Timeless and elegant, classic and statelygrandfather clocks are all of those things. They are also rather expensive, with heirloom-quality grandfather clocks costing upwards of $10,000, making them inaccessible to much of the population. However, with just a little bit of money and a lot of do-it-yourself spirit, anyone can own a grandfather clock. These kits generally contain all of the components you need to build a grandfather clock, including wood, hardware, and detailed instructions. The components are pre-cut, pre-drilled, pre-sanded and some components are already fully assembled. All the customer has to do is stain and assemble the pieces. The construction of many of the kits requires no special tools and no specific woodworking knowledge. (Check individual kits for specific tool and skills requirements). Pendulums, clock faces, and movement pieces need to be purchased separately. Some companies also offer a complete package, which includes the basic kit, plus the movement, dial, pendulum, and beveled glass. Kits are available in different skill levels. Novices can purchase kits with much of the difficult work already done. Those with more time to commit to the project and more advanced woodworking abilities can simply purchase the hardware, movements, dials, and pendulums, and construct their own cases. More hardcore woodworking enthusiasts can make the entire clock from scratch, and simply purchase grandfather clock design plans. Most grandfather clock kits can be completed in just a few weekends, even for a beginner. Grandfather clock kits are available from a number of companies. Kits can be found for as much as $1,000 and as little as $250. Plans for grandfather clocks can be purchased for as little as $20. Often there is a choice of walnut, oak, or cherry case kits. For clock enthusiasts, as well as woodworking hobbyists, grandfather clock kits can be a worthwhile project. All it takes is a small investment of both time and money, and an heirloom-quality clock is well within reach. |
