Not all “bracket” clocks stood on wall brackets. Clocks of this type were also used for tables and mantelpieces. Nowadays the term is used to describe all clocks with short pendulums and spring-driven mechanisms. These clocks are also sometimes called “mantel clocks” or “table clocks“.

Bracket clocks were made from c.1660, the earliest with square brass dials; by the beginning of the 18th century, arched dials became more common. Among the most often seen English bracket clocks are those with mahogany veneered cases. Large numbers were produced from the late 18th and early 19th century, mainly in London, and you can still find clocks of this type for around £3,000-6,000. Also frequently seen arc French 19th century clocks, which were made in a wide variety of shapes. Many of these incorporate such lavish decoration that you may need to take a second look before you realize they’re clocks at all!

Antique Collection

bracket-clocks

Early Bracket

Early (pre-1700) bracket clocks, such as this c.1695 one, are usually the most valuable. You can generally identify them by their ebony or walnut cases and elaborately decorated square dials.

Regency Clocks

You can recognize a bracket clock made in the Regency period, as it will usually have a convex dial signed by its maker, simple hands made from brass or blued steel, and a mahogany or rosewood case. £4,500

A French Bracket Clocks

Depending on the degree of elaboration, prices for French clocks start at around £500. This one is decorated with a bronze figure of a egress (representing Africa) and a gilt panther and tortoise and is worth £5,000 or more.

Makers

The value of a clock is greatly increased if it’s signed by a famous maker. The dial and backplate of this clock (above and right) arc signed by Thomas Tompion, one of the most famous English clockmakers known as the “father of English clockmaking,” and it would therefore be worth over £100,000!

Movements

Most mahogany brackets originally had a verge escapement: many of these were converted to an anchor escapement but this should not put you off buying.

Strikes/Silent Lever

The strike/silent lever controls the striking mechanism of the clock and can be used to turn it off without affecting its running.

Mahogany Brackets

MOST MAHOGANY CLOCKS ARE LARGER THAN EARLIER EBONY OR WALNUT ONES. THIS ONE, WHICH WAS MADE c.1785, IS OF STANDARD SIZE AND MEASURES 51CM/201N. £7,500

Clock Care

Carefully dust and wax wooden cases.

Never attempt to clean brass or silvered dials.

Ask an expert to oil and clean the clock’s mechanism.

Hold clocks upright if you’re moving them from one room to another.

Secure or remove the pendulum before a long journey.

Beware

Check finials all match. On many clocks some have been replaced – this is less desirable.

Cases

Both elaborate and simple cases were made from mahogany. This one is fairly simple, but the illustrations below show some of the more elaborate varieties found.

Possibly related posts: (automatically generated)
Bracket Clocks