A mantel clock must be one of the most specifically named pieces of home décor imaginable. But, its name is overly restrictive and limiting, for a mantel clock isn’t just for your fireplace mantel, and it’s not just for telling time. A high quality, visually appealing mantel clock can bring an elegant charm to any room in your home, and as you’re looking for mantel clocks in Houston, MO, there are a number of things you should consider before making a selection.
- How does it work? Mantel clocks typically operate using two different systems: battery operated or wind-up. Battery-operated clocks use quartz movement, which keeps very accurate time, and they have the added benefit of lasting for years with very little maintenance or attention required. You’ll typically need to change the batteries every few years or so, but otherwise maintenance is limited to movement replacement, which may not be necessary for 20 years or more. Wind-up clocks, on the other hand, are completely mechanical, and must be wound and time-adjusted every week or so. These clocks are more expensive and need to be oiled and cleaned on occasion, but they can last for many years and be very valuable.
- What do the chimes sound like? Battery-operated clocks offer a range of chimes and melodies, and allow for volume adjustment. You can even turn of the chimes if you so choose. Wind-up clocks chime acoustically, as hammers strike tuned rods within the clock, producing a beautifully natural sound.
- What will it look like? Cherry and oak are the two most popular wood casings for mantel clocks. There is also a variety of shapes the clock might take. The tambour style, for example, slopes downward on either side of the clock face. A barrister style clock is rectangular, and has an arched top. There is also the carriage style, which is typically more square-shaped and has a handle at the top.
- What is the clock for? While mantel clocks are great for telling time, few of us need them to do just that—we have clocks on our phones, our microwaves and various other electronic devices around the house. What a mantel clock does that those other clocks don’t do, though, is look nice. It hearkens back to a pre-digital era, performing only one task but serving multiple functions. A mantel clock can be a striking piece of home décor, even a work of art. There are even mantel clocks that are intended to commemorate events, either historical periods or times in the owner’s life. These clocks are more than just timepieces, or even decorations—they are a part of a person’s story, and although that deeper meaning may not be apparent to others, the owner can find great pleasure and comfort in possessing a clock that is so personally meaningful.
When you’re shopping around for mantel clocks in Houston, MO, we hope Crowley’s Homeworks will be your first and last stop. We look forward to helping you pick out the perfect mantel clock for your home.