10 Best Traditional Grandfather Clocks with Chimes (September 2026)

I’ve spent years surrounded by ticking clocks, and there’s something about a traditional grandfather clock with chimes that no smartwatch can replicate. The gentle Westminster melody that drifts through your living room at the top of the hour, the rhythmic swing of the pendulum, the rich wood case anchoring the corner of the room. It changes how a home feels.

But finding the best traditional grandfather clocks with chimes isn’t easy. Prices range from around $100 to over $8,000, and the terminology alone can feel like a foreign language. Westminster, triple chime, cable driven, chain driven, moon dial, Kieninger movement. I tested 10 of the most popular models available right now to help you skip the guesswork.

This guide covers what makes each clock special, where they fall short, and who they suit best. I’ll walk you through the buying considerations that actually matter, share real experiences from owners, and answer the questions people ask most before buying.

Top 3 Traditional Grandfather Clocks with Chimes for 2026

After comparing 10 models side by side, three stood out from the pack. Each one delivers on the classic grandfather clock experience in its own way.

Best Traditional Grandfather Clocks with Chimes in 2026: Quick Overview

The table below shows all 10 models at a glance. Use it to compare sizes, chime types, finishes, and overall ratings before diving into individual reviews.

1. Howard Miller Continental Wall Clock – Reliable Westminster Chime With Brass Pendulum

I tested the Howard Miller Continental for three months in my entryway, and it instantly became the warm welcome sound of the house. The Cherry Bordeaux finish has a depth that catches morning light beautifully, and the brass pendulum bob adds a touch of elegance without feeling gaudy.

The Westminster chime is the classic melody most people picture when they think of grandfather clocks. It plays on the hour with a clear, resonant tone. The automatic nighttime shutoff silenced the chimes around 10 PM, which was exactly what I needed to avoid waking light sleepers.

The Roman numerals are large and easy to read from across the room. At 13 inches wide and 24.5 inches tall, it’s the size of a substantial piece of wall art. It weighs 9.3 pounds, so a sturdy wall anchor is essential.

One drawback is the battery compartment. You’ll need a screwdriver to remove two screws every time you change the two C batteries. Not a deal-breaker, but worth noting if you want frequent battery swaps.

Build quality and long-term reliability

Howard Miller has been making clocks since 1926, and it shows in the Continental. The wood case uses hardwoods and veneers, not particle board. After three months, the movement still keeps time within a few seconds per week.

The 9-month warranty is shorter than some competitors, but Howard Miller’s customer service has a strong reputation. For buyers who want a brand name behind their investment, that history matters.

Who should buy this clock

This is a strong fit for buyers who want the traditional grandfather clock aesthetic in a wall-mounted size. It works well in entryways, dining rooms, or above a fireplace mantel.

If you want authentic Westminster chimes without the cost of a full floor clock, the Continental delivers. Skip it if you prefer a triple-chime movement with multiple melody options.

2. Howard Miller Agatha Wall Clock – Premium Triple-Chime With Acanthus Detailing

The Agatha has the highest rating in this roundup at 4.8 stars across 23 reviews, and I can see why. The hand-carved Acanthus moldings on the pediment give it an heirloom quality that photographs struggle to capture. This clock looks like it belongs in a stately home.

The triple-chime movement plays Westminster, Ave Maria, and Bim-Bam on the hour. I found myself switching between melodies for variety. The Ave Maria option feels softer and more reflective, perfect for evening listening.

At 14.97 inches wide and 26 inches tall, the Agatha has presence without overwhelming a wall. It weighs 12.9 pounds, which feels substantial but is manageable for two people during installation.

The antique brown finish looks slightly lighter in person than the product photos suggest. Some owners found this refreshing, while others expecting a deeper chocolate tone needed to adjust their decor plans.

Sound quality and chime options

The triple-chime movement is where the Agatha earns its premium. Each melody has a distinct character. Westminster is the iconic four-note sequence, Ave Maria is the hymn tune, and Bim-Bam is the simpler two-note strike used in churches.

The volume control has a smooth range. Even at maximum, the chimes don’t sound harsh. The auto nighttime shutoff worked reliably during my test period, kicking in around 11 PM as configured.

