A fixture of stately homes and period drama movies, the grandfather clock was once a statement piece of home decor.
The tall freestanding clocks, also known as a longcase clock, typically housed a pendulum movement and were usually situated in the entryway of the home or in the living room, giving a feeling of grandeur to visitors.
Why is it called a grandfather clock?
It’s thought American songwriter Henry Clay Work’s 1876 song, My Grandfather’s Clock, is the reason behind this style of clock’s unusual name. He was inspired to pen the song after seeing a longcase clock when visiting a hotel in County Durham.
There are also grandmother and granddaughter clocks which are shorter in height compared to a grandfather, which usually stands around 1.9 metres.
They’re still a great addition to period homes but reworked designs means they can work equally as well in new builds, adding an unexpected quirk to interiors.
A statement clock can make a nice alternative to other kinds of wall art like tapestries and framed prints and photographs.
If you’re thinking about adding one to your rooms, we’ve found the nicest options, both new and old, to check out below.
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Dunelm Fulton Grandfather Clock
Height: 150cm
Dunelm’s Fulton range is all about modern classics, so it’s no surprise that this sleek grandfather clock is part of the line-up. Made from sustainably sourced MDF and a metal frame, it offers storage by way of shelves and drawers. The clock is battery operated and requires two AA batteries to run.
Buy now £200.00, Dunelm
ClassicLiving Floor Standing 182cm Grandfather Clock
Height: 182cm
Inspired by vintage grandfather clock designs, this sturdy clock features Cathedral pediment, and a blue moon metal dial with raised roman numerals encased behind a glass door. The clock chimes every hour but there’s an automatic shut-off at night so you’re not disturbed when you’re trying to sleep. Self-assembly is required.
Buy now £339.99, Wayfair
Karlsson Lena 100cm Grandfather Clock
Height: 100cm
This statement design strips back the usual decoration you’d find on a grandfather clock, though keeping the pendulum resulting in a modern aesthetic for the home. The lighter tone of the wood means you can paint it in any colour you like as an easy upcycling project or keep as is for Scandi vibes.
Buy now £209.99, Wayfair
Art Deco Grandfather Clock In Oak And Oak Veneer Striking Movement
Height: 203cm
Made from oak wood and hailing from France, this grandfather clock has been made in elegant Art Deco style. It houses a bell movement and although it was made in the 1920s, is still in excellent condition, ready to be part of a new home. There are some slight signs of wear, but this adds to the vintage charm.
Buy now £832.00, Vinterior
Georgian Mahogany Grandfather Clock By George Parker Of Wisbech
Height: 213.5cm
Made in 1700, this magnificent grandfather clock comes from the Georgian period making it a truly antique piece of home decor. The face shows a second hand and a date dial, which is believed to have an eight day mechanism, setting it apart from other styles. As such, the clock has stopped operating but it still makes an excellent piece of furniture to have in the home.
Buy now £474.00, Vinterior
Hermle Pendulum Clocks 70974-000711 wall clock
Height: 62cm
Though a grandfather clock should technically be a freestanding design, this skeleton look keeps the effect alive by retaining the pendulum. Offering a steampunk look, the antique analogue design is made from glass and plastic, so it’s easy to clean. The bell will sound on the hour, adding a sense of ceremony throughout the day.
Buy now £98.50, Amazon
vmarketingsite Grandfather Wood Wall Clock with Westminster Chime
Height: 66cm
For those who want the grandfather clock effect without eating up valuable floor space, this wall-mounted design ticks all the boxes. It’s available in light wood as well as this rich walnut tone with carved wood adding to its antique look. The battery-operated look gives accurate time with silent non-ticking so as not to distract you as you’re watching TV or working from home. There’s also an automatic shut-off overnight allowing you to sleep without background noise.
Buy now £169.99, Amazon
Zuiver 111.5cm Grandfather Clock
Height: 111.5cm
Create a talking point from the moment guests enter your home or business with this contemporary grandfather clock. Made from resin and also available in black, it’s imposing without feeling overbearing, finished with aluminium hands and an aluminium pendulum. The unusual clock comes in a smaller 97.5cm high size too.
Buy now £399.99, Wayfair
