The Best Grandfather Clocks

Madelyn Griffin
13 min readApr 5, 2024

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Welcome to our roundup of the finest Grandfather Clocks currently available on the market. These timeless beauties are more than just a clock; they’re a piece of history and an elegant addition to any home. In this article, we’ll explore the top Grandfather Clocks, their features, and what sets them apart from the competition. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, we have you covered in our comprehensive guide to Grandfather Clocks.

The Top 7 Best Grandfather Clocks

  1. Stylish Vintage 72 inch Cherry Grandfather Clock — Elevate your home decor with the Traditional 72 in. Cherry Floor Standing Grandfather Clock for stunning elegance and carved detailing, available in red finish.
  2. Fremont Grandfather Clock: Traditional Style with Moon Dial and Functioning Moon Dial — Ridgeway Fremont Grandfather Clock: Timeless elegance and precision, with a Glen Arbor finish, swans neck pediment, and fully-functional moon dial — the perfect addition to any home.
  3. Traditional Roman Numeral Grandfather Clock — Experience timeless elegance with the Alcott Hill Traditional Grandfather Clock, featuring a blue moon metal dial, pendulum, and accurate hourly Westminster chime movement, all encased in an oak finish with a glass door.
  4. Elegant Transitional Silver/Brown Grandfather Clock — Blend modern industrial style with traditional elegance in the Everly Grandfather Clock — 615136, featuring an eye-catching dark coffee oak finish and precise quartz movement.
  5. Timeless Mango Hardwood Floor Clock — Elevate your space with the exquisite Howard Miller Bedford Park Floor Clock, featuring a modern flair and elegant artisanship, making it a statement piece for any transitional or contemporary setting.
  6. Walnut Miniature Grandfather Clock — Step back in time with the beautifully crafted 1:12 scale Walnut Grandfather Clock, featuring stunning walnut finish and intricate mechanism, perfect for any 1:12 scale dollhouse.
  7. Traditional Grandfather Clock with Curio Cabinet — Experience timeless elegance with the Ridgeway Lance Grandfather Clock 2587, where intricate details and genuine craftsmanship come together to create a mesmerizing statement piece for your home.

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Reviews

Stylish Vintage 72 inch Cherry Grandfather Clock

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Imagine walking into a room where a stunning, 72-inch cherry-wood grandfather clock stands tall and proud. The intricate carvings, gleaming gold pendulum, and classy brass hands make it a true masterpiece that instantly adds an aura of elegance. And just like a fine piece of art, it needs a special place to be admired.

As I spent more time with this vintage clock, I found that it perfectly complemented the decor of my living space. Its high-quality glass face makes it easy to read the time at a glance, while the medium size makes it a perfect fit for any standard room. The addition of a traditional weight-driven movement just adds to its charm.

However, don’t be fooled by its beautiful design. While this antique-inspired grandfather clock may look like a high-end piece, it carries a modest price tag. Although it does require a quartz movement and five AA batteries, it lacks some features like an integrated alarm. This might be considered a minor con by some, but overall, I am more than happy with my purchase.

Fremont Grandfather Clock: Traditional Style with Moon Dial and Functioning Moon Dial

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Using the Ridgeway Fremont Grandfather Clock in my living room has been a treat. The detailed swan’s neck pediment stands proudly with its fully turned finial, and the Glen Arbor finish adds a touch of elegance to the select hardwoods and veneers. The functioning moon dial with the pierced stars and raised Arabic numerals glimmers at night, thanks to the handy interior light.

One of the most impressive features of this clock is its precision German-made movement. With chimes that strike on the hour and chiming quarters, the Kieninger cable-driven Westminster chime movement ensures this clock is an audible work of art. However, the slight imperfection in the chimes’ tuning doesn’t detract from the overall experience. It just takes some time to get used to and regulate.

Assembling this clock was a breeze, and the available engraved brass plate adds a personal touch to the piece. The floor levelers ensure it sits securely on any surface, and the no-reach roller light switch is conveniently located for easy access. The decorative cut-out in the sculpted base adds even more charm to an already beautiful piece. Although the chime silence option is a nice feature, I found myself enjoying the melodic tunes every hour.

Overall, the Ridgeway Fremont Grandfather Clock is a stunning addition to any home. The blend of traditional design and modern convenience makes it a standout choice among other floor clocks.

Traditional Roman Numeral Grandfather Clock

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The Alcott Hill Traditional Grandfather Clock has been a steady presence in my home. The moment I unboxed it, I was in awe of its grandeur. The polished oak finish and intricate detailing of the clock face really added to its charm. I loved how the glass door encased the elegant metal lyre pendulum, giving it a modern spin while still maintaining the traditional look. The hourly Westminster chime movement was a delightful addition, but I did find the automatic night shut-off a bit perplexing.

