Heirloom Carriage Clocks History

By Albert Kessnerr

Through centuries, families have treated carriage clocks a precious heirloom piece. These wonderful pieces were actually made as a tribute to man's discovery for his love to travel, which became a staple for the fancy and convenience of rich travelers during those times. Heirloom carriage clocks are certainly no ordinary clock pieces, they are easily recognizable. Thanks to their distinct style and intricate craftsmanship.

After their invention, these clocks were a staple of travelers. They grew steadily in popularity. By the 1800s, they became quite popular and were a common wedding gift. Today they are still a valued timepiece and quite popular as a collector's item or as home dcor.

Heirloom carriage clocks are mid-sized clocks, relatively bigger than today's modern travel clocks. Its polished rectangular shape is designed practically to keep the clock upright, withstanding the bumpy road travels or carriages, which are the common mode of transportation during the 19th century.

These clocks have a distinct look that makes them easy to identify. The case is usually a polished brass or metal. The face is glass covered, usually with a porcelain background. The background may be decorated. The antique-style of these clocks usually has elaborate paintings on the background.

The large handle of the clock is intended to carry a specific type of chime or bell to alert the owner of the hour. Additional features include inlaid details and scrolls, gemstones other special wood embellishments. While modern carriage clocks make use of quartz in its mechanisms, genuine antique carriage clocks make use of spring-driven mechanisms.

Although authentic reproduction of the heirloom clocks is available, most of the modern clocks are designed to replicate the original ones with less details and simple designs for affordability. Most of the features are disregarded like the paintings, etchings on the wood, elaborated decorations, spring-driven precisions, and the delicately chosen chimes which are all present in most antique heirloom clocks.

Nothing beats the original carriage clocks. They are as precious as any jewel a family could pass on from generations to generations. To easily spot the original from the seemingly original copies, pay attention to the details.

The rich history of heirloom carriage clocks has won an endearing spot to the hearts of so many families. From the time it was created, it was cherished as an intricate piece of art. With the current rage in contemporary home space designs, many will still be willing to invest on some pieces of antique carriage clocks as symbol for eternity in withstanding centuries of elegance and distinct artistry. - 29955

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