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 strike side of an old Scottish clock assembled by a clockmaker named William McLaughlin in Scotland in the late 1840s. I purchased the clock at auction six years ago and spent many hours repairing the movement and restoring the case.
At the time, the clock was running—but just barely. The time side was functioning well, but the strike side needed some work and the addition of new parts to operate correctly. Since then, the clock has been running continuously and reliably for the past six years.
Recently, the strike side began to show a slight problem, which prompted me to remove the hood and carry out a closer inspection. The issue turned out to be that the rack was dropping too far back and was no longer being picked up properly by the gathering pallet. This situation seems to occur when I wind up the strike side weight too quickly, but something else might be amiss.
While investigating that area, I noticed something far more concerning: the strike-side barrel cable was badly frayed. The cable is made up of three groupings of strands, with each grouping consisting of about six wires. In this case, two of those groupings had snapped off completely. That left only one grouping intact—and even that was reduced to perhaps three or four remaining brass wires supporting the cable.
All of this was holding a 13-pound weight. I have enlarged the photo above to better illustrate the problem.
The proper solution is to repair or replace the cable. As a temporary measure, the existing cable may be reused, provided it is still in sound condition. This involves removing the movement from the case, separating the plates, and opening the strike-side drum. The cable can then be fed back into the barrel and secured with a knot on the inside. Although this shortens the cable by an inch or two, it should have no meaningful impact on the clock’s running time.
Since I will have the movement apart, it will be an opportunity to clean the movement, address any wear, and re-oil the mechanism. I checked the time-side drum to determine if there is a similar issue with the cable, and to my surprise, found it to be just fine.
The takeaway here is a simple but important one: weight cables on long-case clocks deserve regular inspection, especially on clocks that run continuously year after year. Fraying often happens slowly and out of sight, and failure can be sudden and dramatic—with potentially serious damage to the movement, the case, or anything beneath the falling weight. In the case of this clock, there is nothing to cushion the blow if the weight were to drop. A loud bang would accompany a dented hardwood floor.
A few moments spent checking cables when servicing or inspecting a clock can prevent a great deal of trouble later on. In this case, I was fortunate to catch the problem before gravity finished the job.
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 am inquiring if there is any chance you could offer me an opinion of who the maker maybe of the below clock. I am exploring purchasing the clock and just trying to learn more about it. I am not looking for an appraisal or value, just trying to determine the maker. Thank you in advance for any help you can provide.
Respectfully,
David P.
My Reply
Hi, and thanks for your email, David P. What do you know, and what have you been told about the clock? (Unfortunately, I received no further details about the clock from David)
My initial impression was that it might be an English or Scottish tall case clock. This style was widely produced in both England and Scotland from the early 19th century up until around 1900. American clockmakers of the period were strongly influenced by these British designs.
However, upon further examination, it appears to have all the features of an early 1800s to 1825 American clock, including the plain, understated case, the design of the columns and capitals, the top fretwork, the brass finials, and the arched dial with a moon phase and calendar window.
These clocks are difficult to identify unless there are markings on the clock case or dial face. A painted name is typically on the dial, usually below the center arbour, often including the maker’s town or city. On painted dials, the name may be faint or worn off due to age.
There may be a name or trademark on the backplate or front plate of the movement but I have found that to be less common with many clocks having generic “English-style” bell strike movements. Even less common is a signature found inside the case door or on the backboard. Sometimes, paper labels were pasted inside the case though extremely rare.
Some makers at the time were Simon Willard (Roxbury, MA) – Famous for tall case clocks and his patent timepiece (“banjo” clock). He used finely made 8-day brass movements.
Others were Elnathan Taber, Aaron Willard, from the Willard family.
Daniel Munroe, Lemuel Curtis were top-tier Massachusetts makers, David Rittenhouse (Philadelphia) was renowned for his precision movements and astronomical clocks. John Wood, Benjamin Chandlee, and others in Pennsylvania and Maryland made complex 8-day brass movements.
That said, determining the maker of a clock can be particularly challenging when there is no visible trademark, label, or inscription. However, experienced collectors and horologists often look for clues in the construction of the case and the design characteristics of the movement. Certain features—such as the shape or the style of the hands and pendulum, the design of the dial face—may point to specific regions or even individual makers. That said, without definitive markings, any attribution remains speculative and requires careful comparison with known examples from the period.
In short, I cannot identify the clock—more research is needed. I would add that if it were made by an eminent American clockmaker, such as Simon Willard, it would have been identified as such by now.
The bottom line is that it looks impressive, it appears to be intact, and if you like it and it falls within your budget, it would be a nice acquisition.
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 well.
Bishop family clock
The Nova Scotia (Canada) Kings County Museum’s mission statement is “To preserve and promote the cultural and natural history of Kings County for present and future generations.”
The Bishop Family clock left Nova Scotia in 1902, has been returned to Nova Scotia after more than 120 years. The circa 1770 clock will become part of a permanent exhibit at the museum focusing on the New England Planters and the Bishop family.
“Built by John Bishop, a member of one of the first Planter families to settle in Horton (eastern Kings County), the clock was given to his daughter Amelia as a wedding gift when she married Charles Dickson in 1772.”
King’s County Museum, 37 Bridge Street, Kentville NS
Here is the announcement:
Historic Bishop Family Clock Returns to Nova Scotia Installation to Take Place at Kings County Museum
July 12, 2025 1:00 PM Kings County Museum, Kentville NS All welcome
Please join the Kings Historical Society as we welcome Stephen Sieracki, a Maryland-based horologist (clock specialist), who will permanently install a historic clock in the Kings County Museum.
The clock, a significant Planter artifact and a rare example of early clockmaking in Nova Scotia, is returning home after 200 years. It was crafted in Horton Township in the late 1700s by John Bishop and given to his daughter, Ameila, upon her wedding to Charles Dickson, of Horton in 1772.
Since 1772, the Bishop Clock, a remarkable example of early Nova Scotian ingenuity and woodworking, has found itself in many different homes and, most recently, in Annapolis, Maryland where it has been taken care of by descendants of John Bishop. The clock will return home to Nova Scotia in July, accompanied by Stephen Sieracki, and find a new home at the Kings County Museum where it will be preserved for generations to come.
On July 12th, 2025, the clock will be installed in a permanent exhibit which will pay tribute to the Bishiop family, the Bishop family clock, and the planter legacy of Kings County. This installation will include reinstalling the Bishop Clock mechanisms (which will have been removed for safe transport). Stephan Sieracki will also be giving a talk on 18th-century clocks, including specific details and research on the Bishop Clock, and demonstrations. Q&A session to follow presentation.
For more information, please contact info@kingscountymuseum.ca or call the Museum at 1-902-678-6237.
The return of the Bishop Clock is more than the homecoming of a cherished family heirloom—it is a powerful reminder of the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and stories that shaped our communities. Preserving artifacts from the past, like this remarkable tall case clock, allows us to connect with the lives and legacies of those who came before us.
These tangible links to history enrich our understanding of who we are and where we come from. By safeguarding them today, we ensure that future generations can continue to learn from and be inspired by the people, cultures, and innovations that helped build our communities.
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 one, as it has operated almost flawlessly except for a minor issue which I will detail later in this article.
The clock proudly graces a landing in our home. The location is interesting because it faces six steps that ascend to the upper level of our home. Four years ago, when I shared a photo of it on a clock forum site, someone warned me about the possibility of tripping on the stairs one early morning and colliding with the clock. Although it hasn’t occurred, the thought occasionally crosses my mind.
Scottish tall-case clock
A description of the clock
It boasts a classic Scottish design dating back to the late 1840s. Its removable bonnet spans 23 inches at its widest point, while the waist measures 15 3/4 inches wide, and the base is 20 inches wide. Tapered columns adorn either side of the bonnet, with the dial access door covering the entire bonnet and swinging to the right. The solid wood access door on the waist measures 9 x 24 inches.
