These distinctive time timepieces have been around since the 19th century, having been made specifically for use in carriages as the vast majority of people never wore wristwatches in those days. Unfortunately though, times were changing as more and more people started carrying their own watches and by the time the 1860s arrived, the regal looking carriage clocks were no longer required.
Generally speaking, carriage clocks were approximately five and a half inches in height by five inches wide. Admittedly, this size of carriage clock was on the small end of the scale and many designs were a lot bigger than this, depending on the individual manufacturers. Another interesting trend between manufacturers in those days, was to mount the actual clocks inside a casing. In fact, many carriage clocks were totally concealed within a rigid leather compartment and passengers would have to open the case if they wanted to see what time it was. Another common feature of carriage clocks is the fact that they nearly always have a handle, thus allowing them to be carried. While the vast majority of clocks were made from robust metals such as polished brass, there were also some crafted from pure gold for the rich elite.
It's not uncommon for carriage clocks to have beautiful scenes painted on the face but the early French ones in particular, are renowned for the beauty of the scenes and in some cases, even porcelain was used for the face itself. Of course, these high-end clocks would have graced the homes of the wealthy or at the very least, a special place in the carriage.
While many carriage clocks are made to play various melodies at different times of the day, not all are, although nearly all of them will chime on the hour. There are even some clocks with an elaborate arrangement of bells which will alert you as yet another half hour passes by.
Many of the older clocks in particular, have exquisitely crafted spring loaded mechanisms which in turn prompted many manufacturers to leave a section of the casing off, thus allowing one to admire the internal features.
Nowadays, those decorative carriage clocks which so many people have on the mantle rely on quartz movement and are powered by batteries instead.
Gone are the days when you'd have spent a full day, or even days searching for that special carriage clock. Instead, with the help of the internet, shoppers can shop the world from the comfort of the home. Even those enthusiasts in search of genuine old carriage clocks can take advantage of the many online auctions.
Generally speaking, carriage clocks were approximately five and a half inches in height by five inches wide. Admittedly, this size of carriage clock was on the small end of the scale and many designs were a lot bigger than this, depending on the individual manufacturers. Another interesting trend between manufacturers in those days, was to mount the actual clocks inside a casing. In fact, many carriage clocks were totally concealed within a rigid leather compartment and passengers would have to open the case if they wanted to see what time it was. Another common feature of carriage clocks is the fact that they nearly always have a handle, thus allowing them to be carried. While the vast majority of clocks were made from robust metals such as polished brass, there were also some crafted from pure gold for the rich elite.
It's not uncommon for carriage clocks to have beautiful scenes painted on the face but the early French ones in particular, are renowned for the beauty of the scenes and in some cases, even porcelain was used for the face itself. Of course, these high-end clocks would have graced the homes of the wealthy or at the very least, a special place in the carriage.
While many carriage clocks are made to play various melodies at different times of the day, not all are, although nearly all of them will chime on the hour. There are even some clocks with an elaborate arrangement of bells which will alert you as yet another half hour passes by.
Many of the older clocks in particular, have exquisitely crafted spring loaded mechanisms which in turn prompted many manufacturers to leave a section of the casing off, thus allowing one to admire the internal features.
Nowadays, those decorative carriage clocks which so many people have on the mantle rely on quartz movement and are powered by batteries instead.
Gone are the days when you'd have spent a full day, or even days searching for that special carriage clock. Instead, with the help of the internet, shoppers can shop the world from the comfort of the home. Even those enthusiasts in search of genuine old carriage clocks can take advantage of the many online auctions.
About the Author:
Author Matthew Roberts is a big fan ofCarriage Clocks. These elegant timepieces are making a big comeback. But before you buy anything online, make sure you look at these regalbrass carriage clocks and handmade wooden carriage clocks.
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