If you need a new clock or just want to switch out your old one, you may pick from a wide variety of styles. There are many different types of longcase clocks available, such as Howard Miller and Comtoise models, as well as longcase, Comtoise, Morez, and Morez.
Large-Faced Clocks
There are two common types of movements for longcase clocks. First, there was the daily winding mechanism for the one-day (30-hour) movement. The second type of movement was an 8-day mechanism that needed to be wound once every week.
In the 1600s, England was the birthplace of the first longcase clocks. These clocks were first produced in London in 1650, and by 1660, the process had been refined. At the period, a longcase clock in England typically cost PS1 10s.
Although the longcase clock has a number of distinguishing characteristics, its most distinctive feature is its pendulum movement, which swings back and forth. The case houses the pendulum, and the weights are suspended from the ceiling by wires. Timekeeping accuracy requires regular rebalancing of the weights.
The fact that it is rather large is another an identifying trait. The typical length of a longcase clock is between 2 and 6 feet. Large clocks are known as grandfather clocks, while smaller ones are called grandmother clocks.
The striking system is another distinguishing characteristic. The striking mechanism of a contemporary clock is often a bell or chimes. Striking the hour is done with the left weight, while the right weight powers the quarter hour chimes.
Mechanical Clocks That are Wound by a Chain
Questions concerning the weights used to wind a chain-driven grandfather or grandmother clock are common, whether you're shopping for a new one or looking to upgrade. Fortunately, it's not hard to figure out what weights will work best for your model.
Clock weights in a grandpa or grandmother model that is wound by a chain or cable. Their torque is transmitted to the clock's mechanisms through sprockets.
The main force acts onto the winding chain of the clock. The remaining pieces are tiny weights that prevent the chain from slipping off the sprocket.
It might be time to change the clock's second hand if it has one. If the chime starts to lose its strength, it will need to be changed as well.
Seeking advice from your clock's manufacturer on the proper weights to use is the best way to ensure that your heirloom keeps ticking for generations to come. They should be able to provide you with the appropriate details, and the movement's back plate should identify the maker.
Comtoise, Morez, and Morbier Clocks
Historically, grandfather and grandmother clocks such as Comtoise, Morbier, and Morez were crafted in France. As far as we can tell, the first examples of this style of clock appeared around 1680. It was at first envisioned as a complete long-case clock. Pine was a popular material, and they were typically painted in a rustic manner. The original round face was replaced with a square dial in later versions.
In the 18th century, an eight-day system with a two-train movement that strikes a silvered bell replaced the clock mechanism. This new feature gave the clock the option of running silently or with chimes, making it a useful addition. The eight-day clocks are very low maintenance, needing to be wound once per week at most. Two cast-iron weights provide the impetus. In this case, the pin wheel escapement is installed in the space between the posts.
The usage of a fronton made of stamped brass first appeared in the nineteenth century. Brass elements such as a sunburst, a basket of flowers, classical anthemion decorations, and a cornucopia were also imprinted on the pediment frontons. There was normally a Mayet cadet at the Toulouse dial with the fronton.
Precision Timepieces by Howard Miller
Howard Miller's selection of grandfather and grandmother clocks has several options to suit your taste, whether it be for a classic or modern aesthetic. You can discover anything within your price range among their items, since they provide a wide variety of pricing points.
The Howard Miller factory is located in Zeeland, Michigan, where they make their famous grandfather and grandmother clocks. There's many varieties of grandfather clock .The production process combines cutting-edge machinery with traditional methods of making things by hand. This contributes to their status as a well recognized product. You may get them from thrift stores, antique malls, and estate sales. Authorized online retailers also stock them.
In the year 1937, the Howard Miller Clock Company was established. They branched off from the Herman Miller furniture firm. Producing mantle clocks and wall clocks was its initial focus. However, following WWII, the firm began producing items for the armed forces.
High-end Kieninger Grandfather Clock movements are at the heart of the Howard Miller Ambassador Grandfather Clock Collection. Those beautiful cases are all American-made, right down to the genuine wood used. Each of the clocks has a unique pattern of design.
