I have a collection of 11 Arthur Pequegnat clocks, including three beautiful wall clocks which you can view on this 5-minute YouTube video.
I have written extensively about the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, but to summarize: the company was founded in Berlin, Ontario (renamed Kitchener in 1917) in 1904 and produced its final clock in 1941.
As regular readers know, I have been a passionate collector for 15 years, I take great joy in repairing and restoring old clocks. My collection has grown to 85 unique timepieces, each with its own story.
Background music and titles are provided only. If you have any questions about my Pequegnat collection or a specific clock, feel free to leave a comment.
For more about my journey and insights into clock collecting, explore my other blog articles.
We have been facing a challenging spring here in Nova Scotia, as the threat of wildfires has been looming over us.
In May 2023, our community in Nova Scotia has been devastated by the occurrence of two uncontrolled wildfires. The dire consequences of these fires include the evacuation of thousands of individuals and the tragic loss of hundreds of homes.
Residing in a rural area with our house nestled amidst beautiful trees, we can’t help but have a constant awareness of the potential for fire.
While it’s crucial to prioritize safety and well-being in emergency situations, it’s understandable that certain personal belongings/items hold significant value to us. They include ID, cell phones, credit cards, vehicle titles, keys, flashlights, passports, a portable hard drive containing all personal photos, and essential clothing but if I find myself with a moment to select just one antique clock during a speedy evacuation what would it be?
My wife prompted this discussion when she asked, “What clock would you take?
Selecting a specific antique clock to save from a “burning house” is a subjective decision based on personal preferences, sentimental value, and the uniqueness of each clock. However, here are a few factors I might consider when making my decision:
I might choose a clock that holds special meaning to me or my family. It could be a clock that has been passed down through generations or one that has sentimental value attached to it.
I would consider the rarity and historical significance of the clock in question. If a clock’s origins is significant or it is known for its craftsmanship or historical importance, I might prioritize saving such a clock.
If one clock is in better condition or has the potential for easier restoration, it might be a good choice to save.
Here are 5 clocks that would be high on my list and the reasons why. But in the end, I could only take one!
Pequegnat Canadian Time
Pequegnat Canadian Time
I have had this clock for a number of years, and have serviced it twice. The clock’s case, on the other hand, has remained untouched and remains in exceptional condition. This particular clock holds a special place in my collection as one of the earliest examples of the eight Pequegnat clocks I own. It spent its life in the waiting area of a train station located 1/2 drive from my home.
Sawin Banjo Clock
Sawin banjo clock
Dating back to the 1840s, this exceptional timepiece exemplifies the pinnacle of meticulous movement craftsmanship. While the case and movement do not bear any explicit “Sawin” markings, various indicators strongly suggest that it was crafted by John Sawin himself or one of his associates or apprentices. Notably, this clock stands out for its straightforward construction, lacking side rails or ornate embellishments such as painted tablets or gilt decorations. It is precisely this simplicity in design that captivates me, as it allows the clock’s elegance and craftsmanship to take center stage.
Junghans Crispis time and strike wall clock
Junghans Crispi
This clock underwent a comprehensive restoration process involving countless hours of work, including disassembling, creating new components, servicing the movement, and refinishing the case. The restoration required a significant amount of labor and attention to detail. The clock holds a captivating story as it was rescued from a house that endured severe destruction during the Halifax Explosion in 1917.
The sheer beauty of this clock makes it incredibly challenging to part with. Its design epitomizes the finest qualities of the 1880s Vienna style. Unlike the later Viennese clocks, which often leaned towards ornate and ostentatious features, the clocks from this particular period maintain their elegance and embrace a more refined and understated aesthetic. The clock’s classic, simple lines are a testament to the enduring allure of the Vienna style during that era.
Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time
Arthur Pequegnat Moncton
It is quite possible that this clock was located in a train station or some other commercial setting, given its robust construction and durability designed to withstand potential mistreatment. Additionally, its timeless design features are reminiscent of the classic lines commonly associated with the 1920s era. The clock’s sturdy build and elegant aesthetics perfectly capture the spirit of that period, adding to its overall charm and appeal.
