Glass grandfather clocks, with their elegant design and exquisite craftsmanship, are not only functional timepieces but also serve as stunning works of art that can elevate the ambiance of any room. Whether gracing the walls of a home or enhancing the décor of a public space, these timeless pieces are bound to leave a lasting impression with their beauty and charm.
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A glass grandfather clock is a longcase clock that features a glass casing surrounding the clock mechanism. The inner workings of the clock are visible through the glass casing creating a fascinating view.
The grandfather clock, also known as a longcase clock, originated in England in the late 17th century. The first known example was built by William Clement in 1670, and over time, the design of the grandfather clock evolved to include more ornate features such as chimes and intricate woodwork.
The clocks were often commissioned by wealthy people and were considered a symbol of prestige and status. In the 18th and 19th centuries, grandfather clocks became more commonplace and were used in homes and public spaces.
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The glass casing is the crowning jewel that elevates the grandfather clock from an ordinary timekeeper to a mesmerizing work of art. It is typically a rectangular shape that surrounds the clock mechanism, revealing the intricate movements and delicate balance of gears and weights.
Made of clear or stained glass and framed in wood or metal, the glass casing serves as a shield, protecting the clock from dust, debris, and potential damage that could cause damage or affect its accuracy. The glass casing also provides an opportunity for clock owner viewing the clock's intricate movements and mechanisms.
There are several different types of glass that can be used in the casing of a glass grandfather clock. The most common types include clear glass, beveled glass, and stained glass.
Clear glass is the most straightforward option that has no additional elements. This allows a clear view of the clock's inner workings. Clear glass is commonly used for a glass door. Clear glass is a classic choice that works well with traditional designs.
In contrast, beveled glass features angled edges that form a prism-like effect. This feature produces a unique visual effect that varies depending on the angle of light that illuminates it. Beveled glass can add a more contemporary touch.
Stained glass is a great option for those who seek a more vibrant and decorative touch to their grandfather clock. With the ability to create intricate patterns or even full-blown scenes, it adds an artistic flair to the clock's design. The use of stained glass can introduce a higher level of artistry to the clock's overall design.
Tempered glass is often used for the glass casing of a grandfather clock due to its durability and safety features. It is made by heating regular glass to a high temperature and then rapidly cooling it, which makes it four to five times stronger than regular glass. This makes it an ideal material for the glass casing of a grandfather clock, as it not only provides a clear view of the clock's inner workings but also offers protection against potential hazards.
Just like a picture frame enhances the beauty of a painting, the frame of a glass grandfather clock plays a crucial role in its overall appearance. It is like the backbone of the clock, providing a sturdy structure that holds the glass casing and clock mechanism in place.
Wooden frames are a classic choice that can add warmth and elegance to a room. There are plenty of wood varieties to choose from, including rich walnut, sturdy oak, luxurious cherry, and elegant mahogany. The wood can have a polished finish or painted finish. One of distinctive features of a wooden case is carved details that are used as decorative elements.
Metal frames, on the other hand, can offer a more contemporary look to a glass grandfather clock. Using various metals like brass, chrome, and stainless steel can provide a grand and contemporary touch to glass grandfather clocks. The durability of the metal makes it resistant to wear and tear, making it a practical and long-lasting option. To give the frame different textures and finishes, the metal can be fashioned polished or brushed. The use of metal frames can also provide a minimalist and uncluttered look, suitable for modern interiors.
The Howard Miller Echo Floor Clock is a stunning modern timepiece that combines premium materials and contemporary design for a truly unique look. This all-glass floor clock is from the 95th Anniversary Edition and crafted in the USA. The tempered glass and polished stainless steel give the clock durable quality and impressive eye-catching style.
This glass clock has a standard grandfather clock height allowing to suspend the slender cylindrical pendulum in the middle. It has a sleek stainless steel finish that perfectly complements the modern style of the clock.
As a true modern piece, the clock does not have a pediment and the face has an unusual design. The gloss white dial features hour markers and hands with a polished stainless steel finish. The final touch is a continuous-sweep red second hand adding a bit of contrast.
