There is something timeless about enjoying the company of your friends and loved ones in the rooms of your home.  In times gone by, this would have taken place in a parlor or sitting room beneath the omniscient watch of your wood wall clock.  You may have even had the men in one room and the women in another.  There was just a different connection and bond that was made and those things still take place today.  However, now it is a television set and a sporting event that keeps the men and women separated.

Did Those Old Wall Clocks Miss Something?

Seems to be just the opposite.  It seems we may have lost something in our digital age.  Now, that old wall clock is replaced by a highly accurate and synchronized atomic clock that is accurate to many fractions of a second each year or something crazy like that.  Is something that we really need to be that on time for?

See, it isn’t that we can’t connect with one another.  We do that probably more than ever.  In fact, the online world has brought us in closer contact to old friends and family like never before.  You can’t even be out of touch or ‘unplugged’ as we say now for more than a few hours before you start to feel lost.  Actually, it seems there is some inverse relationship between age and the ability to be unplugged without losing your mind.  The younger you are, the harder it is to be unplugged as the clock ticks.

But, we have also lost something in the mix.  That electronic connection has actually shortened the time we spend face to face in another’s company.  So, the irony is that with all this globalization, we’ve actually moved further from those closest to us.  You, might be wondering how this all ended up on a site about Wall Clocks.  Simple really.  These types of clocks just bring back that time of awareness and attention.  That old key-winding mechanism of those antique wall clocks is just representative of a different pace of life.  When the clock ran out of juice, you would have to wind it back up and get the hands back in the right place.  Now, you can just pull out your globally positioned cell phone and get the exact time down to the seconds. Oh well, times do change.  There was a time when you could also put on a nice watch and that would be enough.  For weeks it might be the same one you wore, rarely taking it off.  Now, they are more like disposable razors.  There once was a time when shaving, at least for male grooming purposes could be made into an enjoyable experience.  You could sit in your barber’s chair.  Get a nice warm towel treatment, some good conversation and leave feeling really smooth and clean.  And the women, oh, they loved the clean shaven face like that.  Seems like we are turning more and more into a consumable culture.  If you get yourself one of those antique clocks, you can imagine how the time would seem to slow down as well.  Just remember that it isn’t the accuracy or efficiency of your life that makes it rich and meaningful, it is the time you spend along the way.

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Where Can You Find These Antique Clocks Now?

Many times, you can find them in old antique stores or estate sales.  Wall clocks have been very sought after items lately, people have recognized their elegance and charm again.  Since we live in a digital and internet based age, you can also easily find what you are looking for online – in places like Ebay, Craigslist, etc.  You may get a great deal using one of these outlets.  If you are lucky, you may also stumble upon a beautiful old wall clock at a local garage sale.  These are still the best places to find one with a discount.

Classically, these older clocks were made by hand and had winding mechanisms that needed to be manually turned.  So, what you would see is a keyhole, usually on the face of them, that you inserted a special key into and turned it to ‘power’ up the springs for another few days.  The finer clock makers had systems that kept pretty good time.  Over time, with much use, these mechanisms would eventually wear out and need to be repaired or replaced.  This is another thing to keep in mind if you plan on using your antique clock for functional and not just decor purposes.

Also, you should know that these were usually wood wall clocks, the styles with cases and usually some type of glass closing door over the clock itself.  As you search for your new prized possession keep in mind that not only the winding mechanism may be non-functional, but that the key may also be missing.  In addition, the glass may be broken or missing and the wood itself may need to be re-furbished.  All these qualities can make for a very charming and elegant looking wall clock, you just need to know that you may be giving up some of your modern day ‘exact time’ conveniences.

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Bulova Wall Clocks

A sample of the Bulova brand.

Certainly a recognized expert in accurate timepieces, Bulova is a fine choice.  More known for their watches, Bulova has made a significant impact on the elegant design of clocks as well.  You may be interested to learn that Joseph Bulova was a 23-year old immigrant from Bohemia who arrived in New York in 1875.  He opened a store on Maiden Lane in New York City and the tradition stands today.  At Bulova you can find a complete description of their distinctive wall clocks and features.

Of particular interest may be their one-year warranty on all clocks.  You will find that they insist of precision quality craftsmanship in all areas and are made of the best materials of choice woods, metals, porcelains, lead crystal and leather.  They guarantee the precision of their clocks to within 3 minutes per year.  Bulova offers battery powered quartz crystal precision or hand wound styles reminiscent of European classic styling.  You will likely be more impressed with their selection of grandfather clocks, because of their elegance and inherent presence.  With a variety of both circular or pendulum styles to choose from, if your tastes are more classically defined, then Bulova might just be the one for you.     

