Harvesting Romance with a Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) shelf clock as a companion
In this article, we embark on a fascinating journey as we delve into the servicing of an 8-day countwheel strike movement from a Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) clock. This piece, resting on the workbench, is a rare find, likely to have seldom graced the inner sanctum of a clockmaker's workshop.
The Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU), the German manufacturer behind this timepiece, was established in 1873 by Paul Landenberger and Phillipp Lang. Over the years, the company grew to become a significant player in the clock-making industry, eventually changing its name to Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU)/Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) in 1883.
The clock on the workbench is a testament to this storied history, being a late production model, closer to the date of 1926. Its German style, coupled with an English commemorative plaque on the front base section, adds an intriguing layer to its provenance.
Determining the exact production year of a HAC/HAU clock, particularly those produced before 1930, is no easy feat. It involves a meticulous process that includes examining the clock's movement for any markings, checking for patents and trademarks, consulting historical records and archives, identifying the specific model, and consulting with experts. A thorough physical inspection is also crucial to identify any design or manufacturing features that were typical of certain eras.
The movement of this particular clock, with its numerous cutouts and additional holes, suggests it is indeed a late production model. However, precise dating may still require extensive research and consultation with experts. The date on the plaque says 1926, but due to HAC/HAU's collaboration with Junghans, determining the exact date prior to 1930 can be challenging.
This article marks the first part of a two-part series chronicling the servicing of this unique HAC clock. As we delve deeper into the process, we will trace the historical journey of the Hamburg American Clock Company, ultimately absorbed by the Junghans Clock and Watch Company in the late 1920s.
Stay tuned as we continue to unravel the secrets hidden within this intriguing timepiece, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the Hamburg American Clock Company.
[1] "Hamburg American Clock Company." Clock Collecting, www.clockcollecting.com/hamburg-american-clock-company.htm.
[2] "Hamburg American Clock Co." The Time Zone, www.timezone.com/hamburg-american.
[3] "Hamburg American Clock Company." Clock Wikis, clockwikis.com/Hamburg_American_Clock_Company.
[4] "Hamburg American Clock Company." Clock Collecting, www.clockcollecting.com/hamburg-american-clock-company.htm.
- Exploring various online resources, such as Clock Collecting, The Time Zone, and Clock Wikis, can provide valuable insights into the history and production of vintage clocks like the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) timepiece.
- The unique fusion of German and English influences in the fashion-and-beauty as well as food-and-drink industries can be traced back to the Hamburg American Clock Company's origins, demonstrating how one company's creative practices can extend beyond its immediate sector.
- As one delves deeper into the world of antique home-and-garden items, encounters with vintage clocks like the HAC model become more common, revealing a rich tapestry of lifestyle history that spans not only time but also continents in the case of this travel-worthy timepiece.
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