Vintage mechanical clocks are a glimpse of history and design
For Daylight Savings, we thought it was a perfect time to share one of the coolest collections we have ever seen- vintage mechanical clocks.
Liz’s husband, Shawn, is an avid collector of vintage mechanical clocks. He collects both mechanical clocks and wristwatches. He started his collection of mechanical clocks nearly thirty years ago. An avid thrifter, he began to notice interesting wind up mechanical clocks at flea markets and garage sales and decided to start a collection. The most common vintage mechanical clocks that he would find were made by Westclox. While many of the clocks are American made, many are also made in other countries including England (Smith Alarm) and France (Jaz.)
For Shawn this vintage mechanical clock collection was not about helping him keep time. Nor was he particularly interested in the history of the mechanical clocks. There was something about “where was this clock when it stopped” which represented a unique time capsule for him. He wondered what happened at the moment time stopped and who did it belong to? Interesting enough, he has never wound them or used them. He just loves the way they look as unique design objects. The clocks definitely reflect different decades. You can see design elements of different eras in the colors, fonts, styles, shapes and materials.
Collections nearly always look best together in a group. Liz and Shawn display all of of these vintage mechanical clocks against one wall in their basement library (see picture below.) We think that together, they make an interesting visual statement and almost a work of art.
Looking for something to do during the COVID winter ahead of us? Take up a new hobby and start collecting something that makes you feel good. You will be glad you did!
