Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Who was the famous American clockmaker?
1 Answer

There was actually more than one famous American clockmaker. Many people refer to Eli Terry as the “father of mass-produced clocks in the U.S.,” as he introduced the concept of interchangeable parts that made large-scale production possible. Another well-known name in the history of American clock-making is Seth Thomas, who founded the Seth Thomas Clock Company in 1813. Brothers Aaron and Simon Willard are also important figures in the field, having developed banjo clocks and tall case clocks, respectively. Shop a variety of antique and vintage clocks on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
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Shop for Clocks on 1stDibs
Battery-operated Mid-Century wall clock by Mauthe with a glazed ceramic case
Located in München, DE
A very rare and beautiful battery-operated Mid-Century Modern wall clock featuring an additional mechanical timer. Manufactured by Junghans; made in Germany.
The casing is made of gl...
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Metal
Antique Black Forest Carved Walnut Cuckoo Clock
Located in Suffolk, GB
A magnificent antique Black Forest carved walnut cuckoo clock dating from around 1900, beautifully hand carved in the traditional hunting lodge style. Rich in detail and craftsmanshi...
Category
Early 20th Century German Wall Clocks
Materials
Walnut
$2,966 Sale Price
20% Off
Bracket Clock John F.R.S. Ellicott, London early 18th Century
Located in Münster, DE
Bracket Clock
John F.R.S. Ellicott, London
(1706–1791)
Early 18th century,
8-day movement, striking on 2 bells,
4-note chime/repeater mechanism, date display, brass dial, origi...
Category
Antique Early 18th Century English Baroque Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Bronze, Brass
$11,094 Sale Price
20% Off
Very rare, large SABA designer table clock with an aluminum housing from 1975
Located in München, DE
A very rare, large, original SABA designer table clock with an aluminum housing. Manufactured in 1975. Made in Germany.
Features a beautiful, minimalist design. This clock is now ext...
Category
Vintage 1970s German Space Age Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Metal, Aluminum
1980s Gorgeous Cartier Alarm Clock Pendulette Lapis Lazuli. Made in Swiss
By Cartier
Located in Milano, IT
1980s Cartier Paris pendulette alarm clock. Clock case numbered 9819 02638. Masterfully crafted in Switzerland, this exquisite timepiece perfectly captures the era's luxury, featuri...
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Lapis Lazuli
Antique Art Deco Walnut Mantel Desk Clock Key Wound Chiming Bauhaus 26"
Located in Dayton, OH
Antique art deco style, key wound, chiming mantel clock with a wooden oxbow/yoke shaped case and brass numbers.
Dimensions
26” x 4” x 8.25” / Face – 6.75” (Width x Depth x Height/Di...
Category
Early 20th Century Art Deco Mantel Clocks
Materials
Walnut


