Tag: Schwenningen

Kienzle World Time Desk Clock – A Mid-Century Masterpiece

Time sequencer

Some clocks are purchased because they are rare, some because they are old, and some simply because they appeal to the eye. Every once in a while, however, a clock comes along that checks all three boxes. This Kienzle World Time desk clock is one of those clocks. This article will explore the clock’s designer, its various versions, who the target audience was, and the condition of this particular clock.

Designer Heinrich Moeller

With its heavy brass case, elegant world time dial, and unmistakable mid-century design, it is a clock that immediately draws attention and invites a closer look.This clock is one of many clocks conceived by renowned German designer Heinrich Moeller.

Moeller, who was originally trained as a cabinet maker, began working with the German clock manufacturer Kienzle in 1931 and remained their chief designer until about 1970. During that time he designed a wide range of clocks that blended Art Deco styling with later Mid-Century Modern design influences.

Many of his clocks are now quite collectible and are appreciated as much for their design as for their timekeeping.

Kienzle World Time clock

The Kienzle company itself has a long history dating back to 1822 in Schwenningen, Germany, where it began as a traditional Black Forest clock workshop before growing into one of Germany’s largest clock manufacturers.

By the 20th century, Kienzle was producing a wide variety of clocks, including automobile clocks, alarm clocks, wall clocks, and decorative desk clocks such as this one.

Different Versions but the same basic design

This particular clock likely dates from the period between 1950 and 1960, judging from the many examples that appear for sale online.

I have seen this style occasionally advertised as a 1960s clock, but based on other examples and movement styles I am fairly confident that this one is from around 1950, give or take a year. This earlier mechanical version appears to be the most desirable of the series.

Later versions were fitted with quartz and electro-mechanical movements and generally bring lower prices, suggesting collectors prefer the earlier mechanical models.

Back of Kienzle clock

The clock has a very substantial weight and measures 13 ¾ inches high, 10 inches wide, and 2 ½ inches deep. The brass case has a wonderful presence and really reflects the quality of mid-century German manufacturing.

The world time dial is particularly attractive and gives the clock a very distinctive look compared to typical desk clocks of the period.

Who was it for?

A clock like this was not an average household clock. In the 1950s, a heavy brass world time desk clock would have been considered a prestige office or executive desk clock. It was the kind of clock you would give as a retirement gift, corporate gift, or presentation piece.

The world time feature especially suggests someone involved in international business or travel, or at least someone who wanted to project that image.

In the post-war period, international trade and travel were expanding rapidly, and a world time clock symbolized modern business and global connections.

Condition of the clock

This clock is in excellent condition with minimal wear and tarnish. In fact, when you look at the front and side views, you can really appreciate the pristine condition of this clock.

The case was quite grimy, as one might expect, but a little careful polishing brought the finish back very nicely.

Brass base

Quite often small parts are missing on clocks such as this—for example, the time adjustment knob or the cover for the speed control needle—but in this case everything is completely intact. That is always a pleasant surprise. The clock is also in very good working order and will run for a full eight days on a wind.

Will I service it? I am not sure. According to comments on the NAWCC message board, some members have not had much luck working on these movements.

Given that this clock appears to have had minimal wear and tear, it may not have seen a great deal of use over the years, so it might be wise to leave well enough alone for now.

A work of excellence

I am very pleased with this acquisition. The clock is certainly a singular work of elegance, magnificence, and style, and it stands out in any room.

Some clocks are interesting, some are useful, and some are collectible—but every once in a while, you come across a clock that is also a piece of industrial art. In my opinion, this Kienzle World desk clock clearly falls into that category.

Kienzle clock on display with Ingraham Huron
Kienzle World time clock with an Ingraham Huron balloon-style shelf clock

Although the original Kienzle clock manufacturing company largely disappeared in the 1990s, the Kienzle name still exists today as a watch brand, producing mainly wristwatches rather than mechanical clocks. The brand has been revived, but the company is only a shadow of what it once was.

In the end, this is what clock collecting is all about—finding interesting pieces, learning their history, and giving them a place where they can be appreciated once again. This Kienzle World desk clock has certainly found a good home.

Here’s a Strange Coincidence

While watching Season 2 episode 1 of Paradise on Disney+, a post-apocalyptic thriller series, I noticed that at about the 33-minute mark, there is a scene inside Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion. During a conversation between two characters, a Kienzle World Time clock can be clearly seen in the background.