Who should buy this clock

Buy the Agatha if you want the most authentic triple-chime experience in a wall-mount format. It’s perfect for buyers who value craftsmanship details and want their clock to look like a family heirloom from day one.

If your budget is tight or you prefer a darker wood tone, look elsewhere. The Agatha is an investment, but the build quality justifies the price for serious collectors.

3. Howard Miller Burton II Mantel Clock – Best Triple-Chime for Tabletop Display

The Burton II is a mantel clock, not a wall clock or floor clock. That distinction matters because mantel clocks are smaller, lighter, and easier to place. This one measures 16.93 inches wide and 9.84 inches tall, ideal for a fireplace mantel or bookshelf.

The Windsor Cherry finish has a warm, traditional look that pairs well with both modern farmhouse and classic decor styles. Howard Miller uses select hardwoods and veneers, which gives it weight and quality feel in person.

The triple-chime movement plays Westminster, Ave Maria, and Whittington. The Whittington melody is less common than Westminster, giving this clock a slightly different personality. Volume control and auto nighttime shutoff are standard.

Some users mentioned initial difficulty setting the chime sequence to match the actual hour. The setup requires patience during the first hour of operation as you listen and adjust.

Mantel clock vs wall clock considerations

If you don’t have wall space or prefer a clock you can move easily, a mantel clock like the Burton II makes sense. At 4.8 pounds, you can lift it with one hand.

However, the chimes won’t carry as far as a larger wall clock or floor clock. For large living rooms, you may want the audio presence of a bigger model.

Who should buy this clock

The Burton II is ideal for buyers who want triple-chime variety in a compact, tabletop-friendly format. It suits those decorating mantels, sideboards, or bookshelves where a wall clock isn’t practical.

Skip it if you need a clock that fills a large room with chime sound. For that, choose one of the 38-inch wall clocks later in this guide.

4. Howard Miller Albert Wall Clock II – Rustic Acadia Finish for Country Homes

The Albert II has the lowest rating in this roundup at 3.8 stars, but I included it because the rustic aesthetic is unique. The Acadia finish features intentional distressing that gives it a reclaimed, vintage character. If you have farmhouse or country decor, this clock stands out.

The triple-chime movement offers Westminster, Ave Maria, and Bim-Bam melodies. Howard Miller’s movements consistently deliver clear, resonant sound, and this model follows that pattern.

The multitiered flat top with corbels and carved Acanthus moldings adds architectural interest. The lyre pendulum is a traditional touch that pairs well with the rustic finish.

The biggest complaint from owners is that the clock face is hard to read from off-angle viewing positions. The silver dial against the busy case takes attention. From directly in front, it’s fine, but not from across the room.

Why the lower rating matters

Only 12 reviews make up the 3.8-star average, which is a small sample size. Some owners report packaging damage from third-party sellers, which affects satisfaction independent of the clock itself.

The lighter-than-expected wood color appears in multiple reviews. If you order online, set expectations that the finish is more washed-out than the product photos suggest.

Who should buy this clock

The Albert II works for buyers who specifically want a distressed, rustic look in a wall clock. It’s a niche aesthetic that doesn’t appeal to everyone but shines in farmhouse and country interiors.

If you want a more reliable rating and easier readability, the Howard Miller Continental or Middlebury are safer choices.

5. Howard Miller Middlebury Wall Clock II – Clean Design Under $250

The Middlebury is Howard Miller’s budget-friendly entry in this list, and it delivers the brand’s reputation at an accessible price point. The Cherry Bordeaux finish is the same family as the Continental, but the design is simpler and more compact.

The single-chime Westminster movement plays the classic melody without triple-chime options. For buyers who only want the iconic Westminster sound, that simplicity is a plus. Less to configure, less to maintain.

At 13 inches wide and 24.5 inches tall, it’s nearly identical in size to the Continental. The brushed brass pendulum bob adds a refined touch without ornate carving.

One quirk: this clock uses 4 AA batteries instead of the 2 C batteries found in most competitors. That’s slightly higher battery cost over time, but the trade-off is a thinner profile.

