Antique Clocks and Barometers

A ticking antique clock brings a room to life in a way that nothing else can. Our dealers offer longcase (grandfather) clocks, bracket clocks, mantel clocks, wall clocks, carriage clocks and barometers from the 17th century to the early 20th century.

Many of our clocks have been professionally serviced and come with a guarantee. Barometers, both stick and wheel (banjo) types, are equally sought after as functional instruments and decorative objects.

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French Louis XIV Style Gilt Bronze Mantel Clock

An extremely good quality French 19th century,  Louis XIV style gilt bronze antique mantel clock wit...

French Belle Epoque Mahogany Mantel Clock

A very good quality French Belle Epoque mahogany antique mantel or table clock with carved leaf desi...

Georgian Mahogany Bracket Clock by Hampson & Son

An extremely good quality George IV figured mahogany antique bracket clock with break front design,...

French Four Glass Champleve Mantel Clock

A very good quality French late 19th century antique mantel clock with brass frame and coloured cham...

French Belle Epoque Mahogany Mantel Clock

A good quality French Belle Epoque figured mahogany arch top antique mantel or table clock with boxw...

French Rosewood & Marquetry Inlaid Mantel Clock by Henry Marc

A decorative French Napoleon III rosewood antique mantel clock with boxwood marquetry leaf inlay and...

Georgian Kingwood Bracket Clock by William Turner of London

An elegant and rare kingwood veneered George III antique bracket or table clock, with ebonised mould...

French Louis XV Style Gilt Brass Mantel Clock by Samuel Marti

A decorative French Victorian brass gilt antique mantel clock in the Louis XV style with scrolling f...

French Louis XIV Style Boulle Mantel Clock

An extremely good quality late 19th century, French Louis XIV style ebonised antique mantel or table...

French Belle Epoque Mahogany Mantel Clock

A good quality French Belle Epoque figured mahogany lancet top antique mantel clock from the Edwardi...

Buying Antique Clocks

The most important question when buying an antique clock is whether it works. A clock that has been recently serviced by a qualified horologist and comes with a guarantee gives you confidence from the outset. Ask the dealer about the service history and whether the movement is original to the case.

Longcase clocks are the iconic centrepiece of many homes. English examples from the Georgian period, with mahogany or oak cases and brass dial movements, remain the most popular. The cases are often the work of skilled cabinet makers, and regional styles are fascinating: Lancashire clocks tend to be broader and more ornate than their East Anglian counterparts.

Bracket and Mantel Clocks

Bracket clocks, despite the name, are designed to sit on a table or mantelpiece rather than a bracket. English bracket clocks with ebonised or tortoiseshell cases and verge escapements are highly collectible. French mantel clocks in gilt bronze and marble bring elegance to any room and are often more affordable than their English equivalents.

Carriage clocks, originally designed for travel, are another popular collecting area. Most of those on the market are French, dating from the mid-19th to early 20th century, with brass cases and enamel dials.

Antique Barometers

Barometers are both decorative and functional. Stick barometers, the earliest type, give the most accurate readings. Wheel barometers, commonly known as banjo barometers because of their shape, became popular in the late 18th century and often incorporate a thermometer, hygrometer and mirror. Rosewood, mahogany and oak are the most common case timbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, mechanical clocks should be professionally serviced every five to seven years. This involves cleaning the movement, replacing worn parts and re-oiling. Regular servicing prevents costly damage and keeps the clock running accurately.

A longcase clock, also known as a grandfather clock, is a tall freestanding clock with the movement housed in the top section and the pendulum and weights enclosed in the long case below. They were first made in England around 1660 and remained popular through to the Edwardian period.

A well-maintained antique barometer can be just as accurate as a modern instrument. Mercury stick barometers are the most precise. Aneroid and wheel barometers may need calibration but remain perfectly functional. Your dealer can advise on setting up and reading your barometer.

Remove the pendulum and weights first and pack them separately with plenty of padding. The hood usually lifts off, and the movement can be secured or removed. The case should be transported upright if possible. A specialist clock mover is recommended for valuable examples.

An eight-day clock runs for eight days on a single winding. This was the standard for quality domestic clocks from the 18th century onwards. Thirty-hour clocks, which need winding daily, are generally earlier and simpler. Both types are widely available on the antique market.