Lantern Clock

The style of clock called a 'lantern clock' was the first type of domestic clock.

A lantern clock is square-ish, and is a wall clock, being hung from a hook on the wall. The distinguishing features are a bell on top of the clock, and a metal case. The bell is struck to indicate the hours. Most original lantern clocks have an hour hand only.

These clocks were made of iron originally but later brass was preferred, often with thickly gilded dials. The earliest would run for just 12 hours, needing adjustment every day. Later models ran for one day or perhaps 30 hours.

The weights hang down below. They have no pendulum, which was not invented until 1658. Originally, lantern clocks had a balance wheel escapement but these rarely survive. Many were converted in the late 17th century to short pendulum and verge escapements, and later to a long pendulum with an anchor escapement.

They date from the 1620s at the earliest and were built throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. Reproductions have continued to be made.

These can also be called chamber or bird-cage clocks.