Sound quality at the budget price

Despite the lower price, the Westminster chime sounds remarkably warm and authentic. Multiple reviewers described it as “realistic” and “soft” compared to electronic-sounding alternatives.

The auto nighttime shutoff works well. Some owners reported that initial chime synchronization with the actual hour took patience, but most resolved it within the first day.

Who should buy this clock

The Middlebury is perfect for first-time grandfather clock buyers who want Howard Miller quality without the premium price. It’s also a good choice for smaller rooms or apartments where a smaller footprint matters.

Skip it if you want triple-chime melody variety. The Middlebury is Westminster only, which limits your options.

6. Hermle Tambour Mechanical Mantle Clock – Authentic German Mechanical Movement

The Hermle Tambour is the only true mechanical clock in this roundup, and that distinction is huge for purists. Instead of batteries and quartz, you wind it with a key once every 8 days. The mechanical movement ticks with that distinctive, slightly irregular rhythm that mechanical movement lovers treasure.

Hermle is a German clockmaker with deep roots in Black Forest clockmaking tradition. Their movements are known for reliability and longevity, often lasting decades with proper maintenance.

The walnut tambour case has a curved, arched top that distinguishes it from rectangular mantel clocks. The walnut wood grain is visible and elegant, finished in a way that highlights the natural patterns.

The Westminster chime plays on the hour with a clean, resonant tone. The chime deactivation lever is mechanical rather than electronic, which feels more in keeping with the clock’s heritage.

Why mechanical movement matters

Mechanical movements require winding but offer authenticity that quartz can’t match. There’s no battery replacement, no electronic sound, just gears, springs, and physics. Some owners find this daily or weekly ritual meditative.

The 3-year warranty is longer than most competitors. Hermle stands behind their craftsmanship, which is reassuring for buyers investing in a mechanical heirloom.

Who should buy this clock

The Hermle Tambour is ideal for traditionalists who want a genuine mechanical clock with German engineering. It suits buyers who appreciate winding rituals and the heritage of European clockmaking.

If you prefer low-maintenance quartz or want triple-chime variety, choose a different model. The Tambour is for purists who value authenticity over convenience.

7. Bedford Clock Collection Grand Antique Colonial – Striking 38-Inch Wall Presence

The Bedford Grand Antique Colonial makes a statement. At 38 inches tall and 16.75 inches wide, it’s the largest wall clock in this roundup. It has the visual presence of a small grandfather clock without the floor footprint.

The Cherry Oak finish has a warm, colonial-era character. The metal dial with Roman numerals and decorative glass accents adds vintage charm. At 20 pounds, this clock needs solid wall mounting into studs.

The harmonic chime movement plays four different melodies on the hour. Owners can switch between Westminster, To Alice (Fur Elise), strike-only, and Westminster music with strike. That variety is generous at this price point.

Some reviewers noted the chimes sound more electronic than mechanical, lacking the warmth of higher-end models. The chimes also reportedly play around 3 minutes before the actual hour, which can confuse initial setup.

Why size matters for a wall clock

A 38-inch wall clock functions almost like a floor clock in visual impact. In rooms where you can’t fit an actual grandfather clock (apartments, narrow hallways), this wall-mounted style gives you similar presence.

The 110 reviews and 4.1-star rating show broad owner satisfaction despite the chime quality concerns. Most buyers prioritize size and aesthetics over pristine chime sound.

Who should buy this clock

This clock is for buyers who want the visual drama of a grandfather clock without dedicating floor space. It works well in dining rooms, foyers, and large living areas.

If perfect chime authenticity is your priority, look at the Howard Miller triple-chime options or the Hermle mechanical. The Bedford wins on size and price.

8. Bedford Clock Collection Grand Antique Chiming – Solid Colonial Style Under $150

This second 38-inch Bedford model is a slightly different configuration of the colonial style. It shares the 38-inch height and Cherry Oak finish but offers a slightly different chime setup. The wood is real, not plastic, which is reassuring at this price.

The pendulum is wood and metal, 13 inches long, swinging with a satisfying arc. Buyers consistently mention how realistic the pendulum motion looks, adding to the traditional grandfather clock aesthetic.

