Longcase Clock
The Longcase Clock, or grandfather clock, is a form of clock originally designed by an Englishman named William Clement in 1670. A freestanding piece which varies in height from 5ft upwards, the Longcase Clock utilises a weight driven pendulum mechanism with the pendulum held inside the waist, or tower, of the case. Such clocks are still crafted today, yet it is very possible to find older antique clocks for sale.
A clock of this type is often classified as a granddaughter clock, grandmother clock or grandfather clock. Despite there being no hard and fast rule with regards to how to classify your clock, it is common to categorise a clock as follows – Grandfather clocks are typically above 6ft (1.8m) in height, and a clock between 6ft and 5ft (1.5m) is usually regarded as a grandmother. Anything below this can be classed as a granddaughter.
The term ‘Grandfather Clock’ was coined by Henry Clay Work after penning the song ‘My Grandfather’s Clock’ in 1876. As a result of that song, the Long Case Clock is still known by this term today.
This kind of clock is known for its level of ornamentation, which can be found in the form of detailed carvings on the case as well as the bonnet surrounding the clock face. Commonly, longcase clocks are designed to strike to sound the time on each hour or portion of each hour. It is for this reason that the longcase grandfather clock is also known as a Striking Clock.
Due to their striking appearance and ornate decoration, it is not uncommon these timepieces to be lovingly maintained and kept as antique clocks. It is very possible to find pieces that are over a hundred years old.
Today, Longcase Clocks are made with an eight day movement, but were originally made with either one of two movements – the eight day movement, or the less expensive 30 hour variety.
The eight day movement clock requires less winding, usually once a week. Such a clock normally has two keyholes in order to wind the two driving weights of the clock, one for the striking mechanism and the other for the pendulum. Conversely, the 30 day movement clock only requires a single weight to drive both its pendulum and striking mechanism. However, this type of Longcase clock also requires daily winding. It is still possible to find Antique Clocks using a 30 day movement. They can usually still be found with a false second keyhole. The original purpose of the second keyhole was to make it seem as if the owner had purchased the more expensive eight day movement Long Case Clock.
Today, Longcase Clocks are still in production, with new craftsmen upholding the tradition high standards of workmanship maintained since the clock’s inception. Two such manufacturers are Howard Miller and Hermle. A Howard Miller Grandfather Clock comes from the largest manufacturer of such clocks in the world. The manufacturer has been running since 1926 and as such you can be sure of a Howard clocks quality. Similarly, Hermle Clocks have been manufactured since 1922 and are known for their quality craftsmanship and exquisite movements.
These are not the only modern manufacturers of Longcase Clocks by any means; while this website does recommend them, there are many quality manufatruers of Grandfather Clocks as well as those that have antique grandfather clocks for sale.
If you are a Grandfather Clock manufacturer or otherwise work with these clocks, please contact us to discuss being mentioned on this website. We would love to spread the name of as many as possible that are involved in the manufacture, sale of and upkeep of these wonderful instruments.