Refurbishing a Relationship with a Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) mantel clock
In this two-part series, we delve into the fascinating journey of a vintage clock—purchased during the Christmas season from a seller outside Ottawa, Ontario—manufactured by the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) or Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC). This 8-day Countwheel Strike Movement mantel clock, with a date plaque of 1926, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history of this renowned German clock manufacturer.
Established in Germany in 1873 by Paul Landenberger and Phillipp Lang, HAU/HAC gained significant prominence in the clock-making world. The company changed its name to Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU)/Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) in 1883, and in 1926, it formed a cooperation with Junghans, eventually merging with the latter in 1930.
To accurately date a HAU/HAC clock, especially those made before 1930, one must examine specific features such as the markings on the movement and case, style characteristics, and any factory stamps present on the clock.
Movement marks and stamps can include the company name in full or abbreviations, which help identify the exact production period. Serial numbers or patent markings on the mechanisms or cases can be cross-referenced with known production records or patent files to narrow down manufacture dates.
The clock's style and construction methods also reflect the era of manufacture. Early versions before 1930 often have specific craftsmanship details that changed over time. Using historical catalogs or company documents attributed to HAU/HAC can help confirm approximate dating when combined with physical inspection.
In our next instalment, we will delve deeper into the servicing of this antique clock, sharing insights from horology experts and specialized resources to provide a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing timepiece.
[1] Antique Clock Dating: A Guide to Identifying and Dating HAU/HAC Clocks [2] The Encyclopedia of Antique Clocks: A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying and Dating Clocks [3] The Collector's Guide to HAU/HAC Clocks: A Comprehensive Resource for Collectors and Enthusiasts [4] The Horological Database: A Comprehensive Resource for Identifying and Dating Clocks of All Kinds
The purchased vintage clock, manufactured by the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) or Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC), represents a link to the rich history of the fashion-and-beauty, lifestyle, and home-and-garden sectors, as it reflects the enduring craftsmanship admired in vintage clocks. To appreciate the true age of this antique piece, readers should consult resources such as "Antique Clock Dating: A Guide to Identifying and Dating HAU/HAC Clocks," "The Encyclopedia of Antique Clocks," "The Collector's Guide to HAU/HAC Clocks," and "The Horological Database," providing a comprehensive understanding of the clock's vintage origins and production era.
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