Making an Educated Decision: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying the Right Grandfather Clock

Howard Miller Elgin Grandfather Clock

Grandfather clocks have been a household staple for decades, signifying sophistication and prestige in every home they inhabit. Generally, they are easy to recognize with their long wooden structures and classic features, such as polished pendulums or soothing chimes.

And, if someone were to invest in one of these showstoppers, it would only benefit them to educate themselves before making the final purchase.

Therefore, as a prospective buyer, you should take into account some of our easy to follow guidelines. We aim to make sure you understand all the options available to you so you can make an informed decision, leaving you with a beautiful grandfather clock (and no stressful doubts).

For your convenience, we’ve included information on certain distinguishable parts of a grandfather clock; crucial factors to watch out for before and after choosing; and ideas for care and maintenance in specific areas of the home that are best suited to place one of these lovely timepieces.

Meanwhile, we’ll also be describing some of the finest models on the market today, which are readily available at ClockShops.com.

What Constitutes the Making of a Grandfather Clock

Grandfather clocks, also known as longcase clocks, are tall in size, able to stand freely without supports, and weight-driven pendulums inside their towers.  They often stand somewhere between six and eight feet tall, giving them an impressive stance within a household. 

Howard Miller Coolidge

The exterior of these pieces can feature intricately-carved designs on their hoods, or bonnets that frame the dial of the clock at its center. However, many of the more modern grandfather clocks have high-end finishes and more contemporary materials and stylings as well.

These elaborate timepieces have held on to their reputation as some of the most accurate timekeeping devices for centuries. In fact, they would often be the only source of time in most homes or businesses, back in the day. However, the onset of digital and battery-powered devices in our generation has minimalized their use as the only timekeeper in the home.

Most grandfather clocks are still run on traditional, keywound movements. But some newer models are now coming equipped as quartz-operated devices, where only a few batteries can keep them running for over a year or more.

Now that you have an idea of how grandfather clocks are constructed and operated, we can begin to discuss how best to evaluate a clock before purchasing and suitable places for them to stay within your home. 

The Best Things to Consider Before, During and After Buying a Grandfather Clock

Sure, people are known for making an abundance of reckless purchases in their life, some which generally have no residual effect on their lives thereafter.

But purchasing a grandfather clock requires some background information, so as not to make a risky and disappointing (not to mention costly) mistake. Doing your due diligence in learning about them is advisable before saying ‘yes!’ right out of the gate.

Things to be mindful of:

1.      Perform a price comparisons between other sellers.

Prices for grandfather clocks are hefty. If you can score a better deal on the same item (without sacrificing dependability or condition), why wouldn’t you?! Do your homework, shop around, and figure out your options from there.

Thankfully, Expressions of Time offers all of their merchandise at very affordable prices, from top name brands you can depend on!  Our prices are the lowest allowed by the manufacturer.  If you find the same clock at a lower price, be aware that the manufacturer will not honor the warranty.  If you require warranty work, an original invoice will be requested.

2.      Transportation methods are crucial.

The last thing you want to do is conduct all of the previous work in inspecting your grandfather clock, buy it outright...and aim to bring it home yourself, causing potential harm to yourself or the purchase.

If you want to move the clock yourself out of the store, maybe even with the help of friends or family members, first be wary of its size and weight. Consider your options for moving it from one place to another.

Most modern clock purchases do come with an offer for a warranty. So if you must deal with transportation on your own terms, it would be smart to look into warranties beforehand.  Damage is not covered under warranty.

However, it seems most advisable to let the professional movers handle the methods of its transportation to your home. After all, you’ve spent ample amounts of time and money on your new grandfather clock; it would be heartbreaking to watch any harm or damage come to it at this stage in the buy.

Once your grandfather clock has been delivered or shipped, another inspection of the clock would be wise. Check for damaged or missing pieces, and make sure it operates as it should. 

3.      The best advice for last: account for its size.

Decide where you want to place the grandfather clock in your home (there will be advice on this in the next segment). Take measurements of the space you’re considering. Take stock of the other furniture of the room and consider its placement amongst these furnishings. And use these findings to help make a wise choice when looking into your grandfather clock.

After all, we already mentioned that these oversized timekeepers can reach between six and eight feet tall. They do take up a good portion of space in a room. Make sure it can fit properly, both width- and length-wise.

You want the purchase of your new grandfather clock to be a great experience. Don’t let ignorance or misinformation ruin it. Take heed of these few guidelines, and give yourself the opportunity for a hassle-free situation, worthy of your time and energy.

