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Grandfather Clocks - Discount Grandfather Clocks - Affordable
Grandfather Clocks
The
History Of Grandfather Clocks
Humans have been keeping track of
time throughout the ages using everything from hourglasses to
sundials. During the second half of the 13th century, the very first
mechanical clocks were developed. These early clocks were huge
contraptions made with heavy iron frames and large gears, usually
placed in church towers and striking the church bell on the top of
each hour.
Enhancements led to an hour hand and the ability of the clocks to
strike every quarter-hour. Eventually, during the first half of the
15th century, personal clocks started to appear. As time progressed,
these clocks became a popular fixture in the homes of the upper
classes, especially grandfather clocks.
Galileo was first credited with the discovery that a pendulum could
be used to keep time. This led to Dutch scientist Christiaan Huygens
developing the first pendulum clock, the prototype for the
grandfather clock. These clocks hung on walls and were
affectionately entitled "wags-on-the-wall" due to their short
pendulums. In the mid-1600's, English clockmakers introduced a clock
which was even closer to today's grandfather clock known as the
"long case" clock, which was nearly 6 feet long with a 10-inch
pendulum.
By 1670, an even longer pendulum was used, various changes were
incorporated, and the first grandfather clock was produced. The
advancements resulted in an increase in precision that meant the
clocks held time to within a few seconds variance per week. This was
the start of the popularity of grandfather clocks due to their
ability to keep time so accurately.
A minute hand was added, and eventually a glass front was introduced
to better display the internal workings of the pendulum, chains, and
weights. These lovely timepieces were not referred to as grandfather
clocks but rather were called "long case" clocks or "floor" clocks
until nearly 1900. Throughout these early years, grandfather clocks
were made almost exclusively for people of noble heritage. Though
produced in America since the late 1600's, it was not until the 19th
century that grandfather clocks became affordable for everyone.
It is our mission here at
MyGiftsite.com to provide
these lovely timepieces at a truly affordable price for everyone.
Quality craftsmanship, dependable movements, excellent woodworking
all combine to create a beautiful grandfather clock for you or your
loved ones which will last a lifetime.
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