Standing just under 90 inches tall, the clock nearly reaches the height of our 8-foot ceiling so placing it on the landing means there is plenty of clearance above it.
The well-preserved sheet iron white dial features painted spandrels depicting ewes with lambs, and a painted arch top showing a man resting on a rock with two working horses behind him, telling me that it might have been made for a wealthy Scottish sheep farmer.
A well-preserved dial
The cast-iron weights are 10 lbs 11oz and 11 lbs 3oz, with the heavier weight hung on the strike side. The pendulum and rod weigh 2 lbs 6oz, and the sheet iron dial is hefty at 5 lbs 3oz.
Although the movement plates are over 3mm thick, there is no visible maker’s mark. The robust movement, crafted in the Guild style, features an anchor escapement. These movements are commonly known as an “English bell strike”. Common in 19th-century England they were made by craftsmen who were members of guilds, such as The Worshipful Company of Clockmakers which exercised strict control over clock-making within a certain radius.
Time and strike movement (the spring on the lower left has been replaced)
The clock has a “false plate,” a cast-iron skeleton frame fastened to the front plate of the brass movement, with the dial attached to this frame. Stamped on the plate is “BIRMm,” referring to Birmingham, England, the birthplace of this time and strike movement.
The dial bears the names Wm McLachlan, Newton Stewart. Newton Stewart is a former burgh town in the historical county of Wigtownshire in Dumfries and Galloway, southwest Scotland.
William (Wm) McLachlan, a clock and watchmaker in Newton-Stewart, Wigtownshire, advertised his business for sale on May 25, 1852, as listed in David Whyte’s book, “Clockmakers & Watchmakers of Scotland 1453 to 1900.” That is the extent of my research on Wm McLachlan. Of course, I would love to learn more about this clockmaker.
McLachlan also worked as an assembler, sourcing cases, dials, and movements for his customers according to their preferences. Rather than constructing clocks entirely in his shop, McLachlan purchased necessary parts from various manufacturers, finishing and assembling them before placing his name on the dial. He might have either crafted the cases himself or commissioned craftsmen to provide them as needed. This was a common practice during that era.
Since McLachlan operated a clock business he along with apprentcies/assitants, undoubtedly provided servicing for clocks within the local area.
The morning sun reflecting on the dial
One curiosity eludes me to this day. Despite featuring a calendar hand on the clock face, there is no functional calendar mechanism integrated with the movement. This suggests two potential scenarios: firstly, that the movement and dial were paired and assembled without a calendar function, or secondly, that the movement itself is a replacement.
All is not perfect
While the clock is reliable and has been an excellent timekeeper it suffers from one small flaw. On day six of the weekly cycle, the clock stops. As the weights descend to the level of the pendulum a harmonic phenomenon occurs. A harmonic phenomenon is defined as “a vibratory body responding to external vibrations to which it has a harmonic likeness”.
When the weights on a tall clock descend to the point where it’s at about the same height as the pendulum, the weights swing slightly. Since the power that drives the pendulum is now swinging the weights as well, the pendulum is robbed of its share of power and eventually stops. While this problem typically doesn’t arise with a new tall case clock, it’s a common issue when a clock ages. Despite a thorough cleaning and servicing of the movement, it’s apparent that some wear still persists.
To minimize sympathetic vibrations, I have secured the upper part of the clock case to the wall behind using a cable and additionally, I have inserted two small sponge blocks between the back of the case and the wall, aligning them with the pendulum bob’s height.
Nevertheless, after months of continuous vibration from the strike side, the sponge blocks slowly descend below the bob’s level, leading to the clock’s aforementioned behaviour. I might have to consider permanently securing the blocks in place with glue, although I am not particularly enthusiastic about this solution.
Despite the minor inconvenience, the clock has proven to be a reliable timekeeper and retains its pristine appearance, just as it did when I completed its restoration in my workshop five years ago.
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 my potential bargain.
Join me on this intriguing journey as we uncover the secrets of a clock that may not be what it initially appeared to be.
It certainly looks like a weight-driven clock
The clock is closely reminiscent of Pequegnat’s craftsmanship. It was a tempting find but a closer inspection raised eyebrows. The clock hands seemed out of place (for a Pequegnat), and the overall workmanship did not quite match the renowned Pequegnat build quality. Could this have been a misstep in our quest, or was there more to this story?
Undeterred I made an over-the-phone offer of $90 and embarked on a 90-minute journey to claim what could be a gem in disguise. The seller warned of a non-functioning clock but sweetened the deal by mentioning that it had weights—only to reveal later that the weights were, in fact, fake. On top of that, a spring-driven New Haven mechanical movement lay beneath the surface.
New Haven time and strike movement
The weight cans were empty shells, and the decent-quality ladder chains with acorn pull ends were crudely strung to mimic a weight-driven movement.
Brass weight shells
Further investigation unveiled a raised platform supporting the movement, yet no traces of a seat board that usually accompanies weight-driven mechanisms. The clock’s peculiarities extended to a tied cord on the strike lever, adding to the mystery. As questions piled up, it became clear that this clock’s origins were far from conventional.
The movement is stamped 27. This could be a date stamp but it is more likely the length of the pendulum in inches. The movement plates are pinned rather than held with screws or nuts suggesting an older square-aperture type New Haven movement. Judging from the build of the movement I would say that it is earlier than 1927. The heavy, solid wood case which comes apart in three sections is certainly just as old.
I removed the movement from its case and mounted it on a test stand. The movement runs at 72 bpm, not quite the 60 bpm one would typically expect from a hall clock and the slower beat rate explains the long pendulum rod.
The only plausible explanation was clear: I had purchased a kit clock, where an independently crafted case had been paired with a New Haven movement, dial face, hands, accessory weight cans, and ladder chains with acorn pull ends. It was likely a more cost-effective means of acquiring a tall case clock back in the day.
In its new location
Despite the oddities, I had, after all, secured the clock at a reasonable price. Now, armed with the knowledge of its peculiarities, I am content with it. Servicing the movement and restoring the case have been completed and after having stood in my work area for a couple of years it was time to move it to its permanent location.
And it looks pretty good! The combination of the separately crafted case with the New Haven movement, dial face, hands, and the accessory weight cans and ladder chains with pull ends came together quite well, offering an appealing and budget-friendly tall case clock.
The lesson in all of this is that in the world of clock collecting, sometimes unexpected discoveries and not value and authenticity are the ones that leave a lasting impression.
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, 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.
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 and longevity were paramount.
A grandfather clock
TheGrandfather Clock
A tall case clock is commonly referred to as a “grandfather clock” due to a story that dates back to the 19th century. The term “grandfather clock” is said to have originated from the song “My Grandfather’s Clock,” written by Henry Clay Work in 1876. This song tells the tale of a clock owned by the songwriter’s friend, and it played a significant role in popularizing the term.
Henry Clay Work was an American songwriter and composer known for capturing the spirit and emotions of the time. His greatest hit was “Marching Through Georgia” in 1865, a cheerful marching song.
The lyrics of My Grandfather’s Clock narrate the story of a long-case clock, or a tall case clock, that belonged to the songwriter’s friend’s grandfather. The clock worked perfectly throughout the grandfather’s lifetime but stopped working when he passed away. The song’s lyrics reflect the sentiment that the clock’s ticking was synonymous with the grandfather’s life, and the clock’s stillness upon his death was seen as a representation of his passing.
Over time, this sentimental and catchy song contributed to the popularization of the term “grandfather clock” as a synonym for a tall case clock. The term stuck, and now, tall case clocks are commonly referred to as grandfather clocks in many parts of the world.
Scottish tall-case clock
Tall Case and Long Case Clocks
However, horologists generally prefer using the terms “tall case clock”, “long case clock” or hall clock instead of “grandfather clock”. The difference in terminology between “tall case clock” in America and “long case clock” in England primarily arises from regional linguistic variations and historical usage.