Suitable Rooms for Displaying Your Grandfather Clock

You can make great strides in the care and maintenance of your grandfather clock simply by putting it in the best spot available in your home.  

Park Avenue with Tubular Chime

If you purchase a grandfather clock built with wooden materials, you should treat it as you would any other wooden furnishings in your home. Keep it from the harshest damage by setting it away from the elements. Set yourself up for regular dusting, cleaning (with only a slightly damp towel) and other maintenance work on the timepiece.

Due to its complex engineering and design, you may even want to consider having it professionally cleaned once in a while. That way you can avoid improper cleaning methods or damage to the clock’s many interior and exterior pieces.

Beyond these helpful tips, choosing a suitable room for the clock to settle can certainly make a difference in its overall care.

Ensuring that your grandfather clock rests in a space not susceptible to temperature or humidity fluctuations is very important. Therefore, avoid areas right next to fireplaces or doorways, and keep the grandfather clock out of spaces that receive direct sunlight for too many hours a day.

Best Rooms for Placement: Foyers, Entry Halls, Public Spaces

Foyers and grand entryways are great areas to keep your grandfather clock (given that you have higher ceilings and enough room to not block the front entrance). These timepieces are known for being splendid heirlooms, items to be showcased for guests and family alike. Placement in these areas ensure its visibility, and truly give it room to make a statement all on its own.

However, since many models are made of wooden materials, environmental factors do come into play. Make sure the area is large enough to not store it directly in line with doorways, so as to avoid letting inclement weather compromise the clock’s surfaces. Placing it at the end of the hallway, or in those awkward angles next to staircases or front hallway closets, would be a better choice for it to settle. 

Beyond that, living rooms, sitting rooms, and open staircase landings are all fine places to seat your grandfather clock as well. Plenty of attention to be hand in public areas such as these, where foot traffic throughout the day is most present. 

Worst Rooms for Placement: Kitchens, Dining Rooms, Bathrooms, Mud Rooms or Sunrooms

Again, grandfather clocks built with wooden structures (as many are) have the potential to be harmed by temperature changes and environmental factors.

Placing your grandfather clock in or near areas such as the kitchen or bathroom is just asking for warped and eroded wood cases. The high heat and steam/humidity from these spots will lead to permanent damage over time, as will any areas in the vicinity (hence, the mention of the dining room). 

Also, avoid spots in the home that may have no insulation in the walls, such as mud rooms or sunrooms. Temperature fluctuations occur as the seasons change, and any consistent contact from direct sunlight will cause the same warping, eroding and fading problems with your materials and finishes. 

 With all of this information in mind, you’re certainly on your way to making an educated decision (and a successful purchase) on a new grandfather clock for your home!

Shop ClockShops.com, and Find the Perfect Grandfather Clock For Your Home

For a new timepiece that’s beautiful, functional, and manufactured from reputable sources, browse through the merchandise from Expressions of Time.

Diana Floor Clock

In fact, choosing to purchase your grandfather clock from ClockShops.com is the smartest decision you can make, hands down.

After all, we have a wide variety of exquisite grandfather clocks from high-quality brands like Howard Miller, Kieninger and Ridgeway.

For something to fit your modern tastes, invest in something like the Howard Miller Blayne Quartz Modern Grandfather Clock or the Howard Miller UrbanFloor III Grandfather Clock. These two high-fashion timekeepers are designed in contemporary silver and black finishes, with polished chrome features and streamlined framework. Whether you’re filling a space in a contemporary home or an industrial loft, you won’t find anything more cool and chic than these two beauties.

If you prefer something a bit more traditional, look into something like the Ridgeway Morgantown Traditional Grandfather Clock or the Kieninger Josephine Vienna-Style Regulator Floor Clock. Made with the finest hardwoods and featuring the quintessential ornate accents, these two longcase timepieces are the epitome of what grandfather clocks have represented throughout history. Both would make fantastic heirlooms, ready to hand down through a multitude of generations.

Most importantly, our focus on the precious care and maintenance of our select items has been paramount to our success. And helping our customers find their most suitable timepiece is something we take great pride in.

So don’t waste your time and energy searching any longer than you need to.

Put your trust in one of the most dependable, honest and hard-working companies in the industry. Pick your new grandfather clock from ClockShops.com, and feel secure in knowing you’ll soon own a stunning timepiece, made from only the very best in the business.

