Let's talk about clocks.

Some 25 years ago, Linda and I were driving through West Townsend, Mass, I've long since forgotten why, but we spotted a sign that said, Delaney Antiques. We love old things; early American furniture, old houses, antique cars, trucks, motorcycles, even airplanes so were unable to drive past without stopping.

435 Main Street (route 119) W. Townsend, Mass  (978) 597-2231

As you're driving past on route 119, this is what you'll see if you're paying attention; a beautifully restored carriage house next to a three story brick home of elegant proportions. A most tranquil, unpretentious setting for what is the finest collection of antique "Tall Clocks" in the United States. You may be at the stage where you'd call them "grandfather clocks," but you'll know better by the time you leave.

Russ Greenwood is one of several highly regarded repairmen, who cleans and maintains the Delaney's collection, with an extensive reference library behind him.

As you step through the door into the entrance hall you'll immediately be dazzled by the handsome collection of mahogany, maple, cherry, walnut or birch tall clocks from the 18th and 19th centuries. These fully restored, weight driven, running clocks are pieces of art, some as old as 250 years that keep excellent time. Keep in mind that most of the tall clocks surrounding you here, were built during the Washington, Adams and Jefferson administrations with hand tools.

I remember being overwhelmed when we first stepped inside and realistically we didn't have the wherewithal to purchase such an antique, but after an hours discussion with Mr. Delaney Sr., who knew we wouldn't be purchasing anything anytime soon, we stored the information and knew that we'd return one day.

The main floor, there's another above to explore too.

The Delaney's have on hand at any time, 150 to 160 American Tall Clocks, mostly of New England origin. Simon Willard 1753-1848 of Massachusetts, Timothy Chandler 1762-1848 from Massachusetts and Connecticut, Benjamin Swan 1792-1867 from Maine and Abel Hutchins 1763-1853 from New Hampshire just scratch the surface of their far-flung collection. 

The clockmaker crafted the "works" or gears and drive train that were made from wood or brass, a cabinet maker built and finished the fine wooden cases and an artist generally painted the wooden, iron or brass dials. No two are alike and each is a treasure to own.

Tall clocks to the rear and shelf clocks to the front. Listening to the rhythmic beat from these antique machines is soothing, but being here on the hour when they strike is exciting. 

Not in search of a tall or shelf clock? How about an 18th or 19th century Chelsea Clock Company wall clock, or a Seth Thomas Connecticut wall clock. Most clocks here are "regulators" or "time pieces" which mean that they don't strike. Sean taught me that a regulator clock was of high standards and accuracy and was used by the clock maker to "regulate" or adjust other clocks that he was working on. They must be weight driven and not have a strike.

To clarify a few terms; strike means to chime, beat means to tick and a face is a dial. Learning the language of clocks will be a part of your education at Delaney's. But acquiring knowledge is as enjoyable as acquiring a clock; the more you know... the more pleasure it will bring.

About prices.  

They aren't cheap! 

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But nothing of value is, so if you're looking for an ordinary "grandfather" clock that you'll lose interest in quickly, visit Jordan's Furniture. But if you're in search of an investment, a quality antique with provenance that your children will covet, with someone who will stand behind it, Delaney's has an impressive selection of clocks to fit a variety of budgets. Want to upgrade a few years later? Call brothers John or Sean and discuss that too.

Sean Delaney and Linda when Sean delivered our tall clock.

Twenty years after first stopping in, Linda and I returned and purchased this circa 1820, Concord, New Hampshire tall clock of maple and birch from Sean. You may recognize him from this photo. He and his brother John appear regularly on Antique Roadshow. 

Our cape was built in 1790, but this room is a new addition that connected the ell to the garage. Our goal was to purchase antiquity and quality and this New Hampshire Tall Clock goes a long way in achieving that goal and helping the room appear older than it is. It's the center piece of the room and all else revolves around it with its timeless beat.

Chelsea Clock Company Model #1

We've purchased several clocks from Delaney's now, each experience as enjoyable as the last. This is an 1890, Chelsea Clock Company Regulator. Every clock that we've purchased has come with a one year guarantee and is sent to Russ Greenwood, whom you met above, for a cleaning and inspection before delivery. 

All of our purchases have been eight day, brass movement, weight driven clocks that I wind every Saturday morning. Without fail, each is within 30 seconds to a minute of the correct time a week later. So stop in, say hello, learn and enjoy the experience and the education. Ours continues.

Rand