Long Case Wall Clock - Vienna Regulator

The Vienna regulator, Vienna clock or pendulum clock, is an elegant long case wall clock made from fine woods housing a precise and complex quality German movements.  It is a weight-driven clock featuring a deadbeat escapement; and to improve accuracy each hand works off a different mechanism. The majority of these clocks were produced in Europe in the region formally known as the Holy Roman Empire, which later emerged as modern day Austria and Germany.  Considering the fact that two of the earliest regulator clocks were invented in England, this form of clock was not popular there, but it was in Vienna - where the name derives and the form prospered.  Vienna Regulator Wall clocks spanned the years from about 1790 to 1910 and can be divided into the three periods of: Laterndluhr-Dachluhr, Biedermeier and Altdeutsch periods.

Laterndluhr-Dachluhr Period - circa 1790 to 1840. The clocks of this era were simple in design, usually made with straight lines and flat surfaces.  The "Laterndluhr" style looked like a carriage or coach lamp, three boxes one stacked on top of the other; the top of the case housed the movement and was capped by a roof.  The clock’s weights dangled in the centre of the case, which was slimmer than the top and the bottom, where the pendulum swung. The latter years of this period were a conservative time in Vienna and regulator clocks reflected this.  The "Dachluhr" evolved into a two section deign with totally straight sides; a top section with a roof for the clock’s face and movement, and a bottom section for the weights and pendulum, which could be accessed by a glass door.  Both Laterndluhr and Dachluhr designs reflect the period’s fashionable “Empire” furniture style.  The dials on these early wall clocks were usually one piece contruction in curved porcelain or metal, and the hands slender and simple in design, in total accord with the clocks austere appearance.

The Biedermeier Period - 1840 to 1870. After the Viennese revolution of 1848 and expansion o the middle classes, regulator clocks became more accessible to the wider population.  The Empire style’s of simplicity in regulators slowly evolved from straight line design into ones with rounded corners and curved tops, as newly affluent Viennese embraced revivals of Greek, Renaissance, and Gothic styles.  This period saw the introduction of ornaments added to the clock cabinets. Movement hardly changed through the years but pendulum rods at this time began to be made of wood.  Dials also changed from one-piece to two-piece construction and the brass pie crust bezel appeared.  The hands continued to compliment the clocks as they became more ornate.

The Altdeutsch Period - 1860 to 1910 . - overlaps the latter part of the Biedermeier Period.  This was a period of transition from the late Biedermeier style.  A number of styles appeared in this era, including the flowing "Serpentine" clock, and near the period’s end, the "Baroque" and "Art Nouveau" styles also appeared.  However, with balanced proportions and graceful lines, the Altdeutsch cabinet design was the style that was dominant in these years. 

These cases were embellished with capitals, carved crests, finials, and pendants together with ornate columns.  Embossed pendulums were also introduced in this style.  Elaborate dials and hands designs continued to be in harmony with the regulator clock from this period; and these clocks, which are the most common to be found today, are regarded by many as the most beautiful regulators.

The Jugendstil Style – early 20th Century.  a precursor to modernism, the Jugendstil style saw a return to the box regulators of 100 years before, albeit with softer lines, the boxes were less boxy but bigger.  In addition, they featured leaded and bevelled glass doors in front of their swinging pendulums.

American Styles. While the popularity of Vienna Regulators waned in the early 20th century in Europe, North American clock manufacturers were making thee own versions of this clock; a smaller rounded top and longer drop area, similar to a schoolhouse clock and a squat version similar to a banjo clock.

Large Walls, Small Wall Clocks - Whatever the style, Vienna Regulator Wall Clocks are  an example of craftsmanship and a masterpiece in moving parts, working with precision and in synchronization, creating not only a functional clock but a beautiful statement piece of furniture that is an enhancing addition to any home, to cherish and enjoy.

Clocks & Chimes Large Wall Clocks are adapted from the Classic Vienna Regulator styles, designed with a contemopray feel for the modern home and fitted with quality German movements from Kieninger and Hermle. The result is a striking clock and a statement piece of furniture for the discerning buyer; and with appropriate care a future family heirloom.