How to Identify Grandfather Wall Clocks

Grandfather clocks are popular for their beauty and workmanship. They can come in different colors, types of wood, shapes and sounds. Many people have grandfather wall clocks hanging on their living room walls and love to hear them chime on the hour. Grandfather wall clocks are basically scaled down versions of grandfather clocks, which usually are freestanding, resting on the floor and next to the wall.

Instructions

1. Observe the clock's case. A grandfather wall clock has a long case underneath the clock's face that contains a pendulum and weights.

2. See if the clock's case has an access door. The access door allows people to adjust the pendulum and weights as needed to keep the clock running properly. The door is often made of glass, so an owner can see the pendulum.

3. Observe if the clock is weight-driven. This means the weights drive the pendulum and the striking mechanism that rings bells or chimes. Many grandfather wall clocks must be wound each week to keep them working properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when mounting your grandfather wall clock, because these clocks are generally heavy and can be expensive. Carefully follow any directions that are included with the clock.

References

• Antique Clocks: Price and Identification
• Grandfather Clocks
• Gift of Time Clocks

Resources

• Grandfather Wall Clock Examples