A Brief Look at the Complete History of Pendulum Clocks

(~350w, 3rd Person, Formal/Educational)

Almost everyone has owned or at least seen a pendulum clock.

They’re a mainstay in clock shops and antique stores. They’re for people who like style and elegance. They’ve been adoring halls, dens, and foyers for generations.

Also called grandfather clocks, they’re perhaps the most popular non-portable timepiece ever created – but where did it all start?

What Is the Origin of Pendulum Clocks?

Before pendulum clocks were a collector’s pride and joy, they were an engineer’s breakthrough achievement.

These clocks date back to the 1600s. Galileo Galilei experimented with pendulums in the 1630s. However, it was Dutch mathematician Christiaan Huygens who popularized them for timekeeping in 1656.

By calculating the length of the pendulum, he made it swing at the speed needed to move the gears at a set pace. Some clocks before it would be off by 15 minutes at day’s end – the pendulum clock cut it to about 15 seconds. 

How Did Pendulum Clocks Change?

Even though it was a breakthrough in timekeeping accuracy, the pendulum clock had flaws. Humid conditions could make components expand, impacting accuracy. This could enable wider swings and time loss.

The solution was the deadbeat escapement, popularized by Richard Townseley, Thomas Tompion, and George Graham. Essentially functioning as a limiter to reduce the swinging range by a few degrees, this helped to make the clock even more accurate.

This upgrade kept the clocks popular, and saw them get many creative design spins in their widespread use across the globe.

Why Are Pendulum Clocks Still Popular?

Even in an age where digital clocks can go a full day without losing a second, the pendulum clock remains popular. Their elegant design makes them just as appealing as furniture as they once were for their accuracy.

While they appeal to decorators, they’re also huge in antique circles. Especially in models with older designs and components, a clock’s historical value alone gives it worth.

When you’re looking for a clock shop to repair your old clock and get the pendulum swinging again, choose Tic Top Shop in Mason, OH. We have 50 years’ experience providing clock restoration and repair services. Contact us online or call (513) 922-0315.