Hermle Wall Clocks

Here is another brand of wall clocks that is sure to be appreciated.  Hermle clocks

Just one type of a more traditional style of clock by Hermle.

are known for their clean lines and technical precision.  You will find that you can shop for Hermle clocks in one of several categories:  Elegant, Classic or Contemporary.  Each has specific qualities and characteristics that will make your wall clock become one of your family’s cherished possessions.  Another feature is their 2 year warranty and free shipping anywhere in the continental U.S.

Within their ‘elegant’ collection, you will find mechanical key wound wall clocks in both spring-driven and weight-driven (pendulum) styles.  The ‘classic’ collection features wooden cased wall clocks and circular styles with wrought iron, quartz and mechanical reproduction styles of wall clocks.  Then, if you are interested in more contemporary wall clocks, there is a collection for you as well.  These styles use more light colored woods with silver metal elements.  All styles rely on the fine engineering featured by Hermle.  With nearly several dozen styles in each collection, you are sure to find something that you like.

Howard Miller Wall Clocks

An example of a wood Howard Miller clock.

A name you will run across often in your search for the perfect piece of wall clock art is Howard Miller.  These clocks are known for their attention to detail and craftsmanship.  The company itself was founded in 1926 by 21-year old Howard C. Miller.  He was schooled in the art of clock making by his father, Howard, in the Black Forest region of Germany.  In the 1960s the company turned its attention to grandfather clocks and gained the reputation as the ‘world’s largest grandfather clock manufacturer.’

What you will be struck by is the classic nature of many of their designs.  It is in the simplicity that the details reveal themselves.  Like the other brand name clocks mentioned, Howard Miller clocks offer key wound pendulum styles as well as quartz styles.  Within their collection of key wound pendulum styles, you will find a variety of finely crafted wood cased styles.  Then, in the ‘Quartz Wall Clocks’ category, you will find an array of classic to contemporary to unique styles of wall clocks.

Infinity Instruments Wall Clocks

There is not a lot to be said for this brand of wall clock other than – wow!  These clocks are some of the most unique

Here is one of those unique wall clocks by Infinity Instruments.

and affordable ones on the market today.  Relatively newer to the wall clock scene than the Bulova and Howard Miller brands, since 1995, Infinity Instruments is making great strides into this ever expanding market.

Their clocks are stylish and make a statement without having to be due to a famous name.  While they may be getting famous for their clock collections, it is only because they deserve the recognition.  Have a look over there, you won’t be disappointed.  It is hard to describe their clock style because they truly do have a unique look.  What can be said is that they are more known for their circular wall clocks, rather than pendulum or wood case styles.  Infinity Instrument clocks utilize a variety of materials from woods to various metals and a combination of the two to create unique pieces that you will enjoy for years.

Seiko Wall Clocks

An example of the Seiko brand of a more contemporary look.

Here is another name you are likely familiar with when it comes to time.  In my mind, Seiko is still more reminiscent of watches than clocks.  The principles are essentially the same.  What happens is that the scale and design are what change.  So, just like with Bulova, the mechanical nature of the timepiece is of great quality it just comes down to the type of design you want for your home.  Their site actually makes searching for your style quite simple.

What stands out about Seiko clocks are their diversity.  You can find a more traditional looking wood wall clock and then see something more whimsical made of a synthetic material and have several moving parts. In this regard, the Seiko clocks get the nod for more playfulness.  Depending upon your criteria, classic or traditional styling may be more up your alley.  Just remember, their history and quality of products is on par with the other historical brands mentioned in this article.

Seth Thomas Wall Clocks

This company’s claim to fame is that they are ‘America’s Oldest Clockmaker since

Here a modern looking Seth Thomas wall clock.

1813′.  Now, that actually is something to brag about.  They are also known for their public tower clocks which are installed throughout the United States.  Their most famous is probably the clock standing in the center of Grand Central Station in New York City.  Their wall clock collection is somewhat limited, but it does have a quality about it.  They also have some more contemporary styles as well.  If you know that you want a circular wall clock or some specific style, then Seth Thomas will probably not fit the bill for you.  However, if you want a clock that can be representative of a time gone by or coming soon, then they might be your company.  At the time of this writing, the Seth Thomas company had just changed ownership so some site design and updating was taking place.  You can find some of the inventory from other clock partners on line however.

