An unusual German Jugendstil brass mantel clock by the Hamburg American Clock Company (Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik) c1895. Tapering square-form body raised on four corner feet. Canted corners to upper part with embossed detail. Embossed dial with black Gothic numerals and black hands. Beveled rectangular glass panel to front exposing its pendulum. 8-day timepiece movement with anchor recoil escapement. Friction-fit back cover to its back above a hinged door. Backplate stamped with the crossed arrows trademark. The clock measures 25.5 cm in height. Excellent timekeeper.
The company started as Landenberger & Lang Uhrenfabrik in 1875 – founded by Paul Landenberger and Phillipp Lang. Landenberger learnt the clock business whilst working (as a bookkeeper, rising to business manager) at Junghans. He married Frida Junghans, daughter of company founder Erhard Junghans but left after his request for a position on the board of directors was refused. By 1883 Landenberger & Lang Uhrenfabrik was in financial difficulties and new investors recruited. With investors from Hamburg introducing the new efficient production methods from America – the company was renamed the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (Hamburg American Clock Company or HAC). Initially using the HAC logo they registered the more familiar “Pfeilkreuz” (Crossed Arrows) trademark in 1891. In 1905 they registered the “Lux” trademark with the logo of a burning oil lamp. The company was a major producer of clocks in Germany, with 1300 employees in 1910. Despite fierce competition, in 1926 they entered into collaboration with Junghans – finally merging with them in 1930.
Jugendstil Mantel Clock by the Hamburg American Clock Company c1895
This clock is in good condition commensurate with age and use. The brass case is sound and has age related patina. Whilst cleaned, we chose not to polish its case and allow it to continue developing a lovely patina. Movement is in excellent working order. Please see images as these form an important part of the description.