American clocks are clocks made in the United States, and the term is most often used for the mass-produced shelf, wall and mantel clocks manufactured in Connecticut and neighbouring states from the early nineteenth century onwards. Hand-made tall case clocks by colonial and early republican makers form a separate and more specialist field.
The American clock industry was transformed by Eli Terry, who developed methods of producing interchangeable wooden movements in large numbers in the early 1800s, and by makers such as Seth Thomas and Chauncey Jerome. The introduction of cheap rolled brass movements in the 1830s and 1840s allowed American factories to flood domestic and export markets, including Britain, with inexpensive, reliable clocks. Major firms included Seth Thomas, Ansonia, Waterbury, Ingraham, Gilbert and the New Haven Clock Company. Typical forms include the pillar and scroll clock, the ogee or OG clock, steeple clocks, banjo clocks, calendar clocks and ornate black-cased and gingerbread mantel clocks. Many carry paper labels inside the case giving the maker and instructions. Collectors value original labels, dials and glass tablets, which are often decorated with reverse painting or transfers. American clocks offer an affordable entry into clock collecting and are generally robust and straightforward to maintain.