This timepiece also features energy-efficient LED lighting that illuminates the case of the clock. The easy-to-use light settings are controlled by touching the gloss-black metal base plate.
The Howard Miller Whitelock Floor Clock is a timeless beauty that combines premium materials, contemporary style and impressive features. The frame of this floor clock is finished in Gloss White. The select hardwoods and veneers ensure quality that will last for generations.
The movement is protected by plain glass located on the sides. The beveled glass on the front front glass door enhances the modern design. The illuminated case interior of the clock is enhanced by mirrored back.
The clock's polished chrome-finished bezel surrounds the gloss white dial with polished chrome finished Arabic numerals, hour markers, minute track and hands. The polished chrome finish is repeated on the decorative weight shells and grid pendulum.
The Harmonic quartz movement features triple chimes with the strike on each hour. There is also a volume control and automatic nighttime chime shut-off option that turns off the chime between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM when selected.
Designed and assembled in the Howard Miller factory that is located in the USA, the Howard Miller Whitelock Floor Clock is a perfect blend of style and functionality that will impress for generations to come.
It might seem that the maintenance of glass grandfather clocks is more complicated than of a regular one. Of course there are a few specifics that it is important to keep in mind but we would like to assure you that it is not going to give you issues. Here are some tips to help to take care for a glass grandfather clock.
Over time, dust and fingerprints can accumulate on the glass, dulling its shine and obscuring the clock's beauty and the glass case should be cleaned.
Start by removing any dust from the glass with a soft, dry cloth. This step will help to prevent scratching or smudging during the cleaning process.
Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing a small amount of glass cleaner with warm water in a spray bottle. It is better to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as these can damage the glass or frame.
Spray the cleaning solution onto the glass, being careful not to get any on the wooden or metal frame. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the glass, applying gentle pressure as needed to remove any stubborn smudges or stains.
Use a dry cloth to buff the glass to a shine. Take care not to leave any streaks or water spots, as these can detract from the clock's overall appearance.
The clock mechanism is the heart of a glass grandfather clock and it requires gentle care.
First, make sure the clock is wound regularly and according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most of the mechanical clocks require weekly winding. Many modern glass grandfather clocks have an automatic winding mechanism, but it is still important to check and maintain this feature regularly.
Next, periodically check the clock's pendulum to make sure it is swinging freely and evenly. An unbalanced pendulum can affect the clock's accuracy and may even cause damage to the mechanism. Often, this happens due to unbalanced position of a clock on uneven floor.
If the clock begins to run slow or stop altogether, it may be time to have the professional clock service to check the mechanism. This can involve disassembling the clock mechanism, cleaning and lubricating the parts, and making any necessary repairs. As a rule, this procedure is done every 2 years.
A stable environment can help to prevent damage to the mechanism and prolong the life of the clock. Keep the clock away from the sunlight, extreme temperatures and humidity.
The wood or metal frame of a glass grandfather clock is just as important as the glass casing. We have a few suggestions on the best practice to proper maintenance to keep the clock looking its best.
Regular dusting of the frame with a soft, dry cloth will help to remove any dirt or debris. This way you will prevent scratching or damage the finish.
When you clean the case, it is better to use a gentle cleaner specifically designed for wood or metal surfaces. This step is important for removing any stubborn stains or marks. We suggest to test the cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid any damage or discoloration.
Some of the clocks have a polished or lacquered finish on the frame. In this case, you should periodically apply a high-quality furniture polish to help protect the surface and maintain its shine.
Similarly to the clock mechanism, the clock frame is sensitive to the direct sunlight or heat sources. This can cause fading, cracking or warping of the frame, that is one more reason why it is crucial where the clock is located.
Glass grandfather clocks are not an invention of modern times. Even hundreds years ago, people appreciated the unique look of a glass grandfather clock. Antique glass grandfather clocks are very rare and valuable items.
Antique glass grandfather clocks are typically made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Many antique glass grandfather clocks feature intricate designs and decorative elements that reflect the style and trends of the time period in which they were created.
Like any other grandfather clock, an antique glass grandfather clock requires proper care of it. In addition to storing the clock in a stable environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, it also needs maintenance from a professional clock service.
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