What Is a Skeleton Clock?

Antique clocks come in a variety of styles synonymous with either the period they were created or the horologist's unique interpretation of how they should look and function. From antique decorative clocks that showcase stunning craftsmanship both on the exterior and interior to the elegant carriage clocks for sale that have a delightful intricacy to them, vintage clocks hold a certain allure. One type perhaps not spoken of too much is the skeleton clock. A clock type that kind of exists but also doesn’t thanks to there being no official definition of what makes one.

A skeleton clock is a timepiece that shows the skeleton of the clock, the bones that hold it together and make it move how it should. Where normally panels would be in place to conceal the inner workings of the clock, with a skeleton clock they are on show and often protected in a glass case. This allows those observing the timepiece to marvel at the mechanisms and see how the gears, wheels and springs function to keep time. Held together by a stunning frame, these clocks can captivate an audience as the intricate parts work together to tell the time.

What is on show varies from clock to clock, and with there being no official definition of what makes a skeleton clock, it’s been open to innovators to decide what should and shouldn’t be shown. That being said, in most cases, to add to the grandiose effect the skeleton clock exudes, the parts that move the most will often be the ones on display. This would include the escapement, the balance wheel, the mainspring and the tourbillon. These decorative art pieces would then be presented on a base that was often as decorative or as awe-inspiring as the clock itself.

When was the first skeleton clock?

There is some debate over the origin of the skeleton clock however, most are in agreement that they first rose to prominence in France in the late 18^th Century. A small number of clocks exhibiting just as unusual characteristics were made in England in the late 1700s and early 1800s, however, it wasn’t until 1820 when skeleton clocks as we know them now were seen in this country. Inspired by French design, they imitated much of what was being seen across the channel.

This emerging clock style was being produced by a small number of English companies throughout the country with large companies producing them and supplying them to retailers who were able to label them as their own.

How does an antique skeleton clock work?

Skeleton clocks contain an assortment of parts similar to what you will find in many other clocks, but there are some differences. The escapement in a skeleton clock for example differs from the escapement found in tall case, mantle and wall clocks. How it differed though would be dependent on where the clock was made. Between the clocks made in Britain and France, there were a few subtle changes to the inner workings. In many examples, the timepiece movement featured an anchor escapement with a mainspring barrel, fusee and gear train.

In others, you may see a weight used in place of a mainspring barrel to drive the clock's mechanisms. Some skeleton clocks would feature a pendulum to keep time and others would use a balance wheel. Much depends on the country of origin and the style of clock. In Britain, the clock would feature the fusee for example, whereas in France it would be the Going Barrel.

What are skeleton clocks made of?

Depending on the period the skeleton clock was made, you will likely see different materials used to showcase the horologists' clever design and intricate work. In the 19^th century, clockmakers took advantage of the industrial revolution and began experimenting a little more. Different designs and materials started to be used and a more elegant-looking clock came with them. Brass and steel components would be used and carefully arranged to highlight both the innovation of the clock and the mechanical elegance. The frame or stand that held the clock’s moving parts could be simple or it could be extremely detailed. In some examples, we see a simple metal stand that supports the mechanisms, in others we see bold, elegant craftsmanship that goes into great detail to showcase the landmark, event or person it is perhaps celebrating.

Why are antique skeleton clocks popular?

Skeleton clocks help take us to a different time. The frame the working parts are held in would often resemble iconic landmarks or signify a time period. For example, some clocks made in Great Britain would illustrate some of the illustrious cathedrals found across the country. Others may appear more contemporary and feature stunning curves and artistic genius that had never been seen before. These clocks give us a glimpse into just how intricate the world of horology is and allow us to appreciate the minute detail that goes into ensuring we can tell the time. The movement can be mesmerising and the frame the parts are held in captivating as you are transported right into the imagination of a clockmaker from hundreds of years ago.

How much do antique skeleton clocks cost?

Prices for antique skeleton clocks can vary significantly depending on the period it came from, where it was manufactured and who manufactured it. We have seen them priced from around £500 to well over £30,000.

Servicing and maintaining a skeleton clock

It would always be advised to visit a specialist if you require an overhaul or servicing of an antique clock. The delicate parts and sensitive materials may get easily damaged if tampered with by someone not fully aware of what to do. There is some general maintenance you can do at home though should you want to help keep your clock clean and in its best condition.

• Ensure your skeleton clock is not in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
• If the clock needs to be moved, remove the pendulum before moving the clock. This will help avoid causing damage to the movement.
• Dust the case and the stand once a week to remove any dust build-up.
• Use beeswax or crystalline wax to remove fingerprints and any other marks from the case.
• Steer clear from household cleaning materials or any potentially abrasive materials when cleaning the case and the clock itself.
• When cleaning the hands, use a small brush to remove dust but only apply a gentle amount of force. Being too aggressive could see you bend or break the hands.

As mentioned above, the use of an antique clock specialist would be recommended for any work on a skeleton clock.

Skeleton clocks today

Whilst antique skeleton clocks are still cherished by collectors and enthusiasts, time has seen the skeleton clock evolve further still. Whilst a name still relevant to the clocks of the 18^th and 19^th centuries, the term has now been adopted for wall clocks that feature no backplate.

Powered by quartz batteries, these mass-produced clocks lack the character and grandeur of the antique clock that preceded them. With minimalist design and low production costs, the clocks, whilst potentially novel in some respects, won’t stand the test of time like their antique counterparts.

If you own a skeleton clock and want it serviced or meticulously restored to its best, speak to The Clock Clinic. We have many years of experience working on antique timepieces from all over the globe. Our dedicated service allows you to have an expert work on your skeleton clock and bring it to life! Simply get in touch, or book an appointment now and benefit from our one-to-one service that puts you and your clock first.