Tall Case Clock (America): The term “tall case clock” is commonly used in the United States to describe this type of clock. This name emphasizes the clock’s design, which features a tall, vertical case that houses the clock’s movement and the pendulum. The term “tall case” is descriptive of the clock’s physical appearance, highlighting its height and elegant proportions.
Long Case Clock (England): In England, the term “long case clock” is more commonly used. This name also relates to the clock’s appearance, particularly its elongated and vertical shape. The term “long case” emphasizes the clock’s form, again highlighting its height and the distinctive design of the case. On the other hand, a Long case Regulator (Chronometer) is a precision clock known for its accuracy. It often features a simpler, more functional design with a focus on precision rather than ornate decoration.
The names simply reflect different ways of describing the same type of clock. Over time, these regional differences have become firmly established.
Hall clock (image by Openverse)
The Hall Clock
The term “hall clock” is also used in some parts of the world as an alternative to “grandfather clock,” “tall case clock,” or “long case clock.” This term, “hall clock,” emphasizes the placement of the clock in a hallway or entrance hall, which is a common location for these impressive and stately clocks.
While the “hall clock” might not be as widely recognized or used as the “grandfather clock” or “tall case clock,” its origin and usage can be traced to the same concept of describing these tall, freestanding clocks with long cases.
The term “hall clock” is descriptive and straightforward. The term continues to be used in some contexts, particularly in regions where the emphasis is on the clock’s placement and role within the home.
And lastly, a “grandmother clock” is a type of clock that is smaller than a “grandfather clock”.
Similar in design and functionality to its larger counterpart, the grandfather clock, a grandmother clock typically features a pendulum-driven movement enclosed within a vertical wooden case. The main distinction between a grandmother clock and a grandfather clock lies in their size. Grandmother clocks are generally shorter than grandfather clocks, standing around 5 to 6 feet tall, making them more suitable for spaces with limited room.
Despite their smaller size, they often retain the same elegant appearance and decorative features as their larger counterparts.
The term “grandmother clock” is less commonly used than “grandfather clock,” but it serves to describe this intermediate-sized clock that is more compact than the towering grandfather clock.
Different Phrases Express the Same Concept
The various terms used to describe this type of clock—such as “grandfather clock,” “grandmother clock”, “tall case clock,” “long case clock,” and even “hall clock”—all refer to the same basic type of clock: a freestanding weight-driven device with a tall vertical case housing the clock movement and pendulum.
ChatGPT is a sophisticated computer program that is designed to understand natural language input from users and generate appropriate (my underline) responses. It uses a form of artificial intelligence called a deep neural network to analyze the input it receives and generate text that mimics human language. The program has been trained on a vast amount of data, including books, articles, and websites, so it can provide information on a wide range of topics. ChatGPT is an advanced technology that aims to provide human-like interactions in a digital space.
Regarding William McLachlan, here is what AI came back with:
“William McLachlan was a well-known Scottish clockmaker who lived and worked in Newton Stewart in the 1800s. He was born in 1803 and began his career as an apprentice to John Smith, a clockmaker in the nearby town of Wigtown.
In 1826, McLachlan moved to Newton Stewart, where he opened his own clockmaking shop. He quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality clocks, and his business grew steadily over the years. McLachlan was known for his precision and attention to detail, and his clocks were particularly prized for their accuracy and reliability.
In addition to making clocks, McLachlan also produced barometers, thermometers, and other scientific instruments. He was particularly interested in developing new designs and technologies, and he was constantly experimenting with new materials and techniques.
McLachlan was a respected member of the Newton Stewart community, and he was involved in many local organizations and charities. He was also an active member of the local Masonic Lodge, and he served as its Master in 1861.
William McLachlan passed away in 1872 at the age of 69, but his legacy lived on through his work. His clocks and other instruments are highly prized by collectors and are considered some of the finest examples of Scottish clockmaking from the 19th century.”
Early morning light on the clock face
I decided to ask the question in a slightly different way and this is what I found:
“William Maclachlan, a clockmaker from Newton Stewart, Scotland, was born in 1803. Here is some information that I was able to find about his life:
William Maclachlan was born in 1803 in Newton Stewart, a small town in the historical county of Wigtownshire in southwestern Scotland. He was the son of James Maclachlan and his wife Agnes. In 1823, William Maclachlan married Janet Hannah, and the couple had at least six children.
William Maclachlan worked as a clockmaker, and he is known to have produced a variety of clocks and timepieces during his career. Some of his clocks are still in existence today, and they are highly prized by collectors. For example, in 2017, a William Maclachlan longcase clock was sold at auction for over £20,000.
Maclachlan was also involved in local politics and community affairs. He served as a councilor on the Newton Stewart town council in the mid-19th century, and he was also involved in the establishment of the local savings bank. He was known for his philanthropy, and he supported various charitable causes throughout his life.
William Maclachlan died on March 6, 1876, at the age of 73. He is buried in Penninghame Kirkyard in Newton Stewart. His legacy as a skilled clockmaker and community leader lives on, and his clocks continue to be admired and sought after by collectors today.”
Back to the database search
In any event, armed with the “information” generated by AI I went back to a Scottish website calledScotlands People, a government-operated site to input new data.
As for information on deaths, I found a William McLachlan age 68 who died in 1871 in Rhu, Scotland which is 105 miles from Newton Stewart. For marriages I found nothing. However, records begin in 1855 which means he might have married earlier. Regarding the 1871 census, I found a William McLachlan who was age 67 in Renfrew County where Newton Stewart is located. On the whole, not definitive and really nothing to support the AI-generated data.
Is information from ChatGPT to be trusted?
Generating intelligible responses simply results in responses being “appropriate”. Note the spelling of McLachlan (Maclachlan) in the second query despite inputting the name correctly. Varying the words in each new query yields a different result because ChatGPT gathers information from a number of sources and constructs facts in an intelligible dialog based on the question asked.
In my view, ChatGPT can be a dangerous tool. It looks very impressive though sadly some people will not question the information generated. A plague of misinformation and propaganda will flow from AI, no doubt, and whether we like it or not robot reporters in the news media are already a thing. Therefore, generative AI can be transformative and yet potentially destructive.
For the researcher, AI might provide a starting point but it is too easy to go down the rabbit hole. I see some value in ChatGPT as a blog writer if I am searching for a generic opening paragraph or explaining how something works. For instance, I asked ChatGPT “How does a clock escapement work?” and the response, to me, is pretty impressive. Having said that, I am now aware of its limitations, so, a little caution is necessary going forward.
And since I have no way of verifying the AI information that leaves me at square one.
For now, I am standing by the information in a previous post which you can access above.
Oh, the answer to “how does a clock escapement work?’.
“A clock escapement is a mechanism that converts the rotational motion of a clock’s gear train into a series of evenly spaced ticks that move the clock’s hands. The escapement consists of an escape wheel and a pallet fork.
Here is how the escapement works:
The power source, such as a weight or spring, applies force to the escape wheel, causing it to rotate.
The pallet fork, which is connected to the clock’s pendulum or balance wheel, engages with the escape wheel and stops it from rotating.
As the pendulum or balance wheel continues to swing back and forth, it moves the pallet fork, which then releases the escape wheel.
The escape wheel rotates a small amount before being stopped by the pallet fork again, and the cycle repeats.
Each time the escape wheel rotates, it moves the clock’s gear train forward by one tooth, which in turn moves the clock’s hands.
The ticking sound of a clock comes from the sound of the escape wheel teeth clicking against the pallet fork as the escapement mechanism advances the gear train one tooth at a time. The swinging motion of the pendulum or balance wheel helps regulate the rate at which the escapement mechanism ticks, keeping the clock running at a consistent pace.”
Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clock, issues you might have had, challenges you face or a clock you would like me to profile or my responses to your questions with 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
Author
In the spring (2021) I found a tall case clock on an online for sale site at what seemed to be a bargain price. It is not what it appears to be. Although you can clearly see weights on the inside of the clock case it is not a weight-driven clock but a spring driven clock with fake weights.
