Where should I place a table clock?

Position your clock on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, draughts and damp areas. Wooden mantels, desks and side tables make suitable locations. A level surface is particularly important for pendulum or balance-wheel clocks to ensure the tick remains even and the movement does not stall.

What is a repeater mechanism?

A repeater mechanism allows the clock to sound the most recent hour and sometimes the quarters upon activation of a lever or button. It was especially useful before electric lighting. This complication requires precise gear work inside the brass movement, making such pieces desirable to collectors of mechanical timepieces.

How do I identify the period of a clock?

Examine the exterior style, materials and construction methods, comparing them against known design movements like Art Deco, Victorian or Bauhaus. Case woods and dial designs often provide strong chronological clues. Signatures or retailer stamps on the dial or movement backplate can also help narrow down the decade of manufacture.