It was in the 16th century in Germany that Henlein of Nuremburg built the first spring powered clock. This to every ones surprise was to become an instant hit with the wealthy; unfortunately it did have a problem of slowing down as the mainspring unwound. It did not take long for the mantel clock to find a niche on the fireplaces of the rich, possibly due to the clock being so light, the clock could also be found on tables, trunks and even sharing a space on a chest of drawers.
Pendulum clocks were big and bulky; it was after these that the mantel clock came along. The pendulum had always been popular due to their accurate time keeping for the nation. A gentleman named Terry in 1816 built a mantel clock; they became very popular because they were lighter and portable. The clocks were driven by weights, and it wasn't long after this that gradually spring driven mechanisms started replacing weights. Regular winding of the spring was needed to keep the clock running on time.
It didn't take long for mantel clocks to become popular in France. They could be found adjourning mantelpieces and fireplaces of not only manors and castles, also the majority of houses. This is maybe where the name mantel clock came from because they were placed mostly on mantelpieces of homes.
The movement was of a Parisian kind, with an 8-day anchor escapement with a pendulum. Eventually the silk thread pendulum was replaced in 1850 by a more reliable spring pendulum, this was thought to be better because it was neither restricted by temperature nor humidity, and was easily repairable.
Mantel clocks over the years started to become more fashionable pieces of decor built with candle stands, flower vases forming part of the outer casing. They have also been produced using different materials such as, marble, bronze and wood.
The biggest and easiest mistake many people make when purchasing what they believe to be an antique mantel clock, is not doing their research properly. These days there are so many replica clocks on the market; caution has to be taken to find a proper original mantel clock.
A common mistake also is for those who have already a collection of clocks and wish to purchase another to go with these, is to not do their proper research, and buy the first clock they fall in love with. When taking the clock home and adding it to their collection disappointment arises, because their newly bought clock simply does not fit in with the rest of the collection.
The next mistake again that so many people do is not to shop around, they often assume that because in the past they have had a really good deal at one particular shop, they tend to go back to the same shop all the time. This should not necessarily be the way to purchase a lovely mantel clock, as they may miss out on so many more beautiful ones, and may save money.
Collectible Mantel clocks are beautiful pieces to own and collect. If you have the time to be careful and do proper researches, to compare prices, check what materials the clocks are made of. It is very easy for you to get yourself a collectible mantel clock reasonably priced with exceptional workmanship. Once you have purchased your first clock, it is more than likely there will be many more to follow.
Irwan is an owner of Antique Clocks Site Visit his website to find collectible mantel clock, grandfather clock, wall clock, and other antique clocks information.
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