Thompson's Clock Shop

The art of tracking time has been evidenced for over 300 years in the Black Forest area of Germany. Cuckoo and singing bird clocks, early glass bell, trumpeter, Jockele, animation, and picture frame clocks all have in the Black Forest area by skilled clockmakers who have transformed the function of time into a true form of art through their clocks.

Rick Ortenburger's important new study traces the development of this fascinating Black Forest clock industry between about 1700 and 1930. He provides useful information that will meet the collectors' need and increase the appreciation of the beautiful craft these clocks represent. Photographs in color and black and white of 600 different examples make the industry's evolution from early cottage farm houses to the later development of factories come to life.

Vienna Regulator Clocks

This range of clocks used to be considered the common, household clock which many people recognized but for which little documentation was available. Rick Ortenburger now presents the book that will fill this void.

Vienna regulator clocks were first produced in Vienna, Austria about 1780 and then became a familiar style made also elsewhere in the German-speaking world. Included are early, transitional, serpentine, altdeutsch, Baroque, and factory-made types from 1780 until about 1930, of one, two, and three-weight movements. The author has done his own research in Europe and America in both German and English so he is able to present much original information in a pleasing format for the average reader.

His brief, factual text, supported by good photographs, useful in identifying the period of manufacture, may be the book's most useful feature to the serious collector. He fully explains the production of Gustav Becker, Junghaus, HAC, Lenzkirch and competitive factories whose products are still on the market and well within the financial means of the vast majority of clock enthusiasts. He also covers many rare and exotic regulators such as long-duration clocks and variations from the norm.

Mystery, Novelty & Fantasy Clocks

Derek Roberts

Size: 9'' x 12''
Illustrations: 330 color photos 176 B/W photos
Pages: 288

Since the 13th century, a few special public clocks have included the movement of the sun, moon, earth and other planets, and from those early days Jacks were devised as human figures which actually “struck” the hours. Soon thereafter, automata appeared as mechanical figures that performed many and various acts, such as the four knights on horseback who joust on the hour at the Wells Cathedral in England.

Over 300 clocks, for buildings or tabletops, which do far more than tell time, are presented here with concise historical explanations, detailed drawings, and clear color photography. 22 chapters examine the amazing mystery, novelty, and fantasy clocks that display magical acts, appear to require no power to drive them, or have no apparent connection between the movement and the hands. Famous makers in England, Germany, France, and Switzerland created these special clocks which became treasures of royalty throughout Europe and Asia, particularly in Chinese courts.

Clocks with mysterious, novel, and fantastic features continue to be made up to the present for retailers such as Asprey and Cartier. For over 700 years these amazing clocks have delighted and challenged all who witness their makers’ ingenuity.

American Shelf and Wall Clocks

A Pictorial History for Collectors (Revised and Expanded 2nd Ed.)
Robert W. D. Ball

Size: 9'' x 12''
Illustrations: 1,250+ clocks
Pages: 228

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This historical overview of the various styles of American shelf and wall clocks covers the centuries and gives visual pleasure every step of the way. The original owners of these clocks were interested as much in how they looked as in how they told time, so they are quite attractive and are good examples of the cabinet maker's art. The collector can acquire the majority of these beautiful clocks at relatively fair and modest prices, which makes them popular.
Gathered from auction houses, museums, and private collections, over 1250 clocks are illustrated here in this newly revised and expanded second edition. Approximately one-third of the photographs are in color, with the remainder in clear black and white. Each is accompanied by an informative caption that will be great help to the reader. A newly updated value guide will be of invaluable assistance to the collector. In illustrating the early growth of the clock making industry in the United States, Mr. Ball has captured an important part of our history.

French Clocks and Bronzes, Cuckoo and Vienna Regulators

This interesting book is an unabridged republication of Kroeber's 1887-1888 catalog of imported clocks and statues, complete with original prices and a supplemental current price guide.

More than 125 French clocks, 50 figural statuettes, and 15 German clocks are illustrated and described. These were the European clocks of interest to clock buyers of the late 1880's. The illustrations are clear and large, making this a good resource for current researchers. The French case styles shown include: marble, marble and bronze, gilt figural, and gilt and alabaster. One should note that the word "bronze" is used loosely in this catalog, in most instances actually describing bronze colored finish on a lower cost metal.

The German clock section is very small, but most interestingly contains wall and shelf trumpeter clocks, a 6 foot long Vienna regulator, and the currently much sought after mechanical dumpling eater, which at the time cost no more than a black marble clock.

American Clocks

American Clocks "Volume 1" 2nd Edition - Ly, T. D. First Published in 1989. The updated reprint in colorful hard cover is a beauty and a must in every clock collector's library. This beautifully illustrated volume is arranged in logical, easy to follow, alphabetical order, and features nineteen clock companies.

