Clock manufacturer, Hamburg American Clock Co., presents its shelf clock for the first time
In the heart of Calgary, Alberta, a passionate collector of vintage German clocks has added a unique piece to his collection. This new acquisition, a Hamburg American Clock Co. (HAC) shelf clock, was found on an estate auction and later on Ottawa's Facebook Marketplace.
The HAC shelf clock, being the first in the owner's collection, boasts a robust and well-engineered movement, characteristic of the company's mechanical wind-up mechanisms. This vintage clock, consistent with clocks of its era, will require periodic maintenance and occasional oiling to maintain its proper function over the decades.
The HAC acronym stands for Hamburg American Clock Company, a German firm founded in 1883 that was later acquired by Gebr Junghans Uhrenfabrik in the late 1920s. The company's distinctive trademark, a crossed symbol, is evident on the mahogany case or clock face area of their clocks, making them easily recognisable to collectors and restorers. The HAC shelf clock in question features Roman numerals on its dial, a common design element in the company's clocks.
The owner, a frequent follower of online for-sale and estate auction sites, was drawn to the HAC shelf clock with the intention of trimming down his collection. However, the one-in, one-out rule was applied, and the clock found a permanent home in his collection. The owner's collection already includes a variety of German clocks, such as Junghans, Mauthe, Hermle, Jauch, Gufa, and others.
The plates of the movement are almost 2 mm thick, a testament to the clock's quality craftsmanship. While the case of the clock is a little worn, especially the dial, the owner plans to work on its restoration next, ensuring this rare piece will continue to tick away for many more years.
Common characteristics of Hamburg American Clock Co. shelf clocks include mechanical movements, a distinctive trademark featuring crossed elements, mahogany inlaid cases, and Roman numeral dials. These traits help distinguish HAC shelf clocks in the vintage and antique clock market.
The owner and his family split their time between Calgary and Ottawa, allowing them to enjoy their collection in two beautiful Canadian cities. The HAC shelf clock was delivered to the owner by courier for a small shipping fee, making its journey from Ottawa to Calgary a smooth one. This new addition to the collection is not just a timekeeper but a testament to the craftsmanship and history of the Hamburg American Clock Company.
technology has advanced significantly since the vintage HAC shelf clock was first manufactured in 1883, yet the clock continues to function properly with the help of periodic maintenance and occasional oiling. Despite owning smart-home-devices and various gadgets, the owner finds value in preserving and showcasing the vintage clocks, such as the HAC shelf clock, alongside his collection of gadgets, reflecting a blend of old and new technology in his home.
