Banjo Clocks - Unique American Wall Clocks

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With a fascinating shape and unusual design, banjo clocks are some of the most prized clocks for collectors. Considered to be the first American-made wall clock, they were invented in the 1790's by a man name Simon Willard. Although Willard invented the clock in the late 18th century, it wasn't until 1802 that he actually patented the design. The clocks featured a unique shape with a round hole at the top for the clock face, a narrow, tapered neck and a large rectangular pendulum box at the base. They also usually had some sort of artwork adorning the neck and base. Typically the art was reverse painted on glass panels that were set into the clock. Although Willard held the patent, many other clock makers jumped on board and began making clocks with similar designs. Eventually production came to halt. Because the clocks aren't being made anymore they are quite rare and are sought after by collectors. They can be hard to find, but you can see a great selection of vintage and antique banjo clocks for sale here: Vintage & Antique Banjo Clocks for Sale