Never Worry About Barren Walls Again! Introducing 15 Modern Wall Clocks Perfectly Suited to Fill That Empty Space

Decorating your home is what gives your space personality, giving a glimpse of your own style and good taste to all who enter.

Hanging artwork on the walls is notably the tried-and-true method of decorating in most modern homes today. Others go beyond this trend and create other patterns out of everyday materials, using perhaps shaped mirrors or floating shelving units for added storage and display space.

Well why not add in a piece that’s both beautifully-designed and highly-functional? Something you can happily display that also serves a purpose in helping you throughout your busy day?

We’re talking about fashionable wall clocks, and they are a delight in anyone’s home!

Sophisticated wall clocks have made quite the trend themselves for centuries, serving as centerpieces that reflect higher status and prestige within a family. Some of the more elegant timekeepers were even passed down through generations of family members, living on as heirlooms from a classier time.

Despite the advent of technology and electronic devices, decorative clocks in the home have never lost their grace.

And this collection of 15 high-quality, modern timekeepers would make a great addition for any home.

For the Simple Yet Chic Modern Look:

1.      The Amelie Oversized Bronze Wall Clock from Uttermost

Monochromatic colors and metallic accents are all the rage of the 21st century home decor style. This

high-end model, featured with rustic bronzed metals and silver highlights make this a perfect fit for your ultra-hip locale. Its mirrored face is also a gem for those with smaller living areas, as they open up a space by making it look larger.

So if you’re looking for that special something to emphasize your plush white couches, dark hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances, this new-age, oversized wall clock is an essential piece that will tie everything together.

2.      The Howard Miller Oversized Contemporary Wall Clock Zander II

You won’t find anything more modern than this rectangular-shaped wall clock with all the right classy features. The high-gloss black finish is shiny and attractive, ready to hang neatly beside your big flatscreen tv or in your updated home office.

The chrome-finished hour markers create a fun spark design for a big payoff, making a statement in a room that may otherwise need a personal touch. And the red clock hands give just enough color to make them pop without being overbearing or gaudy.

3.      The Frank Lloyd Wright Luxfer Prism Wall Clock

Feast your eyes on this wall clock replicated from the designs of an artistic genius. Wright, a very

popular and well-received architect, spent his life creating high-end homes and commercial buildings. Each of his projects were their own work of art, and clockmakers (and avid Wright fans) were inspired to fashion together their own tributes to his designs.

This clock model is a nod to Wright’s prism wall features of the Luxfer building, with its metal frame contorted into geometric patterns. Its otherwise simplistic clock face puts all the attention on the triangular design work, making this a necessary accessory in the homes of the Millennial set who follow the hipster trend of today.

4.      The Rhythm Espresso II Contemporary Wooden Musical Clock 

Need a clock stately enough for your home office? Look no further than this chic wall clock that brings both elegance and subtle sophistication. The rich espresso color will blend into a wood-tone study or office effortlessly, while the silver pendulum and black dial give enough modern accents to keep it hip and fresh for a modern home.

It’s also designed to play up to 18 different melodies, so you can keep a stress-free environment listening to these soft harmonies day in and day out.

5.      The Brilliant Black Glass Clock with Transparent Swirl Design

If you want a little more edge to your clock design without seeming too out of place in a modern

setting, than this lovely glass timepiece will hit the spot. The monochromatic colors keep it stylish and suitable with other high-end finishes in you home. However, the curved glass structure of the frame and the beautiful swirl motif give an air of originality and artistry that may be missing in other modern decor.

So spruce up your basic furniture with this fancy wall clock, to not only highlight your space but make smart, decorative choices for your contemporary living space.

For the Modern Look With a Pop of Color:

Neutral colors and glossy materials are the true elements of modern style, but sometimes they can seem almost too drab. Fierce personalities need some color in their life, and these wall clocks will add that splash of character to their home without sacrificing sophistication.

6.      The Two Chefs Square Glass Kitchen Wall Clock

Yes, even kitchen decor needs renovating once in awhile. And this fun and elegantly-fashioned clock will do wonders for the busiest space in the house.

Made by artisan glass makers in Hungary, this cute and classy timepiece gives your kitchen warmth and familiarity. The leaning chef figures and pop of red color add a little spice and passion to suit a room dedicated to delicious home cooking.

7.      The Howard Miller Prairie Ridge Wall Clock

This cool, multi-colored clock adds subtle hues so it doesn’t

overwhelm your space, but gives it some life as well. And its industrial feel leaves it in perfect condition to fit beside your other modern furnishings.

