Mantle clocks are chiming clocks that sit on a shelf or mantle. All of these are quartz powered (battery operated). They come with a variety of features: chimes, strikes, some with tune selection, some with auto night shut off (clock is silent at night without having to be stopped) and volume control. These are traditionally “heirloom” gifts, meaning you pass them down within the family. They make wonderful wedding and anniversary gifts. Here are a few examples of the mantle clocks at Ann’s:
Seiko Mantle Clock with 4/4 Westminster Chime
4/4 Westminster Chime means the clock chimes every quarter hour: 15 minutes, it plays the first quarter of the song; 30 minutes, plays half the song, 45 minutes, 3/4 of the song, on the hour, the whole piece. Then it strikes the hour.
Cherrywood Mantle Clock plays Westminster or Whittington chime
This shape is called “tambour” or camel-back, a traditional mantle clock shape.
Tambour Mantle Clock
The carriage clock style got its name from being taken out in the carriage. Once upon a time, only the rich had clocks. A servant carried the clock by its handle with the family when they went out in the carriage (so everyone else would appreciate and admire their social standing).
Carriage Mantle Clock
Oak Carriage Clock
Mantle clocks can be simple or intricate. This one has lovely detail and a pendulum:
Seiko Mantle Clock with Pendulum
Here’s an unusual mantle clock. Instead of chiming and striking, it keeps the date! The bottom dial counts the days. (Low tech makes an interesting counterpoint to your I Phone!) Front door opens; interesting head piece.
Bulova Calendar Mantle Clock
These are only a few of the mantle clocks Ann’s offers. Please come in to see many more and to have us demonstrate their features for you.