E. Ingraham Huron
E Ingraham Huron
This clock resided in the charming vicinity of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. It came into our possession during a challenging period for a couple undergoing a difficult separation, as sentimental items often find their way to new homes in such circumstances. Among the clocks in my collection, this one stands out as one of the few that underwent professional servicing, ensuring its optimal functionality. Notably, this clock holds a relatively rare status, being produced by the E. Ingraham Clock Co. during the brief span of two years, between 1878 and 1880.
And now it boils down to the one to choose?
Although I hold great admiration for all of these clocks, if I were constrained by space and could only choose a single one to take with me, it would have to be the Junghans Crispi. As mentioned earlier, this clock embodies the qualities that I value, such as its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless appeal. Its unique design, combined with the renowned Junghans brand, makes it a standout choice in the collection. Given the limited space, the Junghans Crispi would be the clock I couldn’t bear to leave behind, as it represents the epitome of my preferences and holds a special place in my heart.
The Pequegnat name may not be familiar to international readers but it was a significant Canadian clock company that manufactured both movements and cases beginning in the early 20th century.
The Pequegnat Clock Company was a Canadian clock manufacturer that operated from 1904 to 1941. The company was founded by Arthur Pequegnat a Canadian immigrant who brought his family from Switzerland to begin a new life in Canada.
Pequegnat was a skilled clockmaker and entrepreneur, and he saw an opportunity to start his own clock company in Kitchener (then Berlin), Ontario. But the story actually begins prior to 1904.
In 1897 Arthur expanded his Berlin Jewelry shop to include the manufacture of bicycles. However, by 1904, with the decrease in the demand for bicycles, Arthur began to re-focus on the clock industry by manufacturing his own clock movements at his Berlin Bicycle Manufacturing plant and the motto, “Buy Canadian – Pequegnat clocks are better than foreign-made ones”” struck a chord with Canadian buyers.
At first, the wooden clock cases were made by local furniture makers, however, in time, he manufactured his own clock cases.
Pequegnat Clock Company produced high-quality clocks, and its products quickly gained a reputation for their accuracy and reliability. The company produced a wide variety of clocks, including wall clocks, mantle clocks, and grandfather clocks.
Clock face with maker’s name
During the early years, the company faced a lot of competition from American clock companies, but Pequegnat was able to differentiate his products by designing and manufacturing unique clock cases that appealed to Canadian tastes.
The company continued to grow, and by the 1920s, it had become one of the largest clock manufacturers in Canada.
The Great Depression hit the Pequegnat Clock Company hard, and the company struggled to stay afloat during the 1930s. In 1941, with brass in short supply as a result of the war effort the company was forced to close due to financial difficulties, and its assets were liquidated.
Despite its relatively short lifespan, the Pequegnat Clock Company played an important role in the history of Canadian clock manufacturing. The company’s clocks are still highly sought after by collectors, and its products are considered some of the finest examples of Canadian clockmaking.
The Maple Leaf – a symbol of pride
The maple leaf slowly caught on as a national symbol in 1868 (the year after Canada’s Confederation) as it was included in the coat of arms of Ontario and the coat of arms of Quebec and added to the Canadian coat of arms in 1921. The maple leaf is a symbol of our national identity.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf kitchen clock; the “fan top”
Canadian readers and perhaps those abroad with a connection to Canada would instantly recognize the maple leaf as distinctly Canadian.
Cashing in on Canada’s identity as a nation, Pequegnat saw the value in naming clocks after Canadian cities, cities such as Stratford, London, Toronto, Moncton, Montreal, and so on. Indeed, most homes and businesses in Canada had a Pequegnat clock.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf kitchen clock; the “round top”
Berlin, Ontario was re-named Kitchener Ontario in 1916, due to anti-German backlash during WW I. This becomes a useful tool when dating Pequegnat clocks as labels, movements, or dials marked “Berlin” date the clock to 1916 or earlier, and those marked “Kitchener” are 1916 or later. However, many clocks had a long production life and it is difficult to date any Arthur Pequegnat clock precisely as there were no production numbers on the movements.
Pequegnat’s interpretation of the kitchen clock
The Maple Leaf series was Pequegnat’s interpretation of the popular American kitchen clock.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf kitchen clock; the “curly top”
The Maple Leaf Series was a line of clocks produced by the Pequegnat Clock Company of Canada in the early 20th century. The series was named after the maple leaf, a powerful symbol of Canada.
