Patek Carriage Clock
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20th Century European Campaign Carriage Clocks and Travel Clocks
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Vintage 1930s Swiss Romantic Carriage Clocks and Travel Clocks
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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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A repeating carriage clock is a type of portable timekeeping device used during the 19th century until wristwatches became commonplace near the start of the 20th century. The clock featured chimes that rang a specific number of times to mark the hours. "Repeating" refers to the fact that a person could push a button to repeat the chime pattern if they wished. Shop a variety of antique carriage clocks on 1stDibs.
- How do I find a carriage clock?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022There are a number of ways that you can find a carriage clock. Perhaps the simplest option is to shop on a reputable online platform, such as 1stDibs. Alternatively, you can check antique shops, estate sales, yard sales, flea markets and auction houses, as well as local classified ads posted in newspapers and on social media. You'll find a collection of carriage clocks on 1stDibs.
- How does a carriage clock work?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021Carriage clocks are spring-driven clocks; the spring has to be rewound every eight days for accuracy. The distinguishing feature of a carriage clock is platform escapement. It uses balance and spring for timekeeping.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Carriage clocks were used to tell time while traveling during the 19th-century. The clocks were lighter and smaller than timepieces used in homes, making them more portable. After the invention of wristwatches in 1868, carriage clocks became less necessary and gradually faded in popularity. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique carriage clocks.
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