What is the most accurate type of clock in the world? The atomic clock. Developed in the 1950s, the highly accurate atomic clocks became vital for the development of technologies we use today including GPS and satellite television.
The most common clock chime you'll hear is Westminster Chimes, which was adapted from the tones of the famous clock tower in London. Because of variations in the materials used to make different clocks and their relative sizes, the chime will sound slightly different from each clock.
Mantle clocks, as the name implies, were initially designed to be displayed on fireplace mantles. Whether your mantle clock is quartz, key-wound or pendulum, we have the expertise to get it back in working order when there's an issue.
When moving a clock with a pendulum mechanism, be sure to remove the pendulum first. If moving the clock long distance, wrap the pendulum in a protective cloth – with bubble wrap – to protect it from scratches and dents.
If you look on a clock, there’s a chance you’ll see the words “tempus fugit” printed on the face. While many people mistake this for a brand name, it’s simply Latin for “time flies”.
The earliest form of a clock was the sundial. The first authentic recorded mention of a sundial was in 742 BC; however, there is evidence of use of a sundial as early as 2,000 BC.
One of the interesting innovations in clock development is the introduction of the projection clock. Using atomic time-keeping mechanisms, not only are they the most accurate clocks available, but when you hit their button, the time is flashed on the wall for easier reading.
A clock mechanism is delicate, so if you're having trouble with your mechanical clock, it's a good idea to leave repairs to a professional. The store where you purchased your clock will either have a repair department or be able to refer you to an experienced repairman.
Water clocks are one of the oldest forms of timepieces. Some of the first water clocks were found in Babylon and Egypt, but the exact origins are lost history. Evidence suggests that versions of these clocks were found all around the world.
There are many different types of clocks, including clocks that can be chained together and run from a master clock. These clocks are used in institutions that need to keep a consistent time across a large area. Electrical ones work from pulses.
A grandfather clock is a tall, freestanding, pendulum clock. They tower over most clocks for the home and have a case which shows off the pendulum weight. Normally, these clocks feature a beautiful exterior and provide bells at the hour, and sometimes at the half hour.
Clocks relied on the dripping or collecting water to keep time for centuries until the pendulum clock was invented in the mid 17th Century, according to historians.
Mantel clocks (also known as shelf clocks) were originally designed to be a decorative and functional accent on top of the mantel. They tend to have spring mechanisms. As the average size of mantels got smaller, these mantel clocks also tended to be made smaller to match, but you can find all different sizes at a clock store.
A grandfather clock may be a nice piece of furniture and make a wonderful heirloom, but did you know there are also grandmother clocks? Grandmother clocks are long case clocks that are less than six feet tall but more than five feet.
While grandfather clocks have been around since the late 1600s, it was not until the late 1800s that the term “Grandfather Clock” became widespread. The song “My Grandfather’s Clock” written by Henry Clay Work in 1876 is credited with creating the use of the name grandfather clock.
If you're looking for a way to add a bit of elegance to your home, consider a pendulum clock. Smaller models are traditionally used to decorate mantels above fireplaces, and large floor clocks can be used in halls and entryways so they'll be seen easily by anyone entering the house.
Have you ever wondered about the popularity of cuckoo clocks? They were first developed in the Black Forest region of Germany in the early 18th Century. The motion and distinctive sound of the cuckoo became popular worldwide in a short time.
How often should clocks be wound? It is a good idea to wind clocks at least once a week – because most clocks are crafted to run for 8 days without stopping. Sticking with a once a week “wind schedule” will prevent the clock from coming to a stop.
Have you ever heard of a skeleton clock before? These clocks display the inner working parts that are usually hidden. These clocks make great gifts for people who just love to take stuff apart to see how it works, although we don't recommend taking these apart.
The mechanisms inside of clocks are lightly lubricated to reduce friction and wear, but overtime dirt and debris collecting around the lubricated surfaces can create a gummy and sticky substance – regularly servicing clocks will ensure that lubricated surfaces remain clean.
The traditional “old school” wind-up watch emerged in the 14th century, and various innovations since have made this classic time piece smaller and more accurate. The typical wind-up watch has a spring for power, a time-based oscillating mass of some sort, two(minute/hour) hands, a dial, and gears for the ticking.
Do you know why clocks use quartz? This naturally occurring transparent stone has electromagnetic properties. A piece of this rock sends out electromagnetic pulses every second, which enables clock manufacturers to build clocks that tell time accurately.
Do you know why we have a leap year every four years? It takes earth about 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 46 seconds to circle once around the sun. However, the Gregorian calendar only has 365 days in a year, so if we didn’t add a day on February 29th nearly every four years, we would lose almost six hours off of the calendar each year.
Any type of machine with moving parts is going to need lubrication every now and then. The same is true for grandfather clocks. Remember to have your clock oiled and serviced once every 2 or 3 years.