Article: The History of Stickley Furniture and Its Unique Place in Clockmaking
The History of Stickley Furniture and Its Unique Place in Clockmaking
When most people hear the name Stickley, they immediately think of handcrafted American furniture, timeless craftsmanship, and the American Arts and Crafts movement. For well over a century, Stickley has earned a reputation for producing heirloom-quality furniture designed to be passed down from one generation to the next.
What many people don't realize is that Stickley has also made a small but fascinating contribution to the world of clocks. While clocks have never been a major part of the company's product line, the pieces they produced reflect the same commitment to craftsmanship and quality that made their furniture famous.
As the owner of Just A Clock Collector, I enjoy finding these uncommon clocks whenever I can. But for me, Stickley represents something much more personal than simply another collectible brand.
The Birth of an American Icon
Stickley's roots date back to the late 1800s when brothers Gustav, Leopold, Albert, Charles, John George, and William Stickley entered the furniture business. It was Gustav Stickley, however, who became the driving force behind the American Arts and Crafts movement beginning around 1900.
Rather than embracing the elaborate Victorian designs popular at the time, Gustav believed furniture should be honest, functional, and beautifully crafted. Solid hardwoods, exposed joinery, hand craftsmanship, and simple, timeless design became the hallmarks of Stickley furniture.
More than a century later, many original Stickley pieces remain in everyday use—a testament to the quality that continues to define the company today.
Stickley's Early Mechanical Clocks
Although furniture has always been Stickley's primary business, the company ventured into clockmaking during the early twentieth century. These early mechanical clocks were produced in relatively small numbers and reflected the same Arts and Crafts philosophy found throughout their furniture collections.
Most featured beautifully crafted oak cases with clean architectural lines and reliable key-wound mechanical movements. Rather than competing directly with established clockmakers like Seth Thomas or New Haven, Stickley produced clocks that complemented its furniture collections, making them as much works of fine furniture as they were timepieces.
Because relatively few were made, surviving examples have become increasingly desirable among collectors who appreciate both American furniture and antique mechanical clocks.
The Remix Collection
After many decades away from clockmaking, Stickley once again introduced mechanical clocks through its Remix Collection.
These clocks blended contemporary Stickley furniture styling with traditional mechanical clock movements, creating heirloom-quality timepieces that fit beautifully into modern homes while honoring classic craftsmanship.
Although the Remix clocks represented only a small part of Stickley's overall catalog, they have developed a loyal following among collectors because they remain true mechanical clocks produced by one of America's most respected furniture manufacturers.
One of My Favorite Stickley Clocks
One Stickley clock that has always stood out to me is their unique corner clock, designed to sit beautifully on a tabletop or nest perfectly into the corner of a wall.
It's unlike most clocks you'll encounter and perfectly demonstrates Stickley's philosophy of combining practical function with exceptional woodworking. The design is understated, elegant, and unmistakably Stickley.
If you'd like to see one, I currently have an example available here at Just A Clock Collector. It's one of those pieces that always starts a conversation because it's so different from traditional mantel or wall clocks.
A Personal Connection
For me, Stickley isn't just another company whose products I enjoy selling.
It's part of my family's history.
My grandfather, Alfred, was born in 1910 and worked for Stickley during his lifetime. Growing up, I never called him "Grandpa."
To me—and to our family—he was simply Pépère.
Pépère is a French term of endearment that means grandfather or grandpa. While that's the literal translation, the word carries a warmth and affection that doesn't quite translate into English. It's the name many French-speaking families lovingly use for their grandfather, and that's exactly who Alfred was to me.
Whenever I see a Stickley clock or a beautiful Stickley piece of furniture, I can't help but think of my Pépère.
Knowing that he helped build furniture for a company whose craftsmanship is still admired more than a century later gives every Stickley piece a little more meaning. It's a reminder that behind every handcrafted piece of furniture—and every clock—were skilled craftsmen who took pride in creating something that would outlive them.
In many ways, I believe that's one of the reasons I've always been drawn to clocks. Like fine furniture, they're built to last, to be repaired rather than replaced, and to become part of a family's story.
Why Collect Stickley Clocks?
Stickley clocks occupy a unique place in the collecting world.
Furniture enthusiasts appreciate the remarkable woodworking and unmistakable Stickley craftsmanship, while clock collectors value the quality mechanical movements and the rarity of these pieces. Since Stickley only dabbled in clock production over the years, their clocks are encountered far less frequently than those from dedicated clock manufacturers.
Whether it's an early twentieth-century mechanical clock, a later Remix mechanical model, or one of the company's unique corner clocks, each represents a fascinating chapter in Stickley's history.
At Just A Clock Collector, I'm always excited when I have the opportunity to offer a Stickley clock. They're beautifully made, increasingly difficult to find, and represent the same craftsmanship that has made Stickley furniture famous for generations.
But perhaps more importantly, every Stickley clock reminds me of my grandfather, Alfred—my Pépère—and the family connection that makes this remarkable American company especially close to my heart.
Whether you're a collector of fine furniture, a mechanical clock enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates American craftsmanship, Stickley clocks offer something truly special: a rare combination of artistry, history, and enduring quality that continues to stand the test of time.
