The Colonial Grandfather Clock as a Masterpiece of American History and Design

The Colonial Grandfather Clock as a Masterpiece of American History and Design - Premier Clocks

Colonial grandfather clocks are considered as the masterpiece of the clock industry and became a significant part of American history and design.

➤ Check out a full selection of Grandfather Clocks at Premier Clocks.

 

What is a Colonial Grandfather Clock?

A colonial grandfather clock is a type of tall, freestanding clock that is influenced by the design aesthetic of the American colonial period. These clocks serve as a decorative piece of furniture and as a functional timepiece.

The colonial clocks were an important part of daily life and were often found in the homes of the wealthy and affluent. With the time pass, the colonial grandfather clocks have become valuable pieces of American history and decorative art.

The grandfather clocks of American colonial history are popular among antique collectors and enthusiasts.

 

Design Features of Colonial Grandfather Clocks

The colonial grandfather clock is known for its timeless design that reflects the colonial era’s functionality, simplicity and elegance which still resonates today.

The combination of its functional purpose and decorative appearance makes it a versatile piece of furniture that can be found in many different settings, including homes, offices, and public spaces.

➤ Find out more about Grandfather Clock Styles

 
Simple and Classic Wooden Case

Design features of a colonial clock are characterized by its simplicity and classic wooden case. The wooden case of the clock was often made of cherry, mahogany, or oak wood. The wood is usually finished with a light or dark stain, which highlights the natural beauty of the wood grain.

 
Pendulum and Visible Weights

The pendulum and visible weights of a grandfather clock are usually found behind a glass panel, adding a special aesthetic appeal to overall design.

 
Additional Elements

Additional design elements such as a moon dial, a painted or wooden face are also commonly found in colonial grandfather clocks. The clock face is usually made of metal or wood. It is often painted with simple designs or numerals. The colonial clock hands have a simple design and made of metal.

 
Clean Lines and Minimal Ornamentation

Overall, the colonial clock design has a tall and slim appearance, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.

 

Popularity and Significance of Colonial Grandfather Clocks

Colonial grandfather clocks are considered valuable pieces of American history and decorative art that has stood the test of time. The unique blend of function and form of colonial clocks brought them popularity which has remained throughout the centuries.

Grandfather clocks were an important part of daily life during the colonial period which brought them historical significance.

Nowadays, grandfather clocks are popular among antique collectors of American colonial history. The craftsmanship and style of a colonial clock are very well appreciated among the clock enthusiasts.

 

Colonial Manufacturing Company

The Colonial Manufacturing Company was a manufacturer of grandfather clocks during the 20th century. The company was known for producing high-quality grandfather clocks that were made with traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The Colonial Manufacturing Company was founded in the early 1900s and was based in the United States. The clocks produced by the Colonial Manufacturing Company were designed in the classic style of American colonial period with simple elements.

The company was known for using high-quality materials and traditional methods of construction ensuring that the clocks were built to last. The grandfather clocks were sold through a network of retailers and distributors across the United States and internationally.

 
The History of the Colonial Manufacturing Company

John Spyker started making clocks in 1899 under the name Colonial. In 1906, Colonial Manufacturing was incorporated. Herman Miller was appointed as a General Manager during 1908-1935. The company was acquired by Thomas Industries Inc. in 1974 and was dissolved in 1983. Designers include John Kemp, John Zeiss, William Balback, John Boukma, Ray Sabota, Stanley Green, and Henry Glass.

 
Where Are Colonial Clocks Made?

The Colonial Manufacturing Company was based in Zeeland, Michigan. It was a high quality grandfather clocks manufacturer.

 
Where Is the Serial Number on a Colonial Grandfather Clock?

The Colonial Manufacturing Company started applying serial numbers to their clock cases in the 1960s. These were printed on a metal tag that could be found on the inside of the case door. Generally, the first two numbers of the serial number refer to the year it was produced.

 
Is the Colonial Manufacturing Company Still in Business?

The Colonial Manufacturing Company is not in business anymore, but their clocks are still highly sought after by antique collectors. The value of the grandfather clocks produced by the Colonial Manufacturing Company can vary depending on the model, age, and condition of the clock, but many of them are considered highly valuable due to their craftsmanship, historical significance, and timeless design.

