For years clocks have been a symbol of status and prestige, just owning an intricate time-piece used to mean that you had some sort of power or money. As the years progressed, the smaller the clock, the more technologically advanced was the piece, and the newer styles became all the rage. Once time-pieces were reduced to pocket-watch size, quality and workmanship were the focus, and the names of quality clock-makers were world renowned. Nowadays, everyone has a clock, or two, or three. Digital display clock radios and alarms sit by many a bed, and virtually every piece of electronics and some appliances have some time type of time display.  However, the true lasting workmanship in clock-making may be a little harder to come by, but there are still some establishments that offer quality along with some unique styles.

One shop here in Calgary is the Urban Barn in Crowfoot. With several other locations around the city, this home-furnishings store is easily accessible and offers a nice selection of the more contemporary styles of wall clocks.

From stainless steel finishing to unique shapes and styles, these clocks offer a more modern look to any new home or redecorating ideas. Another spot to find some unique time-pieces is Joints in Kensington. This shop offers several different types of clocks, ranging from contemporary to more traditional styles, and even styles that mimic some of the more ostentatious design eras. This shop has a very eclectic assortment of clocks and even the hardest-to-please decorator may be able to find a piece that will suit their tastes. As well, some department stores such as The Bay still offer some of the smaller mantel style clocks or wall clocks, but it all depends upon what you are looking for.

Of course, even in this time of contemporary styles and modern fashions, there are still some traditional time-pieces that will never truly fade away. At The Clock Gallery in Willow Park Village, nostalgic pieces like traditional cuckoo clocks are still available, items you would be hard-pressed to find in many other places. Children and adults both find themselves watching for the little bird to pop out when the clock strikes on the hour, proving that this style of clock still holds some attraction in this day of computers, digital displays and technology.

This shop is one of the few establishments left that specialize in elegant time-pieces and offers old-world craftsmanship and traditional styles. From kitchen clocks and mantel clocks, to table clocks and clocks with twirling parts, this shop offers various sizes and styles. One such style of clock offered here is the Grandfather Clock. Row upon row of these regal time-pieces line the store, blending tradition and classic clock-making with innovative styles. World renowned names such as Bulova and Hentschel ensure precision crafting and excellent workmanship. Beautiful cabinets made in cherry, oak or maple, with shining brass and glass accents make these time-pieces an everlasting tradition. The physical act of winding these clocks makes them an intricate part of their owner’s life, while the resonant sound of the chimes will instill many homeowners with a sense of nostalgia. No matter what style homeowners wish to convey in their living-spaces, a grandfather clock is a truly elegant feature available in various styles and colours to match any décor.

So whether it’s a simple wall clock or an elegant grandfather clock,  it’s just as important to keep in mind that a timepiece is as integral as a piece of furniture when it comes to designing a living-space that is as unique as the homeowners.