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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.
- How do I wind a banjo clock?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To wind a banjo clock, insert the key into the winding point. Turn the key in a clockwise fashion until the winding mechanism disengages. If you no longer have the winding key, see an experienced clock repair shop for assistance. You'll find a variety of banjo clocks on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To wind an Elliott clock, first, find the slot in the back. Insert the key or crank and turn until the winding mechanism doesn't move anymore. Avoid forcing the mechanism any further to prevent damage. On 1stDibs, shop a range of clocks from some of the world's top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021It is best to carry small alarm clocks when traveling. You’ll want to choose a durable travel alarm clock — one that is portable and packed well to avoid breakage over a long journey. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary travel alarm clocks from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 24, 2021To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 16, 2024How you set your Westclox alarm clock depends on the model. Typically, you begin by pushing the “mode” button and then using the up and down keys to set the hours and minutes. However, specific instructions vary from clock to clock. Searching for your clock's model number can allow you to access step-by-step directions for your particular clock, or you can check the usage instructions that came with your clock. Explore a selection of Westclox clocks on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022To wind an Ansonia mantel clock, first insert the key into the center winding point, usually found on the back. Then, turn the key clockwise until the winder no longer turns. Repeat the process in the right winding point to set the quarter-hour charm and the left winding point to set the hour strike. You'll find a range of Ansonia clocks on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022How you set an Arne Jacobsen alarm clock depends on the model. Many of the clocks feature two knobs on the back. One sets the time, and the other controls the alarm. New clocks designed under the Arne Jacobsen name come with instructions that can guide you through the process. You'll find a range of Arne Jacobsen clocks on 1stDibs.
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