Carriage Clocks and Carriage Clock Accessories

A History of Carriage Clocks

Travel during the early 1800s was never as smooth as what we have today. There were only three modes of travel before the railway ever came to be: Carriages, horseback, or on foot. Carriages were by far the most popular form of travel in Europe and the early United States.

This mode was a very convenient form, as you could travel with family and friends, and be sheltered from the elements as well. The only discomfort would be the rugged trails and road ways. Timekeeping was an essential part of travel, as schedules were now becoming more important to keep.

The invention of the Carriage Clock, around the 1810 by horologist Abraham Breguet, was the idea of the century. These clocks had the ability to withstand the hardships of the road, and some were beautifully ornate in their manufacture. Carriage clocks, in the generic sense, usually came in wooden and brass frames, with a unique lever escapement movement. Any other clock movement would be disrupted during times of rigorous and bumpy travel.

These clocks had handles for carrying, and several styles also came with cases made of leather to further protect them from the stringency of road travel. As the design progressed, carriage clocks became more ornate in design. Some were equipped with enamel or porcelain inlays. Some had movements for the moon and stars. Even more carriage clocks had temperature gauges!

These unique clocks are collectable today. Most are from French designs, such as Paul Garnier, who, due to their popularity, promoted a semi-mass production line of them. The mass produced clocks were simple in design, and cheaper than the individually, hand-made carriage clocks. They were made of brass, or even cheaper metals, gilded to look more decorative. Their functionality did not waiver, though, and became increasingly popular to travelers across the globe.

Another style of carriage clock, the coach clock as it became known, was first manufactured in Germany. This clock was usually hung on the wall of the carriage, and had the form of a large pendant watch. The mechanism could withstand the rigors of the road; it was heavy, with a pendulum that evolved into a more gimbaled pendant, thus alleviating the bumps and lurches the roadways of the time submitted to the carriage.

You can find carriage clocks in auctions today, and depending on the maker of these fine instruments, you can expect to pay quite a price for them. Antique shops may carry some, and checking them for functionality is vital. They would make a fine addition to any home, especially the mantle piece, or as a center piece on any table. Finding an antique carriage clock with intact movement would be a find indeed, as that would increase their value.

Carriage clocks are collectors’ items, and searching for them may mean a lot of travel. For some people they are merely an old clock, and if you know your history, you may just stumble across something of great value. Know you markings and dates of manufacture. Great finds come with great patience. The day may come when you see the antique carriage clock of your dreams.