in the UK. Although the trip wasn’t specifically focused on clock museums and similar attractions, I still managed to gather a significant amount of information/photos about clocks. Unfortunately, during our visit, a family member passed away, and I couldn’t keep up with my regular blog … More Back from the UK: Updates and Catching Up
From time to time, I enjoy reflecting on the progress of my projects after a certain period. Five years ago I acquired a Scottish clock at auction, fulfilling my long-held desire to add an antique tall-case clock to my collection. Reflecting on it now, the decision to purchase the clock proved to be a wise … More Scottish tall-case clock five years later
For years, my wife and I have been on the hunt for an elusive Arthur Pequegnat Hall clock, a prized possession among Canadian collectors. Recently, I stumbled upon what seemed like the jackpot—a seemingly authentic piece advertised for a mere $100. However, as I explored the deal further, doubts crept in, casting a shadow over … More Relocating a unique New Haven kit clock
During the Christmas season, there’s a special charm to antique clocks, each holding onto time’s precious moments. Imagine a room lit by soft twinkling lights, featuring a tall case clock as a proud symbol of craftsmanship spanning generations. As we get into the Christmas spirit, these old clocks go beyond being mere decorations; they connect … More Merry Christmas from antiquevintageclock.com!
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. These old tall case clocks, which were … More A running mechanical clock in a hotel lobby – now that’s something you don’t see every day
The tall clock that may be gracing your hallway or living room belongs to a bygone era. That sense of history and tradition seems to be missing in our modern world. In an era defined by fast-paced technological advancements and fleeting trends, the tall clock stands as a reminder of an earlier era when craftsmanship … More Unravelling the Various Names of the grandfather clock
Tick-Talk Tuesday is dedicated to addressing readers’ letters and comments related to clock issues, challenges, and recommendations for specific clocks. In cases where the comments and questions are particularly challenging, I seek advice from my fellow clock enthusiasts to provide the most accurate and helpful response. DH writes I am the executor of an estate … More Tick Talk Tuesday #47 Mason and Sullivan movement in a grandfather clock
Tick-Talk Tuesday is dedicated to addressing readers’ letters and comments related to clock issues, challenges, and recommendations for specific clocks. In cases where the comments and questions are particularly challenging, I seek advice from my fellow clock enthusiasts to provide the most accurate and helpful response. It is important to respond to emails from interested … More Tick Talk Tuesday #46 – I’m looking at a grandfather clock
Since winning this tall-case clock at auction in the spring of 2020 I have been intrigued about its origin. The information provided at the time was that it was made in Scotland or England in or around the mid-1800s but it could not have been made after 1852 as I will explain later. Its features … More Scottish tall case clock – who was Wm. McLachlan of Newton Stewart?
Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from readers concerning clock issues, challenges faced, a clock you would profiled or advice on your particular clock concern. For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer PS writes; I have a … More Tick Talk Tuesday #42 – Ridgeway clock damaged in shipping
In 2020, my wife and I purchased a Scottish tall case clock at a live auction. It had been on our wish list for years, and it checked all the right boxes—tall, stately, attractive, with an easy-to-repair movement and very little missing. However, we later realized that not everything was as perfect as it seemed, … More An 1848 Scottish clock – relearning sympathetic vibration
Ah, the holiday season is upon us, what to buy? Are you are looking for a unique gift for a friend or family member. An antique clock may not be anything you have considered but wouldn’t it make a terrific gift. If you know a little about antique or vintage clocks or you know nothing … More Antique or Vintage Clocks: The Perfect Unique Gift Ideas
What is ideal is one clock stand for servicing and testing all clock movements but unfortunately, there are so many different types and styles of movements that one size does not fit all. I have written an article or two on test stands in the past but consolidating all my testing stands into one article … More Clock testing stands for most purposes.
The final step in the repair/restoration of my tall case clock are the top finials. This clock had top corner finials at one point in its life. There is evidence that something was there on either side of the crown. I have no idea what they might have looked like but judging from photos of … More Scottish tall case clock with new top finials
In February 2020 my wife was perusing an online auction house looking for interesting bargains and noticed a 170-year-old Scottish tall case offered for bidding. Over the past couple of years we had talked about acquiring an antique tall case clock but those we liked were either well beyond our reach or required extensive repairs … More English bell strike servicing Part I – the assessment
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