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If you are interested in antiques and heirlooms, you may have wondered about the origins of the grandfather clock. With its great size, unique appearance, and intricate designs, these clocks have a colorful history that involves a surprising amount of trial and error. The grandfather clock repair specialists at Tic Toc Shop of Mason, OH, are here to share the story behind these treasured antiques.

History of the Grandfather Clock

Invention & Early Forms

The very beginnings of the grandfather clock came from Galileo’s research of how a pendulum moves according to time. In 1656, Dutch astronomer and mathematician Christiaan Huygens used Galileo’s findings to create the pendulum clock. It was the most accurate time-telling device of that period, so naturally, its popularity boomed.

grandfather clock repairOver time, pendulums and thus cases became longer, leading to the original name “longcase clocks.” Most were over six feet tall, but variations were created. One attempt was a wall-mounted grandfather clock, but this likely failed due to its heaviness. The name “grandfather clock” was penned much later by American songwriter Henry Work. During the 1870s, he wrote a song called “Grandfather’s Clock” about an old pendulum clock in a hotel lobby.

Pendulum Accuracy

Although they were accurate for the time, the first pendulum clocks could still lose anywhere between 10 minutes to an hour every day. To combat this, clockmakers lengthened pendulums to allow for a slower tick and less wear on the inner workings. Previously, grandfather clock repair was a frequent necessity.

Clockmakers never shied away from ornate displays and designs. But now that the clocks were more efficient and accurate than ever, they could focus on complex engravings, exquisite spandrels, and even the addition of two elegant hands. To keep up with the increasing precision grandfather clocks afforded, clock shops introduced minute and second hands, as well as minute notches around the outside of the chapter ring. By this point, grandfather clocks looked like the ones we today.

With such an intriguing history and transformation, it’s important to preserve the grandfather clocks still around today. Tic Toc Shop provides expert grandfather clock repair and restoration. These horologists have a formal education in clockwork, so you can be sure your antiques and heirlooms will be handled with respect and professionalism. You also won’t need to worry about damaging your grandfather clock in transport because this clock repair shop does house calls. To learn more about their grandfather clock repair services, visit them online. Call (513) 922-0315 to schedule your appointment today.

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