Origin and Types of Grandfather Clocks

In 1670 the anchor escapement mechanism gave rise to the longcase clock or the grandfather clock. Before the grandfather clock was developed, the pendulum clocks functioned on the verge escapement mechanism. The pendulums swung to about 100 degrees with the help of this mechanism. Long pendulums could not be fitted into the case as a result of the length of the swing. With the help of the anchor mechanism the pendulum's swing was restricted between 4 to 6 degrees. The reduced swing length allowed clock makers to use longer pendulums. These had certain advantages like - they could function on less power, caused less friction, reduced wear and tear, and lastly, were more accurate than the verge escapement ones.

Mostly a seconds pendulum, which is also known as a "Royal" pendulum, is used in the longcase clocks. These pendulums take exactly one second to complete a single swing. They measure about 39 inches in length. In recent times these clocks use a more accurate mechanism known as the deadbeat escapement.

Why these clocks were called Grandfather Clocks?

The story goes that two Jenkins brothers were posted as managers at the George Hotel in Piercebridge, County Durham, England. In 1875 on of the brothers died and the clock at this hotel began to lose time. Even after several attempts by famous clockmakers, it could not be fixed. It finally broke down when the other brother died. The clock was never repaired after that. Henry Clay Work, an American composer and song writer, wrote a song about this story and titled it as "My Grandfather's Clock". The clock and the song both became very popular and thus the name was derived.

Types of Grandfather Clocks

These clocks are basically of two types. They are:

• Comtoise Clocks: These are also known as Morbier clocks or Morez clocks. These are of French origin and were made in the French region called Franche-Comte, hence the name. These were initially produced in 1680. They are distinguished by their curving "potbellied" case. Also these clocks feature a large number of curved lines. They are heavy and their pendulum bobs are highly ornamented.

• Bornholm clocks: These are of Danish origin. They are encased in tall wooden boxes. These are also pendulum driven and were manufactured in Bornholm from 1745 to 1900. The clock makers of Bornholm were inspired in manufacturing these when an English ship carrying such clocks was stranded there. The clocks the ship carried were sent to Poul Ottesen Arboe in Ronne for repairing. While repairing those clocks Arboe learned the mechanism and functioning of these clocks. It was then that they started to produce these grandfather clocks.

Many people like to adorn their living space with a grandfather clock, just for sheer décor purposes or as a prized family possession. Several of these clocks are high-priced antique pieces and collector's items these days.

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