I bought it anyway.
Seller’s photo
The New Haven movement was serviced and the case was cleaned almost down to the bare wood. It looks terrific and keeps good time. I don’t normally send photos back to the seller on a clock that I have rejuvenated but I thought, what the heck, the seller might be pleased that it went to a good home.
My email to TC:
“No need to reply but I just thought I’d send along a photo of the clock you sold me. The clock runs perfectly, everything has been polished, the movement taken apart and serviced and the case refinished.”
TCs reply;
“Wow…. Looks really good. Hard to believe it’s the same clock. Glad you got the clock all fixed up.”
This movement came out of an unknown tall case clock that I am certain did not come out of New Haven’s factory. The case appears to have been made by an unknown case builder and I believe the movement, coil gong, dial face, and pendulum were all sourced from the New Haven Clock Company as a package, a kit, if you will.
The movement is a spring-driven count wheel time and strike commonly found in clocks for export. The chains are there for show. From the outside the clock may look like a weight-driven grandfather clock but it is clearly a fake!
Disassemblyand assessment of work to be done
The movement is held together with five pins. The number 27 is stamped on the movement. Other makers stamped their movement with dates of manufacture but I don’t think that’s the case here. It appears to be the length of the pendulum in inches. A 27 inch pendulum corresponds to 4350 beats per hour or 72.5 beats per minute (BPM). Ordinarily, weight driven tall case clocks are 60 beats per minute, so this movement looks good running in the case and will fool the average person.
It has 9 extra holes on the front plate, obviously designed for a number of configurations. For example, there is an unused pivot hole to the right of the fan which would have accommodated a fan with a different sized 4th wheel, presumably for another style of clock case.
With the top plate removed the gears and levers are exposed. I found three anomalies.
One, there is an additional piece soldered onto the escape wheel bridge. Since there are no new bushings anywhere on the movement I can only assume that the bridge piece is the fix for a worn pivot hole.
The fly. I should have taken a photo. Two pieces of brass were jammed into the arbour which I assume was meant to tighten it. Flies are meant to be a little loose because they act as an air brake to help arrest the strike strain at the end of its cycle.
The third is the mainsprings. Try as I might I could not remove them from their arbours. I did not want to force them so, left them as-is. I immersed the gear plus mainspring together in the ultrasonic cleaner (not ideal) and used a hot air blow dryer to ensure the parts were dry.
Other than the above issues, there is not a lot of wear on this movement. The pivots are in great shape, with no wear evident on any of the wheel teeth, and the only pivot hole that must be addressed is the escape wheel bridge, the one that was “repaired”.
All parts were cleaned in the ultrasonic, dried and the pivots were polished. The movement was reassembled to check for general wear.
There is some pivot hole wear on the lower parts of the trains which, to me, is acceptable since all the gears mesh nicely. Since I am keeping the clock I am not concerned at this point. I plan on inspecting the movement every 2-3 years to determine if any bushing work might be required. So, I am content with a little wear.
Pivot work
One bushing was installed on the escape wheel bridge. I chose a 1.50 mm ID Bergeon bushing, 2.00 mm high with an OD of 3.5 mm. Since the pivot is 1.54 mm in diameter, the hole had to be reamed out with a cutting broach followed by a smoothing broach. While I drilled from the top (see below) I punched the bushing in from the bottom.
Escape wheel bridge
While polishing the pivots I discovered a bent arbour, the second wheel, which is also the strike wheel. Prior to servicing I checked out the movement on a test stand and noticed that the strike train would run for a period and stop. No doubt the bent second wheel arbour was the culprit.
The strike side mainspring is a replacement and a mainspring break likely caused damage to the second wheel. A broken mainspring does not always cause a problem but when they break a considerable amount of energy is released. As a general rule, if you are working on a movement with newer mainsprings check for damage up the train.
Bent arbour on second wheel
It is odd that the bent arbour was not caught when the mainspring was replaced. It is not hard to see the bend when spun on a lathe. It is always a risk straightening an arbour but since it is soft steel the chances of a positive result are very good. A staking tool was used to straighten it.
Using a staking tool to straighten and arbour
Assembly and testing
The movement was reassembled. I positioned the third wheel locking pin in the 12 o’clock position on the strike side to ensure the strike side would go into warning. I then synchronized the count and drop levers and managed to get it right the first time.
New Haven movement
Since this is a large movement with a long pendulum, a grandfather clock stand is ideal for testing.
New Haven movementNew Haven movement
The movement has been running a week as of this writing and striking as it should. I will continue to run it for at least two more 8-day cycles before returning it to its case.
Next is refreshing the case. It is very dirty with over 100 years of grime. I am curious to see what lies underneath multiple coatings of dirt.
Those involved in clock repair must use a special stand for testing tall case clock movements. There are many varieties of stands most of which are home-built though commercial ones are available in the $2-300 range.
Early last year (2020) I purchased a Scottish tall case clock. Those familiar with English bell strike movements know they can be tricky to work on and a test stand certainly helps to fine-tune the movement. I did not have such a stand and wondered whether to buy one or construct one. I was a bit put off at the cost of a factory-made stand so I decided to put my limited carpentry skills to use.
The test stand is in use prior to the finishing touches
Premium 2 X 4’s leftover from a previous job were perfect for this project. The term “premium” means extra cost because they are kiln-dried and guaranteed to be straight. My plan was to construct a 2 X 2 box frame with 4 legs but to do so I had to rip the 2 X 4’s in half. I put my old trusty table saw to good use.
The stand is 48 inches high held together with wood screws
The boxed-in base section (my idea) adds to the stability of the stand. I added two fitted removable hardwood cross pieces to support virtually any tall case movement.
Clock stand rails made of yellow oak and sprayed with clear lacquer
Clock stand with one rail on
Tall case clock stand, both rails in position
The rails, made of yellow oak are strong and heavy. They do not require nailing or screwing to the top of the stand as the combined weight of both the movement and heavy weights is sufficient to provide stability. Clamping the movement board to the rails as per the first photo is an option.
After using the stand for a week I discovered that the movement was stopping when the weights descended to a certain level. Upon researching the problem I found that the stand must be securely anchored to a wall or similar rigid structure so as to eliminate a phenomenon called sympathetic vibration which occurs when the pendulum and weights are at the same height, and begin to move in sympathy with the pendulum, around day 7 of the 8-day cycle. In fact, all stands used for tall case clock movements should be anchored.
Tall case clock stand with a couple of coats of paint
This stand will handle two movements comfortably and perhaps a third but I don’t see myself working on any more than one tall-case movement at a time.
Leftover paint (Espresso) from another job gives it a classy look. The result is a very solid, stable, and attractive tall case test stand that will no doubt last for years.
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 many tall case clocks of the 1850s period they were likely a brass ball type.
My first sight of the clock in a corner of an auction house
It is a classic Scottish tall case design from the 1850s. The removable bonnet is 23 inches at its widest point, the waist is 15 3/4 inches wide and the base is 20 inches wide. The bonnet has tapered columns on either side. The dial access door which covers the entire bonnet swings to the right. The solid wood access door on the waist measures 9 X 24. The clock stands approximately 84 inches.
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 so, here was a unique opportunity.
Though we had only auction photos to go by, the clock looked intriguing and was very much what we had in mind. We began our bidding low and managed to win the bid with a decent and acceptable (to us) price.
Tall case clocks have dropped dramatically in price over the past few years; nobody wants them and they do not fit the modern minimalist lifestyle of the young today. Besides, where would you put it?
Tucked into the corner of the auction house
The clock was not without issues nor did I expect it to be problem-free. The case required some structural work and the overall finish was dull and lifeless.
This article concerns my initial impressions and assessment of the movement prior to cleaning and dis-assembly.
Movement as found
What was I up against in terms of servicing the movement? What kind of issues would I find and did I have the skills to address those issues?
