There are three basic places to stand a group of antique clocks: on the wall, in a cabinet, or on top of furniture. Sometimes, as in the case of Grandfather or Grandmother clocks, the antique is the furniture, and must be displayed appropriately as befits its value. This means appropriating a space or corner, that is not cluttered with knicknacks or other memorabilia; where the fine lines, workmanship, and grace of your antique can be fully appreciated. This holds true for the smaller pieces as well. Let your clocks command the focal point in the interior design of your home. They are well able to carry it off.
A very effective way to show a small sizes series is to display a grouping of clocks; preferably in a glass paneled cabinet that is kept dust free so as not to distract from the impact of your collection. In this manner you have a distinct advantage over an open display; the clocks themselves will take much longer to collect dust. Novelty clocks in particular tend to accummulate dust and grit within the elaborate grooves and scrollwork that embellish the design.
Metal or wooden stands can also be used to place specimens on top of tables, mantles, or any flat surface. They can be very decorative and add to the style of the clock, or plain to avoid detracting from it. Displayed in this manner they are, however, susceptible to damage from children or accidents. This holds true for direct placement on television surfaces, bureaus, bookshelves, and coffee tables.
When displaying wall clocks, the question is not so much how to display as where. You must use your own judgement and the overall design of your home to decide the most appropriate room for your antique clock. a pendulum clock may be a bit to "weighty" for the kitchen then again if you have a breakfast nook or overall dark wooded ambiance, it may be just the thing. Check the manufacturers label in a catalog for ypur hanging clocks; often this ascertains exactly where it was intended to be placed. Parlor wall, or Kitchen Hangings is self explanatory. You are not bound by these designations, but they may provide a clue in the right direction of the room your clock will serve its decorative and functional purpose best.
A topical arrangement can also work, if not carried to excess. Cherubs, gold filigree, a particular type of wood, can be carefully matched in one grouping. Beware of allowing the items to overlap or merge together; a walnut cased clock against a wood paneled wall can lose its effect. The eye must follow an interesting variation of like items, and not pass over it entirely.
If you have tried to specialize in a particular clock manufacturer, by all means try a grouping of this nature, perhaps sequencing the arrangement from earliest models to latest jeweled and non-jeweled variations, etc. This can result in an eclectic display, that will delight you, and fellow collectors.
If you only have two or three clocks instead of a substantial quantity, (as many beginners do) the style, period and condition of these items will determine whether or not you choose to group them together for a certain impact, or allow them to grace a solitary postion in your home. Owners of large collections mat choose a scattered tactic also, provided they have the space. Some antique clocks do best when displayed in their unique glory; you will also avoid a cluttered appearance as can happen with a group display of too many elaborate pieces.