The Maple Leaf Series was first introduced in 1911, and it quickly became one of the company’s most popular product lines. The series included several different models. The clocks were made with high-quality materials and brass movements.
The door of a Maple Leaf clock
There are 2 notable features of the Maple Leaf Series. One was the clock tablet, which featured a stylized array of 36 maple leaves framed by half moons and with an opening to display the pendulum bob. Why the number 36? In some cultures, it is considered a lucky number.
The second feature was a brass maple leaf pendulum bob.
The clocks in the Maple Leaf series did not have specific names and are referred to by collectors as the pointed top, the round top, the fan top, the curly top, and so on.
The Maple Leaf series of Pequegnat kitchen clocks (photo courtesy of The Canadian Clock Museum)
The clock depicted above may or may not belong to the Maple Leaf series but the maple leaves within the tablet design are considerably more stylized, and the edging is understated. Like the Canuck pictured below, this design could be a variant.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf kitchen clock; the “pointed top”
The dials were typically paper on tin and some had a gold center accent.
Many would not consider the Canuck to be a “Maple Leaf” kitchen clock though some variants had a maple leaf tablet. The Canuck also stood out from other kitchen clocks due to its use of steamed pressed oak in its construction.
The Canuck kitchen clock
The Maple Leaf Series was a significant part of the Pequegnat Clock Company’s success, and the clocks from this series are still highly prized by collectors today.
Overall, the Maple Leaf Series represented a major contribution to the Pequegnat Clock Company’s prosperity, and its models remain a sought-after collectible for clock enthusiasts.
Eight years ago I acquired my first Arthur Pequegnat clock. In the years following, I have added to my collection and now have a total of 8. Although my collection of Pequegnat clocks is very modest by comparison to a dedicated Pequegant collector it is a good start and I would certainly like to add to that number in the future.
The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company (1904–1941) is notable as the longest-lasting Canadian-based clock manufacturer. They made a wide variety of different styled clocks from 1904 through to 1941 from shelf and mantel clocks to wall clocks and floor models.
Nickle-plated steel or brass plates
Unfortunately, it is very difficult to date a Pequegnat clock, except for what is termed pre and post-Berlin, the location of the company’s manufacturing plant. Clocks made before 1917 were inscribed “Berlin, Canada” on the dial face. Kitchener, Ontario was known as Berlin prior to and during the first World War. It was the town of Berlin from 1854 until 1912 then the City of Berlin from 1912 until 1916.
Because the name Berlin was associated with the war against Germany the town fathers decided the name Kitchener was less offensive and the change was made midway through the First World War. Kitchener is the present seat of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
Most Arthur Pequegant clock movements are stamped with the company name but there are no date marks on movements indicating when it was made. Clocks made after the First War wore the company name plus Canada under the number 6 on the dial face. For example, clocks such at the Canadian Time were made from 1904 to 1941 and are separated in age by the Berlin label consequently, my Canadian Time wall clock with the Canada label could be as old as 104 or as “new” as 80 years old.
One distinctive feature on many movements is the use of nickel plating for both brass and steel plates.
Arthur Pequegnat Company name
Many models continued in production right up to 1941. By 1941, the demands of World War II armament makers for brass, the essential ingredient in clock movements as well as the growing popularity of the electric clock, forced the Arthur Pequegnat company to cease production.
And now, beginning with the first clock acquired in 2013.
The Canadian Time
My first Pequegant, purchased in September 2013 hung in the Intercolonial Rail Station waiting room in Pictou, Nova Scotia.
Canadian Time
The seller arranged the purchase of the clock just prior to the station’s decommissioning in 1993. It is in very good condition, missing its door clasp but otherwise intact. There are a few scratches and nicks consistent with its age but nothing objectionable.
The Brandon (2nd edititon)
I found this clock in an antique shop just outside Truro, Nova Scotia in 2014.
Arthur Pequegant Brandon II
The case is in excellent condition but the movement was quite worn. Had I known more about servicing clocks at the time of purchase I would not have sent it to a clock repair specialist. It is one of two in my Pequegant collection serviced by someone other than myself. This is the Brandon II. The Brandon 1, the first edition, was made prior to 1918, and had an ornate pressed wood bezel. This one is simpler in design.
