Grandfather vs Grandmother vs Granddaughter Clocks: What’s the Difference?

An Expert Guide from Clock Corner, Specialists in Antique Clock Restoration & Overhaul

At Clock Corner, we’re often asked about the difference between Grandfather, Grandmother, and Granddaughter clocks. While height is the most obvious distinction, each style has its own history, construction, and mechanical characteristics — all of which influence how we approach restoration, servicing, and full mechanical overhauls.

Understanding these differences isn’t just useful for collectors. It’s essential for ensuring that each clock receives the correct level of care, conservation, and technical expertise. That’s where our specialist knowledge comes in.

 

Grandfather Clocks

The Grandfather clock — also known as a tallcase or longcase clock — is the largest of the three. Standing at 6ft or taller, these clocks feature:

• A substantial freestanding case
• A long pendulum
• A 30‑hour or 8‑day weight‑driven mechanical movement
• Brass or later painted dials, often with intricate artwork

Because of their age and mechanical sophistication, Grandfather clocks frequently require full overhauls, including bushing work, pivot polishing, wheel tooth repair, and sympathetic case restoration. At Clock Corner, we specialise in bringing these historic timepieces back to life while preserving their originality and value.

 

Grandmother Clocks

Slightly smaller at 5–6ft, Grandmother clocks offer the same charm in a more compact form. Produced mainly in the 1920s–1930s, they typically include:

• An 8‑day mechanical movement
• Strike or chiming mechanisms
• A slimmer, space‑saving case
• Occasionally, a platform movement rather than a pendulum

Although younger than their Grandfather counterparts, Grandmother clocks often arrive with worn movements, tired finishes, or damaged chime trains. Our restoration process ensures each component is cleaned, repaired, and regulated with precision, restoring both performance and aesthetic appeal.

 

Granddaughter Clocks

The Granddaughter clock, ranging from 2–5ft, was introduced in the 1930s as an affordable, decorative alternative. These clocks usually feature:

• A petite case, often plywood with veneer
• An 8‑day mechanical movement, with either a Westminster or strike movement
• A scaled‑down version of the longcase design
• Occasionally, a platform movement rather than a pendulum

While lighter in construction, Granddaughter clocks still benefit greatly from professional servicing. Their smaller movements can suffer from wear, dried lubrication, and weakened components. Our overhaul work ensures these charming clocks run reliably and retain their decorative appeal.

 

Why Restoration Expertise Matters

Each type of longcase clock presents unique challenges. At Clock Corner, our restoration and overhaul work is guided by:

• Traditional horological techniques
• Precision mechanical repair
• Sympathetic conservation of original materials
• A deep understanding of longcase clock history and construction

Whether we’re restoring a centuries‑old Grandfather clock or overhauling a 1930s Granddaughter clock, our goal is always the same:
to preserve the clock’s heritage while ensuring reliable, long‑term performance.

 

Trust Clock Corner With Your Longcase Clock

From full mechanical overhauls to case restoration and dial conservation, Clock Corner provides expert care for every type of longcase clock. If you own a Grandfather, Grandmother, or Granddaughter clock in need of professional attention, we’d be delighted to help keep it ticking for generations to come.