What are mechanical clocks?

A mechanical clock is made with an oscillating mechanism that marks the passing time. An escapement counts its beats. The first mechanical clock was made out of iron, and was first seen in medieval Europe. You’ll find a collection of mechanical clocks from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How does a mechanical alarm clock work?

To make a mechanical alarm clock work, you need to use the wind-up keys or buttons to set the time. Mechanical alarm clocks use an oscillating wheel and springs. Most mechanical alarm clocks come with two bells that ring by means of a gear, powered by the mainspring. The gear moves quickly between the two bells, sounding the alarm. Find vintage alarm clocks on 1stDibs.

Who invented the first mechanical clocks?

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.

What were mechanical clocks used for in the Middle Ages?

Mechanical clocks were used for a variety of reasons in the Middle Ages. The clocks were used to keep track of hours for daily prayers. They also helped monks to calculate solar and lunar eclipses, and also determined feast days with accuracy. On 1stDibs, find a collection of mechanical clocks from some of the world’s top sellers.

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 Clock Mechanisms

Clock Hands France

19th Century Carved Grandfather Clock

Casement Clocks

Clock Keys

French Gilt Brass Mantel Clock

Eight Clock

French Bronze Sculpture And Clock

19th Century Mantel Clock 1860

Antique Swedish Painted Pine Long Case Clock with Original Clock Mechanism

$2,942

Antique Swedish Painted Pine Long Case Clock with Original Clock Mechanism

Located in Kramfors, SE

Long case clock with red original paint from the mid 1800s. The clock is made in painted pine and

Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Folk Art Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

18th Century French Decorative Long Case Clock with Newly Refurbished Mechanisms

$3,500

18th Century French Decorative Long Case Clock with Newly Refurbished Mechanisms

Located in New Orleans, LA

Antique 18th century French decorative long case clock with newly refurbished mechanisms. Please

Category

18th Century French Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

19th Century Zinc 'Clock Tower' Antique Wall Clock

$1,677

19th Century Zinc 'Clock Tower' Antique Wall Clock

Located in Cirencester, GB

clock mechanism with a new battery high torque system.

Category

1890s French French Provincial Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Zinc

Neoclassical Fire-Gilded Bronze Mantel Clock with Apollo, France

$8,120

Neoclassical Fire-Gilded Bronze Mantel Clock with Apollo, France

Located in Greding, DE

wreath. The clock mechanism is housed in a rectangular case adorned with additional festoons and torch

Category

Early 19th Century French Neoclassical Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze

Vintage Petite French Bronze Cherub Ormolu Rococo Louis XV Style Clock

$950

Vintage Petite French Bronze Cherub Ormolu Rococo Louis XV Style Clock

Located in Chicago, IL

clock mechanism works or needs to be repaired or replaced (some rattling on inside). Appears that the

Category

Early 20th Century Louis XV Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze

Art Nouveau Wall Clock, 1900s

$1,047

Art Nouveau Wall Clock, 1900s

Located in Praha, CZ

Art Nouveau wall clock with a charming, resonant chime. Made in Austria in 1900s. The clock

Category

Early 1900s Austrian Art Nouveau Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass

Mora Clock

$3,000

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width:54cm / 21.3"" Depth: 26cm

Category

Early 1800s European Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$3,000

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

. Working Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width: 54cm

Category

Early 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$2,400

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

Swedish Mora clock from the 1960's in original colour and carved detailing. Working Longcase clock

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Antique French Gilt Bronze Architectural Clock by S. Marti

$1,195

Antique French Gilt Bronze Architectural Clock by S. Marti

Located in Palm Springs, CA

solid gilt ormolu bronze (or brass) by S. Marti (stamped H & F Paris). Clock mechanism not

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass, Bronze

Mora Clock

$2,400

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width:42cm / 16.5"" Depth

Category

Early 1800s Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$2,400

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width:48cm / 18.9" Depth

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$2,000

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width: 55cm / 21.7" Depth

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Tiffany & Co Champlevé and Bronze Clock Set with Candelabras

$28,000

Tiffany & Co Champlevé and Bronze Clock Set with Candelabras

By Tiffany & Co.

