What is a chime on a clock?

The chime on a clock is the tune that it plays at specific time intervals. A clock may chime on the hour, or more frequently to mark shorter time increments. Shop for a variety of clocks from top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a Westminster chime clock?

A Westminster chime clock features a quartz clock movement, which electronically plays the “Westminster Quarters” / “Westminster Chimes” melody on the hour mark. A Westminster chime clock also plays a progressive melody to mark every quarter-hour. Westminster chime clocks are considered classic and timeless furnishings, made using high-quality wood and metals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage Westminster chime clocks.

What do the chimes on a clock mean?

The meaning of the chimes on a clock relates to time. At specific intervals, the chimes play a melody to let you know how much time has passed. Depending on the design, clock chimes may sound every 15, 30 or 60 minutes. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage clocks.

What makes a clock chime?

A mechanical process is what makes a clock chime. The music roll pulls back a chime hammer, which then returns to its original position and hits a chime rod, or in certain cases, a steel tuned tube, as it rotates. The majority of chiming, weight-driven mechanical grandfather clocks have 12 hammers and rods. Find a collection of antique and vintage clocks on 1stDibs today.

How do I fix a chime on a mantel clock?

To fix the chime on a mantel clock, take it to an experienced clock repair shop. A professional will have the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose the problem with the chimes and make the necessary repairs. You'll find a range of mantel clocks on 1stDibs.

How does a Westminster chime clock work?

A Westminster chime clock uses quartz movement to work the gears, to move pendulums and to play the popular melody everyone is fond of. The quartz movement electronically plays the melody that can be set to play on the hour, half an hour and quarter hour if desired. Find a wide range of antique, new and vintage clocks on 1stDibs.

How do I get my grandfather clock to chime correctly?

To get your grandfather clock to chime correctly, you must wait until the next hour count and note how many hours the clock chimes and then move the hour hand to the hour the clock chimed. Then you can reset the clock to the proper time.

How do I tell if a clock is an antique French clock?

Check the clock for a manufacturer’s mark or label. Once you have this, you should be able to look up the clock’s brand to see if it is French in origin. A clock is considered antique once it is 100 years old. A professional can also help verify the origin of your clock. Shop an array of expertly vetted antique clocks on 1stDibs.

How do I identify my antique clock?

To identify your antique clock, search for markings on the back of its movement or case. Once you have located these marks, use trusted online resources to determine who the maker is. From there, you can continue your research to learn more about your clock's age, style and other characteristics. An expert appraiser or antiques dealer can also assist you with identification. Find a wide range of antique clocks on 1stDibs.

What is an antique bracket clock?

An antique bracket clock refers to a portable spring-driven pendulum table clock created in the 17th and 18th centuries. These clocks were equipped with convenient carrying handles and were housed usually in rectangular cases. Shop a collection of antique and vintage bracket clocks from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How can I spot an antique clock?

To spot whether or not a clock is antique, note if the clockmaker’s name or company is engraved near the center face of the dial. A paper label may also be pasted on the back of the clock. You can shop a collection of expertly vetted antique clocks from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How do I know if my antique clock is valuable?

To know if an antique clock is valuable, you'll typically need to have the piece assessed by a certified appraiser or an experienced antiques dealer. The maker and style of the clock will help determine its value (an early American clockmaker’s antique grandfather model, featuring an oak case and decorative carvings, may be very interesting to collectors, for example). Overall condition of your clock also plays a role. Generally, clocks that still work are worth more than those that require repairs. On 1stDibs, find a selection of antique, vintage and modern clocks.

Are old antique clocks worth anything?

Yes, some old antique clocks may be worth something. Many collectors look for clocks produced by certain manufacturers, such as the Ansonia Clock Company, the Seth Thomas Clock Company, Jaeger-LeCoultre and the Chelsea Clock Company. In addition to the maker, the type, materials, style and condition of the clock influence its value. Generally, clocks that remain in good working order are worth more than those in need of repairs and restorations. To find out how much your clock may be worth, consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of antique clocks.

