From Heroic to Dainty – Clock Fashions in the 19th Century

In the 19th century, a number of fashionable timekeepers appeared for the aspiring middle class. Thanks to new production methods, the products that had been handcrafted up until then became affordable for a broad segment of the population.

In the 19th century, so-called historicism predominated. By falling back on historic styles, the middle class attempted to raise its status. Clocks in the form of historical events and personalities made their way into middle-class homes. Even the discovery of America, Columbus’ first step on land, became a model for a mantel clock.

The middle class adhered to the fashions of the time with regard to furnishings. People wanted to feel at home in their home; the term “cosiness“ was a new word describing this feeling. A preference for knickknacks developed; miniature clocks with dainty ornamental designs met with great popularity.