Weekly Talk on Tick Talk (number 34) discussing the enigma of the HHSN clock

Weekly Talk on Tick Talk (number 34) discussing the enigma of the HHSN clock

In a recent estate sale, the reader CL stumbled upon a hidden gem – a 4-chime wall pendulum clock from the late 1920s. This German "box" clock style, with its intricate design and mechanical workings, is a steal for the price CL paid.

Upon closer inspection, the letters HHSN were found engraved on the clock, which are associated with Hermann Heinrich Strauss of Nuremberg. Strauss, a renowned clockmaker from the city historically known for its high-quality clockmaking, is often represented by these initials on antique clocks or clock movements.

The workings of the clock are stamped with 45/100 and 27583. The number 100 refers to the beats per minute of the clock, while the production number 27583 suggests the clock was made in the late 1920s, with the first two digits likely representing the year.

Interestingly, the movement of the clock appears to be a Mauthe movement, a brand often used by Strauss and other clock dealers of the time. The back of the clock also bears an intact paper label with a full-size standing Ostrich and the letters H H S N, a nod to the company's name, as Strauss in German means Ostrich.

While specific search data on HHSN clock movements associated with Hermann Heinrich Strauss of Nuremberg is scarce, it is well-known that such clocks are representative of the German clockmaking tradition and hold significant value to collectors and horological historians.

With this newfound treasure, CL is planning to clean and hang the clock on their wall, eager to enjoy the delightful bim-bam strike produced by the 4-rod mechanism. The reader expresses gratitude for the knowledge shared about the clock and looks forward to learning more about its history and significance.

The vintage 4-chime wall pendulum clock, with its origins traced back to Hermann Heinrich Strauss of Nuremberg, is not only a fascinating piece for the lifestyle of a collector but also a valuable addition to the fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden sectors, given its antique and historic charm. The Mauthe movement in the clock, a brand often associated with Strauss, further enhances its value as a symbol of the German clockmaking tradition.

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