However, the highlight of this clock was the Roman numeral clock face. It added a touch of sophistication and made it a standout piece. But I did come across one downside — the legibility of the clock face. Under bright lighting conditions, it was quite the challenge to make out the hands, and even in dimmer times, the contrast wasn’t ideal. It seems like a common issue with similar clock models, unfortunately.

But overall, the Alcott Hill Traditional Grandfather Clock was a beautiful addition to my home, and despite its minor quirks, it was worth the investment.

Elegant Transitional Silver/Brown Grandfather Clock

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The Everly Grandfather Clock by Howard Miller, with a dark coffee oak finish, stands at a remarkable 79 inches tall, adding a touch of elegance to any room. Made from a combination of metal and wood, this clock features sharp lines and a stylish transitional design that will make you truly appreciate every passing minute.

One of the standout features is its 4 levelers, which ensure that the clock remains stable and stands tall while keeping accurate time. With a quartz movement, the battery-operated clock requires 1AA and 2C batteries, and while not included in the package, they are easy to find at your local store or online.

Designed as a part of the Everly Collection from Howard Miller, this Grandfather Clock is more than just a timepiece — it’s a conversation starter and a centerpiece for any home or office. The dark coffee oak finish gives it a rich, natural look that will complement any decor, while the transitional style adds a touch of modern flair.

In summary, the Everly Grandfather Clock by Howard Miller is a striking, functional, and stylish statement piece that will add both depth and time to any space. With its transitional design, dark coffee oak finish, and quartz movement, this clock is a perfect choice for those looking to make a real impression.

Timeless Mango Hardwood Floor Clock

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My first encounter with the Howard Miller Bedford Park Floor Clock was a delightful experience. This stunning piece exudes a modern yet timeless charm that fits perfectly in contemporary spaces. The natural finished solid Mango hardwood construction effortlessly embraces the rustic spirit, while the hand-forged, lightly distressed iron leg base adds a vintage touch.

The meticulous attention to detail, such as the gentle patina and waxy caramel lacquer enhancing the depth of the mango wood, left me in awe. However, the vertical hand-forged iron dial marker with black hour and minute hands stood out for its simplicity and refined design.

What I also appreciated was the precision timekeeping with quartz movement. Though it requires a single AA battery, it adds a touch of elegance to the otherwise plain time-telling mechanism. The adjustable levelers under each leg provide stability even on carpeted floors.

Overall, the Howard Miller Bedford Park Floor Clock is not just a timepiece but a statement piece that reflects the beauty of the past with a contemporary twist.

Walnut Miniature Grandfather Clock

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This walnut grandfather clock is a delightful addition to any dollhouse. Standing at around 7 3/4 inches tall and 1 5/8 inches wide, it’s an elegant touch of rustic charm. The clock itself doesn’t function, instead it comes with the chains exposed, adding a unique touch of authenticity.

But it’s not just about aesthetics. The scale, being 1:12, ensures that it fits perfectly in the recommended dollhouse.

Users have complimented the speedy delivery and the overall cuteness once it’s placed. However, some might find it a little bulky considering its size compared to other items in the dollhouse.

Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful, albeit non-functional, piece that provides a distinctive touch to your miniature world.

Traditional Grandfather Clock with Curio Cabinet

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As a lover of timeless pieces, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the Ridgeway Lance Grandfather Clock 2587. Not only does it serve as a functional clock, but it also adds a touch of elegance to any room it occupies. The intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail in every aspect of this clock make it a true statement piece for any living space.

One of my favorite features is the adjustable chime volume, which allows me to set the clock to ring at a volume that suits my needs. The chime itself is a pleasant surprise, with its triple chime adding a comforting, rhythmic sound to my home. The clock’s hands and pendulum effortlessly glide along, adding to the overall aesthetic, while the gold pendulum finish gleams beautifully.

However, one area where this clock falls short is its limited warranty. Given its hefty price, it would be great to see a more comprehensive warranty covering any potential issues with the clock. Additionally, the lack of shelves included might not be ideal for those who require additional storage space.

Overall, the Ridgeway Lance Grandfather Clock 2587 is a beautiful and functional addition to any home. With its thoughtful design and intricate details, it’s a piece that will surely stand the test of time.

Buyer’s Guide

Grandfather clocks are classic, timeless pieces that add an air of sophistication to any room they occupy. As you embark on your quest to purchase a new grandfather clock, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure you make the right choice for your space and lifestyle. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss the most important elements to consider when selecting a new grandfather clock to ensure your satisfaction with your purchase.

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Movement

It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different types of movements used in grandfather clocks. There are two primary types of movements: mechanical and quartz. Mechanical grandfather clocks use a weight and spring system, while quartz clocks rely on battery-powered quartz crystals to keep time. Mechanical movements are generally considered more traditional and authentic, but quartz movements are more accurate and require less maintenance. It’s essential to determine which type of movement best aligns with your values and requirements before making a purchase.

