Grandmother Clocks

Similarities of Grandfather vs. Grandmother clocks

Grandfather and grandmother clocks are generally the same in that they both have a long case that houses a long pendulum that swings back and forth to keep the time. They also usually have 3 weights and need to be wound up about once a week to keep them operational. 

Grandfather and Grandmother clocks are both fitted with mechanical movements that chime on the hour and need to be wound up to keep them functioning.

Difference in the profile

While this is not always the case, grandmother clocks generally have a slimmer waist when compared to a grandfather clock. The crown and the base are often wider than the waist on a grandmother clock. 

Many people ask, “What’s the difference between grandfather and grandmother clocks?” While grandfather and grandmother clocks are more similar than different, there are a few noteworthy differences between these two types of long case clocks that we’ll discuss in this article.

Difference in the movement

Because of the smaller size, a grandmother clock will sometimes have a slightly different mechanical movement when compared to a grandfather clock. The weights in a grandmother clock are more likely to be suspended from the movement using chains rather than cables and pulleys. 

A grandmother clock with a chain driven movement will be wound up by pulling on the chains to raise the weights over the wheels in the movement. This is in contrast to most grandfather clocks, which are usually wound up by inserting the winding key into the clock face and turning counterclockwise. 

In both cases, “winding up” a clock raises the weights so they can continue to fall and power the clock. 

Although they might have different movements, there is very little difference between the chime sound and the functionality of grandfather clocks and grandmother clocks.

Difference in size

As was already alluded to, the main difference between grandfather clocks and grandmother clocks is the size. Grandfather clocks are often around 86” tall, while grandmother clocks are often found to be 76” or less.

Difference in price

Because of the smaller size of the cabinet and the chain driven movement, the price of grandmother clocks is often slightly lower than the price of a grandfather clock. Custom grandmother clock prices are often in the $4,000 range, depending on the features and options chosen. 

Read the entire article with sample pictures at: Grandfather Clocks vs. Grandmother Clocks: 4 Notable Differences found on www.oldtimechimes.com

https://oldtimechimes.com/grandmother-clocks-vs-grandfather-clocks/