American Clocks, Volume 2

American Clocks "Volume 2" with a special section of Self Winding clocks - Ly, T. D. - First Published 1991; 2nd Edition in 1995. Mr. Ly has recruited a team of acknowledged specialists for this edition - experts who are leaders in various areas of clock history and technology. This American Clocks Volume 2 contains NO clocks From Volume 1. 336 pages - 8 1/2 x 11 - 1032 illustrations of original clock catalog renderings and instructional information. Sewn hardbound with 2000 Price Update.

American Clocks, Volume 3

Tran Duy Ly, America’s most prolific author of horological books, has broken new ground with his latest offering, American Clocks, Vol. III. For decades, the common belief has been that it was not possible to write a price guide for hand crafted or early manufactured clocks such as the pillar & scroll. With American Clocks, Vol. III, Mr. Ly has proven that it can be done, and quite successfully. There is also a surprise at the end of the book with a massive 117 page offering of 371 Lux clocks and movements. This American Clocks Volume 3 contains NO clocks From Volume 1 and Volume 2.

American Clockmakers & Watchmakers

This book includes all those who are known to have worked in the trade, as well as those whose name appears on the dials of clocks or watches, even if only as a retailer rather than an actual maker. The names of makers, manufacturers, dealers, peddlers, case makers, dial makers, repairers, entrepreneurs, and in one instance a 'clock tinkerer', as well as some who were simply the first owner but had their names painted on a dial, have all been included. Each entry might be as short as one line, but most are longer, typically a brief paragraph, while some of the important makers might have half a page or more, with basic details of their products... For those wishing to discover more about the name on an American watch or clock this book is highly recommended, and it is destined to become the standard text on the subject.

Waterbury Clocks and Watches

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: Over 2300 quality Illustrations and photographs.
Pages: 584

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Included in the new 2001 hard cover edition of WATERBURY CLOCKS & WATCHES is 20 pages of useful information compiled by noted authority, Chris Bailey, detailing the history of the Waterbury Clock Company from its formation to its present-day successor, Timex.

Along with a greatly expanded WATERBURY book, The author has provided a much needed price update. The new book is a cornucopia of information not shown in his original Waterbury book. The author shares with the clock community his unique skill in presenting this information in a form that is simple to use, and informative to both the novice and seasoned collector. As in the past, this book contains information garnered from many sources including original literature and advice from renowned holorogical experts.

Seth Thomas Clocks and Movements, Volume 1

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 1888 quality illustrations & photos
Pages: 576

Tran Duy Ly's newest book, the third edition of Seth Thomas Clocks & Movements, holds true with the precedence of excellence set forth by his many previous publications. In recent years, Seth Thomas clocks have become ever more rare and collectable and this new guide is sure to serve as the perfect collecting tool for us all.

When we opened our draft copy of Tran Duy Ly’s Third Edition of Seth Thomas Clocks and Movements, Volume 1, 3rd edition, it was instantly clear he had another best-seller on his hands and that we were going to see some clocks we’d not seen before. With the value of Seth Thomas clocks increasing more rapidly than any other maker in the past several years, this book is a mandatory investment for all serious American clock collectors..

Seth Thomas Clocks and Movements, Volume 2

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 1718 quality illustrations & photos
Pages: 576

$79.50 hard cover + $9.95 S&H.

OVERWHELMING! The third edition for Seth Thomas Clocks & Movements by Tran Duy Ly and his staff cannot be described in any less terms. Previously prepared editions by Tran represented the most comprehensive information published on Seth Thomas Clocks. The last was {2nd edition} published in 1996. This 3rd edition Volume 1 and 2 is so overwhelming in minute detail that it is a must-have for any collector of American clocks..."

Welch Clocks

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 778 black and white illustrations
Pages: 304

Welch Clocks - Ly, T. D. - This book was first published in 1992. Some of the most desirable clocks produced in America were made by Welch, notably the Patti. Now, the rest of the story must be told! Studying this volume, one is deeply impressed that a company, whose roots and evolutionary existence covered the better part of the 19th and 20th centuries, was able to produce such a great variety of clocks. This is the first book to combine almost all Welch catalogs and modern photographs of their products into one comprehensive guide. With 1992 Price Update.

Welch Clocks 2nd Edition is now out of print and not available at this time.

Gilbert Clocks

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 1698 quality illustrations and photographs
Pages: 448

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Gilbert Clocks is produced to the high standards of the Arlington Book Company and contains 448 pages of information, photographs and illustrations as well as a supplementary updated 2000 price guide. Sonya Spittler's index concludes the book and assures the reader's quick location of a particular clock. The indexes in Ly's books are a feature that greatly enhances their use.

120 pages Gilbert Clocks Supplement and 2000 Price Update includes over 300 clocks and 24 pages of movements and parts information included.

