Skip to main content
Questions Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

What were mechanical clocks used for in the Middle Ages?

1 Answer
What were mechanical clocks used for in the Middle Ages?
Mechanical clocks were used for a variety of reasons in the Middle Ages. The clocks were used to keep track of hours for daily prayers. They also helped monks to calculate solar and lunar eclipses, and also determined feast days with accuracy. On 1stDibs, find a collection of mechanical clocks from some of the world’s top sellers.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Shop for Mechanical Clocks on 1stDibs
Antique Mechanical Billiard Clock in Oak with Timer by P. O. Pedersen Copenhagen
Located in Esbjerg, DK
Museum's piece: mechanical clock for 3-cushions billiard. Its is made from oak that has patinated
Category

Vintage 1920s European Art Deco Wall Clocks

Materials

Oak

Art Deco Clock With Marble Trim, 1890s, Set Of 3
By Societe Clusienne
Located in BÉTERA, ES
featuring the same marble inserts enhanced with delicate bronze details, this mechanical clock combines
Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Mantel Clocks

Materials

Bronze

Chinese Art Deco Carved Mahogany Mantle Clock, circa 1900
Located in Nantucket, MA
transitional style with a period wind-up mechanical clock, featuring an Immortal figure on the top, Chinese
Category

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Mantel Clocks

Materials

Mahogany

Vintage Old Mr. Boston Advertising Bottle Display with Gilbert 8-Day Clock
Located in Dekalb, IL
, embossed top-hat mascot, and a Gilbert 8-day mechanical clock fitted into the front panel. The tan and
Category

Mid-20th Century American Industrial Table Clocks and Desk Clocks

Materials

Metal

Antique Northern Swedish Long Case Clock, Rococo Style with Original Blue Paint
Located in Kramfors, SE
paint shows the history of the clock with authentic distress and patina. Original mechanical clock
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Swedish Rococo Grandfather Clocks and Longcas...

Materials

Pine

Robert Houdin Mystery Magic Clock
By Robert Houdin
Located in Danville, CA
total mechanical clock has a very noticeable large square glass dial, with 2 hands pointing to the time
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Table Clocks and Desk Clocks

Materials

Bronze

Shop All