Juba Schatz speedily engineered mantel clock
In the world of clockmaking, the name August Schatz might not be as familiar as some of the more prominent German brands. However, this lesser-known name has solid roots in the industry, with a history that spans over a century.
The Jahresuhren-Fabrik August Schatz und Söhne GmbH was a German clock manufacturer, renowned for its production of anniversary clocks, also known as 400-day clocks. These mechanical clocks were designed to run for approximately 400 days on one winding, showcasing the precision and innovation that Schatz and his company brought to the table.
Established around the late 1800s, Schatz's company grew to be a prominent maker of decorative mantel, shelf, and desk clocks. Among their most notable creations were the anniversary clocks, famous for their long-running mechanical design. These clocks, often crafted from brass and other metal finishes, are collectible items today, appreciated for their fine engineering and aesthetic appeal.
The antique clock in question, a W3 Aug Schatz & Söhne movement, was found in a local antique store for under CAN$20. Despite being missing its original case and chime rods, it's in excellent condition, having survived the test of time remarkably well. The minimalist design reflects the style common during the post-war period, making it a unique addition to any collection.
The clock features three chimes: St Micheal, Whittington, and Westminster. Interestingly, the Whittington chime is a part of the W3 Aug Schatz & Söhne movement, adding a special touch to this piece of horological history.
The clock also boasts a robust two-piece steel strike lock for transport and a circular disk to compensate for an unlevel surface, demonstrating the thoughtful engineering that went into its design. To top it off, it even comes with a storage cradle on the back door for the pendulum bob.
For the author, this find marks a successful year in horology. It's not just the thrill of the hunt that makes it exciting but also the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of antique clock collecting and repair, a new and exciting direction that promises to be both challenging and rewarding.
In 2018, the author discovered new antique clock sources, leading to encounters with interesting people with fascinating stories. Each find, each story adds another layer to the rich tapestry of horological history, making every moment spent in pursuit of these timeless treasures worthwhile.
[1] ClockWiki - Jahresuhren-Fabrik August Schatz und Söhne [2] The Clock Collector's Guide to Antique Clocks
- Although August Schatz isn't as recognized as other German clock brands, his company, Jahresuhren-Fabrik August Schatz und Söhne GmbH, made significant contributions to the world of clockmaking, particularly with their production of mantel clocks and 400-day clocks, known for their precision and intricate design.
- While clock collecting is often associated with smart-home devices and modern gadgets, some enthusiasts are drawn towards vintage clocks, such as the W3 Aug Schatz & Söhne movement, which boast fine engineering and artistic appeal, setting them apart in the world of horology.
- As technology advances and smart-home devices become more common, the appeal of collecting vintage clocks remains strong, with resources like ClockWiki and The Clock Collector's Guide to Antique Clocks providing valuable information for horology enthusiasts embarking on their journey in this niche of technology and art.
