Longcase Clocks
What is a Longcase Clock?
Longcase clocks - also known as tallcase or grandfather clocks - are tall, floor standing pendulum clocks. The movement and face are at the top, protected by a wooden hood and, sometimes, a glass front cover. The wooden case contains a long pendulum and usually has a door - some also have a window to allow the moving pendulum to be viewed. They normally use an anchor escapement and run for 8 days.Longcase clocks usually strike the hour, some include additional complications such as dials to tell the phase of the moon.
In many ways the longcase clock is a natural evolution of the lantern clock with the case added for the long pendulum.
History
Longcase clocks were first produced in the middle of the 17th century. Originally they used a verge escapement and relatively short pendulum. During the 1670s the anchor escapement took over from the verge. This required a larger pendulum and hence a wider case. The majority of longcase clock production took place in EnglandOriginally the faces of the clock were usually square, however from about 1710 it became more common to have an arch above the dial. Often the dials were elaborately decorated.
Note that very often the clocks were designed for older buildings with higher ceilings than most houses have today. If you're planning to buy an antique longcase clock, make sure that it will fit!
German longcase clocks have a particular reputation for quality and workmanship. Harfen-Gong is a name popular with collectors. Another German name you might come across from the beginning of the 20th century is Berger & Wuerker.
Today
Longcase clocks remain popular today. As well as antiques, there are many companies making contemporary designs that you can buy new. For the real enthusiast you can even buy kits or download plans and try to make your own - good luck!