Collectible Mantel Clocks

Fireplace owners often like to decorate them. One of the most common decorations is collectible mantel clocks.

Most collectible clocks were created in the 1800s, when Eli Terry patented small works for a clock. This led to a surge of small box-shaped clocks that could easily be placed on shelves, which led to the development of the mantel clock. The fireplace is an ideal place for displaying a collectible mantel clock, since the fireplace is the focal point of the room.

Victorian mantel clocks are highly prized. They are made marble and bronze, and elaborately decorated. However, many other materials have been used for collectible clocks. Iron and white metal are other viable alternatives, as are fine woods.  In America, marble case clocks were prohibitively expensive, so wood cases were painted to look like marble, and many models with that design survive to the present day.

Most mantel clocks have similar designs. The main type of designs on these clocks are incised lines, usually gilded. Pillars and scrolls are also common on the boxier cases of mantel clocks, while gothic arches adorn some of the more elaborately carved cases. Collectible clocks usually have stain or paint as a finish.

Related Information

Antique Fireplace Mantels
Antique fireplace mantels can be carved and sculpted, and were found in the courts of Kings Louis XIV and Louis XV.

Andirons
Andirons are used for holding logs for burning.