Repairing a clock is delicate work that requires deep understanding of the various components of a clock. Because there are many different clocks and mechanisms, this trade is not suitable for just anyone. It takes someone with a great appreciation of clocks, patience and precision. A clock has to be repaired in a way that it was originally constructed. If it is repaired the wrong way it can actually causes problems for the clock and devalue your clock.

If you have a clock that needs repairing, make sure you choose the right person to do the job for you. The first thing to look at is the qualification of the clockmaker. Secondly experience comes into play as with many expert trades. Last but not least, most clockmakers in Australia will be a member of the Clock & Watchmakers Australia.

With nearly 30 years of experience Jot of Dutch Antiques is a well-known clockmaker in Perth and surroundings in the Antique Clock market.

Is my antique clock broken?

Do notice that antique clocks are not as precise as modern clocks. It’s quite common for antique clocks to deviate a few minutes every week. This is one of the characteristics of antique clocks, your clock is not broken. If you are still in doubt, contact us.

The history of the clock can go back many thousand of years. The origin of the first clock is debatable as the sun was used to create timekeeping devices.

A major breakthrough however was the first mechanical tower clock, which was made in Italy in 1275.

It took over nearly 4 more centuries before the second significant invention took place. In 1656 Christiaan Huygens invented the pendulum which changed the clocks as we know them today. He didn’t just invent the pendulum, but he was also the first to derive the formula for the period of the pendulum. His researched was combined and published in 1673 in his work “Horologium Oscillatorium sive de motu pendulorum”.

The third invention followed Huygens’ discovery quite quickly. Only 15 years later Robert Hooke or William Clement came up with the anchor escapement. The design of the escapement looks simple, but the detail is in the simplicity. This invention works well together with the pendulum as it maintains the swing of the pendulum giving it a push each swing. The wheels of the escapement also help the clock’s hand to move forward.

An overview of antique clocks can be found in our online shop or in our store located in Perth, Western Australia.

A piece of history with a story. This Winterhalter & Hoffmeier mantle clock (ca 1880) is loved by collectors. The origin of the company goes back all the way to 1810 when Thomas Winterhalter founded his firm. He moved in with the family Friedenweiler a few years later. But it wasn’t until the 1850’s when the company was called Winterhalder & Hoffmeier when Johannas Hoffmeier got involved. Since then the company has had several minor name changes until it eventually had to close its doors due to problems related to the First World War.

This beautiful clock has an oak case and 8 day movement. This clock is of a high quality standard as it is made in the Black Forest. The oak case is beautifully combined with the silver engraved dial.

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