Antique clocks are an excellent investment because of the durability and the beautiful characteristics it adds to the design. Besides telling time, antique clocks are considered works of art, showcasing the clockmaking skills of those who designed them. Clocks can enhance the look of a bare wall and make an elegant substitute for a mirror, painting or picture frame.
If you’re looking for antique clocks for sale, you may come across clocks made from different materials such as brass, chrome, silver and gold. Wood is one of the most common materials used for making clocks. Wooden antique clocks are a popular choice for many collectors because not only are they durable, but they can also easily blend well in many home interior designs.
Different Types of Wood Materials for Antique Clocks
Wooden vintage or antique clocks bring a rustic yet elegant appeal to any space. Below are some of the common wood materials used in making antique clocks.
Oak
Oakwood possesses many properties that make it a suitable choice for manufacturing flooring and furniture. It is a hardwood; hence it is dense and non-porous, making it resistant to moisture and shrinkage. Oak contains high quantities of tannin, so it is resistant to fungi and insects. There are many species of oak wood, but white oak and red oak are the most widely used varieties in furniture making because of their strength, durability, and versatility.
A distinguishing feature of oak wood is its straight-grained pattern, which can be observed in both white and red oak species. White oak typically possesses an attractive light beige to brown colour, while red oak is on the rosier end of the colour spectrum. Colours may turn darker over time, especially with exposure to sunlight and oxygen.
Black Walnut
Black walnut wood is a tough type of hardwood that is resistant to decay. However, it is vulnerable to insect infestation.
The colours of walnut wood vary based on the part of the tree the timber is sourced from. The heartwood ranges from light to dark chocolate brown, while the sapwood comes in lighter shades, typically yellow to almost white. Some walnut wood can have a red, grey, or even purple appearance. Unlike other types of timber, black walnut wood gets lighter as it ages.
The grain is usually straight, but some black walnut wood patterns curl, look wavy, or form knots. In terms of texture, black walnut wood has a smooth finish.
Maple
Many woodworkers prize maple wood for its light, creamy colour. Just like other types of hardwood, maple wood turns darker over time or when exposed to oxygen and UV light. Maple wood possesses a fine, straight pattern, but some varieties have wavy, rippled, or bird’s eye grain.
Hard maple is typically used in woodworking for its resistance to warping and cracking. It also holds up well against changes in temperature and humidity.
Cherry
Cherry is commonly used for woodworks and furniture making because of its attractive colour and smooth texture. Because it is a medium density hardwood, cherry wood is durable but flexible and has low stiffness. It is easy to cut, carve, or mould.
The colours of cherry wood can appear yellowish to light reddish-brown. It will darken as it age, but exposure to light and oxygen can speed up the aging process.
Add a Rustic Touch to Your Home with a Wooden Antique Clock
Searching for antique wooden clocks? We have a wide selection of antique carriage clocks, grandfather clocks, mantel clocks and many more. You can also hire our services if your antique clock needs repair or restoration. Take a look at our collection here for the finest antique clocks in Australia.