Antique Chime Clocks

Column Clock

Chiming Mantel Clocks

Westminster Clock

Swedish Floor Clock

8 Day Clock

19th Century Carved Grandfather Clock

Westminster Chime

Fryksdahl Clock

18th C. Swedish Wood Clock with Linear Profile and Triangular Crest

$5,113

18th C. Swedish Wood Clock with Linear Profile and Triangular Crest

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

18th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

Fryksdahl Swedish Clock from Värmland, 19th Century with Nicely Carved Crest

$5,830

Fryksdahl Swedish Clock from Värmland, 19th Century with Nicely Carved Crest

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

Swedish Long-Case 19th Century Clock with Original Face and Movement

$6,440

Swedish Long-Case 19th Century Clock with Original Face and Movement

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

18th C. Swedish Mora Floor Clock with Unique Square-Shaped Head

$5,512

18th C. Swedish Mora Floor Clock with Unique Square-Shaped Head

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

18th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

Northern Swedish Floor Clock with Nicely Carved Accents, Early 19th Century

$6,460

Northern Swedish Floor Clock with Nicely Carved Accents, Early 19th Century

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

19th Century Swedish Painted Wood Longcase / Floor Clock with Scraped Finish

$6,300

19th Century Swedish Painted Wood Longcase / Floor Clock with Scraped Finish

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

19th Century Swedish Painted Wood Floor Clock, Soft with Minimal Embellishments

$5,620

19th Century Swedish Painted Wood Floor Clock, Soft with Minimal Embellishments

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Metal

19th Century Swedish Mora Clock with Scalloped Crown and Teardrop Belly

$5,796

19th Century Swedish Mora Clock with Scalloped Crown and Teardrop Belly

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

19th Century Northern Swedish Painted Wood Floor Clock with Unique Crest

$6,940

19th Century Northern Swedish Painted Wood Floor Clock with Unique Crest

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Metal

19th C. Swedish Grandfather Clock with it's Original Face & Warm Color Palette

$6,460

19th C. Swedish Grandfather Clock with it's Original Face & Warm Color Palette

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

Swedish Mora Grandfather Clock w/Original Metal Face & Movement, Circa 1830's

$5,760

Swedish Mora Grandfather Clock w/Original Metal Face & Movement, Circa 1830's

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Metal

18th Century Swedish Painted Wood Clock with Scalloped Base and Original Paint

$13,088

18th Century Swedish Painted Wood Clock with Scalloped Base and Original Paint

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

18th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

A late 19th century Morbier works for a tall case clock with brass embossment.

$1,000

A late 19th century Morbier works for a tall case clock with brass embossment.

Located in Winter Park, FL

A late 19th century Morbier works for a tall case clock. Movement has been professionally cleaned and is in working condition. 7 day clock.

Category

1880s French French Provincial Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Brass

Antique Georgian Scottish Orkney Island Tall Case 8 day Grandfather Clock 1810

$4,495

Antique Georgian Scottish Orkney Island Tall Case 8 day Grandfather Clock 1810

Located in Portland, OR

The chapter ring with both Roman & Arabic numerals in black, there is a secondary calendar ring and also a seconds dial, the twin winding arbors are for time & strike, the clock chim...

Category

1810s Scottish Georgian Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Brass

Swedish 19th C. Floor Clock w/Column Body, Faux Marbling & Architectural Bonnet

$6,037

Swedish 19th C. Floor Clock w/Column Body, Faux Marbling & Architectural Bonnet

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Plaster, Wood

Swedish Early 19th C. Fryksdahl Floor Clock 'W/ Original Metal Face & Movement'

$6,440

Swedish Early 19th C. Fryksdahl Floor Clock 'W/ Original Metal Face & Movement'

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, but similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off ...

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Wood

A Swedish Fryksdahl Clock Circa 1831 w/ Reed Textured Belly & Swag Carved Apron

$6,079

A Swedish Fryksdahl Clock Circa 1831 w/ Reed Textured Belly & Swag Carved Apron

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

Swedish 19th C. Mora Longcase Clock w/it's Original Metal Face, Hands & Movement

$5,528

Swedish 19th C. Mora Longcase Clock w/it's Original Metal Face, Hands & Movement

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

Exquisite Swedish 19th Century Clock with Carved Crest and Volutes on the Base

$5,512

Exquisite Swedish 19th Century Clock with Carved Crest and Volutes on the Base

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

A Swedish 19th C. Long-Case or Floor Clock w/ Beautifully Exaggerated Crown

$6,930

A Swedish 19th C. Long-Case or Floor Clock w/ Beautifully Exaggerated Crown

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

19th Century Mora Floor Clock from Sweden, Scraped Finish w/Subtle Gold Accent

$6,160

19th Century Mora Floor Clock from Sweden, Scraped Finish w/Subtle Gold Accent

Located in Atlanta, GA

The original hands are too heavy to carry the quartz movement, so they would be changed to black hands, similar in style. The clock would then chime (the chime can be turned off even...

Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Glass, Wood

Cartier Art Deco Chrysoprase Guilloche Agate Desk Clock

$55,000

Cartier Art Deco Chrysoprase Guilloche Agate Desk Clock

By Cartier

Located in New York, NY

Black applied Arabic markers. The clock chimes if the top chrysoprase button is pressed.

Category

1920s French Art Deco Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Agate

French Walnut Buffet Sideboard With a Clock, Circa 1770

$37,500

French Walnut Buffet Sideboard With a Clock, Circa 1770

Located in Palm Desert, CA

Acquired from a monastery in the French countryside, this massive and impressive solid Walnut buffet has a clock that chimes and multiple racks. The clock chimes 5 minutes before the...

Category

18th Century Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Walnut

English Bracket Clock of Walnut in the Egyptian Style

$12,965

English Bracket Clock of Walnut in the Egyptian Style

By John Bennett

Located in London, GB

A quarter chiming bracket clock. The walnut case, of architectural form, is supported on the original bracket, being carved with ribbands, anthemions and pylons in the Egyptian ma...

Category

19th Century English Egyptian Revival Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Walnut

Early 18th Century Butterfield Style Silver Pocket Sundial By Chapotot

$5,723

Early 18th Century Butterfield Style Silver Pocket Sundial By Chapotot

By Michael Butterfield

Located in Firenze, IT

A German travellers' guide of the time also recommended sundials over clocks while on the road because the chiming of clocks might attract thieves.

Category

Early 18th Century French Baroque Antique Chime Clocks

Materials

Silver

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Antique Chime Clocks For Sale on 1stDibs

Find a variety of antique chime clocks available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique antique chime clocks was constructed with extraordinary care, often using wood, metal and mahogany. There are all kinds of antique chime clocks available, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. There are many kinds of antique chime clocks to choose from, but at 1stDibs, Victorian, Georgian and Neoclassical antique chime clocks are of considerable interest. Antique chime clocks have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Viennese Manufactory, A. Caron and Arnold & Lewis are consistently popular.

How Much are Antique Chime Clocks?

Antique chime clocks can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $6,271, while the lowest priced sells for $195 and the highest can go for as much as $53,000.

Finding the Right Clocks for You

A sophisticated clock design, whether it’s a desk clock, mantel clock or large wall clock for your living room, is a decorative object to be admired in your home as much as it is a necessary functional element. This is part of the reason clocks make such superb collectibles. Given the versatility of these treasured fixtures — they’ve long been made in a range of shapes, sizes and styles — a clock can prove integral to your own particular interior decor.

Antique and vintage clocks can whisk us back to the 18th and 19th centuries. When most people think of antique clocks, they imagine an Art Deco Bakelite tabletop clock or wall clock, named for the revolutionary synthetic plastic, Bakelite, of which they’re made, or a stately antique grandfather clock. But the art of clock-making goes way back, transcending continents and encompassing an entire range of design styles and technologies. In short, there are many kinds of clocks depending on your needs.

A variety of wall clocks can be found on 1stDibs. A large antique hand-carved walnut wall clock is best suited to a big room and a flat background given what will likely be outwardly sculptural features, while Georgian grandfather clocks, or longcase clocks, will help welcome rainswept guests into your entryway or foyer. An interactive cuckoo clock, large or small, is guaranteed to bring outsize personality to your living room or dining room. For conversation pieces of a similar breed, mid-century modern enthusiasts go for the curious Ball clock, the first of more than 150 clock models conceived in the studio of legendary architect and designer George Nelson.

Minimalist contemporary clocks and books pair nicely on a shelf, but an eye-catching vintage mantel clock can add balance to your home library while drawing attention to your art and design books and other decorative objects. Ormolu clocks dating from the Louis XVI period, designed in the neoclassical style, are often profusely ornate, featuring architectural flourishes and rich naturalistic details. Rococo-style mantel clocks of Meissen porcelain or porcelain originating from manufacturers in cities such as Limoges, France, during the 18th and 19th centuries, exude an air of imperial elegance on your shelves or side tables and can help give your desk a 19th-century upgrade.

On 1stDibs, find a range of extraordinary antique and vintage clocks today.

