The History and Charm of the Moon Phase Clock
A moon phase clock is not just a timepiece, it is a magnificent piece of art and craftsmanship that reflects centuries of clockmaking tradition. Also known as a clock with a moon dial or lunar phase dial, the moon phase clock has fascinated people for generations.
The Origins of the Moon Phase Clock in Europe
The moon phase clock has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century. Around this time, European clockmakers began incorporating moon phase mechanisms into their designs. But why did they start building moon phase clocks?
Life in the 1700s was very different from today. People often traveled long distances on horseback, sometimes by night. For safety and visibility, a full moon was essential. As a result, wealthy individuals began to request clocks that could display the current moon phase, giving rise to the moon phase clock.
But it wasn’t just the elite. Farmers also relied on the moon for their work. Knowing the moon phase helped them plan evening tasks in the fields and determine the best times to plant crops. The moon phase clock became a useful and valuable tool, especially in rural communities. It is likely that farmers, some of whom were quite wealthy, were among the first to commission clocks with a moon phase dial.
Dutch Moon Phase Clocks
In the Netherlands, the moon phase clock also became highly popular, particularly in regions known for traditional clockmaking. The province of Friesland, in the north, was especially famous. Frisian clockmakers created two main types of clocks: the Frisian tail clock and the Frisian “Schippertje”. Both typically included a hand-painted moon phase dial.
These dials often featured detailed Dutch landscapes, complete with windmills and farms, and the moon phase itself was beautifully illustrated. Another Dutch region, Salland, also produced moon phase wall clocks, although these clocks didn’t include hand-painted scenes. Interestingly, the well-known Zaanse clock from the Zaan region did not feature a moon phase dial, showing that not all Dutch clock styles included this feature.
Moon Phase Clocks in the 20th Century
The Dutch quickly recognized the appeal of the moon phase clock. During the 1960s and 1970s, the renowned Warmink clock company (also known as WUBA) produced a wide range of mantel and wall clocks featuring moon phase dials. These included different styles and mechanical movements, such as the popular Westminster chime.
In this period, moon phase clocks were common in Dutch homes. Even today, collectors and clock lovers around the world continue to admire and seek out antique and vintage moon phase clocks — not because we still rely on moonlight for travel or farming, but because of their timeless charm and artistry.