Classic Art Deco Clocks – A Joy Forever

Art Deco Clocks are typically mantelpiece or wall clocks with a distinctive art deco design. The mantel clocks have center clock pieces with two decorative pieces on either side. The wall clocks usually have metal surfaces with decorative motifs or colors, typical of art deco. Some popular art deco clocks have the popular sunburst shape seen on many art deco buildings or artifacts.

Art deco clocks came into vogue in Europe in the early 1920s, as a part of the art deco movement. The style seems to be a direct reaction to the austerity of the First World War.
Art deco clocks initially had the clock mechanical parts made in Germany, while the decorative covers were made all over Europe. Ceramic art deco clocks grew so popular that almost every home in France, Belgium and Germany had at least one mantel clock. The decorative pieces varied from vases and cups to animals and geometrical objects. Tens of millions of ceramic art deco clocks were made in various ceramic factories all over Europe.

Art deco clocks, like the movements, came into fashion in America around 1928. It evolved into Moderne in the thirties and was one of the most distinctive styles of architecture of its time. Like most other art deco artifacts art deco clocks were made of aluminum, stainless steel, lacquer or inlaid wood. The designs incorporated sweeping curves, zigzags and stepped forms. The chevron and sunburst patterns were extremely popular and used everywhere. Art deco clocks were immensely popular, and were soon mass-produced all over the west. This eventually led to their fall from grace and by the end Second World War; they had gone out of style.

Museum Of Art Deco Clocks In Brussels

Housed in a beautiful art deco building in Brussels, Belgium is the Clockarium or clock museum. This museum occupies three floors and is home to an extensive collection of ceramic art deco clocks and other timepieces. A visit to this must-see museum is the perfect way to relive the history of this significant movement. The curator is happy to provide any information, and is on the look out to add to the collection. There is information on leading manufacturers of the timepieces, and they continuously update the collection and information. The pieces range from the commonplace to the rare and each piece is a joy to behold. The authorities are open to lending the pieces and the place for events.