Individual pieces of vintage furniture and decor carry a unique past, but it can be easy to overlook the general history of an item. Clocks, in particular, have a fascinating story, especially grandfather clocks. According to the experts at Tic Toc Shop in Mason, OH, many people are unaware of the riveting origins of the name. The grandfather clock repair shop has served many people throughout the Greater Cincinnati area for more than 50 years, and they’re here to share the interesting story behind the name.

Distinguished by their height, weighted pendulum, and impressive exterior designs, grandfather clocks were first developed in 1670 and were initially known as longcase, tall-case, or floor clocks. It would take another 200 years before they would assume the name we know today.

As the grandfather clock repair experts explain, tall-case clocks became affectionately linked to the familial moniker in 1876 when Henry Clay Work penned the song “My Grandfather’s Clock.” The narrator of the song reflects on an old floor clock that had belonged to his grandfather, one that had always been accurate and reliable for 90 years until it suddenly stopped working, which happened to be on the same day his grandfather passed away.

Throughout the song, we discover how inextricably linked the clock and the grandfather had been. It was purchased on the day the grandfather was born, hit the passing strike the second he and his bride entered the home, and sounded an alarm right when his final hour began. At that point, the grandson and the rest of the grandfather’s loved ones gathered beside him before he passed away.

“My Grandfather’s Clock” quickly became a popular song with the mainstream public, with many other musicians performing and recording cover versions since. Between the song's poignant story and its prevalence, the idea of a “grandfather’s clock” soon became the preferred term.

If you’re in need of grandfather clock repair, Tic Toc Shop is the place to trust. They know more often than not that these clocks hold more than just simple monetary value, and they will attend to your clock with the care and respect it deserves.

Grandfather clocks aren’t the only kind of clocks Tic Toc Shop can repair. Whether it’s a cuckoo clock or a Hermle clock, these experts know exactly what to do. Call them today at (513) 922-0315 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.