Carriage clocks come from an earlier era of horology – from around 1800 to 1930. Wristwatches hadn’t been invented yet, but it was an era which saw people traveling increasingly often and needing to know the time.
While they were not widely available, portable clocks were not produced until the 15th century. The carriage clock as we know it came later as an improvement on this medieval design.
In 1798 A.L. Brequet created the first carriage clock, and he sold it to Napoleon Bonaparte. This clock is said to have had calendar functions and was able to tell the temperature. It was really a breakthrough in clock making, and from that point, the carriage clock’s place in the horological world was set.
Carriage clocks are usually rectangular in shape, with glass sides, although some had enamel or porcelain sides. They are generally easily identified by the handle on top, installed for easy transportation. There were a few deviations from this design, mostly made by Breguet himself. These had a rounded top and a chain for a handle.
These clocks were something which only the wealthy could afford at the time. After all, these were the same people who were affluent enough to travel often, with carriage clocks being a luxury item to add to their comfort and convenience as they traveled.
The fact that carriage clocks were created for a wealthy clientele meant that not only had they had to be durable, but attractive as well. These clocks had to have springs which could go for long periods of time before needing to be wound.
The spring mechanisms used in carriage clocks were the same as those used in any other style of clock made at the time. The basic workings of the spring were the same as in a pocket watch produced in that era.
Breguet eventually hit upon the idea of easing the winding mechanism for users by using a piston, which would wind the clock rather than the pull-cord commonly in use at the time.
Most carriage clocks had a brass and metal or glass cover for the clock face. Most people were partial to Glass, since the clock face cover did not need to be opened to read the clock. Regardless of the material used, the function of this cover was to shield the clock faces intricate moving parts.
Although they are rare now, since they have decayed over time, these carriage clocks originally came in attractive wooden or leather cases. The cases typically had open sides or glass covered ones, allowing the clock to be read while staying well protected.
Since usually only the well off could purchase them. They often had adornments on the outside, and the face of the clock was sometimes painted with scenes, or set with precious metals or stones.
Even more interestingly, some carriage clocks began to be made which featured glass on all sides, letting the user view the mechanisms of the clock. New functionality was added to the faces of these clocks, with additional dials and displays.
Popularity grew worldwide for these clocks and by the 1830’s began to be exported. However, these mass produced carriage clocks were far simpler in design than were those custom made for affluent clients.
Within a century, however, carriage clocks began to fall out of favor. The wristwatch had been introduced and was widely adopted for their convenience and lower price.
Carriage clocks are still made today, although they are now for the most part a decorative item (they do of course still tell the time). Most of these clocks are made with exceptionally quality craftsmanship and consideration to detail, just as they were 200 years ago. An exquisitely crafted carriage clock is a truly timeless timepiece!
These new carriage clocks come in a extensive range of materials and styles. You can find simple, yet elegantly designed carriage clocks which are very inexpensive or models which are inlaid with precious metals and gems which cost thousands.
Of course now a carriage clock will sit on the mantelpiece rather than being taken on the road. These attractive clocks are often given as gifts and these timeless pieces are sure to be cherished for years to come, even becoming family heirlooms.
Author Matthew Roberts admires the enduring classics of Carriage Clocks. It reminds him of how in bygone eras it was always about perfection and pride of craftsmanship. Before you buy Carriage Clocks for sale online, make sure that they are made of the highest quality.
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