The Tiffany Never Wind Clock is often wrongly associated with Tiffany & Co. of New York. The clock is the invention of G.S. Tiffany, but the names of Cloister, Niagara and National Magnetic appear on identical clocks. They were very popular until standardized AC utility electrical power gave synchronization to domestic clocks.

The torsion pendulum Tiffany Never Wind clocks first appeared in four glass and wood cases about 1904. Later styles in polished brass "crystal regulator" style cases appeared, but the most common to survive are the original glass dome style with spherical ball torsion pendulum.

Except for the very earliest units, the clocks operate with three 1.5 volt dry cell batteries house in the base. The older tall model employs double contacts energizing the propelling electromagnets on each rotation of the torsion pendulum.

Several case styles were offered after WWI, including the arched cathedral style shown here.

The early double contact models with spherical torsion pendulum bobs had introductory prices of about thirty dollars.

Height: 9.5 inches
Diameter: 6 inches (at base)

Model 1100

A new design completely different from the original spherical ball pendulum bob model clocks appeared during the late 1920s. The principle is basically the same, but the mechanics and construction details are very different. The pendulum is propelled only in one direction, a single self-wiping electrical contact is employed, the electromagnets are much smaller and the frame and base of these less expensive versions are steel stampings with gold colored electroplating over copper underlayment.

They are easily recognized by the double "bullet" shaped pendulum bob. They were available in the popular glass dome, while the other style cases priced from about twenty dollars. The 4.5 volt dry cell battery was special, having electrical connections arranged to make contact with the battery holder under spring tension. Corrosion of the metal holder and contacts is nearly always found. The special battery was offered by jewelry retailers who carried the clocks. The example here is a very unusual model of plated cast brass construction rather than steel.

Height: 10 inches
Diameter: 6 inches (at base)