Curious, I searched through photographs of Graceland to see if I could find the same clock, but I came up empty-handed. It may well be a prop added for the show. Even so, Elvis was known to be a collector, and his collection included several mid-century clocks, some of which are visible in photographs on the Graceland website.

Related Articles

1930 Kienzle box clock, a heartfelt gift: Occasionally, I have clocks gifted to me, as in the case of this lovely Art Deco-style German round-top wall clock made by Kienzle. The gift was greatly appreciated, although there was a small condition attached, which I explained in the article.

Kienzle time and strike movement: When I got the clock, only one strike hammer functioned, but with all hammers repositioned all 4 strike hammers are doing their job and producing a melodic bim-bam strike. This article describes the steps in servicing the movement of this wall clock.

Dating a Kienzle wall clock: The first Kienzle World Time clock was presented to Adolf Hitler on his 50th birthday in 1939 by the government of Würthemberg. Read this article to find out more about the curious introduction of this clock model by Kienzle.

eBay listing example; Prices vary according to condition. Older versions are more desirable. If the link has expired, search Kienzle World Time clock on eBay, and I am sure you will see other examples.

6

Restoring the Balance of a Mauthe Horse Crown Vienna Style Wall Clock

Some clocks have a way of drawing you in immediately, and this Vienna-style wall clock made by Friedrich Mauthe was one of those pieces. The moment I saw it, I knew it had presence—it becomes part of the room.

With its rich walnut case, turned columns, and the distinctive horse finial crowning the top pediment, the clock reflects the late nineteenth-century taste for decorative wall regulators. These clocks borrowed heavily from the famous Vienna regulators but were produced by German makers for a wider market.

When I purchased the clock, I inspected it carefully enough, and everything appeared to be intact. It was not until I had it safely home and hanging on the wall that something seemed slightly off.

The clock didn’t quite look balanced.

At first glance, it was difficult to say exactly why, but the longer I looked at it, the more obvious it became. A closer inspection of the lower portion of the case revealed the problem: one of the decorative finials at the base was missing. There was clear evidence that a piece had once been there.

The likely explanation came from the seller when I contacted them later on. At some point in the clock’s journey from Germany to Canada, the lower finial had been snapped off so the case could fit inside a suitcase. Whether the piece was discarded or simply lost along the way remains a mystery.

Mauthe "horse crown" wall clock

Fortunately, aside from this small detail, the clock remained remarkably original.

Still, once you notice something like that, it becomes impossible to ignore.

Finding a Suitable Replacement

My first thought was that replacing the missing trim piece should not be too difficult. There are a number of suppliers that specialize in clock case hardware and decorative parts, and I began browsing through the usual clock parts sites in search of something that would suit the design.

There were several options, but eventually I chose the finial you see here.

It is flat on one side and comes without a peg, making it adaptable for installation on a variety of cases. Most importantly, its shape complements the overall style of the clock without drawing attention to itself.

When restoring an antique clock, the goal is often to restore balance rather than create perfection. The replacement does not have to be an exact replica as long as it harmonizes with the original design.

In this case, I think it strikes the right balance. It may not be precisely what the factory installed over a century ago, but it looks convincing enough that even a careful observer might assume it has always been there.

Matching the Finish

The trim piece arrived unfinished, which meant it needed to be toned to match the rest of the case. Examining the clock more closely, it appeared to retain its original walnut finish.

With that in mind, I applied several coats of stain until the color blended naturally with the surrounding woodwork. Matching old finishes can be tricky, but patience—and a few test coats—usually brings things into alignment.

Once installed, the difference was immediately noticeable, and balance has been restored.

Restoring the Clock’s Symmetry

Seen from a couple of meters away, the clock now looks exactly as it should. The case once again has the visual symmetry that its original designers intended.

Small decorative elements like these finials may seem minor, but they play an important role in the overall composition of a clock case. Remove one piece and the entire design can feel subtly incomplete.

The “Horse Crown” Vienna Case Style

The decorative horse finial that crowns the pediment is what collectors often refer to as a “Horse Crown” Vienna-style case. While traditional Vienna regulators made in Austria tended to be somewhat restrained in their ornamentation, German makers frequently added dramatic sculptural elements to appeal to export markets.

The rearing horse was a popular motif at the turn of the twentieth century and symbolized strength, motion, and vitality—fitting imagery for a mechanical clock. Mounted above the pediment, the figure gives the clock a distinctive silhouette and immediately draws the eye upward.

