For the hobbyist or novice collector, the world of English antique clocks can be bewildering. In our latest guide we’ll unpick the styles, features and makers you should be looking for.
English clocks have always been admired for their craftsmanship, innovation and timeless style. Whether you admire elegant Georgian longcase clocks or ornate Victorian mantel clocks, collecting antique clocks gives a fascinating glimpse into Britain’s long and illustrious history of engineering and design.
An understanding of the main styles, makers and features can make the difference between buying an attractive decorative piece and discovering a genuinely valuable example.
Why English clocks are so collectable
England played a leading role in the development of precision timekeeping. One of the most famous names in horology is John Harrison, who revolutionised navigation with his marine chronometers. His work paved the way for greater accuracy in clocks and watches, and his influence can still be seen in many antique clocks today. You can learn more about Harrison in our recent article John Harrison, clockmaker - Happy Birthday!
English clocks appeal to collectors because they combine practicality with decorative appeal. Antique mantel clocks, antique wall clocks, antique bracket clocks and antique longcase clocks each reflect the fashions and technologies of their era.
English antique longcase clocks
Perhaps the most iconic English clock style is the longcase clock, also known as the grandfather clock. These are tall, freestanding clocks which became popular in the late 17th century and remained so throughout the Georgian and Victorian periods.
Early longcase clocks (from the late 1600s and early 1700s) often have square brass dials within simple oak cases. Georgian examples featured more decorative touches, such as arched dials, painted faces and mahogany veneers, while Victorian longcase clocks are more ornate, with heavier carving and larger cases.
For the new collector or hobbyist, condition is crucial. Original movements, matching hands and untouched dials are key, as repainted faces or replacement parts can reduce value. Well-known makers such as Thomas Tompion, George Graham and Joseph Knibb are highly sought after, although regional makers offer excellent quality at a more affordable price point.
Antique bracket clocks
Antique bracket clocks were designed to sit on a wall bracket or shelf and became fashionable during the 18th century. Usually housed in decorative wooden cases with brass carrying handles, bracket clocks often feature striking mechanisms, appealing to collectors for both their appearance and their sound.
English bracket clocks are commonly associated with makers such as Thomas Mudge (1715-1794) and John Ellicott (1706-1772).
Mahogany cases with brass inlay are typical of Georgian examples, while later Victorian versions may feature more elaborate decoration.
A good antique bracket clock will have a clean, well-proportioned case and a movement that appears complete and original. Beware of signs of over-polishing, as this can soften fine details, reducing desirability.
Antique mantel clocks
The rise of the middle classes during the Victorian era made antique mantel clocks one of the most popular forms of domestic timepiece. Smaller and cheaper than longcase clocks, they were designed to sit above the fireplace where they often became the focal point of a room.
Victorian mantel clocks come in a wide range of styles, from simple wooden cases to highly decorative slate, marble or gilt metal examples. Edwardian mantel clocks are generally lighter and more elegant in appearance.
When choosing antique mantel clocks, pay attention to the quality of the movement as well as the exterior design. In later examples, German movements were often used in English cases, so if you are looking for a completely English-made clock, inspect signatures and labels carefully.
Antique wall clocks
Today, antique wall clocks are highly collectable because they are practical, decorative and easier to assimilate into modern homes.
A fusee clock features a spiral pulley (the fusee) which works to ensure the mainspring winds down evenly to ensure more accurate timekeeping. English fusee wall clocks from the Victorian period are especially popular with new collectors.
Fusee wall clocks are recognised by their round wooden cases and single large winding hole in the dial. School clocks, railway clocks and station clocks are particularly popular examples because of their historical associations.
Look for original painted dials and quality fusee movements. Signed examples from respected makers such as Dent of London can command strong prices, but unsigned examples can still offer excellent value for new collectors.
Please note: fusee clocks are not always wall clocks and a fusee movement can be found in bracket clocks, longcase clocks and pocket watches.
To find out more about other types of wall clocks, read Antique wall clocks: an antique dealer’s guide
How to recognise quality in an English antique clock
Regardless of style or type, several factors help determine whether an antique clock is a good example:
Originality - always look for clocks with original movements, dials, hands and cases wherever possible. Alterations, modern replacements or extensive restoration can significantly affect value.
The clockmaker – as with any area of collectables, the maker’s name can make a major difference. Famous English clockmakers include:
• Thomas Tompion (1639-1713) is hailed as the father of English horology and produced table, bracket and longcase clocks.
• George Graham (1673-1751) ‘Honest George Graham’ was apprentice and later partner to Tompion and invented the deadbeat escarpment and the mercurial pendulum.
• Joseph Knibb (1640-1711) produced highly collectable and elegant longcase and bracket clocks, and beautiful dial work.
• Benjamin Vulliamy (1747-1811) royal clockmaker who built the Regulator Clock, the timekeeper at the King’s Observatory, Kew, and the official regulator of time in London.
While these clockmakers are highly regarded by collectors worldwide, the less experienced collector shouldn’t overlook regional makers from towns and cities across Britain who often produced excellent clocks with considerable charm.
Condition – while minor wear is expected in antique clocks, serious woodworm, damaged veneers or heavily restored dials should be approached more cautiously. A working movement is desirable, although many collectors accept that antique clocks may require professional servicing.
How to start an antique clock collection
For those new to collecting, it is often best to buy the highest quality example you can afford rather than choosing a heavily restored or incomplete clock. Antique wall clocks and Victorian mantel clocks can provide an accessible entry point, while antique bracket clocks and antique longcase clocks may appeal to collectors looking for statement pieces. Wherever you start, go with what you like as you may find it hard to live with a piece that doesn’t appeal to you visually.
Visiting reputable antique centres like Hemswell Antique Centres lets you compare styles, learn about makers and see the craftsmanship up close. Over time, as your knowledge and confidence grows, you will begin to recognise the details that distinguish ordinary clocks from exceptional examples.
English antique clocks at Hemswell Antique Centres
At Hemswell, our dealers are expert in their field with the knowledge and experience to help the new collector. Many are members of Lapada (The Association of Art and Antique Dealers), with fine examples of every type of English antique clock. Whether you are drawn to the elegance of Georgian design or the character of Victorian craftsmanship, you will find the perfect timepiece to start or continue your collection.