The large Arabic numerals and oversized frame would look beautiful as a centerpiece on a wall over the living room couch, or hanging in a chic, contemporary loft with high ceilings and industrial accents.

8.      The Kieninger Asymtrique Mechanical Regulator Wall Clock

This modern and elegant wall clock has almost too many features to address at once. Its long, pillar-like shape make it highly adaptable to any wall space, and the olive-wood veneer sets off a warm-colored wooden tone to make it noticeable in any space.

And the skeleton movement alone is enough to draw the eye. Once can get lost in time watching its intricate mechanisms all work in conjunction with each other. Essentially, the slim designs of both the technical and artistic aspects of this clock make it a prime choice as a modern, ornamental piece for any home.

9.      The Howard Miller Harmon 26 ¼” Decorative Wall Clock

A unique clock that blends contemporary and antique, you can’t go wrong bringing it into your home.

Fashioned with wrought iron framing and pendulum, this timekeeper may at first appear too old-fashioned for a modern environment. But it’s cool blue accents, including the bright blue of the clock dial, lend a hand to its contemporary look.

And furthermore, the charcoal and brass accents still give a hint of chrome that will automatically coincide with the metallic finishes of today’s interior decorating styles.

1   The Quartz Musical Cuckoo Clock

Amp up the style and the color with this adorably pink cuckoo clock. While it may be less traditional than other modern clocks of today, the hand-carved imagery and sounds of nature ready to play at the top of the hour are worth every penny.

This model would be perfect hanging in a cozy sunroom, or in any room that needs some elements of character or whimsical joy.

For a Modern Look That Still Favors Unique, Original Highlights:

Let’s be honest: many of today’s stylings can be found a dime a dozen, as mass production has taken over and online shopping has accelerated demand for the same, overused furnishings.

Don’t fall into the same old trap; choose one of these quirky wall clocks that still won’t take away from your modern ideal.

     The Alphonse 30” Three-Dimensional Wall Clock from Uttermost

You certainly won’t find another clock like this on the market. The hand-forged iron and three-dimensional frame are a work of art all on their own. Yet the silver-leaf finish and natural iron quality still fit into the realm of modern and industrial decor.

Find a spot for this unique timepiece in a grand foyer or as a large fixture in a family room setting. Everyone will want to know where you found it.

1    The Howard Miller Cle DuVille Wall Clock

Another nod to hipster fashion, this clock has elements of both chic and antique. After all, the skeleton key hour markers are enough to qualify this amazing wall clock as unique.

And while this clock may have a simplistic, aged background at first glance, look a little closer. The names of well-known French cities are faded into the background, adding an extra bit of original flair to this stunning yet simplistic wall clock.

     The Howard Miller Wine Barrel Wall Clock

Who doesn’t enjoy a delicious glass of vino? Share your culinary taste in your wall decor by picking up this wall clock with wine barrel accents. The dial, made of Oak Yorkshire finished wood and metal bands, adds a rustic, original charm to the piece (and your home) as well.

This would make a lovely decorative piece for your kitchen, dining room, or the sitting room for welcoming your guests with a nice beverage.

     The Spokes Aged WallClock

Are you or anyone you know a bicycle enthusiast? Then check out this awesome wall clock, fashioned to look like the wheel of a modern bicycle. The antiqued silver champagne finishes and black, rubber-like frame simply ask for attention, worthy of a place in your modern home as a truly original work of art.

     




     The Rombach und Haas Filigree Wall Clock

Made in Germany, this contemporary yet traditional wall clock is the best of both worlds, and quirky in style to boot. The cleverly modern and sophisticated color choices mix with an old-school filigree design perfectly. And you can even enjoy the sounds of nature when the animated bird announces its arrival on the hour!

This intricately-crafted wall clock is a solid and stunningly artistic choice for any modern home.

When it comes to contemporary styling, neutral tones and high-shine features don’t always have to be the only answer to a modern home. Furthermore, artwork and framed posters are great accessories for decorating, but they still leave something to be desired sometimes.

Whether you want something simple yet elegant, wonderfully colorful or full of unique character, consider incorporating some modern wall clocks in your home decor.

They never go out of fashion, and often times they leave a warm and sentimental token of your family home that’s hard to replicate with anything else.

So browse through this selection of lovely, decorative wall clocks and give yourself some beautiful and endlessly useful accessories to fill those empty spaces in your home for years to come.