Combined with the turned columns, carved mask, and stepped base, the horse crown transforms what would otherwise be a fairly conventional wall regulator into a much more decorative statement piece. Often, you will find clocks offered for sale missing this critical decorative piece.

The movement inside the clock was produced by Friedrich Mauthe, one of the largest German clock manufacturers of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Founded in 1844 in Schwenningen in the Black Forest region, the company became known for producing reliable, well-engineered movements that were exported throughout Europe and North America.

The Mauthe Movement

Many Vienna-style clocks from German makers used spring-driven two-train movements with time and strike trains mounted between brass plates. These movements typically strike the hour and half-hour on a coiled gong and are known for their durability and relatively straightforward construction.

Clocks like this were produced in large numbers between about 1890 and the early 1920s, when Vienna-style regulators were still very popular in homes and offices.

A Small Piece, A Complete Clock

From a distance of a few meters, the clock now looks exactly as it should have all along. The case once again has the visual balance that its designer intended.

The replacement may not be identical to the original piece that once adorned the base, but it blends naturally with the rest of the case. Unless someone knows exactly where to look, they would likely never suspect that a small piece of trim once disappeared somewhere along the clock’s long journey from Germany to Canada.

And like many antique clocks, it carries with it not only the passage of time—but a bit of history and a story of its own.

Related Articles

1

The Unique Charm of Mauthe Buffet Clocks

Mauthe mantel clocks are widely available in various shapes and sizes, often appearing on online marketplaces, at garage sales, flea markets, and in antique shops. However, not all are well-preserved—many show signs of age and neglect. This particular round-top mantel clock stands out for its excellent condition, especially considering its age.

A well-preserved “buffet” clock

While commonly referred to as a mantel or shelf clock, Mauthe marketing literature described this style as a “buffet clock.” In the mid-20th century, clocks of this design were often intended to sit on buffets, sideboards, or credenzas in dining rooms. This placement allowed the clock to serve both a decorative and a practical purpose, complementing the room’s furnishings. The term “buffet clock” reflects its association with this specific setting, distinguishing it from mantel or shelf clocks, which were typically placed in living areas or on fireplaces.

This three-train Westminster chime pendulum clock features a five-rod gong block and plays a musical tone every quarter hour. I discovered it at an antique shop in Great Village, Nova Scotia (Canada) in 2015. The movement is unmarked, lacking a trademark, but bears the number 50089 on the bottom right of the rear plate. There is no doubt that the movement is original to the case.

Mauhe 3-train movement

This clock runs on a complete eight-day cycle and produces a very pleasant sound. The case features a simple yet attractive design, is in excellent condition, and the movement is clean, having been serviced in 2015.

Mauthe – The Company

Mauthe clocks were produced in Germany by a company with a long and distinguished history, manufacturing thousands of wall, mantel, office, and hall clocks. Founded in 1844 by Friedrich Mauthe and his wife Marie in Schwenningen, Germany, the company initially focused on producing watch parts. By the late 1860s, Mauthe began making its own wall clocks and movements—some produced through the Gewerblern method (a form of cottage industry), while others were made through a more industrial, factory-based approach.

In 1876, the Mauthe sons, Christian and James, took over the business. A decade later, in 1886, the company began manufacturing its own spring mechanisms.

By around 1900, Mauthe offered a wide range of clocks, including alarm clocks, pendulum wall clocks, grandfather clocks, office clocks, and “Buffet Uhren” (buffet clocks). At the time, the company employed around 1,100 people. The third generation of the Mauthe family took control in 1904, with Eugene Schreiber (Christian Mauthe’s son), Dr. Fritz Mauthe, and Alfred Mauthe (sons of Jacob Mauthe) joining the leadership.

In it’s day, it would have displayed in this manner

In 1925, Mauthe introduced a new trademark featuring an eagle with outstretched wings clutching a three-part round plate marked with the letters F, M, and S. By 1930, the company was producing approximately 45,000 clocks per week and employed more than 2,000 people. Around 60% of their production was for export, with England being their primary market.

In the mid-1930s, Mauthe began manufacturing wristwatches, some of which were supplied to the German Army (Wehrmacht). After a brief pause during the war years, Mauthe resumed production in 1946, focusing on wristwatches. The company continued operations through the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, but ultimately declared bankruptcy and closed in 1976.