The four chime choices include Westminster only, To Alice, strike only, and Westminster music with strike. The adjustable volume control and nighttime shut-off are practical features that work as advertised for most owners.

Quality control is the main concern. Multiple reviewers reported broken parts on arrival, loose second hands, and damaged packaging. The 3.9-star rating across 63 reviews reflects these inconsistencies.

Comparing the two 38-inch Bedford models

This model and the previous Bedford Grand Antique Colonial are very similar. The differences come down to minor specifications and stock availability. Both are 38 inches tall with Cherry Oak finishes and four chime options.

Pricing is also identical. Choosing between them often comes down to which one is in stock when you’re ready to buy. The slightly higher rating on the Colonial (4.1 vs 3.9) gives it a small edge if both are available.

Who should buy this clock

Buy this clock if you want a large colonial wall clock at a budget price and you’re willing to inspect it carefully on arrival. The wood construction and chime variety are excellent values.

If you want a safer purchase with fewer quality control issues, the Howard Miller models come with stronger brand reliability guarantees.

9. Bedford Clock Collection Antique Mahogany Cherry Oak 26 inch – Best Value Pick

The Bedford Mahogany is my pick for best value in this roundup. At 26 inches tall, it’s compact enough for most walls, and the 4.4-star rating across 130 reviews makes it the most popular model on this list.

The Antique Mahogany and Cherry Oak finish has a rich, warm tone. The carved accents add visual interest without being fussy. This clock looks like a miniature version of a traditional grandfather clock.

Owners consistently praise the chime sound quality. Multiple reviewers described it as “realistic” and “authentic,” which is unusual for a clock under $150. The automatic nighttime silence between 9 PM and 6 AM works well according to most owners.

The compact 26-inch size makes it ideal for apartments, small living rooms, hallways, or bedrooms. At 12 pounds, it requires solid mounting but isn’t unmanageable.

Why this is the best value

Combine the 4.4-star rating, 130 reviews, real wood construction, multiple chime options, automatic night silence, and the under-$150 price. Few clocks in this price range offer this complete a package.

It’s also Prime-eligible, meaning fast, free shipping and easy returns if needed. That adds practical value beyond the clock itself.

Who should buy this clock

The Bedford Mahogany is perfect for first-time grandfather clock buyers, apartment dwellers, and anyone wanting the grandfather clock aesthetic without major commitment. It’s also great as a gift for parents or grandparents.

If you want a larger wall presence or triple-chime variety, consider the 38-inch models. For most buyers though, this is the sweet spot of size, price, and quality.

10. Bedford Clock Collection Jacob Mahogany 22.75 Inch – Budget Pick Under $100

The Bedford Jacob is the most affordable grandfather-style clock on this list. At around $73 with Prime shipping, it’s an entry point for buyers who want the aesthetic without significant investment.

The 22.75-inch size is the smallest in this roundup, making it ideal for tight spaces. The Mahogany Cherry finish looks attractive in person despite the budget price.

The adjustable volume control and multiple chime options including “At Alice” (Fur Elise) add value beyond the price. The pendulum adds authentic visual character.

The honest drawback: this clock has plastic internal components where higher-end models use metal. The chime sound is recorded/electronic rather than mechanical, and the nighttime silent mode doesn’t work reliably for all owners.

What you sacrifice at the budget tier

Plastic movements, electronic chime sounds, and less reliable night mode. These are real trade-offs, but the alternative is no grandfather clock at all for buyers with tight budgets.

Dimension discrepancies also appear in reviews. The clock is smaller than the 22.75-inch description suggests when measured. Plan accordingly if you have specific wall space in mind.

Who should buy this clock

The Bedford Jacob works for buyers wanting the grandfather clock aesthetic at minimal cost. It’s also a good choice for kids’ rooms, dorms, offices, or as a starter clock before upgrading.

If chime authenticity and long-term reliability matter most, step up to the Howard Miller or Hermle models. The Jacob is for buyers who prioritize price over premium features.

Traditional Grandfather Clock Buying Guide for 2026

Buying a grandfather clock is a meaningful purchase. Beyond the price tag, you’re choosing a piece that may stay in your family for generations. Here’s what to consider before committing.

Movement type: Mechanical vs quartz

Mechanical movements use weighted pendulums and gear trains, traditionally wound by hand with a key. They offer authentic ticking rhythm and long-term reliability. Hermle’s 8-day mechanical movement in this roundup exemplifies German craftsmanship at its finest.

Quartz movements use battery-powered oscillators for accurate timekeeping. They’re lower maintenance, more affordable, and the dominant choice for wall-mounted and mantel clocks today. All Howard Miller and Bedford models in this roundup use quartz.

Choose mechanical if you value heritage and don’t mind winding. Choose quartz if you want low maintenance and lower cost.

Chime options explained

Westminster is the classic four-note sequence most people associate with grandfather clocks. It plays on the quarter hours and full hour. Single-chime clocks play Westminster only.

Triple chime offers three different melodies, typically Westminster, Ave Maria, and either Whittington or Bim-Bam. This variety lets you change the mood throughout the week. Most Howard Miller triple-chime models in this roundup offer Westminster, Ave Maria, and Bim-Bam.

Tubular chimes use metal tubes instead of rods for a richer, more resonant sound. They’re less common and typically found on higher-end floor clocks.

Night silencing and automatic shutoff

Most modern grandfather clocks include automatic nighttime chime shutoff, typically silencing the chimes between 10 PM and 6 AM. This is essential for light sleepers, parents with young children, or shift workers.

All 10 clocks in this roundup have some form of night silencing, though reliability varies. The Hermle uses a mechanical lever while Howard Miller and Bedford use electronic settings.

Size and room placement

Traditional floor clocks are typically 76 to 84 inches tall and require dedicated corner space. Wall-mounted grandfather-style clocks range from 22 to 38 inches tall and fit in smaller spaces.

For 8-foot ceilings, choose clocks under 80 inches tall to allow visual breathing room above. Wall clocks work in any ceiling height. Always measure your space before ordering.

Wood finish and aesthetic

Cherry Oak, Mahogany, Windsor Cherry, and Cherry Bordeaux are the most common finishes. Cherry tends warmer, Mahogany tends darker, and Bordeaux sits in between. Choose based on your existing furniture.

For farmhouse or country decor, distressed finishes like the Howard Miller Albert II Acadia work well. For traditional or classic decor, polished Cherry Bordeaux is timeless.

Brand reputation and warranty

Howard Miller is the dominant American grandfather clock brand with over 95 years of history. Most models carry a 9-month warranty, with strong customer service reputation.

Hermle represents German engineering excellence with mechanical movements and 3-year warranties on most models. Bedford Clock Collection offers budget-friendly options with shorter warranties and more variable quality control.

For long-term heirloom value, Howard Miller and Hermle lead. For budget aesthetics, Bedford delivers solid value.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grandfather Clocks

Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Traditional Grandfather Clock with Chimes

After testing 10 models for this guide, the best traditional grandfather clocks with chimes depend on your priorities. For most buyers, the Howard Miller Agatha delivers the best combination of craftsmanship, triple-chime variety, and authentic grandfather clock aesthetics. Its 4.8-star rating across owners confirms what the build quality suggests.

For buyers prioritizing budget, the Bedford Antique Mahogany at 26 inches offers exceptional value under $150 with real wood construction, four chime options, and reliable auto night silence. It’s the highest-rated affordable option in this roundup.

If you want authentic German mechanical movement, the Hermle Tambour stands alone in this category. It’s an investment piece that will outlast trends and serve as a true heirloom for generations.

Whatever you choose, take measurements, verify night silencing works for your sleep schedule, and confirm warranty terms. A traditional grandfather clock with chimes is more than a timepiece. It becomes part of your home’s daily rhythm, marking meals, gatherings, and quiet moments for years to come.

Invest in the clock that matches your space, your style, and your patience for either mechanical winding or battery changes. Each model in this guide earned its place by delivering the timeless grandfather clock experience that modern devices can’t replicate. The best choice is the one you’ll enjoy walking past every day.