The anniversary clock got its descriptive name because it was the first mechanical clock that didn’t need daily winding. The clock’s slow torsion pendulum only needed to be wound once a year and couples could do this on their wedding anniversary this type of clock was first invented and patented by American Aaron Crane in 1841. But the term “anniversary clock” was copyrighted by Bowler & Burdock Company in 1901, an Ohio clock-making firm.

A typical Anniversary clock is usually 9 or 12” tall with a glass dome exposing the inner working parts, but there are also square shaped clocks with a handle on the top of the clock. Some of the parts are typically made of brass with the balance of the exposed parts being a brass tone material. Most of them have a pendulum with three or four balls that rotate beneath the clock face. The first anniversary clocks had a torsion spring that powered the clock though modern clocks are now battery operated. They are a popular wedding gift and anniversary gift.

Tip of the week- some anniversary clocks, as an example Loricron, have two batteries one in the base and one in the upper section of the clock. Be sure to replace both batteries at the same time.