Size and Shape

Grandfather clocks come in various sizes and shapes, making it essential to consider the dimensions and design of the clock when selecting one for your home. The most common sizes are approximately 80–100 inches tall, but some can be much larger or smaller. Be mindful of the ceiling height and the available space in your room when choosing the right size. The clock should also match the style of furniture and décor in your room, so consider the style and finish of the clock before purchasing.

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Material and Finish

Grandfather clocks are typically made of high-quality wood, such as walnut, cherry, or mahogany. It’s essential to consider not only the species of wood used but also the finish, as it can significantly impact the appearance of the clock. A high-quality finish will provide better longevity and prevent damage from humidity and sunlight. Consider the level of detail and craftsmanship when selecting a grandfather clock to ensure it matches your aesthetic preferences.

Price and Maintenance

Finally, it’s essential to consider the price and maintenance requirements of the grandfather clock. Prices can vary significantly depending on the size, style, and materials used. Be prepared to invest in a high-quality clock, as they require more maintenance than other timepieces. Be sure to determine if you’re comfortable with the maintenance requirements, such as regular winding and oiling, before making your purchase.

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FAQ

What is a Grandfather Clock?

A Grandfather Clock is a type of large, freestanding clock typically featuring a long, narrow case that is wider near the bottom and narrower towards the top. They are named after the nursery rhyme “tick tock, tick tock, “ where ‘tick’ is the clock ticking and ‘tock’ is the clock ticking to indicate the time.

These clocks are known for their elegance and high-quality craftsmanship, making them popular in homes and offices as well as public buildings. They not only serve as functional timepieces but also as decorative items, enhancing the ambiance of a room with their unique design and style. The precise mechanics and intricate carvings make Grandfather Clocks a desirable and lasting addition to any space.

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What are the different types of Grandfather Clocks?

There are several types of Grandfather Clocks available based on their size, design, and mechanism. Some of the commonly known types include the traditional tall case clock, the Anniversary clock, the American-style clock, and the Chippendale clock. Each type has its unique features and characteristics that make it distinctive from the others.

The traditional tall case clock is the most popular and widely recognized type of Grandfather Clock. The Anniversary clock, on the other hand, features the same design as the traditional tall case clock but typically has a larger and heavier case. The American-style clock is similar to the traditional tall case clock but has a more simplistic design and a round dial. The Chippendale clock, named after its designer Thomas Chippendale, is characterized by a unique and intricate carving style usually found on the case and the dial of the clock.

What is the average height of a Grandfather Clock?

The height of a Grandfather Clock varies depending on the type and style of the clock. However, the average height of a traditional tall case clock ranges from 6 feet to 7 feet, making it a relatively large and imposing piece of furniture in any room. It is essential to consider the height and space requirements before purchasing a Grandfather clock to ensure it fits well in the intended location and does not obstruct movement or interfere with other fixtures.

It is also important to note that some models, such as the Anniversary clock or the American-style clock, may have a taller or shorter height than the traditional tall case clock. As such, it is advisable to check the specific dimensions of the chosen model before making a purchase decision to ensure the best fit for your space.

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How does a Grandfather Clock work?

A Grandfather Clock works through a series of gears, wheels, and springs that are driven by a weight mechanism. The clock winds the weight at the bottom of the case using a set of gears. As the weight winds down, it pulls the clock chain, which in turn moves the clock’s hands. The weight continues to wind until it reaches the bottom again, and the process repeats, providing accurate and consistent timekeeping.

Grandfather Clocks typically have a pendulum that swings back and forth, helping to keep the time accurate. The pendulum is attached to a spring-driven mechanism, which allows the clock to maintain its time without the need for constant winding. However, the clock must be wound periodically to ensure the weight maintains its power and the clock continues to function effectively.

What is the maintenance required for a Grandfather Clock?

Grandfather Clocks require minimal maintenance, provided they are properly maintained and serviced regularly. The most important aspect of maintenance is regular winding, usually once a week, to ensure the clock keeps accurate time. It is also important to dust and clean the clock periodically to prevent the accumulation of dirt and tarnish on the clock face and metal components.

In addition, it is advisable to have a clock repair specialist check the clock annually to ensure the clock is in good working order and to catch any potential issues before they become more severe. With proper maintenance and servicing, a Grandfather Clock can last for generations with minimal wear and tear.

Can I purchase a reproduction or antique Grandfather Clock?

Yes, you can purchase both reproduction and antique Grandfather Clocks. Reproduction clocks are new, handcrafted items that mimic the design and style of antique clocks, providing a similar aesthetic and quality. These clocks are typically more affordable and easier to purchase and maintain compared to antique clocks.

Antique Grandfather Clocks, on the other hand, are vintage items that have been in use for an extended period, often dating back to the 17th or 18th century. They are highly sought after for their unique design, historical significance, and overall quality. However, prices for antique clocks can vary significantly depending on the condition, age, and rarity of the piece.

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