 

Are Colonial Grandfather Clocks and Antique Grandfather Clocks Same?

Colonial grandfather clocks and antique grandfather clocks are not exactly the same, but they do have some similarities. Some antique grandfather clocks may have a colonial-style design, but not all antique grandfather clocks are colonial.

As it was described before, the colonial grandfather clocks are longcase clocks that are influenced by the design aesthetic of the American colonial period. The clocks often feature a simple, classic design of the colonial era.

An antique grandfather clock, on the other hand, is a longcase clock that is considered to be old or vintage. The term "antique" typically refers to items that are at least 100 years old.

Antique grandfather clocks can come in a wide variety of styles and designs, depending on the era in which they were made. Some antique grandfather clocks may have a colonial-style design, but not all antique grandfather clocks are colonial.

 

Does Howard Miller Clock Company Make Colonial Grandfather Clocks?

The Howard Miller Clock Company does make colonial grandfather clocks. It is a well-known American manufacturer of grandfather clocks and other timepieces.

➤ Learn more about Howard Miller Clock Company

The Howard Miller Clock Company has been producing a wide variety of grandfather clocks, including colonial grandfather clocks. These clocks are designed in the style of American colonial period.

Howard Miller clocks have a reputation of producing some of the finest grandfather clocks in the market.

 

Care and Maintenance of a Colonial Grandfather Clock

Proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and functionality of a colonial grandfather clock. Here are some tips for keeping your colonial clock in good working condition:

  • Keep the clock in a stable, level environment. Grandfather clocks are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause the clock to run fast or slow.

  • Dust and clean the clock regularly. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust the clock's case and face. Avoid using water or any kind of cleaning solution, as these can damage the wood or other materials.

  • Keep the clock's pendulum and weights clean and lubricated. The pendulum should be kept free of dust and debris, and the weights should be wiped down periodically with a dry cloth.

  • Check the clock's movement regularly. If the clock is running fast or slow, or if it is not keeping accurate time, it may be necessary to have the movement serviced.

  • Have the clock professionally serviced if needed. Even with regular care and maintenance, it may be necessary to have the clock serviced by a professional clockmaker. This is especially true if the clock is not keeping accurate time or if it is not working properly.

  • Keep the clock away from direct sunlight or extreme temperature changes.This can cause damage to the wooden case and face, as well as affect the accuracy of the timekeeping.

➤ A Simple Guide on How to Protect and Take Care of a Grandfather Clock so It Lasts for Many Years

By following these guidelines and getting professional help if needed, you can help ensure that your colonial grandfather clock will remain a functional and beautiful part of your home for many years to come.


8 Responses

Premier Clocks
Premier Clocks

March 26, 2024

Hello Michael!

Thank you for reaching out. Each hole is responsible for winding the weights. The hole of the left will wind a left weights, on the right – the right weight, in the middle – the center weight.

Best wishes,
Premier Clocks

Premier Clocks
Premier Clocks

March 26, 2024

Hello Judith!

Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately, Premier Clocks cannot provide a model number for your clock. You can try to reach the manufacturer of your grandfather clock.

Best wishes,
Premier Clocks

Judith V McLaughlin
Judith V McLaughlin

March 26, 2024

I would like to know the model number for my Colonial of Zeeland grandfather clock. Serial number 7213495

Michael L Meeker
Michael L Meeker

March 26, 2024

There’s 3 key holes on front faceplate. What holes does what job?

Francis A Rauh
Francis A Rauh

March 26, 2024

I Just purchased a colonial clock with serial number 7814878 can you tell me what this number means. Thank You

Joe Kotansky
Joe Kotansky

May 15, 2023

Looking to find the value of a Colonial Grandfather clock Bi centennial 1976

Premier Clocks
Premier Clocks

January 29, 2023

Hi Sheila!

The best way is to get a professional opinion in a few different places.

You also can check this article for more information about grandfather clock value https://www.premierclocks.com/blogs/clock-blog/are-grandfather-clocks-valuable

Best wishes,
Premier Clocks

Sheila
Sheila

January 29, 2023

How can I find out the value of my colonial grandfather clock ?

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