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Just like if your home office has wood paneling or more warm tones, your artwork should reflect and match this decor.  You may be using leather furniture and more masculine or handsome elements to accent your space.  When this is the case, there are clocks that you can hang on your wall that will lend themselves to this same type of look and feel.  There are clocks that are made of darker, rich woods that have bronze or iron numerals and other parts, imparting that same sense of masculine element.  There are also lighter colored woods that will give a more modern flair to your space.  These are more common in homes with stainless steel accents with wood hues of birch or light oaks and even natural maples.

Metal Wall Clocks Have A Unique Presence

If you opt to use metal as the main element in your space, or at least for your choice of wall clocks, then there are a few considerations here to make as well.  For one thing, remember that metal is a strong element.  In fact, in certain cultural traditions, metal is an ‘earth element’.  Now, you might not be familiar with the four elements (earth, air, fire, water) as they pertain to design, but what you will notice is how your space feels.  These are considered by consultants who utilize Feng Shui as part of their design plans.

For example, a room that has many aspects that are decorated with metal elements can feel very rigid or have an unyielding quality about them.  They will typically feel very strong.  If your space has these types of features already, you may find that metal wall clocks add too much.  Too much more of this type of presence and too much metal to the eye.  Now, you may be able to get the same feeling of that metal you are after by combining wood with the metal.  These are both earth elements, but when used together can create a more subdued presence to the metal that only wood can provide.

As you can see, the term 'metal wall clocks' could include a clock like this with both wood and metal elements.

The types of clocks made of metal that you can find vary.  Some utilize metal in almost all facets of the clock itself:  face, numerals, hands and pendulum (if applicable).  Others have metal inlays or numerals with a wooden or ivory (if antique or ivory-like if newer) face.  More modern hanging metal clocks will likely be made with the stainless, nickel or brushed aluminum.  The real trick, again, is to know what style you are after.  Sometimes, going with a metal wall clock will give you an air of an industrial-type look.  So, be careful as you pick your next piece of ‘time-telling’ art for your walls.

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The Traditional Pendulum Wood Wall Clock

This is an example of what traditional wood wall clocks look like.

By the title, you can imagine what this clock looks like.  Traditionally, this style has a non-wooden (could be metal, or a painted surface) faced clock with a pendulum.  The whole assembly is usually housed within a wooden case, often with glass windows to see the pendulum swinging.  Sometimes, the glass windows are also on the sides near the face to allow for an onlooker to view the mechanical workings inside the clock itself.  This is one of the charms of these types of wall clocks.

In times past, this type of wooden wall clock would have been wound by hand with some sort of key.  The spring and coil mechanisms stored the energy of the windings and would keep accurate time for some period before needing another few turns of the wrist.  Modern pendulum clocks of this  style are usually battery powered.  Ahh, the conveniences of modern history.  While the accuracy of these types of pendulum clocks is good, be prepared to keep an eye on them and adjust when necessary.  Since you are probably buying the clock more for decorative purposes, the accuracy may be less of an issue.  Regardless, you still want to get the functionality out of your beautiful piece of art.

You will find that the majority of wall clocks in this style are of a darker colored wood or stain.  Often, the woods that make up the cases are of cherry or oak.  Both woods have a nice grain pattern to them and the choice is more of personal preference.  For a longer lasting, classic appeal, you might find that the cherry cabinet variety fits the bill better in this regard.

Wood Wall Clocks Also Come In Contemporary Styles

What we have been discussing up to this point is the classically styled hanging wall clock.  These types still make up the majority of wooden wall clock sales.  However, a clock with growing popularity is a more modern take on the traditional wooden style.  There are also two divisions here.  First of all, we can talk about the general overall features and then the more specific styles of each.

A look at how the face of a wood wall clock can be solid wood instead of an ivory-like appearance.

The overall style is one of having the clock face itself being crafted of wood.  Then, the numerals, hands and other details are comprised of either other woods or metals, like brass, iron or a nickel/aluminum finish, that are often inlaid into the face.  So, what we are talking about is a more simple clock appearance, usually round but could be square, with no pendulum.  The look of these wooden clocks is quite striking – in a classic way.  Not too much, just enough modern styling to highlight the elegance of the woods.  These come in either darker woods, like cherry or walnut for example, or in more modern looks like the lighter oaks and ash or birch woods.  The lighter woods usually have the metal elements in nickel or brushed aluminum.  This is definitely going to give you a more modern or urban feel.  The darker woods with the brass or iron metal elements will lend themselves to a more handsome and refined style.  A very nice look that is making a move is the darker wood faces with the brushed nickel and aluminum elements.  This creates a great mix of modern styling with that refined elegant and masculine quality.  There is a wide range of options these days regarding many aspects of wall clocks that simply didn’t exist in previous years.

