French Wall Clocks

Tara Gosselin Interior Design Expert

Tara is a San Antonio-based award-winning landscape architect, writer and educator, passionate about eco-friendly solutions and growing her own food. She knows all it takes to help you create a sustainable backyard retreat that combines blissful charm with a modern take on landscaping.

Updated 02/04/2021

Viva la France! That is what these wall clocks say to your decorative scheme. As if pulled from one of the great hotels or tourist spots in all of Paris, our collection of French wall clocks show a style and class that any fan of the French scene will appreciate. They are analog and have a classic look that adds charming style to any decor. Take a look at this extensive collection for more.

Buying Guide

A French wall clock comes with a very distinct look that is often associated with class and elegance. Aside from the look and vibe of a French wall clock, it also serves an essential function of telling time. It's no wonder why a lot of homeowners choose to decorate a room with a French wall clock.

French wall clocks come in different types, colors, and designs. For an average shopper, it's easy to get confused on what to buy. To help you make the task a lot easier, this article is going to be a buying guide on French wall clocks.

What are the most common materials used for French wall clocks?

The most common material used for a French wall clock are metal, wood, and plastic.

Plastic is by far the most economical option when compared to metal and wood. Thus, it's the logical choice if the budget is a bit tight. However, since plastic is not a very durable material, don't expect the wall clock to last for a very long time.
Wood is the traditional material for a wall clock. Hence, it carries a vibe of timelessness and natural authenticity. Wood is also a beautiful material and it exuberates elegance. Thus, if you want the most aesthetically pleasing French wall clock, then wood is the default option. On the downside, wood is susceptible to moisture damage, which is why it's not recommended for outdoor use.
Metals come in many different forms, but iron and aluminum are perhaps the most common materials used for a French wall clock. The greatest strength of metal is its durability. Hence, a French wall clock made of metal is likely going to last more than a lifetime. The downside of metal is it typically makes the clock heavy, which means hanging it on the wall is a bit more challenging.

How are French wall clocks operated?

French wall clock typically comes battery-operated or mechanical.

Battery-operated is the most common operation type. As the name suggests, the clock draws its power from a battery cell. On the upside, battery-operation is a lot more convenient compared to the mechanical type. On the downside, you have to keep buying batteries.
The mechanical is the traditional type. Hence, it carries an "old world" vibe that some people find intimate and appealing. Mechanical wall clocks draw their power from a coiled spring. The advantage of this is it's economical in the long run as you don't need to buy something else to power the clock (e.g. battery). On the other hand, you need to wind a mechanically operated clock regularly, which can be a source of inconvenience.

How to style with French wall clocks?

Another thing you need to consider is the kind of aesthetic goal you are aiming for. If you want to add class or sophistication to a room, then you might want a French wall clock that comes with a Mid-century, Bohemian or French country style. Also, you might want to go for something that is oversized. If you want something that is trendy, then a French wall clock with a dash of Contemporary, Transitional or Shabby Chic style is a good option.