Located in New York, NY

Tiffany & Co , New York. Stamped Tiffany & co on the internal clock mechanism Date: Circa 1880's

Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Enamel, Bronze

Antique Mora Clock

$2,600

Antique Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

. Working Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width: 42cm

Category

Early 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock 1800's

$3,500

Mora Clock 1800's

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width: 64cm / 25.2" Depth: 23cm

Category

Early 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Antique Mora Clock

$3,800

Antique Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on the hour. Width:44cm / 18.9"" Depth

Category

Early 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$2,400

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

hand painted floral decoration. Working Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell

Category

19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$2,400

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

1856 and village Aata. Working Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on

Category

18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Mora Clock

$2,500

Mora Clock

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

clock and initial of clock maker: APL and vilage of Mora. Working Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum

Category

18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Extra Large Late 19th Century Metal Decorative Wall Clock

$1,600

Extra Large Late 19th Century Metal Decorative Wall Clock

Located in Middleburg, VA

room. This clock is for decoration only and does not have clock mechanism. Shows some wear but is

Category

Late 19th Century American Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Metal

Antique Swedish Classic Rococo Shape Long Case Clock

$5,296

Antique Swedish Classic Rococo Shape Long Case Clock

Located in Kramfors, SE

the original clock mechanism, weights and pendulum. The clock mechanism has been serviced and was

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Rococo Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock with Carved Decor and Original Paint

$3,471

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock with Carved Decor and Original Paint

Located in Kramfors, SE

mechanism, weights and pendulum. The function of the clock mechanism is not tested. The clock is sold as an

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Country Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

Rococo Style Mora Clock 1700's

$3,500

Rococo Style Mora Clock 1700's

Located in Crowthorne, Surrey

. Carved detailing to crown. Working Longcase clock mechanism of pendulum and 2 weights and a bell chime on

Category

Early 18th Century European Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Wood

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock, Rococo Style with Original Blue Paint

$5,296

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock, Rococo Style with Original Blue Paint

Located in Kramfors, SE

mechanism, weights and pendulum. The function of the clock mechanism is not tested, the clock is sold as an

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Rococo Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

18th Century Oak Longcase Clock From Belgium

$4,119

18th Century Oak Longcase Clock From Belgium

Located in Brussels, Brussels

carved clock in superb condition with its original mechanism Very beautiful dial of superb quality in

Category

18th Century Belgian Louis XV Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Oak

19th Century French Louis XVI Patinated Desk Clock with a Figure of a Boy

$3,260

19th Century French Louis XVI Patinated Desk Clock with a Figure of a Boy

Located in Sofia, BG

and features a carved sculpture of a little boy and a bird. The intricate clock mechanism has been

Category

Mid-19th Century French Louis XVI Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze

Regency Painted Papier Mache Mantle Clock

$1,760Sale Price|20% Off

Regency Painted Papier Mache Mantle Clock

Located in Kittery Point, ME

with Roman numerals and Arabic numerals at the quarter mark, a hinged back door revealing the clock

Category

Early 19th Century English Regency Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass

Napoleon III French Bronze Mantel Clock Set from the 19th Century

$8,473Sale Price|20% Off

Napoleon III French Bronze Mantel Clock Set from the 19th Century

Located in Opole, PL

in the Napoleon III style. The clock mechanism with a balance is from a later period than the casing

Category

19th Century French Napoleon III Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass, Bronze

19th Century French Louis XVI Patinated Table Clock with a Figure of a Cupid

$2,471Sale Price|20% Off

19th Century French Louis XVI Patinated Table Clock with a Figure of a Cupid

Located in Sofia, BG

curved base and features a carved sculpture of a seating cupid. The intricate clock mechanism has been

Category

Mid-19th Century French Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze

19th Century Large Marble and Ormolu Clock Garniture

$2,760Sale Price / set|26% Off

19th Century Large Marble and Ormolu Clock Garniture

Located in LA CIOTAT, FR

Elegant antique clock garniture set, crafted from striking pink-veined marble and adorned with

Category

19th Century French Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Marble, Bronze, Ormolu

19th Century Classic Swedish Rococo Long Case Clock

$4,531

19th Century Classic Swedish Rococo Long Case Clock

Located in Kramfors, SE

the top to bottom. It is deeper at the top to accommodate the clock mechanism and progressively

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Rococo Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

Antique French Gilt Bronze Mounted Malachite Turning Mantel Clock

$57,284

Antique French Gilt Bronze Mounted Malachite Turning Mantel Clock

Located in London, GB

bronze snake handles and topped with a gilt bronze finial. The clock mechanism, called a cercle tournant

Category

Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Malachite, Bronze, Ormolu

19th Century Swiss Black Forest Carved Walnut Mantel Clock with Cherubs and Bird

$7,100

19th Century Swiss Black Forest Carved Walnut Mantel Clock with Cherubs and Bird

Located in Dallas, TX

clock mechanism has been cleaned and checked by our clock expert, and is in very good working order

Category

Mid-19th Century Swiss Black Forest Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Enamel

A pedestal in black Belgian marble and red Verona marble with clock, Russia 1890

$3,530

A pedestal in black Belgian marble and red Verona marble with clock, Russia 1890

Located in Milan, IT

chisel decoration. Working striking clock mechanism, F. Winter. Russia, late 19th century.