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You probably aren't in the market for a clock quite this large...

room, then there are a few rules to keep in mind.  These rules are really more like aesthetic principles than anything carved in stone.  It would be possible to find an exception to each of these ideas, so don’t get too caught up in the details.  Remember, at Wall Clocks Place we’re really just trying to give you options and ideas to make your home decor that much more outstanding.

As the title of this article suggests, the main feature of these types of wall clocks are their size.  When we talk about large wall clocks, diameters in the 24″ – 48″ range are what we are referring to.  Sure, if you have a smaller space then a 20″ diameter wall clock could seem quite large, but that is simply in proportion to your wall size.  This is an important point that we will come back to as one of the ‘rules’ mentioned above, so keep that thought.

What Is Special About Large Wall Clocks With 4 Foot Diameters?

There is nothing magical about this particular number.  It simply represents one of the larger sizes  that you will find for a hanging wall clock.  As you do a search, you will also find that specific brands will pop out as more characteristic of larger sizes or more antique styles of wall clocks.  It is much like any other type of product, certain names get associated with specific qualities or features.  Some of these ideas are covered in our “Brand Name Wall Clocks” category you can find in the sidebar.

So, one main principle regarding the size of your clock is the overall size of your wall or wall space available for hanging.  See, if you have a lot of other pictures or odd wall features – cutouts, angles, windows, etc. – you may not have as much wall to work with as you think.  A general rule of thumb is to keep your wall clock fairly centered on your wall with enough space that it doesn’t look like it takes over in your room.  Some ideas are to keep 2-3 feet of space on each side of the clock to the edges of the wall, side to side, and at least 7-8 feet from the floor.  These are very general rules, because if you have a much larger wall, like a cathedral ceiling or some type of vaulted ceiling, you can vary the spacing.  Again, these are just rough ideas for you to take on as you are searching for an appropriate sized clock.

Make sure that you can comfortably hang your wall clock.

Keep in mind that you will have to be mounting this heavy clock somewhere on your wall as well.  So, if you plan on hanging this wall clock yourself – hiring a handyman or contractor with the right tools might be a good idea for really large wall clocks – remember that you will need a stud to mount to.  You don’t want to be mounting heavy clocks on drywall.  You may be able to use a heavy-duty drywall anchor, but for most applications, finding a stud to mount to will be the safest option.  With a tall ceiling, you may find that your ladders are not quite tall enough to safely allow you to hang that big clock teetering on your ladder.  Better safe than injured.

The Other Rule of Thumb For Large Wall Clocks

I mentioned that there were a few principles to keep in mind.  One is the positioning and space requirements.  The other is the actual proportion to your space.  Remember that while clocks are attractive and can make a real statement in your home, you don’t want that statement to be “keep staring at this huge clock on my medium wall”.  People may not say anything, but it will feel out of proportion and awkward in your space.  Another slightly less noticed quality is that with a too large clock for a smaller space is that you will find yourself continually checking the time.  This is the last thing you want to be doing while you are just trying to rest at home.  With guests or hosting parties you don’t want your guests to continually feel like they are checking the time.  Some clocks can also be heard as they operate and large wall clocks, especially, might have a louder ticking mechanism.  This will quickly drive you crazy.  If your space is large enough, however, your clock will be hanging high enough and you will have enough space in your room to counteract the noisy clock issue.

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The goal here is not to waste more of your precious time searching online for something that will fall apart or be of inferior quality.  We will be updating our site to include links to those sites which we have found to offer similar quality advice and products.  We know that we are not the only place or voice for wall clocks on line and we truly honor your time.

So Many Styles of Wall Clocks Are Available

Many older cities have clocktowers such as these, proving that wall clocks are a timeless tradition.