Ingraham Clocks & Watches

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 1269 quality illustrations and photographs
Pages: 384

Ingraham Clocks & Watches - Ly, T. D. - With A Special Section on Early Ingraham Clocks - Spittler, T. This book for the first time brings to light many new facts on this most interesting firm. The book contains a complete section on early Ingraham clocks produced before the Civil War. Also included is the most complete selection of Ingraham black mantle clocks ever presented. Ingraham Clocks & Watches was published in 1998. Sewn hardbound on white gloss enamel text with 1999 Price Update.

Ansonia Clocks & Watches

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 3,061quality illustrations and photographs
Pages: 752

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Ansonia Clocks & Watches: The most beautiful line of clocks ever produced in America was produced by the Ansonia Clock Company. Ansonia clocks were first produced in Ansonia, Connecticut, the town named by the clockmaker, but the later Ansonia clocks were produced in Brooklyn. Now Ansonia collectors eagerly pursue these exquisite clocks. The first edition of Ansonia Clocks was published in 1989 and the new, second edition greatly expanded in1998. This is the largest, most complete book ever written on any clock manufacturer by any author. 752 pages 8 1/2 x 11 and 3061 illustrations. Sewn hardbound on white gloss enamel text. With 1999 Price Update.

New Haven Clocks & Watches

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 2,200 quality illustrations and photographs
Pages: 520

New Haven Clocks & Watches - With a Special Section on New Haven Movements - Ly, T. D. - Released in 1997, this book does justice to the vast line of clocks and watches produced by one of America's most prolific makers. The 50 pages of movements and parts showing extremely clear and detailed illustrations of 61 New Haven movements are outstanding. Comes with 2000 Price Update. Sewn hardbound on white gloss enamel text.

Sessions Clocks

Tran Duy Ly

Size: 8 1/2'' x 11''
Illustrations: 843 quality illustrations and photographs
Pages: 336

Sessions Clocks - Ly, T. D. - With Sessions Clocks, Tran Duy Ly’s monumental task of documenting the production and history of the eight giants of the Connecticut clock industry is now complete. Starting with Seth Thomas Clocks and Movements, over 15 years ago, and finishing with the last of the major Connecticut firms, Sessions, Mr. Ly's series on Connecticut clock manufacturers is the unequaled reference on the history of the clockmaking industry in America. Sewn hardbound on white gloss enamel text with 2002 Price Update.

The Lost Treasures of Louis Comfort Tiffany

Hugh F. McKean

Size: 8½'' x 11''
Illustrations: 200 color photos 60 B/W photos
Pages: 320

The works of the Tiffany Studios revolutionized interior design in turn-of-the-century America. All of the company's works-from stained-glass windows to blown-glass vases; lamp shades to inkwells-bore the unique stamp of one man, Louis Comfort Tiffany, who created the Tiffany Studios and supervised every aspect of their production.

Many of these official studio pieces are well known today-avidly sought by museums and collectors worldwide. Special ones among them, as well as other lesser known pieces-the "lost" works of Louis Tiffany himself-are, in a real sense, the core of his astonishing achievement. They comprise his personal oeuvre-the objects made from his original designs for exhibition, for private commissions, or for use in Tiffany's own homes.

This book reevaluates Tiffany's art in terms of his personal work-including pieces in all the media that attracted him over the course of his prolific career; stained glass, of course, but also mosaics, blown glass, pottery, jewelry, and enamels. Tiffany's pioneering efforts in interior design are covered, as are his easel paintings and his dream of creating a permanent residential retreat for working artists. Hugh F. McKean also provides much intimate insight into Tiffany's personality, his domestic life, his financial dealings, and his unusual philosophy of art.

Lavishly illustrated, the book presents a vivid display of Tiffany's wide-ranging aesthetic. The result is a rare portrait of Tiffany the man-and of the prodigious imagination that almost single-handedly transformed the day-to-day image of a nation and an era.

All major credit cards by phone are accepted as payment. Call (845) 691-7373 to place your order. Online Pay Pal payments can now be sent to sales@thompsonsclockshop.com. Looking for a specific book title and don't see it listed on this page? Click here.

Clock Collector Books

Black Forest Clocks

Vienna Regulator Clocks

Mystery, Novelty & Fantasy Clocks

American Shelf and Wall Clocks

French Clocks and Bronzes, Cuckoo and Vienna Regulators

American Clocks

American Clocks, Volume 2

American Clocks, Volume 3

American Clockmakers & Watchmakers

Waterbury Clocks and Watches

Seth Thomas Clocks and Movements, Volume 1

Seth Thomas Clocks and Movements, Volume 2

Welch Clocks

Gilbert Clocks

Ingraham Clocks & Watches

Ansonia Clocks & Watches

New Haven Clocks & Watches

Sessions Clocks

The Lost Treasures of Louis Comfort Tiffany