Those who are experts in the field of antique clocks will perhaps refer to a specific type of clock by different name if it is in a different area and people may sometimes be bamboozled by this. For instance in the UK something that would be familiar to people as a 'bracket clock' might be known as a 'mantle clock' by an antique dealer in the United States.

The primary categories of antique clocks can be further divided into secondary and tertiary subcategories. For example, within the wide classification of beehive clocks, one will also find classifications like ripple beehive and gothic beehive. As another example, the wide classification of drop trunk clocks can be further divided into subcategories like tavern clocks, hexagon clocks, schoolhouse clocks, and so on.

Collectors call clocks produced for promotional purposes 'advertising clocks'. These clocks typically display advertising messages on the clock's dial or case. These clocks sometimes appeared as part of larger marketing campaign, for example on a billboard. Usually found on a shelf, on the wall, or as large grandfather clocks, these clocks make great antique wall clocks for serious collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Mankind has long recognized the passage of time and tried to take its measure and record the passage. The simple alarm clock on the nightstand owes its presence to more than six thousand years of pondering time and working with devices that will mark its passage accurately.

Historians believe that the first mechanical clocks were invented by monks in central Europe in the late thirteenth century. These early clocks, which could be found inside the churches of the monks who had developed them, did not have dials or hands like modern clocks. They did, however, have bells that tolled to mark each hour.

In order to make better use of the church bell already in place, these mechanized devices were installed in the church belfry. One hundred years later, dials and hands were added. The clocks from this era were huge, and made from very heavy metal materials forged by local metal smiths. Smaller clocks suitable for homes began appearing around the fifteenth century. Today, these antique clocks are very valuable in the antiques market.