Skeleton Clocks
What is a Skeleton Clock?
The skeleton clock is a very popular and collectible item. It is simply a mechanical clock in which as much as possible of the casing has been removed. This exposes the normally hidden mechanism (the movement) to view. You can clearly see what makes a skeleton clock work.Although the skeleton clock is essentially a novelty item, the visibility of so much of the mechanism encouraged clockmakers to produce intricate and aesthetically pleasing designs. Good examples often have a strong "wow" factor even amongst those not normally interested in horology.
Styles
In theory any type of clock can be made into a skeleton clock. In practice the most commonly seen were table clocks, usually spring driven.Manufacture of skeleton clocks began in France in the latter half of the eighteenth century. They spread rapidly to England where they were on sale at the London Great Exhibition of 1851. By this time the level of production in England was at least as great as in France.
During the 19th century it became increasingly popular to build "themed" skeleton clocks, for example clocks were modelled on buildings such as St Paul's Cathedral.
Glass Domes
Because there is no casing to a skeleton clock, it is vulnerable to dust clogging the works or other damage. For this reason many were supplied with glass domes that would protect the mechanism whilst still allowing it to remain visible. Unfortunately these fragile glass domes were often broken. This should be considered if you plan to buy a skeleton clock as an investment - lack of the original dome can affect the value.Today you can buy skeleton clock kits which are popular with the amateur horologist and model building enthusiast.