Grandfather Clock Case Styles

Overview

• Grandfather clocks are magnificent timepieces that can become focal points in homes. Traditional grandfather clocks are 6 to 9 feet tall with clock cases that display the pendulums swinging back and forth. The pendulum is attached to an anchor that turns a gear that causes the clock to tick. While some grandfather clocks are wound daily, others are wound once a week. Grandfather clock cases with traditional styling are known for their intricate ornamentation. Clocks with more contemporary designs are also available.

Curio Grandfather Clocks

• A popular grandfather clock case style is the curio design. The curio grandfather clock doubles as a curio cabinet and can be used to display heirlooms and knickknacks. Clock design company Howard Miller offers a mirrored design with adjustable glass shelves. This curio grandfather clock features a swan-neck pediment, corner spandrels and a lightly-distressed finish. Ridgeway, another clock design company, offers a curio grandfather clock, featuring an arched bonnet on the crown, a maple finish and a lighted interior.

Split Pediment Grandfather Clocks

• To accentuate the impressive height of the grandfather clock, some clock cases feature split pediments. The split pediment forms the very top of the grandfather clock case and typically presents two curved features that protrude from the top sides of the case. These curved features are made of the same material as the case. The split pediment curvatures are generally separated by pointed spindles coming up from the centers of the flat tops of the clock cases. Some split pediment clocks combine the curio feature by incorporating shelving and glass access panels.

Contemporary Grandfather Clock Design

• Grandfather clocks with contemporary designs feature straight lines and flat tops on the pediments across the tops. Black finishes on the clock cases that contrast with white dials are a popular option. Some contemporary cases have cherry wood burl inlays and beveled glass. Many contemporary grandfather clocks cases are based on straight lines featured in clocks of the Biedermeier period in Europe.