Collectible Mantel Clocks
Welcome to Collectible Mantel Clocks. We display hundreds of beautiful mantle clocks for you to choose from. The internet enables you to find the rarest of antique mantel clocks and to find as many examples of the type of clock you are looking for, so that you can compare and choose the one in the best condition. The condition of an antique clock is important to its value and collectability. However, remember that these clocks can usually be repaired and can still be an object of beauty in your home, even if they do not work as timepieces. We have a great variety of collectible mantel clocks, including Sessions mantel clocks, chimes mantel clocks, vintage mantel clocks and Ingraham mantel clocks. We hope you enjoy browsing our collectible mantle clocks and that you visit us often.
The mantel clock dates back to pre-Revolution France in the 1750s. These hand-constructed clocks were a social symbol, placed above the fireplaces of France's bourgeois class. They were wonderfully ornate pieces made from such materials as bronze, silver, porcelain, and onyx. In the 1860s, they became popular in America where many fine craftsmen made them from other materials including wood and iron. This has left us with a number of beautiful old antique mantel clocks that are the perfect addition of beauty and timeless elegance to any room.
It is important to consider the clock's history, particularly if you are a collector, when shopping for a mantel clock. Usually, an older clock will have a higher value than a clock that was built more recently, depending upon its condition. It can sometimes be difficult to date an antique clock, but there are a few indicators to give you a general idea. Many clock makers inscribed signatures on the back of clocks and these can provide clues as to when it might have been built. Also, a clock's features may provide clues as to when it was made. For example, coiled wire gongs were not used in clocks until the 1840s, while chime rods were not introduced until 1890. In many cases, discovering the history of a mantel clock is nearly as exciting as owning the actual clock itself.
While many antique mantel clocks were built by independent clockmakers, those more recently made are manufactured by larger companies. These mantel clocks may not have the same antique appeal, but are of exceptional quality. One of the most well-known and well-respected names in the clock industry is the Seth Thomas Company, which has been making clocks since 1813. It has a reputation for quality and is still producing clocks today. Other major brand names include Ansonia, Ingraham, and Sessions. The brand name or company logo is often displayed somewhere on any classic mantle clock.
When looking to buy a mantle clock, personal taste is one of the most important factors. Collectible mantel clocks can come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles: some contain extremely intricate designs, while others are elegant in a more understated way. Some have a wooden base, while others have a metallic base. Ideally, a good mantel clock will be a point of focus in your living room, while still fitting in with its overall design. The mantel clock is much more than just a functional timepiece. It is a symbol of elegance. No other piece of furniture can match the brilliance of a beautifully crafted antique mantel clock.