My preliminary assessment involved setting up the movement, connecting the weights, and performing some tests. After putting the clock in beat I managed to have it running for about a day.
while the time side ran well the strike side was another matter. Attaching the weight to the strike side produced a run-on strike until the power was depleted. Hmm, something serious or simply a minor adjustment?
Back of clock showing the crutch, bell, and hammer
While I have worked on dozens of English, German and American time and strike movements, this was my first attempt at an English bell strike. They are relatively easy to dis-assemble and re-assemble but are notorious for being temperamental. The greatest challenge is not the cleaning of the components or the reassembly, it is achieving long term reliability as a dozen parts threaten to hang up, split, or fall apart. Wear combined with scars from old repairs challenge any clockmaker.
First impressions
It is a very heavy movement with 3mm plates and large well-engineered components. These movements were designed to run reliably for years but 170 years and a history of cumulative repairs leaves one with a movement that can fail in many unexpected ways.
Looking at the escapement from above
Problem areas/issues
Enlarged pivot holes: I am reluctant to bush every pivot hole but upon inspection at least 3 bushings are required and possibly a fourth.
Repaired rack tail: The rack tail takes quite a beating. Once the rack is released during the strike sequence it drops with a bang on the snail. Years of banging ultimately results in a damaged and often repaired tail. The fix on this movement is ugly but the question is, is it robust enough to continue doing its job?
Homemade rack tail spring: Made from copper wire; there is too much tension causing the rack tail to strike the snail with too much force. A new rack spring has been ordered. In the meantime, I am using a thinner spring wire.
Worn gathering pallet: Assess and determine functionality.
Loose clicks: Loose clicks are a common issue with English bell strike clocks. The clicks on this movement are loose though the strike side is a little tighter than the time side. Both are functional. Should they be replaced or will they continue to function reliably as-is?
Loose crutch The crutch rod connecting to the escape wheel arbour has been adjusted too many times. It is loose and must be addressed.
Stiff Suspension spring: The suspension spring is the incorrect thickness and fashioned from a piece of a metal ruler! There is little amplitude. A new suspension spring assembly, pendulum rod, spike and hex nut have been ordered.
Bent rack: If it is soft steel it can be bent back to its original position. If it is hardened steel it could break if I tried to bend it.
Loose bell connection: Bell has been removed many times and the thread for the bell rod end where it connects to the cast iron bell, is stripped.
Missing seconds hand: Ordered
Calendar hand not connected: The movement has no calendar function. The face has a calendar hand and while the movement has no calendar wheel the movement is period correct. Was the movement replaced early in the clock’s life or was the clock originally built and assembled without a calendar function? That will remain one of the clock’s mysteries.
The cables are brass and they look old: I will make decision whether or not they should be replaced.
Side view showing the main wheel and the time train
And this ends part I. In the next part, dis-assembly and re-assembling the movement will be covered so, stay with me as we explore this movement further in Part II.
Restoring the case of an 1850s period Scottish tall case clock with an English bell strike is the subject of this blog. This is Part II of a two-part series. Check out Part I here.
While the case was made in Scotland, the movement, dial and weights are all from Birmingham, England made at or before 1850. The clock was in fair condition when I bought it from an estate auction early in 2020, though I knew almost immediately that structural repairs and cosmetic fixes were necessary. My work was cut out for me.
It is rare to find a clock from this period that has not been subject to minor or even major repairs/changes over the years, some acceptable, others questionable
In Part I, I addressed age cracks, a cracked backboard and attaching a backboard to the waist section. In this, Part II, I will continue with installing new door pins, fashioning a missing right rear foot, cleaning the case and overall case refinishing.
New door pins
Both upper and lower door pins were missing. I considered what I would use as pins. Wood screws could work.
I cut the heads off two 3/4 inch steel wood screws and threaded each screw into the existing holes at the top and bottom of the frame. They are more than strong enough to hold the bonnet access door and appear authentic.
I learned that the poured cement on my basement floor is not level. It took me a 1/2 hour of crawling on the basement floor to find a perfectly level area
This is my first experience with a tall case clock from the 1850s and my first venture into English bell strike movement servicing.
Let me explain. Although the case was made in Scotland, the movement, dial and weights are all from Birmingham, England made at or before 1850. The clock was in fair condition when I bought it from an estate auction early in 2020, though I knew almost immediately that structural repairs and cosmetic fixes were necessary.
In this Part I, I will address case age cracks, a cracked backboard and attaching the backboard to the waist.
In Part II, I will continue with new door pins, replacing a missing right rear foot, cleaning the case, overall finishing & attending to various trim pieces.
Although modern adhesives were used for the main structural repairs, some trim pieces were attached using traditional hot hide glue
The first question is how to address present structural issues. Should I utilize materials and techniques that would have been available at the time or select a modern method that would ensure that the part(s) will continue to provide strength, rigidity and service for many years to come? I used both approaches and my apologies to the purists.
As found, standing in a corner of the auction hall
The disassembly of an antique tall case clock need not be a daunting task. When I bought this clock at auction at the beginning of 2020 I put into practice some of the things I had learned when transporting a Ridgeway grandfather clock in 2013. My advice is to work slowly and methodically but think about what you are doing at each step of the process.
Why disassemble? A move across town, across the country, or even redecorating are three of many reasons. Even if you wish to move the clock from one area of your home to another disassembly is required. Yes, moving it a few inches requires disassembly.
Scottish tall case clock from the 1850s
An antique tall case clock, such as this weight-driven Scottish tall case clock from the 1850s with an English brass bell strike, can be easily disassembled by one person. In this blog, I will walk you through the steps required to safely disassemble an antique tall case clock.
Similar American tall case clocks from the same period are disassembled in the same manner.
Amid the health crisis ensnaring the world today finding escape is good for the soul. Social distancing, self-isolation, and sheltered-in-place are terms representing new realities. However, we must all use our time at home constructively engaged in meaningful activities and mine is the repair and restoration of old clocks. Horology allows me to drift into a very different world and focus on something uplifting, challenging and positive.
If clocks are not your thing, insert whatever hobby you have below but bear with me as I give you seven reasons why a hobby is a great thing to have in times of high stress.
One of my more recent restorations, a Scottish tall case clock from the 1850s. Read more here.
So here are 7 reasons why a hobby (like clockmaking) gives you respite in today’s world.
Build self-esteem. Developing and maintaining a hobby is important because the small successes I have from day to day are enough to sustain me while other pressures are occurring in my life and it is the one solid thing to feel good about. It also gives me renewed energy to tackle other challenges in life.
Avoid boredom. I have zero scientific evidence of this but I really believe that boredom is responsible for a lot of society’s ills and destructive behaviours. How many people come home after a challenging workday to watch TV for hours on end (depressing news programs for example) when they could be doing something constructive and rewarding?
Enrich your perspective. There is an old adage: “The more you know, the more you grow”. Any opportunity to learn something new, to be challenged anew, is great for character-building by seeing the world through refreshed eyes. My hobby helps me differentiate myself from others and provides me with key examples of where I have overcome adversity or tackled a difficult situation and emerged on the other side.
Keep you youthful. Establishing and maintaining a hobby is a very healthy habit to form not just now but for your later years. Hobbies are excellent for brain health and stave off cognitive decline. The older you get the more trouble you will have struggling to fill your time with meaningful activities. Beginning a hobby early in life pays dividends in the long run, not unlike an interest-bearing investment.
Combine your hobby with other interests. Photography and travelling are two other interests in my life. Blog writing is another, of course. This hobby allows me to combine all of those interests and as a side benefit my wife, who is also my travel partner and clock locator, encourages me every day. Of course, lately, we have had to curtail some of our travelling because of world events.
It makes me interesting. You can only talk about your occupation or your grandchild for so long before people’s eyes begin to glaze, but if I mention that I have a clock that fell off a wall during the Halifax Explosion, a clock that hung in a railway station near where I live, a rare clock I bought for next to nothing, ears perk up.
