Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Who invented the first mechanical clocks?
1 Answer
A Chinese monk named I-Hsing invented the first mechanical clock in 723 AD. His astronomical clock was known as the Water Driven Spherical Birds-Eye-View Map of The Heavens. You can find a variety of antique and vintage mechanical clocks on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for Mechanical Clocks on 1stDibs
Antique Mechanical Billiard Clock in Oak with Timer by P. O. Pedersen Copenhagen
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Museum's piece: mechanical clock for 3-cushions billiard. Its is made from oak that has patinated
Category
Vintage 1920s European Art Deco Wall Clocks
Materials
Oak
$1,886 Sale Price
20% Off
Vintage Mid Century Chelsea Desk Clock Electronometer Chinoiserie Bronze Frame
By Chelsea Clock
Located in Atlanta, GA
mechanical clocks, this piece illustrates the firm's more decorative postwar output, designed to appeal to a
Category
Mid-20th Century American Chinoiserie Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Bronze
Chinese Art Deco Carved Mahogany Mantle Clock, circa 1900
Located in Nantucket, MA
transitional style with a period wind-up mechanical clock, featuring an Immortal figure on the top, Chinese
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Mantel Clocks
Materials
Mahogany
Robert Houdin Mystery Magic Clock
By Robert Houdin
Located in Danville, CA
total mechanical clock has a very noticeable large square glass dial, with 2 hands pointing to the time
Category
Antique Late 19th Century Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Bronze
C. 1910 James Rankin Junior Adam Style Eight-Day Mantle Clock with Faux Marble
Located in Chicago, IL
, and other mechanical clocks. The "Junr" (Junior) designation suggests that James Rankin was the son of
Category
Early 20th Century Scottish Neoclassical Mantel Clocks
Materials
Brass
Early 20th Century French Neoclassical Black Slate and Marble Mantel Clock
Located in Chicago, IL
This Circa 1900 French Black Slate and Marble Mantel Clock is a formidable and visually stunning
Category
Early 20th Century French Neoclassical Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Marble, Slate, Brass
