Keeping Track of Time: The History of the Wall Clock

It’s high time we talk about one of the most enduringly stylish pieces of home décor to ever be created: the wall clock. Rich with historical significance and available in a wide variety of striking designs, these antique clocks are often the secret to elevating any room in your home. Before you buy one of your very own, take a look at its fascinating history!

What is a Wall Clock?

By definition, a wall clock is a timepiece made to be mounted on a wall. These vintage clocks have two primary functions: to tell the time and act as decoration. In a world where the majority of us rely on our phones for punctuality, these vintage designs may seem outdated, but with unbeatable reliability and a unique aesthetic, it’s no surprise that antique clocks remain a popular purchase at antique malls in Chicago and around the country.

When Was the Wall Clock Invented?

The very first iteration of a wall clock emerged from 14th-century Europe, when monks were searching for a way to regulate prayer times in their monasteries. But these large mechanical tower clocks marked the hours with bells, not hands. It wasn’t until the 17th century that smaller wall clocks, built with the same type of mechanism, were introduced into homes.

As famous clockmakers, like Christiaan Huygens, discovered ways to improve accuracy, these antique clock designs increased in popularity, becoming a staple in upper-class homes around the continent. For many years, these timepieces acted as a status symbol. That is, until companies began releasing cheaper, battery-powered designs. Suddenly, anyone could afford one!

A Glimpse at the Most Popular Wall Clock Designs in History

Wall clocks have been around for hundreds of years, so it’s only right that there be such a wide variety of designs to choose from. Some of the more collectible antique clock styles include:

The Kit-Cat Klock

If you’re searching for a funky novelty clock, you’re bound to come across the kitschy and cute Kit-Cat Klock. These vintage clocks were created in America during the Great Depression in 1932 with one goal: to cheer up folks during dark times. The original black cat design featured a wagging tail and moving eyes, but it has since been made in other colors and sizes to suit any aesthetic.

The George Nelson Ball Clock

When George Nelson was commissioned to create a fashionable series of clocks, he based his innovative designs around a very important concept: that the numbers on the face were no longer necessary to read the time. Launched in 1949, his most famous vintage clock, the ball clock, is made up of a study center piece with 12 metal spokes radiating out, each with a wooden ball at the end. With a playful approach and mid-century modern design, this vintage clock is often considered to be the perfect visual presentation of where American design was after World War II.

The Arne Jacobsen City Hall Clock

If minimalism is your preferred interior design style, search for the Arne Jacobsen City Hall Clock at your favorite Indiana vendor mall. Created in 1956 for the Rødovre Town Hall by Jacobson, the Danish architect, this vintage clock boasted a clean aesthetic, with thin hands, an aluminum case, and straight ticks (instead of numbers) dictating each hour. There have been countless modern replicas, but it’s the vintage clock models that hold real value.

Victorian Carved Wooden Clocks

When you think of ornate antique clocks, whether you know it or not, you’re likely picturing the wooden timepieces from the Victorian era. Easily recognizable amongst the more modern designs, these decorative wall clocks often feature meticulously shaped cases, exceptional craftsmanship, ornamental finials, and carved patterns.

The Cartier Mystery Clock

Did you know that Cartier has a history in designing more than wristwatches and fine jewelry? At the turn of the 20th century, Maurice Covet was hired by Louis Cartier to work as the brand’s master horologist. In 1912, inspired by magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, he released the Mystery Clock, an antique clock that utilized the power of optical illusion to make it look like the diamond hands were floating in the middle of sparkling rock crystal.

The Cuckoo Clock

If you’ve had the pleasure of seeing a cuckoo clock in person, you’ll probably agree that they’re the most whimsical antique clocks around. Developed in the Black Forest region of Germany in the mid-17th century, traditional cuckoo clocks feature a pendulum, an intricately carved wooden case, and, most importantly, a small mechanical bird that pops out on the hour with a distinctive bird call sound.

The 3 Main Types of Cuckoo Clocks:

1. Chalet-style: made to look like the chalet homes found in the Alps, featuring lively Germanic scenes and moving figurines   

2. Railway: designed to resemble a railway house, often with a peaked roof and train tracks

3. Birds-and-leaves: crafted with care to make it look like a bird is popping out of a tree, with intricately carved wooden leaves

Where’s the Best Place to Hang a Wall Clock?

When it comes to hanging up your new vintage wall clock, the sky’s really the limit! As long as they match the surrounding décor, these timepieces elevate any room in the house, whether it’s above the couch in your living room, next to your vanity in the bedroom, or in the entryway. Wherever you decide to display the antique clock, make sure it’s at eye level, so you can check the time with ease.

Top Tips for Displaying an Antique Wall Clock

Buying a wall clock from your favorite Algonquin antique mall is one thing—actually hanging it in your home is another! As you decide where to put your new favorite decoration, keep these three tips in mind:

• Tip 1: Keep the antique clock out of direct sunlight to avoid any potential fading.

• Tip 2: If your fireplace works, do not hang your vintage clock over the mantle, as dust and soot can easily ruin its internal parts and external surfaces.

• Tip 3: Feature your antique clock in a gallery wall to really tie all your favorite paintings and prints together.

Though they may be hidden amongst the antique grandfather clocks, film memorabilia, and holiday blow molds, wall clocks are always worth hunting for. Head to your nearest America’s Antique Mall to start your search today. But be quick—time’s ticking!