The Maple Leaf “Fan-top”
Next came my first Maple Leaf kitchen clock, known for its unique lower tablet of scattered maple leaves and a distinctive maple leaf pendulum.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf kitchen clock
This clock, bought in 2015, was also serviced by a clock professional. The case was in very poor condition. Stripping a case is an absolute last resort as far as I’m concerned but the finish on this clock was pretty bad. I could not leave it as it was.
The finish on a Pequegnat fan-top clock
To Pequegnat collectors, it is known as the fan-top.
The Simcoe
Three years later, the Simcoe followed me home. It was bought at an antique shop in Victoria, British Columbia in 2018.
Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe mantel clock
It is not particularly attractive. It is the only mantel clock in my Pequegnat collection and it is from the “Berlin” period.
The Bedford
2018 was a good year because I acquired 4 Pequegnat clocks. This was number two of that year.
Bedford shelf clock
This clock was gifted to me by a reader. He asked if I wanted the clock but I had to pick it up in Quebec which was on our way to a summer cottage in central Canada. The movement was in very good condition but the case was damaged having taken a plunge off a high shelf.
The movement was serviced without issue but the case required extensive intervention.
The third purchase that year and the fifth in my collection is the Maple Leaf Pointed Top
The Maple Leaf “Pointed Top”
There are 4 Maple Leaf clocks made by Pequegnat. Any version of the Maple Leaf is sought after by Canadian collectors but this one has distinctive pointed side columns, hence the nickname.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf Pointed Top
Although termed a kitchen clock it could easily have been placed in a living room or parlour.
The Moncton
The last 2018 acquisition was a clock that I had in the back of my mind for quite some time and I was waiting for the right price. This is an excellent copy that is very presentable and looks great on our kitchen wall.
Arthur Pequegnat Moncton
It is a post-Berlin double spring time-only 15-day clock. Many were used in rail stations despite the fact that they were spring-driven. Weight-driven clocks were preferred for their accuracy but the Moncton was up to the task as a timekeeper.
And the last.
The Canuck
This is the only true Pequegant “gingerbread” clock in my view.
Canuck kitchen clock
The case was refreshed and the dial was redone. The movement was also serviced without issue.
Cleaned up more presentable
These are all keepers. Most Pequegants have kept their value over the years and in Canada, they are regarded as quality clocks for the masses. They were well built, well-designed movements with a distinctive Canadian charm as many were named after cities in Canada.
In light of current world events the antiquevintageclock.com family wish to convey our sympathy and condolences to those effected by Covid 19
There are a fair number of Canadian clock enthusiasts that have various sized collections of Pequegnat clocks. Skip Kerr‘s extensive collection immediately comes to mind.
Although my collection is modest by comparison with just eight Arthur Pequegnat Canadian-made clocks they cover a range of models from kitchen to wall clocks.
The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company was in business in Berlin, later renamed, Kitchener, Ontario (Canada) from 1904 to about 1941. Pequegnat clocks are well known among Canadian Clock collectors. Many are still running today and they can be easily found on local and national online for-sale sites and you might even find them on the northern border states of the US.
Here they are; I will let the captioned photos speak for themselves.
Arthur Pequegnat Maple Leaf kitchen clock, otherwise known as the “Fan top”
Arthur Pequegnat Bedford mantel clock (variant with larger dial)
Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe mantel clock, Berlin period
Arthur Pequegnat Canadian Time (time-only) wall clock
Arthur Pequegnat Brandon (second version)
Arthur Pequegnat Canuck kitchen clock (otherwise known as a gingerbread clock)
Arthur Pequegnat Kitchen clock, Maple Leaf, otherwise known among collectors as the “pointed top”
Arthur Pequegnat Moncton, double spring time-only 15-day clock, post-Berlin (after 1917)
My journey goes on as I continue to purchase Pequegnat clocks adding them to my collection. I have yet to secure a tambour style clock and a Regulator #1 is certainly on the top of my list.
Antique and Vintage Mechanical Clocks 
You must be logged in to post a comment.