Questions About Antique Chime Clocks

What is a chime on a clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The chime on a clock is the tune that it plays at specific time intervals. A clock may chime on the hour, or more frequently to mark shorter time increments. Shop for a variety of clocks from top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is a Westminster chime clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
A Westminster chime clock features a quartz clock movement, which electronically plays the “Westminster Quarters” / “Westminster Chimes” melody on the hour mark. A Westminster chime clock also plays a progressive melody to mark every quarter-hour. Westminster chime clocks are considered classic and timeless furnishings, made using high-quality wood and metals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage Westminster chime clocks.
What do the chimes on a clock mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The meaning of the chimes on a clock relates to time. At specific intervals, the chimes play a melody to let you know how much time has passed. Depending on the design, clock chimes may sound every 15, 30 or 60 minutes. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage clocks.
What makes a clock chime?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A mechanical process is what makes a clock chime. The music roll pulls back a chime hammer, which then returns to its original position and hits a chime rod, or in certain cases, a steel tuned tube, as it rotates. The majority of chiming, weight-driven mechanical grandfather clocks have 12 hammers and rods. Find a collection of antique and vintage clocks on 1stDibs today.
How do I fix a chime on a mantel clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To fix the chime on a mantel clock, take it to an experienced clock repair shop. A professional will have the knowledge and tools necessary to diagnose the problem with the chimes and make the necessary repairs. You'll find a range of mantel clocks on 1stDibs.
How does a Westminster chime clock work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
A Westminster chime clock uses quartz movement to work the gears, to move pendulums and to play the popular melody everyone is fond of. The quartz movement electronically plays the melody that can be set to play on the hour, half an hour and quarter hour if desired. Find a wide range of antique, new and vintage clocks on 1stDibs.
How do I get my grandfather clock to chime correctly?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
To get your grandfather clock to chime correctly, you must wait until the next hour count and note how many hours the clock chimes and then move the hour hand to the hour the clock chimed. Then you can reset the clock to the proper time.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
You can get your grandfather clock to chime correctly in a few easy steps. Firstly, wait for the next hour to chime on the clock. After that, count how many hours your grandfather clock chimes. With your finger, move the hour hand to the number of the hour count, and reset the time clock to the correct time. If you don’t feel confident in trying this by yourself, get in touch with an antiques appraiser or related professional for help. Find a variety of grandfather clocks on 1stDibs.
How do I tell if a clock is an antique French clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Check the clock for a manufacturer’s mark or label. Once you have this, you should be able to look up the clock’s brand to see if it is French in origin. A clock is considered antique once it is 100 years old. A professional can also help verify the origin of your clock. Shop an array of expertly vetted antique clocks on 1stDibs.
How do I identify my antique clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
To identify your antique clock, search for markings on the back of its movement or case. Once you have located these marks, use trusted online resources to determine who the maker is. From there, you can continue your research to learn more about your clock's age, style and other characteristics. An expert appraiser or antiques dealer can also assist you with identification. Find a wide range of antique clocks on 1stDibs.
What is an antique bracket clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
An antique bracket clock refers to a portable spring-driven pendulum table clock created in the 17th and 18th centuries. These clocks were equipped with convenient carrying handles and were housed usually in rectangular cases. Shop a collection of antique and vintage bracket clocks from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How can I spot an antique clock?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To spot whether or not a clock is antique, note if the clockmaker’s name or company is engraved near the center face of the dial. A paper label may also be pasted on the back of the clock. You can shop a collection of expertly vetted antique clocks from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do I know if my antique clock is valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
To know if an antique clock is valuable, you'll typically need to have the piece assessed by a certified appraiser or an experienced antiques dealer. The maker and style of the clock will help determine its value (an early American clockmaker’s antique grandfather model, featuring an oak case and decorative carvings, may be very interesting to collectors, for example). Overall condition of your clock also plays a role. Generally, clocks that still work are worth more than those that require repairs. On 1stDibs, find a selection of antique, vintage and modern clocks.
Are old antique clocks worth anything?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024
Yes, some old antique clocks may be worth something. Many collectors look for clocks produced by certain manufacturers, such as the Ansonia Clock Company, the Seth Thomas Clock Company, Jaeger-LeCoultre and the Chelsea Clock Company. In addition to the maker, the type, materials, style and condition of the clock influence its value. Generally, clocks that remain in good working order are worth more than those in need of repairs and restorations. To find out how much your clock may be worth, consult a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of antique clocks.