The Carriage Clock is so named because they were made to be carried by people who traveled by carriage. As you can well imagine, this could be a rigorous means of transportation, so the clocks were made to be tough. They had to stand up to the ride and not allow this to interfere with keeping time.

A Carriage Clock isn’t very big, and the most unique thing about it is its large top handle. This is what allowed for greater portability. These sturdy clocks were made of metal, most often brass. The face of the clock was covered with glass for added protection.

Carriage Clock History

The Carriage Clock became trendy as a result of advances in the technology of clock making in the 19th century. Owning one was fashionable for the upper class. They were a common component of luggage for travel, and the train was also a widely used mode of transportation in this era. This was another rocky method of transportation for which the clock proved useful. Carriage Clocks during this period most often were housed in a leather travel case.

As of about the 1830s, hundreds of Carriage Clocks were exported all across the globe. This simple, sturdy clock was popular in part owing to its easy-to-read white enamel face, with black hands and Roman numerals. Because candlelight was the primary source of lighting at that time, these features made the clock highly visible.

The Ever Popular Carriage Clock

The Carriage Clock is one of the best loved clocks of it’s time. The popularity of this clock has not waned. Many people today have them on mantels or bookcases in their homes. Only 30 or 40 years ago the original clocks were easy to find, but they have become a collector’s item. This has reduced the numbers dramatically. There are replicas of the original Carriage Clock available and many are hard to discern from the real thing.

Many companies sell replicas of this clock exactly as it was from the early days. The same Roman numerals and the white enamel face recall memories of days gone by. This type is the most popular of the clocks. It is called an Anglaise and was produced by the French who were trying to cater to the tastes of the English. Today it is replicated due to the popularity it enjoyed in earlier years.

Carriage Clocks are still popular, more than a hundred years after they were introduced. Clock hunters eagerly scour estate sales and antique shops in search of an original clock. Even now, these clocks are considered a sign of elegance and good taste. When the search for an authentic clock comes up empty, many people choose to purchase a replica that closely matches the original. This clock has been incredibly popular, in spite of the passing of more than a century, and it is likely to remain popular into the foreseeable future.