Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Who was the famous American clockmaker?
1 Answer

There was actually more than one famous American clockmaker. Many people refer to Eli Terry as the “father of mass-produced clocks in the U.S.,” as he introduced the concept of interchangeable parts that made large-scale production possible. Another well-known name in the history of American clock-making is Seth Thomas, who founded the Seth Thomas Clock Company in 1813. Brothers Aaron and Simon Willard are also important figures in the field, having developed banjo clocks and tall case clocks, respectively. Shop a variety of antique and vintage clocks on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025
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Shop for Clocks on 1stDibs
1960s Mid-Century Modern Murano Glass Wall Clock by Cà dei Vetrai
Located in Milano, IT
1960s Mid-Century Modern wall clock, meticulously handcrafted in Italy by the prestigious Murano glassmakers Cà dei Vetrai. This stunning wall clock features a captivating and vibran...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Murano Glass
Very rare, large SABA designer table clock with an aluminum housing from 1975
Located in München, DE
A very rare, large, original SABA designer table clock with an aluminum housing. Manufactured in 1975. Made in Germany.
Features a beautiful, minimalist design. This clock is now ext...
Category
Vintage 1970s German Space Age Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Metal, Aluminum
Antique Art Deco Walnut Mantel Desk Clock Key Wound Chiming Bauhaus 26"
Located in Dayton, OH
Antique art deco style, key wound, chiming mantel clock with a wooden oxbow/yoke shaped case and brass numbers.
Dimensions
26” x 4” x 8.25” / Face – 6.75” (Width x Depth x Height/Di...
Category
Early 20th Century Art Deco Mantel Clocks
Materials
Walnut
$280 Sale Price
30% Off
French Mystery Gravity Driven Gilt Incline Rolling Clock - No Spring or Battery
Located in Danville, CA
French Style Mystery Gravity Driven Gilt Incline Rolling Clock - No Spring or Battery
This very unusual clock is never wound with a key, but does featur...
Category
Vintage 1980s French Mantel Clocks
Materials
Brass
Antique French Mystery Gravity Driven Rolling Ball Waterwheel Industrial Clock
Located in Danville, CA
Rare Mint Original 1900 French Mystery Water Wheel Rolling Ball Industrial Clock
This rare French Industrial Waterwheel Clock (circa 1900) is a masterpiece of horological engineering...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century French Industrial Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Onyx, Bronze
Large Mantel Clock, Lyre Pendule with Ormolu Ram's Heads, France, circa 1825
Located in Greven, DE
Large Lyra pendulum clock with ram’s heads
France
Mahogany, bronze
c. 1825
Dimensions: H x W x D: 59 x 28 x 15 cm
Description:
A large and exquisitely crafted lyre clock made of m...
Category
Antique 19th Century French Restauration Mantel Clocks
Materials
Ormolu