Category

Late 19th Century Russian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Marble, Belgian Black Marble

Fine French Antique Louis XV Style Gilt Bronze Putti Bacchanale Clock

$5,500

Fine French Antique Louis XV Style Gilt Bronze Putti Bacchanale Clock

Located in New York, NY

clock mechanism showing slight wear commensurate with age as shown in the photos. Delightful subject

Category

19th Century French Louis XV Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze

Antique Genuine Swedish Pine Long Case Clock with Unusual Original Blue Paint

$5,825

Antique Genuine Swedish Pine Long Case Clock with Unusual Original Blue Paint

Located in Kramfors, SE

clock mechanism, weights and pendulum. The paint on the clock face itself has slightly cracked, see

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Folk Art Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

Late 19th Century, French Bronze Clock with Oriental Influence

$7,000

Late 19th Century, French Bronze Clock with Oriental Influence

Located in Miami, US

, making this clock a unique blend of artistry and functionality. The clock's mechanism is stamped and

Category

Late 19th Century French Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock, Gustavian Style with Hand-Carved Decor

$3,012

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock, Gustavian Style with Hand-Carved Decor

Located in Kramfors, SE

through. Original clock mechanism, weights and pendulum. The mechanism was working at the time the

Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

Unique French-Style Mantel Clock With Candelabras, Early 20th Century

$3,295Sale Price / set|20% Off

Unique French-Style Mantel Clock With Candelabras, Early 20th Century

Located in Opole, PL

origin. French clock mechanisms were renowned for their high quality during the 19th and early 20th

Category

Early 20th Century French Baroque Revival Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass

Neoclassical Style Circular Movement Mantel Clock by Leroy & Cie

$61,375

Neoclassical Style Circular Movement Mantel Clock by Leroy & Cie

Located in London, GB

depicting Classical scenes of river gods. The clock mechanism, called a cercle tournant, is composed of

Category

Late 19th Century French Neoclassical Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Marble, Ormolu, Bronze

French Louis XV Style “Tournant” Mantel Clock, Napoleon III Period, Paris, 1855

$117,691

French Louis XV Style “Tournant” Mantel Clock, Napoleon III Period, Paris, 1855

By Eug. Vincent & Cie

Located in MADRID, ES

urn-shaped crest, surmounted by doves, contains the rotating (“tournant”) clock mechanism. Retaining

Category

1850s French Louis XV Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Carrara Marble, Bronze, Copper, Enamel

Antique Samson Porcelain and Ormolu Chinoiserie Elephant Clock

$5,728

Antique Samson Porcelain and Ormolu Chinoiserie Elephant Clock

By Samson Porcelain Factory 1

Located in London, GB

wears a red saddle depicting Chinese figures amongst foliage. The clock mechanism is encased in a

Category

Late 19th Century French Chinoiserie Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Ormolu

Vintage Coastal Polished Conch Clock

$1,950

Vintage Coastal Polished Conch Clock

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

minor signs of age. The clock mechanism is untested and may require servicing to restore full

Category

Early 20th Century American Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass

19th Century Enamel and Gilt Metal Tortoise-Shaped Repeater Clock with Mythologi

$14,252

19th Century Enamel and Gilt Metal Tortoise-Shaped Repeater Clock with Mythologi

Located in Madrid, ES

craftsmanship. The tortoise opens to reveal the clock mechanism, which is in perfect working condition, and

Category

Early 1800s Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Enamel

Antique Northern Swedish County Long Case Clock in Rococo Style

$4,119

Antique Northern Swedish County Long Case Clock in Rococo Style

Located in Kramfors, SE

which adds to the character of the piece. The clock comes with the original clock mechanism, weights

Category

Early 19th Century Swedish Country Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

19th Century Antique Long Case Clock in Rococo Style from Northern Sweden

$2,942

19th Century Antique Long Case Clock in Rococo Style from Northern Sweden

Located in Kramfors, SE

, hence the keyhole-shaped hole at the back. Original clock mechanism, weights and pendulum. The

Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Folk Art Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

Gustavian Swedish Long Case Clock from the Late 1700s, Unusual Straight Shape

$4,648

Gustavian Swedish Long Case Clock from the Late 1700s, Unusual Straight Shape

Located in Kramfors, SE

. The paint has distress and patina with some marks of use. The clock mechanism was working at the time

Category

Late 18th Century Swedish Gustavian Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Pine

19th Century Gilt Bronze Sculpture and Marble Mantel Clock

$2,290

19th Century Gilt Bronze Sculpture and Marble Mantel Clock

Located in LA CIOTAT, FR

finely sculpted bird perched on her lap, adding a naturalistic touch to the scene. The clock mechanism

Category

19th Century French Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Marble, Bronze, Enamel

18th Century Elegant French Louis XIV Hand Carved Tall Case Clock with Rooster

$9,179

18th Century Elegant French Louis XIV Hand Carved Tall Case Clock with Rooster

Located in Lisse, NL

bonnet top with the finest carved flowers and leaves. The clock mechanism is kept in motion by the two

Category

Mid-18th Century French French Provincial Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass, Bronze

A French Louis XV-style Cartel Wall Clock Retailed by Tiffany & Co.

