New digital clocks don't have any of the timeless appearances of traditional clocks. Built for the always busy and pressed for time crowd, digital clocks feature a plain chassis and a display built for quick viewing. However, to capture some of the old beauty found in clocks, you can still purchase a motion clock. These clocks feature that comforting clicking in beautiful cases.

Timeless Clocks

Used since the ninth century C.E., motion clocks have accounted for the vast majority of clocks in history. They were small and cheap enough that many people could own them (needless to say, few people could summon ten or twenty tons of rocks and the work force required to build an obelisk), and they were handcrafted to beautiful perfection.

With technological innovations, motion clocks have remained every bit as timeless as when they were introduced. Though many people have opted to replace them with their cheaper digital counterparts, these clocks are still widely available, and they look stunning wherever they're placed, be it a shelf, wall, or desk. They have many benefits over digital clocks, such as their appearance. Beautiful wood is meticulously placed and carved for a beautiful case, and silver and brass parts help trim each work of art. Also, they generally use little to no electricity, unlike digital clocks which require a steady source.

However like all technology, motion clocks do have several drawbacks compared to digital clocks. They can cost as much as $500 for nice shelf clocks or even several thousand for a premium grandfather clock. Still, their lifespan far exceeds that of digital clocks. A digital clock may have a lifetime of five years or a few more, but motion clocks can last centuries with minor maintenance.

A digital clock might cost $25, but over fifty years or more that can add up to several hundred dollars to replace broken ones and several hundred dollars more in electrical costs, and when the power goes out, motion clocks continue to work while digital clocks turn off. In the end, motion clocks may end up being cheaper than their digital counterparts. Also, motion clocks can be run in several ways. Some require a small, cheap battery that will last several years while others can be "wound" up every several days but at no electrical cost. Others yet use quartz crystals or pendulums with only very minor user interaction to continue running.

For a small investment now, you'll be able to always tell what time it is. While digital clocks can be great for the kitchen, bathroom, and other rooms without a lot of space, motion clocks are perfect for above a mantle or in the living room. If you would like to amaze your friends and family with a stunning centerpiece, motion clocks are right for you.