Why I Sold It

While it’s a lovely clock with a beautiful chime, I ultimately decided to focus on other types, particularly those made in Canada or with a Canadian connection. I also have a soft spot for wall clocks, which now form the core of my collection. I have no regrets; this one went to a good home.

Using Someone’s Photo Is Copyright Infringement

Not long after I sold the clock, I came across another one listed on a local online for-sale site. When I looked closely at the photo in the listing, I realized the seller had used my photograph (the first photo in this article) to advertise his clock—an infringement of copyright. I wrote to him and asked that he take the photo down. He refused, saying, “I found it on the Internet,” implying that anything online is free to use. I explained that I own the photo and my permission is required to use it, and told him that if he didn’t remove it, I would file a complaint with the site administrator. He eventually took it down, but the incident left me wondering how copyright can truly be protected when so many people assume that anything found online is fair game.

And Finally

This Mauthe buffet clock is a fine example of the company’s craftsmanship, combining reliable timekeeping with a pleasing chime. Its well-preserved condition and recent servicing make it a standout piece for its present owner.

2

Mauthe Mantel Clock – called a buffet clock by the marketing folks at Mauthe

Mauthe mantel clocks are widely available in various shapes and sizes, often appearing on online marketplaces, at garage sales, flea markets, and in antique shops. However, not all are well-preserved, with many showing signs of age and neglect. This particular round-top mantel clock stands out for its excellent condition, especially considering its age.

RS Mauthe mantle clock (30)
Mauthe buffet clock

While this is commonly called a mantel or shelf clock, in Mauthe marketing parlance it is referred to it as a “buffet clock”. In the mid-20th century, clocks of this style were often designed to sit on buffets, sideboards, or credenzas in dining rooms. This placement allowed the clock to serve both a decorative and practical purpose that complemented the room’s furnishings. The term “buffet clock” reflects its association with this specific setting, distinguishing it from mantel or shelf clocks, which were typically placed in living areas or on fireplaces.

This 3-train Westminster chime pendulum clock features a 5-rod gong block and plays a quarter-hour musical tone. I discovered it at an antique shop in Great Village, Nova Scotia (Canada) some time ago. The movement is unmarked, lacking a trademark, but bears the number 50089 on the bottom right of the rear plate. There is no doubt that the movement is original to the case.

RS Mauthe mantle clock (29)
Back of the clock showing the 3-train movement
RS Mauthe mantle clock (28)
Mauthe clock and Stromberg Carlson console radio

Mauthe – The Company

Mauthe clocks were produced in Germany by a company with a long and distinguished history, manufacturing thousands of wall, mantel, office, and hall clocks. Founded in 1844 by Friedrich Mauthe and his wife, Marie, in Schwenningen, Germany, the company initially focused on producing watch parts. By the late 1860s, Mauthe began making its own wall clocks and movements, some produced through the “Gewerblern” method, a form of cottage industry, while others were made in a more industrial, factory-based approach.

In 1876, the Mauthe sons, Christian and James, took over the business. A decade later, in 1886, Mauthe started manufacturing its own spring mechanisms.

By around 1900, Mauthe offered a range of clocks, including alarm clocks, pendulum wall clocks, grandfather clocks, office clocks, and “Buffet Uhren” (Buffet clocks). At this time, the company employed around 1,100 people. The third generation of the Mauthe family took control in 1904, with Eugene Schreiber, Christian Mauthe’s son, Dr. Fritz Mauthe, Jacob Mauthe’s son, and Alfred Mauthe, Jacob’s other son, joining the leadership.

In 1925, Mauthe introduced a new trademark featuring an eagle with outstretched wings, clutching a three-part round plate marked with the letters F, M, and S. By 1930, the company was producing approximately 45,000 clocks per week, with over 2,000 employees. Around 60% of their production was for export, with England being the primary market.

In the mid-1930s, Mauthe began manufacturing wristwatches, some of which were supplied to the German Army (Wehrmacht). After a brief pause during the war years, Mauthe resumed production in 1946, focusing on wristwatches. The company continued operations through the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, but ultimately declared bankruptcy and closed in 1976.

RS Mauthe mantle clock (11)
Clock face showing three arbour points

This clock runs a complete 8-day cycle and produces a very pleasant sound. The case features a simple yet attractive design, is in excellent condition, and the movement is clean, having been recently serviced.

This Mauthe buffet clock is a fine example of the company’s craftsmanship, combining reliable timekeeping with a pleasing chime. Its well-preserved condition and recent servicing make it a standout piece for any clock collector.

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