Movement Active for HAC/HAU support and services
In the world of antique clocks, the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) is a name that resonates with collectors. Founded in 1875, this German clock manufacturer operated from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, producing a variety of quality and innovative clocks[1][2].
One such collector recently acquired an HAU shelf clock, the first of its kind in his collection. The clock, an English time and strike clock, was spotted on the Ottawa Facebook Marketplace. Upon closer inspection, the clock's movement revealed the HAC cross arrows stamped on the mainspring, a characteristic feature of HAU clocks[3].
The movement, a typical 14-day German time and count-wheel strike, circa 1900 to 1910, was found to be sturdy, with slightly thicker plates, no cutouts, and no extraneous holes[3]. The movement had been worked on in the past, with the strike side mainspring replaced at some point. After being assembled and oiled, both the strike and the time side are running well[3].
The movement required 9 bushings for its servicing, a testament to its complexity and the care it has received over the years[4]. Despite its age, the clock continues to keep accurate time, with winding once a week ensuring its continued precision[5].
HAU's journey did not end with its own production. In the late 1920s to early 1930s, the company was acquired by Junghans, another prominent German clock manufacturer. This merger allowed Junghans to incorporate HAU's clock designs and expertise, eventually absorbing HAU by the 1930s[1].
Today, HAU-branded clocks remain collectible and valued by enthusiasts, sitting alongside other German clock brands such as Junghans, Mauthe, Hermle, Jauch, Gufa, and more in many collections[6]. The acquisition of HAU by Junghans not only expanded Junghans' portfolio but also preserved the legacy of a company that contributed significantly to the world of clockmaking.
[1] "Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU)", The Watch Site, https://www.thewatchsite.info/manufacturers/hamburg-amerikanische-uhrenfabrik-hau/
[2] "Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU)", The Clockworks, https://www.clockworks.com/hamburg-amerikanische-uhrenfabrik-hau/
[3] "Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU) Shelf Clock", Reddit
[4] "Servicing an HAC Mantel Clock Movement", The Clockworks
[5] "Dating an HAU Shelf Clock", The Clockworks
[6] "My Collection of German Clocks", The Watch Site
In the ever-evolving landscape of antique clocks and gadgets, one could find smart-home-devices as a contemporary contrast to the nostalgic charm of vintage clocks like those from the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik (HAU). The sophistication of modern technology in smart-home-devices stands in stark contrast to the intricate mechanisms of the HAU clocks, such as the one recently acquired by a collector, which was discovered on the Ottawa Facebook Marketplace. The intertwining of technology and antiquity offers a fascinating study in the evolution of timekeeping devices.