$3,450

A French Louis XV-style Cartel Wall Clock Retailed by Tiffany & Co.

By Samuel Marti, Tiffany & Co.

Located in San Francisco, CA

." The mark "SH" on the clock’s mechanism refers to the French clockmaker Samuel Marti, a highly regarded

Category

Late 19th Century French Rococo Revival Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Bronze, Enamel

Original 1875 EN Welch Gale Drop 5 Dial 6 Hand Complication Calendar Wall Clock

$5,500

Original 1875 EN Welch Gale Drop 5 Dial 6 Hand Complication Calendar Wall Clock

By Welch

Located in Danville, CA

. This clock is made by American EN Welch around 1875 and stamped on the mechanism. Original labels can

Category

1870s American Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass

Burmantofts Faience Foliate Design Yellow Glazed Art Pottery Mantle Clock

$886

Burmantofts Faience Foliate Design Yellow Glazed Art Pottery Mantle Clock

By Burmantofts Pottery

Located in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire

small chip and some glaze fritting to the front edge. The clock mechanism has not been tested but

Category

1890s English Art Deco Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Faience

Large Antique Hand-Painted English Grandfather Clock Commemorating Lord Nelson

$25,000

Large Antique Hand-Painted English Grandfather Clock Commemorating Lord Nelson

By Whitaker & Co., Ltd.

Located in Hamilton, Ontario

clock mechanism is in good working order and chimes on the hour, and we have the original key for it

Category

Early 19th Century English George III Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Metal, Brass

Antique French Gilt Bronze Ormolu-Mounted Onyx Figural Mantel Clock, Circa 1815

$12,900

Antique French Gilt Bronze Ormolu-Mounted Onyx Figural Mantel Clock, Circa 1815

Located in Tarry Town, NY

timepiece is both a technical and artistic tour de force. The clock mechanism is set within the onyx body

Category

1810s Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Onyx, Bronze, Ormolu

18th Century French Louis XV Carved Oak Long-Case Clock from Normandy

$4,100

18th Century French Louis XV Carved Oak Long-Case Clock from Normandy

Located in Dallas, TX

solid oak, the stately grandfather clock stands on a molded straight plinth and features a tall case

Category

Mid-18th Century French Louis XV Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Oak

MID-19th CENTURY LOUIS XV STYLE CLOCK IN GILT BRONZE AND INLAYS

$2,824

MID-19th CENTURY LOUIS XV STYLE CLOCK IN GILT BRONZE AND INLAYS

Located in Firenze, FI

-century French cabinetmaker Boulle. The clock mechanism is in perfect condition and features a weekly

Category

Mid-19th Century French Louis XV Antique Clock Mechanisms

Materials

Brass, Bronze

Decorative Objects Under $1,000

Antique and Vintage Decorative Objects

19th Century Decorative Objects

Wood Decorative Objects

European Decorative Objects

Decorative Objects on Sale

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Antique Clock Mechanisms For Sale on 1stDibs

Find a variety of antique clock mechanisms available on 1stDibs. Frequently made of metal, wood and brass, all antique clock mechanisms available were constructed with great care. There are all kinds of antique clock mechanisms available, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. Victorian, Empire and louis xv antique clock mechanisms are consistently popular styles. Europa Antiques, Winterhalder & Hofmeier and Viennese Manufactory each produced beautiful antique clock mechanisms that are worth considering.

How Much are Antique Clock Mechanisms?

The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $4,285, while they’re typically $179 on the low end and $745,000 highest priced.

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 Clock Mechanisms

What are mechanical clocks?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A mechanical clock is made with an oscillating mechanism that marks the passing time. An escapement counts its beats. The first mechanical clock was made out of iron, and was first seen in medieval Europe. You’ll find a collection of mechanical clocks from many of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How does a mechanical alarm clock work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021
To make a mechanical alarm clock work, you need to use the wind-up keys or buttons to set the time. Mechanical alarm clocks use an oscillating wheel and springs. Most mechanical alarm clocks come with two bells that ring by means of a gear, powered by the mainspring. The gear moves quickly between the two bells, sounding the alarm. Find vintage alarm clocks on 1stDibs.
Who invented the first mechanical clocks?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What were mechanical clocks used for in the Middle Ages?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Mechanical clocks were used for a variety of reasons in the Middle Ages. The clocks were used to keep track of hours for daily prayers. They also helped monks to calculate solar and lunar eclipses, and also determined feast days with accuracy. On 1stDibs, find a collection of mechanical clocks from some of the world’s top sellers.
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.