A great way to relieve stress. My hobby provides stress relief simply because it is an oasis and we all need a place of refuge in trying times.
Complete restoration of German time and strike wall clock, Junghans Crispi circa 1899
In these trying times, I find comfort in knowing that my clocks work and look great because of the time and effort I devote to my hobby. My advice is simply this; it is never too late to find a hobby and once you have found something that is engaging and takes you away from the troubles in life, you have found your own oasis.
For the past several years my wife and I have been searching for an authentic antique tall case clock. I finally found one at an estate auction an hour down the road from where I live and seized the opportunity to purchase a clock I knew practically nothing about. In this blog article, I will describe first impressions and the results of my preliminary research.
I have had only one tall clock in my collection, a Ridgeway Westminster chime clock from the mid-1990s. It is stately with handsome lines but it is a modern clock with a contemporary German-made movement and certainly not an antique.
Although I did not buy any clocks during my trip to the west here are examples of what you might find in some of the better quality antique shops. The three shops these clocks are from are located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Let the photos speak for themselves. captions identify some of the clocks.
Trio of clocks, the middle one is a Grand Assortment by Sessions
Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clock, issues you might have had, challenges you face or a clock you would like me to profile and my responses to your questions with 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
CT asks, “Could you tell me if the attached is worth anything? Thank you.”
My reply, “It certainly looks old but it may not be. There are a number of questions that must be asked to determine its value. You may or may not have the answers.
Does it have provenance; is there a particular history that might give it a value such as previous owners, a prominent location?
Does it have unique features that make it rare or desirable?
Who is the maker of the clock, where was it made (country of origin) and when was it made?
What condition is it in and is the clock complete; are all parts original?
Does the clock have a label, trademark, or name? Clocks that have an identifying label or trademark are more desirable than those that do not.
Unfortunately, in this unpredictable market, it is almost impossible to determine the value of a clock. What you think your clock may be worth may not align with what the experts say and what others are willing to pay.
Without knowing anything about the clock, one such as this that is in fair condition, of unknown origin, parts or pieces missing is not worth much more than something in the $200-300 range.”
The eagle on the clock face suggests that it is likely a low cost, mass-produced American clock.
Need a quick primer on developments and inventions in horology. You have come to the right place.
18th Century shelf clock Porto, Portugal
Though by no means a definitive guide the following are some important dates in the history of the clock as gathered through a number of sources. The difficultly in affixing some dates with precision results from discrepancies among sources.
Horological developments during the centuries before the mechanical clock are left out altogether. Water (Clepsydra) and sun clocks of the middle ages and astronomical clocks of ancient China deserve special mention but are the subject of a separate discourse and are not included here.
Important dates in Horological Development
CA. 1300 – First mechanical verge clock, Europe
1364 – Astronomical clock conceived by Giovanni de Dondi, Italy
1386 – Tower (turret) clock Salisbury Cathedral, England
Salisbury cathedral clock, photo by Dr. Meghan Joiner
CA. 1400 – Fusee invented by Jacobs, Czechoslovakia
CA. 1450 – Table clock with spring and fusee, Phillip the Good of Burgundy, France
CA. 1500 – Mainspring invented, Germany
CA. 1510 – Watch invented by Peter Henlein, Germany
CA. 1560 – Spring driven portable clock, Germany
CA. 1570 – Oldest known clock with a second hand, Orpheus clock, Germany
1637 – Galileo, swinging temple lamp, pendulum control conceived, Italy
CA. 1650 – First tower clock appears in Colonies, America
1656 – Pendulum clock devised by Huygens, Holland
1657 – Verge and foliot gives way to pendulum control, Huygens, Holland
1658 – Long-case prototype made by Fromanteel adapted from lantern clock, England
1660 – Balance wheel conceived by Hooke, England
CA. 1675 – Richard Towneley invents the dead-beat escapement, England
1675 – Balance wheel with spiral spring invented by Huygens, Holland
CA. 1675 – Recoil escapement and crutch invented by Hooke in collaboration with Clement, England
1676 – Rack striking developed by Barlow, England
1680 – 1700 – famous horologists of this era were Arnold, Earnshaw, East, Graham, Knibb, Compion and Windmills of England; Berthoud, Breguet and LeRoy of France
1701 – St Sulpice seminary tower clock (imported from France), Montreal, Canada
1713 – Harrison invents marine chronometer, England
CA. 1715 – Break-arch dial introduced
1715 – Graham perfects deadbeat escapement, regarded as the “father” of the dead-beat escapement
1717 – First tower clock of America, Benjamin Bagnall, Boston
1726 – Mercurial pendulum invented (temperature compensating pendulum), Graham, England
1726 – Wall clock by Thomas Bennett, 8 day brass, weight driven, America
1736 – Harrison’s marine chronometer tested at sea (accurately ascertaining longitude), England
1770 – White dials appear in English longcase clocks
1776 – Independent seconds train invented for watch, Pouzait, Switzerland
1790 – Vienna regulator style case emerges in Austria
1790 – American woodworks clocks begin to be appear
1802 – Willard patents his banjo clock, America
1806 – Terry introduces Pillar and Scroll clock, America
1809 – Martin Cheney leaves America to set up a clock-making shop in Montreal, Canada
1810 – Carriage clock (Pendule De Voyage) introduced by Breguet of France
1818 – Heman Clark makes wrought brass movement for Pillar and Scroll case, America
1825 – Rolled brass production begins in America
1837 – Noble Jerome 30-hour brass movement patent approved, America
1840 – American brass movements in mass production
1842 – American brass movement clocks exported to England by Chauncey Jerome
1845 – Wood-works movement production ends, America
1850 – Westminster tower clock designed by Lord Grimthorpe and made by Dent, England
CA. 1850 – Brocot (pin-wheel) escapement and pendulum suspension introduced, France
CA. 1850 – American mass production of watches begins
1860 – Junghans (Germany) sent to America to study American mass production techniques
1870 – Decline in English long-case clocks
1874 – Mass production of mantel and wall clocks begin in Whitby, Canada,
1900 – American clock production is at its height; makers are Ansonia, Ingraham, Gilbert, Howard, New Haven, Seth Thomas, Waterbury, and Welch
1904 – Arthur Pequegnat begins clock production in Berlin, Canada
1906 – Eureka electric clock introduced, America
CA. 1910 – Torsion pendulum clock (400-day) introduced, Germany
1920-40 – Decline in American mechanical clock production
1941 – Arthur Pequegnat ceases production, Canada
CA. 1960-70 – End of mass produced mechanical clocks, America (though cheaper Japanese, Korean & Chinese mechanical clocks flood North America)
Present day – Some movement and clockmakers remain; Howard Miller (Ridgeway), Keininger, Hermle, Chelsea, Jaeger LaCoultre among others
The clock is one of mans greatest achievements. The development of instruments to tell time is the unwavering toil of brilliant minds from many disciplines who, over 800 years, worked tirelessly to create, innovate and improve methods for telling the time.
Horology is not only the study of time but the synergy of art, joinery, fashion, design, décor, physics, engineering, metallurgy and mathematics. Indeed, the study of the mechanical clock is a microcosm of our society.
I have been to Middleton, Nova Scotia many times. I have even passed the Macdonald Consolidated School where the clock museum is located without realizing what treasures lay inside. The clock museum represents a small section of the museum, the remainder of which is dedicated to the history of the area.
In the Spring of 2018 my wife and I set off on one of our many mini staycations. On my agenda was a visit to this museum and I was not disappointed.
Macdonald Museum main clock exhibit area
Holbeck made tall-case clock
It certainly ranks as the best exhibit in Atlantic Canada
Off highway 1 on School Street, Middleton, Nova Scotia stands the Macdonald museum. I had some expectations because I had been to two well respected clock museums, the NAWCC museum in Columbia PA. and the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River, Ontario. Though not on the same scale as these two, it certainly ranks as the best exhibit in Atlantic Canada.
