The Differences Between Longcase, Bracket, and Wall Clocks
Antique clocks come in an extraordinary variety of shapes and sizes, each designed for a particular setting and purpose. If you’re new to collecting, or you’ve inherited a clock and aren’t sure what type it is, the terminology can feel confusing. Here’s a simple guide to the three most commonly discussed types: longcase clocks, bracket clocks, and wall clocks.
Whether you’re looking to identify a clock, restore one, or buy something special for your home, understanding these differences is a great place to start.
What is a Longcase Clock?
A longcase clock is the tall, free-standing clock many people think of as a “grandfather clock.”
They usually stand between 6 and 8 feet tall and contain a long pendulum and weights housed inside a wooden case.
Typical features:
Tall, elegant wooden case
Long pendulum movement
Weight-driven mechanism
Striking or chiming on the hour
Age & Styles:
Longcase clocks were made from the late 1600s onwards. Popular woods include oak, mahogany and walnut, with distinct styles such as Georgian, Regency and Victorian.
Where you’d find one:
Often designed for hallways, dining rooms or more formal spaces.
What is a Bracket Clock?
A bracket clock is a medium-sized clock, usually designed to sit on a wall bracket, mantel or table. Despite the name, most bracket clocks aren’t wall-mounted.
Typical features:
Portable, rectangular case
Often has a carrying handle
Spring-driven movement
Frequently includes a striking mechanism
Bracket clocks were especially popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries. They’re highly collectable because of their craftsmanship and decorative appeal.
Where you’d find one:
Placed on a mantelpiece, sideboard or – if you have the matching bracket – mounted slightly above eye level.
What is a Wall Clock?
A wall clock is exactly what it sounds like: a clock designed to be hung on the wall. Antique wall clocks come in several sub-types, including:
Drop dial clocks
School/office clocks
Vienna regulators
Fusee wall clocks
Typical features:
Case designed to sit flat against the wall
Often weight- or spring-driven
Usually simpler and more functional than bracket clocks
Where you’d find one:
Kitchens, hallways, studies, workshops – places where visibility and reliability mattered.
Is There a Difference Between Grandfather and Longcase Clocks?
In short: no. “Grandfather clock” is just another name for a longcase clock.
The term “grandfather clock” became popular in the late 19th century after the song “My Grandfather’s Clock” (1876) by Henry Clay Work. Before that, they were almost always called longcase clocks or tallcase clocks.
So:
Grandfather clock is the modern, popular term
Longcase clock is a more traditional, collector-friendly term
Both refer to the same type of tall, free-standing pendulum clock.
Thinking About Restoration or Buying an Antique Clock?
If you’ve inherited a clock, are thinking of getting one restored, or you’re looking for an antique clock to buy, you may find these helpful:
