Original Listing Description

This unique one-handed clock was made by Gerhard Mandtler son of Clockmaker Jacob Mandtler has been professionally restored. Gerhard was born in Prussia in 1821 and died in 1904. This Mandtler family was from the Mennonite colony located in Lindenau, Molotschna Colony in Prussia. These clocks are identified by the markings on a gear, identifying the maker and the year of manufacture. All gears on these clocks were hand made. The clock faces were not made by Gerhard Mandtler, they were hand painted in nearby village Lichtenau. These clocks were an important part of the Mennonite material culture. Mennonite parents often commissioned clocks as wedding gifts. The clock being offered is thought to be one of those wedding clocks. Due to political pressures the Mandtler family moved to Russia (now Ukraine) in 1855. Mandtler's son by the same name Gerhard Mandtler 1855-1930 was the last clockmaker of this family. Mandtler clocks ceased production around the Russian Civil War (1917-1922). There were several Mennonite families building clock during this period, Kroeger, Lepp, Hamm, Hildebrand and the Mandtler families. There are at this time more Kroeger clocks that have survived than any other. These clocks were very important to these people. Whenever they migrated the clock was almost sure to go with them. Looking at this clock one might assume it was from a large case grandfathers' clock or something similar. The museum for these Mennonite is located in Canada where several dozens of these clocks are on display, none have cabinets. What you see is the clock, the whole clock as it was used in the era, it never had a case. Movement is mounted on finished oak base for easy hanging. Researching Mennonite Clocks gives a whole new outlook on these amazing timepieces. Although these clocks were made with one hand and two hands the two-handed versions seemed to have had a better survival rate. Everything on this clock is in great condition. It has been serviced by a clock smith and received any care it required. Measurement on face is approx. 20 3/8" tall X 14" wide and weighs 7 lb. The pendulum is 39" long and 5 3/8 across and weighs 1 lb. 13 oz. The weights measure 11 1/2" and weighs slightly over 5 lb. and 6" and weighs 5 1/2 oz. This clock requires approx. 7 ft of vertical wall space. It is mounted on the oak board for hanging and movement protection purposes but can be hung easily without board. The clock smith is in the opinion this clock is authentic with all original pieces and parts. This is truly a great 166-year-old clock with an interesting history. This clock will be shipped in two separate boxes. Please check photos as they are a large part of description. Any questions, please contact me. Thanks for taking a look. (Condition: Refurbished)

Note: This item has been sold and is no longer available. This page serves as a historical price reference for clocks collectors and appraisers.