Weekly discussion: Forestville Clock - Edition 30
In this week's edition of Tick-Talk Tuesday, we delve into the fascinating history of the Forestville Clock Company, a Canadian clock manufacturer that has left an indelible mark on the world of horology.
Established in 1928 by Austrian immigrants Leopold and Sara Stossel, the company was initially known as the Blackforest Clock Company, despite having no connection to Germany's Black Forest region[1][2]. The company initially imported German clock movements and complete clocks, selling them through Canadian department and jewelry stores. Some of these clocks were assembled locally in Toronto, using German movements installed into clock cases either crafted in-house or supplied by the Walter Clock Company of Kitchener, Ontario[1].
The company's mantle clocks, particularly those made locally, are cherished for their unique blend of imported German mechanical quality and Canadian case craftsmanship, reflecting a distinctive cross-cultural manufacturing history in early- to mid-20th-century Canada. Traditional Canadian tastes in clock cases, often crafted in wood with styles such as tambour or buffet clock designs, are characteristic of these timepieces[1].
Early models combined German mechanical movements with locally made, well-built wooden cases, and the marketing strategy focused on affordability and quality, linking German clock precision with Canadian craftsmanship[1]. During World War II, due to anti-German sentiment, the company rebranded as the Forestville Clock Company, continuing production under the new name[1].
Today, these antique Forestville mantel clocks are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The sender, Joe, recently purchased one at an auction and is looking forward to placing it on his mantle[3]. As Joe prepares to pick up his new acquisition, he sent a photo of the movement, sparking our curiosity about its specific features[3].
It's important to note that if a clock is labeled as a Blackforest Clock, it was made before 1941, when the company changed its name to the Forestville Clock Company[4]. The author responds to complex questions by consulting with fellow clock enthusiasts, and in this case, we will delve deeper into the specifics of Joe's clock, including whether it has a floating balance escapement or not[3].
The Forestville Clock Company remained active until the late 1970s, marking a significant chapter in the history of Canadian clock-making[5]. The company's legacy continues to resonate, and its antique mantel clocks serve as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural exchange that shaped the horology landscape in early- to mid-20th-century Canada.
[1] https://www.canadianantiqueclocks.com/blackforest.htm [2] https://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/object-description/002/001/002/e011618575.html [3] Personal communication with Joe, the sender [4] https://www.canadianantiqueclocks.com/forestville.htm [5] https://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/object-description/001/010/002/e010100220.html
Vintage Forestville clocks, a testament to early- to mid-20th-century Canadian craftsmanship and cross-cultural exchange, are prized by both clock enthusiasts and home-and-garden aficionados, serving as a stylish addition to any mantle that blends lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, and home-and-garden aesthetics. For instance, a recent photo shared by clock enthusiast Joe, who recently acquired an antique Forestville mantel clock at an auction, highlights the unique blend of mechanical quality and design that appeals to collectors.
