Wall Clocks

Wall clocks are one of the broadest categories of clocks made in the history of domestic timepieces. Early regulators made in Vienna were some of the most accurate clocks of their time. Fine wall clocks also originated out of London in the 17th century, with other European clockmakers adding a distinct cultural flavor to their versions of the wall clock. Early American clock companies followed suit, with some of these timepieces still in production today. Antique wall clocks are some of the most sought after by collectors, and modern wall clocks remain popular as evidenced by their presence in schools, offices, and homes worldwide.

Junghans, one of the largest and most long-lived clockmaking companies in Germany, is known for some of its fine variations on the wall clock. Antique wood regulator wall clocks by Junghans are prized by collectors. Bauhaus designer Max Bill brought his mechanical expertise to the table in the '50s. The Junghans wall clock designed by Max Bill is characterized by simple, clean lines and precise engineering. A Max Bill Junghans clock is included in the collections of the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museums in London.

The Japanese clock and watchmaker Seiko is also known to collectors for groundbreaking engineering in wall clocks. Seikosha wall clocks were the first quartz clocks used for broadcasting, and Seiko developed transistorized wall clocks in 1959. The company produced the world’s first quartz wall clock for domestic use in 1968.

Quick Facts

• A Junghans Onion Boy swinger wall clock sold for $950 at an auction held at Chapter 104 of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors in 2009
• A Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso advertising wall clock sold for $1,457 at a 2015 Bonhams auction
• A late 18th century Japanese Hashiri Dokie wall clock brought $2,914 at an auction at Bonhams in 2015