What are antique French mantel clocks?

Antique French mantel clocks were made in France beginning in the mid 1700s. They are slimmer than other types of clocks and designed to fit the width of a mantle. To be considered antique, the clock must be more than 100 years old.

Antique French mantel clocks are typically made of black or dark colored marble and have ornate bronze, pewter and brass trim. Some manufacturers developed a method of coating wooden clocks with black enamel to simulate the look of marble. Most antique French mantel clocks have elaborate classical statues, pillars and cherubs incorporated into the design. They frequently use glass domes to cover the inner moving parts.