Antique Mantel Clocks
One of the most interesting and exciting collectibles is the antique mantle clock.
Mantle clocks have been made since the 1750s and many of them are among the most beautiful timepieces ever created. They sit on the shelf over the fireplace which is known as the mantel or mantle and are usually a small mechanical clock with metal workings and a metal face. Traditional American ones have a wooden case and a very distinctive look. Many antique French mantle clocks are very ornate.
Most of the ones manufactured in the United States contained chimes that sounded on the hour or half hour. Like most mechanical movements antique ones do have to be wound on a regular basis.
Many American families have ones that have been passed down for generations. They were a popular home furnishing in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its easy to locate them in antique stores and on online auction sites such as eBay.
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