A history of Carriage Clocks
During the early 1800?s, traveling was done by riding a carriage, riding horses, and walking. But the most popular and widely used means of transportation and traveling that time was through carriages. Carriages were used not only in Europe but also in the United States.
Traveling through carriages was the most convenient for families and friends that time. The only thing that gave them soreness when traveling was going through the uneven rough road. The best thing with the travel at that time was having a clock for timekeeping, which was why almost all carriages had carriage clocks for travel.
The invention of the Carriage Clock, around the 1810 by horologist Abraham Breguet, was the idea of the century. These clocks had the ability to withstand the hardships of the road, and some were beautifully ornate in their manufacture. Carriage clocks, in the generic sense, usually came in wooden and brass frames, with a unique lever escapement movement. Any other clock movement would be disrupted during times of rigorous and bumpy travel.
These clocks had handles for carrying, and several styles also came with cases made of leather to further protect them from the stringency of road travel. As the design progressed, carriage clocks became more ornate in design. Some were equipped with enamel or porcelain inlays. Some had movements for the moon and stars. Even more carriage clocks had temperature gauges!
These antique clocks are collectible today. Most are from French designs, such as Paul Garnier, who, due to their popularity, promoted a semi-mass production line of them. The mass produced clocks were simple in design, and cheaper than the individually, hand-made carriage clocks. They were made of brass, or even cheaper metals, gilded to look more decorative. Their functionality did not waiver, though, and became increasingly popular to travelers across the globe.
The coach clock on the other hand, was another version of the carriage clocks. It was first manufactured and became popular in Germany. It was seen most of the time hanging on carriages since it was heavy and the pendulum was created more like a pendant. Its mechanics was considered to have been created with superior quality to withstand the harsh mode of transportation.
You can find carriage clocks in auctions today, and depending on the maker of these fine instruments, you can expect to pay quite a price for them. Antique shops may carry some, and checking them for functionality is vital. They would make a fine addition to any home, especially the mantle piece, or as a center piece on any table. Finding a carriage clock with intact movement would be a find indeed, as that would increase their value.
Carriage clocks are collector’s items, and searching for them may mean a lot of travel. For some people they are merely an old clock, and if you know your history, you may just stumble across something of great value. Know you markings and dates of manufacture. Great finds come with great patience. The day may come when you see the carriage clock of your dreams.