The Grandfather Clock continues to be a symbol of elegance and fine home décor. It may be placed most anywhere in the home and be the focus of attention if certain guidelines are observed. Clock makers today manufacture a wide variety of styles and clock finishes that can be used to enhance any room and can also, if chosen and placed properly, be the main focus of the room in which it is placed. They also offer a variety of clock face styles, moon phase dials, numerals, pendulums, and chimes, to list the main features. Some have a night silencer option as well.
The following is a list of things you should do before purchasing a Grandfather Clock.
1. Determine where in your home or office you will display the clock.
2. Determine what style clock you think you may choose to purchase.
3. Determine that your choice will not be too large or small for the room’s ambience. You do not want a fine piece of furniture seeming out of place.
4. Pick out what theme the room will display so you can determine the clock style and finish that you have chosen, will blend with and enhance the theme of the other room furnishings.
5. The next thing to select is the type of clock movement. Electric, quartz and mechanical (requires winding) movements are available.
6. After selecting the movement you should select the type of face for the clock. This selection may include or exclude a moon phase dial, different numeral styles, as well as which chimes may be available. The most popular chime tones offered are the Westminister Chime, Whittington Chime and the St. Michael Chime.
7. Select other options that you may prefer such as night silencer, chime volume, pendulum styles, and movement manufacturer.
8. Inquire as to the warranty, delivery and setup procedure for the clock selected. White glove delivery service and setup are available. Ask about these services and who is responsible for their cost. Many dealers provide free shipping.
9. Ask about the proper operation and care of the clock you select. Make sure you are comfortable with the instructions given. Stay away from dealers who do not or can not answer your concerns.
10. Select a reputable clock company as well as a genuine dealer to purchase from. You want a dealer that can be your advocate for any problems that may arise. Clocks are not any different than any other purchase. Not any product sold in the world today is always perfect and the dealer is your advocate. Avoid any deal that seems too good to be true. The old adage of receiving what you pay for usually is true. A well made clock will endure longer than the purchaser. An unscrupulous deal is not worth the savings.
1. The oldest continuously operating USA clock company is Ridgeway Clocks owned by the Ridgeway Furniture Company in Ridgeway VA. No other large company manufactures grandfather clocks in the USA. This information is not meant to disparage any other clock makers but just information to enlighten the user.
Things to do after your clock purchase.
1. Make sure the clock is properly setup. Always make sure the manufacturers directions are followed and adhered to. It is very important for the clock to be level for the movement to operate accurately.
2. Read, understand and follow all instructions for proper maintenance and operation.
3. Last, but not least, enjoy your grandfather clock. It will become a treasured presence in any home or office
Tue, Oct 13, 2009
Grandfather Clocks