First look: how to choose?
Fireplace clocks should generally fit in with the color and style of the room (classic, high-tech, vintage, etc.) and in particular should be in harmony with the finish of the fireplace. The color of the walls and the texture of the furniture also plays a role. If the fireplace has a wooden finish, the clock should be wooden as well.
If the fireplace has made from stone or marble, stucco or patterned, a baroque marble or bronze clock will be appropriate. The more steel and plastic in the room, the more modern the watch should look.
Form Factor
The easiest way to determine the size of a fireplace clock. A massive clock can take up a small shelf or become the center of composition on a large shelf. Small watches should not be lost among other things, so as not to create the impression of a chaotic heap.
The choice of shape is virtually unrelated. Round, square, figured, decorated with candlesticks and figurines - everything depends solely on your preferences.
What kind of mechanism
A distinction is made between electronic, quartz and mechanical watches by the type of movement.
Electronic models are powered by mains, batteries or rechargeable batteries. They have a digital display on which you can see the time and additional information.
Quartz watches are battery powered only. They show the time with the hands on the dial.
Mechanical models work more precisely and are independent of electricity. These clocks need to be wound up periodically because they may lag or stop.
Where to put?
Fireplace clocks can act as a primary or secondary accent. If it is a matter of pride or extraordinary beauty, it should be placed centrally on the mantelpiece shelf, with other objects symmetrically placed on either side of the clock.
Hiding the mantelpiece clock in the shade of flower bouquets is a less official way to move objects to the edge of the mantelpiece shelf. The more secluded the corner is, the more romantic the composition looks.
What material are the watches made of?
According to the type of material of the watch case, one can distinguish between wooden, plastic, metal, marble and glass models.
Wooden watches usually look like vintage ones. Metal and aluminum models have a strong and beautiful case. Marble clocks are spectacular, but fragile. It's unlikely to survive if it falls. Glass watches are also fragile, so it is better not to put them on the edge. If you hit it, it'll break. Plastic products are considered inexpensive. They are lightweight and usually have a modern design.
Which additional features are possible
There are radio clocks - they combine several functions. They have a built-in alarm clock, projector, radio, temperature sensor. Back-lit models have a bright screen. You need this feature so you can see the time in the dark.
Some models have a Bluetooth phone or computer connected to them so you can set them up from a distance. The "Advanced" clock projects a display of time and other data onto the wall or ceiling.
How to take care
There are clocks with which it is enough to brush off dust from time to time, but there are also more whimsical specimens.
The wood must be protected from humidity and drying. Glass - from children and pets (and they too should be protected from glass). Mechanical clocks should be wound strictly according to instructions, and every few years a specialist should clean the movement.
If you follow these simple rules, your favorite fireplace clock will serve you for many years!