The Annapolis Valley Macdonald Museum is home to the Nova Scotia Museum’s collection of over 150 antique clocks and watches. This permanent exhibit showcases items collected by the late Norman Phinney and was one of the primary reasons for establishing the Macdonald Museum. Many of the clocks are in working condition. There are a wide variety of clocks and watches on display, with some dating back to the late 17th century. Anyone interested in clocks would do well to see this exhibit – one of the best in Eastern Canada.
The museum is well laid out with enough information on each of the clocks on display to satisfy the general public and clock enthusiasts alike. Each display highlights its significance as an important development in horological history. We were alone as we walked though the main exhibit area and an adjacent room which contained a fascinating old clock-maker’s shop and a well laid out and informative interactive display on how mechanical clocks work.
Clock-maker’s shop
How mechanical clocks work
At least one example from the Baird Clock Co. of Montreal and five examples from the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Co. of Berlin (now Kitchener) Ontario were on display including the Arthur Pequegnat Regulator #1, that the company once advertised as “The finest clock made in America”.
Baird clock from Montreal
Arthur Pequegnat Regulator #1
None of the clocks were running, however. Though the clocks appeared to be in excellent condition, the sound of ticking clocks make for a more authentic experience. All other clock museums make a practice of running some clocks on a rotating basis at any given time.
At the entrance to the clock collection there is a simple plaque dedicated to Norman D. Phinney. Learning more about Norman D. Phinney, his contribution to the Macdonald Museum and the story of how the museum received his clock collection would add to the experience.
Norman D Phinney
If you are a clock fan or even if you only have a casual interest in the world of horology, this small clock museum may surprise you
Though perhaps not within the scope of Phinney’s original collection, examples from the Canada Clock Co. and the Hamilton Clock Co. or more peddlers clocks from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick would have provided an enhanced Canadian horological perspective.
Steeple or sharp Gothic clocks
However, these are minor quibbles and should not detract you from appreciating the high quality of the exhibits which contained British, American, French and Canadian examples or the many styles that included Pillar and Scroll, tall-case, shelf, beehive, steeple, drop octagons, mantel, alarm clocks and Ogee clocks, all of which were well represented.
If you are a clock fan or even if you only have a casual interest in the world of horology, this small clock museum may surprise you.
Oh, and while there, visit the rest of this fascinating museum.
In the early spring, my wife and I travelled to Portugal and Spain. We attended our daughter’s destination wedding in Sintra, Portugal and we decided to expand our stay, visit Spain and see the sights in Barcelona and Montserrat. Spain has always been on our bucket list and it did not disappoint.
Being a clock enthusiast I did a little research beforehand to find out if there were any clock museums along our travel route. Alas, we travelled to places that were very distant from the well know clock museums. Clocks in Europe were made in specific regions and that is where you will find clock museums. Here are a few clocks that I found in various places in Spain (Barcelona) and Portugal. I will let the photos tell the story.
Tall case clock in a Barcelona cathedral
Little card on the side simply said “High box clock, school clock”, Barcelona
A marriage of movement and case found in a shop in Sintra, Portugal
Town clock in downtown Sintra, Portugal
A very ornate clock in poor condition, Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal
The most ornate clock I found is this working example at the Porto basilica
Unknown mantel clock, Tivoli Hotel, Sintra, Portugal
Unknown gallery clock. I could not find an opening on this clock. No arbour holes on the clock face. Found on an estate in Sintra, Portugal
Flea market clock. Time and strike English or German clock, the 1960s
Flea market clock. Time and strike French clock with matching candelabra
Used goods store, time and strike wall clock, possibly French
I was not specifically looking for these clocks but as we visited churches, museums, shops and public places I photographed any I discovered in our travels.
Clocks have been more than just timekeepers throughout history; they are reflections of art, culture, and technological innovation. Whether for practical use or decorative appeal, clock styles have evolved to match the tastes, craftsmanship, and technologies of their times. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic and varied clock styles.
The clock is an instrument designed to keep and indicate time. It is one of the oldest human inventions. The clock has evolved through the ages from sundials in ancient times to early tower clocks of the 14th century weight-driven clocks and finally spring-driven clocks from the 1840s to the 1970s.
The world of mechanical clocks encompasses a wide variety of styles, and distinguishing between them can often be confusing—such as understanding the difference between a shelf clock and a mantel clock. In this article, I’ll navigate through these terms and highlight the most common styles or types, using examples from my own clock collection to illustrate them.
Mantel Clock
Many auction sites and even professional websites use the word mantle. The correct terminology is “mantel”. A mantle is a shawl or coat worn by women, an important role passed on from one person to another or the earth’s crust. A mantel is the top framing of a fireplace or a shelf above a fireplace opening.
A mantel clock is designed to fit on top of a fireplace or shelf. A mantel clock can be time only, time and strike, or a chiming clock. Generally, if there are 2 winding arbours it is a time and strike clock, if the clock has 3 winding arbours is it a chiming clock that is, it will play a tune on the quarter hours, the most common being the Westminster chime.
Mantel clocks might also be referred to as shelf clocks or buffet clocks.
Kitchen Clock
Arthur Pequegnat kitchen clock
Kitchen clocks are often referred to as gingerbread clocks or parlour clocks. At times, it can be difficult to differentiate between a kitchen clock and a parlour clock. Gingerbread clocks are distinctive because their designs are typically created by steam-pressing the wooden front face. However, some clocks, like the one above, are made using a powered cutting saw but are still classified as kitchen clocks. Additionally, some of these clocks included alarm mechanisms. The terms gingerbread, kitchen, and parlour are often used interchangeably.
Another type of kitchen clock is shown below. This is an 8-day time-only delft wall clock made by Forestville.
Delft Clock from ForestvilleE. N. Welch Whittier model
A parlour clock is generally considered more ornate than a kitchen clock, although it may still be referred to as a kitchen clock. It is placed in front hallways, entryways, and so on. The designs are always cut and there may be finials, a mercury-filled pendulum or very ornate design, garish trim pieces, and a decorative tablet.
Vienna Regulator
Gustav Becker two-weight Vienna regulator
There are many styles but most are of the single-weight or two-weight variety. The definition of a Vienna regulator is always open to debate but the consensus among collectors is that they are weight-driven, made in Austria/Germany, ornate in design, have porcelain dials, decorative crowns, large pendulums, and finials on the top and bottom.
The broad definition of Vienna Regulator includes those that are spring-driven. Though not defined as “regulators” it is acceptable among collectors to refer to them as a Vienna style.
Cottage Clock
Canada Clock Co Hamilton Cottage Extra
Sometimes called a mantel clock or a shelf clock, they are usually diminutive in size to occupy a smaller space. They are found in bedrooms and kitchens and are sturdily built since they are often designed to be portable. They come in time only, time and strike, or may have an alarm function.
Carriage Clock
French Carriage Clock
Carriage clocks are portable and were very popular around the turn of the 20th century. French-made carriage clocks are more collectible and fetch generally higher prices although American ones can be quite desirable. Carriage clocks are designed to be portable and are time-only but some are time and strike (with a repeater function) while others may have an alarm function.
Crystal Regulator
Ansonia Crystal Regulator
Crystal Regulator clocks are identified by a brass case with 4 crystals or glass panels. Porcelain dials, Roman or Arabic numerals, ornate in design but sometimes quite garish. Most are 10-12 inches in height though some are smaller. Makers are American and French though French crystal regulators are called four-glass clocks and tend to have higher value. Distinctive by their mercury or faux mercury pendulums. Some have visible Brocot escapements and the time and strike movements are always visible.
Cuckoo Clock
Cuckoo clock
These clocks are pendulum-regulated and make an automated sound like a cuckoo when it strikes the hours. Some can be very intricate with several animated characters. Desirable ones are antiques from the Black Forest region of Germany. Modern ones are generally frustrating to repair, cheaply built, and are poor timekeepers.
