They’re called “clocks,” so you would think they were there to keep the time. But, I can barely recall an instance where that was the main point of having a grandfather clock.

Instead, grandfather clocks are often kept as interesting, and sometimes imposing, pieces of furniture. The huge pendulum’s slow movements are often more relaxing than hurry-inspiring. And the deep, resonant chimes get attention–yet never annoy.

If I got a grandfather clock, I’d put it in the dining room. Not because I want to watch a clock while I eat!! But, because that’s where the bookcase is. It’d fit in with it. Which one? My eye for the finer things honed right in on this: Bulova Merlot Grandfather Clock, but then I realized that much of the visible works are silver (or it could be stainless) finish. I like gold better, so the more modern-looking Parliament, also by Bulova, wins.

At 1-800-4Clocks.com, they not only have many Bulova grandfather clocks, but lots of other respected brands. They even have a blog about grandfather clocks! Many of these posts are quite informative. For instance, they explain the meaning behind the words tempus fugit and that it’s really not a brand name. It actually means “time flies!” Personally, I wouldn’t want to be reminded of how fast time sometimes seems to go, so I’ll make sure that any clock I get doesn’t say that!