Longcase clocks originated in the late 17th century after the invention of the pendulum clock. Their tall cases accommodate long pendulums and weights, improving accuracy. Once exclusive to the wealthy, longcase clocks became more widely produced and remain popular today in mass-produced, custom, and antique forms. Values vary from hundreds for basic modern models to six-figure prices for rare antiques. Regular maintenance preserves their function and value.

What a longcase clock is

A longcase clock - commonly called a grandfather clock - is a tall, freestanding, weight-driven pendulum clock enclosed in a wooden case. The long case gives room for a long pendulum and descending weights, which help the movement keep time more accurately than earlier spring- or verge-escapement clocks.

Where and when they began

Pendulum timekeeping was introduced in the mid-17th century after Christiaan Huygens developed the pendulum clock mechanism (1656). The longcase form emerged in England soon after, around the 1670s; English clockmakers refined the anchor escapement and tall case to house longer pendulums and heavier weights, improving accuracy and durability.

Who bought them then - and now

Early longcase clocks were expensive, handcrafted items owned by wealthy households or institutions. Over the 18th and 19th centuries, production broadened as more makers produced varied designs and cases, making them accessible to the growing middle class. Today the term "grandfather clock" is popular because of the 1876 song "My Grandfather's Clock." The technical name remains "longcase."

Movements, chimes and styles

Longcase clocks use weight-driven movements with a pendulum and an escapement (often an anchor escapement). Dials range from simple brass to painted enamel and complex engraved silver. Many longcase clocks include striking or chiming trains - for example, Westminster chimes or hour strikes. Styles reflect their era: simple 18th-century provincial cases, ornate Georgian and Rococo examples, and later Victorian mass-produced designs.

Prices and what affects value

Price depends on age, maker, condition, movement quality, case wood, and provenance. Typical new, mass-produced floor clocks from well-known brands start in the low hundreds to a few thousand dollars. Custom-built longcase clocks and high-quality modern makers generally cost several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Antique longcase clocks can range from a few thousand dollars for common provincial pieces to six-figure sums for rare 17th- and 18th-century examples by notable makers.

Buying and caring for a longcase clock

Decide whether you want an antique, a new production piece, or a custom clock. Inspect the movement, check for original parts and servicing history, and ask about case restoration. Regular maintenance (oiling and adjustment by a qualified clockmaker every few years) preserves timekeeping and value.

Why collectors value them

Collectors and homeowners prize longcase clocks for their mechanical ingenuity, historical character, and the presence they add to a room: a functional, audible object that links modern interiors to centuries of clockmaking craft.
  1. Verify typical contemporary retail price ranges for mass-produced longcase/floor clocks (2023-2025 market) and update ranges if needed.
  2. Verify typical price ranges for custom-built longcase clocks from established modern makers.
  3. Confirm auction and sale records for high-end antique longcase clocks to support the statement that some have sold for six-figure sums.

FAQs about Long Case Clock

Why are they called grandfather clocks?
The nickname "grandfather clock" comes from the 1876 song "My Grandfather's Clock." The technical term is longcase clock.
How do longcase clocks keep time more accurately than early clocks?
They use a pendulum and weight-driven movement with an escapement (typically an anchor escapement), which offers steadier beats and better regulation than earlier verge-escapement designs.
What should I look for when buying an antique longcase clock?
Check the movement condition, original parts, maker's name or signature, case authenticity, service history, and any provenance. Have a qualified horologist inspect it before purchase.
How often should a longcase clock be serviced?
Most experts recommend a professional service every 3-10 years depending on use and environment; routine oiling and adjustment preserves accuracy and prevents wear.
How much do longcase clocks cost today?
Prices vary widely: mass-produced new floor clocks can start in the low hundreds to a few thousand dollars; custom or high-end modern pieces often cost several thousand to tens of thousands; antiques can range from several thousand to over $100,000 for rare examples.

News about Long Case Clock

Historic clock expected to fetch up to £30k at Cockermouth auction - Cumbria News and Star [Visit Site | Read More]

Famous clock sells for £23,000 at Cockermouth auction - Times & Star [Visit Site | Read More]

Exquisite Charles II ebony longcase clock worth over £3 million at risk of leaving UK - GOV.UK [Visit Site | Read More]

Meet the Taunton horologist who keeps the town's clocks ticking - Somerset County Gazette [Visit Site | Read More]

£30,000 clock by Gandy of Cockermouth to go under the hammer at Mitchells - Cumbria Crack [Visit Site | Read More]

Cornwall National Trust site spends hours winding clocks back - BBC [Visit Site | Read More]

How the Grandfather Clock Got Its Name - HowStuffWorks [Visit Site | Read More]