Columbia Mantel Clock - Antique Brass

The Columbia is a 26cm mantel clock set in a brass gimbal frame that allows the clock face to rotate freely on horizontal and vertical axes, mimicking the gimballed ship chronometers used in maritime navigation. The glass-fronted dial shows Roman numerals on a frosted ring surrounding an exposed brass cog mechanism, with black hour, minute and second hands moving across the visible gears. The antique brass finish on the frame and supporting plinth gives the piece a warm, aged patina that contrasts with the polished brass cogs visible behind the glass.

Designed as a decorative desk or mantel clock for studies, offices, living room shelves and traditional interiors, the Columbia sits on a turned brass plinth approximately 18cm wide at the base. The gimbal frame holds the clock face between two horizontal brass arms topped with decorative finials, allowing the clock to be tilted to different viewing angles. The quartz movement runs on a single AAA battery (not included) and produces a gentle ticking sound audible in quiet rooms.

The exposed cog mechanism behind the frosted dial ring is non-functional — the actual timekeeping is handled by a standard quartz movement concealed behind the gear display — but the visible brass gears add visual interest and reference the mechanical movements of older mantel clocks. The 18 x 11 x 26cm footprint fits standard mantelpiece depths and desk corners without needing to be secured or wall-mounted. At 1.16kg the clock has enough weight to resist casual knocks without requiring a particularly robust surface.

Is the cog mechanism functional?

No. The visible brass cogs behind the glass are decorative. The actual timekeeping is handled by a battery-powered quartz movement concealed behind the gear display, which drives the hour, minute and second hands.

What battery does it take?

The clock requires one AAA battery, which is not included. The quartz movement typically runs for 12-18 months on a single battery depending on brand and temperature.

Does it make a ticking sound?

Yes. The quartz movement produces a gentle ticking sound audible in quiet rooms. This is characteristic of standard quartz movements and adds to the traditional clock aesthetic, but may not suit bedside use if you prefer silent timekeeping.

Can the clock face be angled?

Yes. The gimbal frame allows the clock face to tilt on both horizontal and vertical axes, so it can be angled to improve visibility depending on where the clock is placed relative to your viewing position.