A History of the Grandfather Clock

This regal timepiece has assumed different names at different times – Longcase clocks, Tall case clock, Floor clock to Grandfather clock. One of the most noticeable features of the grandfather clock is the outer case, which is often distinguished by its ornate wood work and intricate carvings. In 1656, Christiaan Huygens built the first known grandfather clock, although the clock failed to keep an accurate time. Through the years, various inventors tried to improve on the design, but with little luck. This imposing piece of history owes its existence to William Clement with the first grandfather clock adorning the royal suits in 1670.

Clement named his newly designed clocks as longcase clocks. This was the predecessor of the grandfather clock that we know today. In 1875, Henry Work wrote the song “My Grandfather’s Clock” and the name stuck and finally, after many years in the making, the grandfather clock was born. Based on their size and height, Longcase clocks have been classified as “grandfather”, “grandmother” or “granddaughter” clock.