Before we get into all the details of styles and types, let me just assure you that the information we provide is not influenced by clock manufacturers or their agents.  We do not sell any clocks on this site, as you can probably see by now.  We only have information and our personal experience and advice regarding these time-piece beauties.  It is actually a nice little community of people who appreciate these types of clocks.  From collectors to people just looking to make more of a statement with the way they tell time in their home, there is a style for about every taste.  Custom homes require even more unique styles of clock features and design elements.  The particular types also vary greatly by design.  Some are more contemporary and artistic by design while others are much more elegant looking, ‘old world’ style like and can even be original antiques.  You’ll probably find these original antiques on sites like Ebay or the other big auction sites.  For the other styles, you can search online and find most anything you are looking for.  If you’ve seen it in a store, you can probably buy it online for less.  The reason is you will be skipping the ‘middle man’ shop owner (sorry, my friend) who needs to make a profit to pay the bills associated with a store front.  Don’t feel too bad though, most of these brick and mortars also have an online store too.  The prices may be different, but they may not.

There Are Large Wall Clocks That Simply Have Size As Their Main Feature

Here is how wall clocks got their name - this one is in Italy.

Yes, these clocks will tell time as well as any others.  But, usually when someone is searching for large wall clocks it is because they are looking to make a statement.  And make a statement you will these clocks.  They can range in size, but we would be considering large clocks to be in the range of 24″ to 48″ diameters.  Yes, now that is a large clock to go on a wall.  The larger ones in the range will cost more for obvious reasons.  You need to keep hanging precautions in mind, size of your space and wall dimensions in mind and make sure that you know what you will want to be hanging there for some time.  These types of clocks will definitely be the focal point of your room.  I’m not sure exactly what it is about clocks, but for some reason they are magnetic to the eye.  Especially if you have an elegant looking one or a larger style like the 48″ one mentioned.  These clocks are sure to make your space pop.  True, if you have the wall space to hang such a piece, you are probably in a larger than average home and likely have other unique amenities as well.  I guess if you have a grand piano in your space, that will overshadow the statement made by your wall clock.

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You Can Find Wood Wall Clocks

These types of clocks usually warm up a room by bringing in the richness and depth that only wood can offer.  You need to understand that “wooden clock” refers to the case or clock face itself.  You’ll need to get further descriptions or pictures to know exactly what you are dealing with.  The hands usually are made of a metal material, like brass, steel or aluminum.  This way they are lighter and can be painted as they move with precision.  The hands are attached to the spindle of the clocks mechanism and it is often easier to fabricate these from metal.  A wood wall clock has a certain type of classic quality about it.  Maybe it is because older clocks could only be made of such materials or maybe it is because of those wooden hues, what ever the case, the wooden clock is a timeless (pun intended) favorite.

Metal Wall Clocks Are Also Popular

For almost the completely opposite reason, metal wall clocks are popular as well.  I guess the general theme here is that all these types of clocks are popular.  We just love hanging clocks on our walls!  The metal variety of clocks comes in really two styles, two basic categories is more appropriate to say.  The first category is the more rustic and antique looking variety.  This one is classically styled with Roman numerals on the face and may have a wrought iron look to it.  It is usually black or maybe an aged bronze look.  For the most part, it is reminiscent of an old train station or hotel lobby in a quaint European city.  This style looks good in a room where you may have a more subdued hue to your walls or walls with wood paneling.

The other type of metal wall clock is the modern type.  This one is usually made of materials that are lighter in appearance and often weight, literally.  Aluminum or nickel materials and finishes are common with this one.  They may also have a brushed appearance to them.  This style looks more pleasing in an environment that is more modern, obviously.  Hanging a brushed nickel clock on walls that have lighter shades of paint or muted hues and rooms with light colored woods will give the best appearance.  Think Ikea modern when you have this type in mind.

Wall Clocks Also Work In An Office

Whether you are interested in a hanging a wall clock in your home office or at the ‘official’ work building office space, the same types are available.  However, with clocks in offices, it is more common to go with ones that have easily readable numbers and less flair to them.  They can still be quite handsome, elegant and worldly even, but just less in the way of ‘fancy’.  Most offices have a ‘professional’ environment they are trying to portray.  A strong statement can be made by way of the type of clock you hang on the walls there.  Never the less, if you work at a company like a Google for example, you could probably get away with a Dr Seuss, multicolored and whimsical type of wall clock.  And, yes, you can find those as well.  If it is a home office you are looking to decorate, then you will likely be happy with one of the types mentioned above.  You can find a nice wood faced clock or an antique looking one that will make your home office a very nice place to get your work done.  In the end, choices in wall clocks are just like anything else – personal preference.  You might find that you break every ‘rule’ that I’ve suggested above and your space looks absolutely magnificent.  What ever the case, enjoy the time (wink wink) you spend in making your decision.

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