Lantern Clock
Converted lantern clock
A lantern clock is a type of antique weight-driven wall clock, shaped like a lantern. They were the first type of clock widely used in private homes. They probably originated before 1500 but only became common after 1600 and in Britain, around 1620. They became obsolete in the 19th century. The one pictured above has been converted into a fusee movement.
Alarm Clock
Baby Ben alarm clock with seconds hand
Alarm clocks are wound once per day and designed to do two things, wake you and display the time. They are cheap, and are average timekeepers but have long-lasting and reliable movements.
Desk Clock
Kienzle World Time clock
These sat on fancy office desks or credenzas in office locations. They are either time-only or time-and-strike. Most were time-only to minimize distractions in the office environment. Some are very attractive and have unique designs and are more decorative than utilitarian. This one above is called a World Time Clock by Kienzle.
Wall Clock
German Mauthe Box clock
A wall clock is broadly defined as any clock designed to be hung on a wall, making it a practical and visible timekeeping solution. Wall clocks come in various styles, from simple and functional designs to highly decorative pieces. This one by Mauthe is often described as a German “box” clock which became popular after the First World War and made into the 1940s.
Schoolhouse Clock
Ansonia schoolhouse clock
They are known as schoolhouse clocks because they hung in many schoolrooms in North America. Usually distinctive by their octagon shape and short or long drop feature with a glass door displaying a swinging pendulum. Many thousands were made; they had cheap mass-produced softwood cases and robust movements. Most were time-only though some were time and strike and others even included a calendar function.
When they were marketed years ago they were not called “schoolhouse clocks” but rather, clocks made for the schoolroom.
Novelty Clock
Chairman Mao Zetong waving as the clock ticks
These clocks are designed for the tourist trade with interesting features. In the case of the above clock, a smiling Mao Zedong has his little red book in hand and is waving “to the masses” as the clock ticks.
Ogee Clock
Waterbury OG clock
It is so-called because of the curved molded wood case. It might also be referred to as an OG clock. The design originated in the United States in the 1830s, distinguished by a case (usually pine) the front outer edges of which are curved into an S-shape (Ogee). This shape is formed by the union of a convex and a concave line. A mass-produced variant of the shelf clock, the Ogee clock typically stands about 30 inches (75 cm) high and is usually weight-driven. The movements were generally made of brass (earlier ones were made of wood) and ran for 30 hours or eight days. This is a 30-hour weight-driven version from the 1870s.
Tall Case Clock
Ridgeway Hamilton Country, Westminster chime
Tall case clocks are known by various names depending on the region. They are referred to as tall-case clocks in American terminology, long-case clocks in British terminology, hall clocks in Canada, and sometimes as floor clocks. However, the most commonly used term is “grandfather clock.”
They are usually weight-driven, with the weights on chains or cables, and are distinctive by their obvious height. They are always 6 feet or over but can be as high as 8 feet high (1.8 to 2.4 meters). They often feature elaborately carved ornamentation on the hood (or bonnet), the frames, the throat, and the dial or clock face. Older ones have 30-hour movements but all modern grandfather clocks run on an 8-day cycle.
Smaller clocks are called grandmother and granddaughter clocks. They are under 6 feet.
Anniversary Clock
Kundo standard size 400-day clock
These clocks are also called torsion clocks or 400-day clocks. 400-day clocks are torsion driven having a long suspension spring to which a weight oscillates back and forth. Typically these clocks operate at 8 beats per minute and run for long cycles on a single wind, up to 400 days. These clocks were popular as wedding gifts or gifts to mark special occasions. They are relatively simple to repair but can be finicky to set up. The newer quartz clocks are very accurate but do not replace the charm and curiosity of the older mechanical ones.
Some might call them purely decorative.
Tower Clock
Tower clock in Holguin, Cuba
In the early 14th century large mechanical clocks began to appear in the towers of Italian cities. There is no record of any working models preceding these public clocks that were weight-driven and regulated by verge-and-foliot escapements. They are referred to as Turret clocks in the UK.
In conclusion, while there are sub-categories for some of the clocks described above, this overview provides a general understanding of the commonly used terms. Having this knowledge can be especially helpful when shopping for a special gift or identifying the style of clock you may have in your possession.
Ridgeway Hamilton Country, now owned by the Howard Miller group of companies
You’ve decided on a new location for your grandfather clock. Now it is time to set it up.
Before you do anything ensure that the clock is level and preferably on a hard surface. Wood floors are great but carpeted floors are not optimal. There are 4 leveling wheels or points on the bottom of the clock. Using a spirit level spin the leveling wheels or points counterclockwise or clockwise to achieve a perfectly levelled clock. If you wish to screw the case to the wall to stabilize it, this can now be done as long as it is standing straight up and not leaning backwards. Stabilizing the case also reduces sympathetic vibration.
Steps for setting up your clock
Release the chains or cables that were bundled during transport.
Hook the weights. If you had marked them or if they have location direction on the bottom (L, C, R; “L” for left, “C” for centre and “R” for right) ensure that the correct weight goes where it should. The weights are not the same although they may look identical. On most modern grandfather clocks each weight provides the motive power necessary to operate the time, chime and strike trains of your grandfather clock. The manufacturer has determined that a weight powered by an exact number of lbs will affect how the clock will run. For example, the chime train requires a specific weight. If the weight is too light the chimes will run slowly or not at all. Generally speaking, the heaviest weight goes on the far right side chime train, as it needs more power to run the chime hammers.
Pull the weights up if your clock has chains or use a winding crank to bring the weights up if equipped with cables. For a properly striking and chiming grandfather clock the weights will more or less descend at the same time. Check through the side vents that the cables are not tangled. A tangled cable will stop the clock.
For cables: not only check to make sure that the weight is hooked but the cable is also in the cable pulley.
Release the chiming rods by carefully pulling off the protective Styrofoam or cardboard.
Return the side vents or access panels that slot in from the inside. They will drop into their channels.
While holding the pendulum guide with one hand (using cotton gloves), slip the pendulum in through the front door with your other hand an place the pendulum hook over the pin or through the slot on the pendulum guide, and lower the pendulum until it is hanging securely on the pendulum guide.
The pendulum rod hooks onto the suspension springLyre pendulum
Let the Grandfather Clock operate for ten minutes until the pendulum settles into an even swinging motion. An even swinging motion means that there is an equal time between the tick and the tock. In clock terms, it means that the clock is in beat.
Reinstall any decorative ornaments such as finials that friction fit into their respective holes.
If your clock has a moon phase dial: To set the moon dial, apply slight pressure with your fingers to the front of the moon dial. Rotate the moon dial clockwise until the moon is positioned according to the current moon phase. Never force it, it should move easily. If the moon dial will not rotate wait 6 hours and try again. As long as the grandfather clock operates it will display the correct moon phase. If the clock stops for more than a day the moon dial will have to be reset.
Moon phase dial is adjustable by carefully moving it clockwise
Although some grandfather clock instructions say that you can move the hands backwards, it is not a method I would advocate. Never move the hour hand. The hour hand will move with the minute hand. The hour hand is a friction fit and moving it will knock the hourly strike out of sequence. By moving the minute hand Clockwise it is not necessary to wait for the Grandfather Clock to chime as the minute hand passes each quarter-hour. The movement has a self-correcting feature that synchronizes the chimes with the time. If the clock does not synchronize, give the clock an hour or so before making any further adjustments.
If the clock does not strike or chime, make sure that the silencer lever switch is in the “chime” position.
Allow the clock to acclimatize to the new environment before regulating the movement. A clock that is regulated keeps the correct time. Regulation is achieved by turning a screw on the bottom of the pendulum bob. Turning the screw clockwise will make the clock go faster and turning the screw counterclockwise will make it run slower.
Close and lock the front access door.
Ridgeway cabinet key
Consult your owner’s manual for setting special features not covered above.
Antique and Vintage Mechanical Clocks 
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