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Grandfather Clocks
Also known as a floor clock or longcase clock
(among other things), the “grandfather clock”
traces its most popular name to a 19th century
song entitled “My Grandfather’s Clock.” The
classic type is about 6 to 8 feet tall, with
a pendulum swinging inside the case and driving
the clock gears. Until the 20th century,
pendulum clocks were the most accurate timepieces
available.
The pendulum in a grandfather
clock is made
of a combination of metals that
will resist
lengthening and shortening as
the ambient
temperature changes. Otherwise,
the speed
at which it swings will vary,
causing the
clock to run too fast or too
slow.
Grandfather clocks have long
been desirable
as decorative pieces for home
or office.
In choosing one, there are several
matters
to consider:
- Whether you want an antique or a modern version.
- The design and craftsmanship of the case.
- The artistry of the clock face, including
ancillary dials that may show day and night,
phases of the moon, etc.
- Whether the case for the pendulum and weights
is opaque or glass.
- How often the clock strikes and the sounds
it makes. These can be bell-like, gong-like,
and/or musical melodies.
- Its accuracy in keeping time.
- The frequency with which it must be reset,
and the difficulty in doing this right.
- The maintenance schedule, including the oiling
of gears.
There are modern variations that
imitate
the look of a grandfather clock
while being
driven by electricity. Some of
these include
a glass-encased pendulum that
moves through
the operation of an electric
motor but does
not drive the clock mechanism.
These clocks
are lacking in romance, but are
generally
maintenance-free. |
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