Wall Clock Size Guide: What Size Do I Need?
Wall Clock Size Guide: What Size Do I Need?
Adding a wall clock to your home or office isn’t as simple as just picking one that looks nice. Clocks that are exquisite by themselves may look like a small dot in a large room and not make the statement you were hoping for. Conversely, too large a timepiece can overwhelm the other décor or look comedically oversized.
In this Chelsea Clock guide, we look at several wall clock size factors and help you select the right piece. Use our expert tips to determine what size wall clock you need from our luxury wall clock collection.
Wall Clocks and Room Size
Many people want to know what the standard wall clock size is. While the average is about 12 inches, there is much more to owning a perfectly coordinated clock. The first thing to consider is the size of the room. There is no magic ratio of wall space to clock size, but generally speaking, smaller rooms should have smaller clocks and the same correlation applies to large spaces. Using our Ship's Bell Clock Collection as an example, consider a 4.5-inch clock for a small home office, a six-inch clock for a midsize bedroom and an 8.5-inch clock for large dens or sitting rooms.
What Room is the Wall Clock Going In?
Where you are hanging a wall clock can also impact the size. For example, wall clocks in children’s rooms or home gyms should be larger than average. This makes the dial easier to read and gives the room a fun, energetic atmosphere. Hanging a wall clock above a mantel or in the entryway also calls for a larger statement piece. If you’re outfitting a bedroom or kitchen, a subtler approach is typically best. In these cases, clocks are more of a practical addition and serve as a complementary piece.
The Purpose of a Wall Clock
For some, the primary purpose of their clock is to tell time. A smaller, more refined accent clock will do the job in these cases. Others want their clock to be a centerpiece that draws eyes whenever someone enters. For this, you’ll need a larger clock with a textured or patterned face. Not too large, though - oversized clocks that dwarf the room can cause people to feel restless and nervous.
Pairing Wall Clocks with Décor
Sharing the wall with other décor can be tricky. Generally speaking, no more than two-thirds to three-quarters of the wall space should be covered. This allows you to space out each piece and avoid visual clutter. If a wall is nearing this limit or already has multiple statement pieces, you’ll need to select a smaller clock or clear some of the current artwork. Choose a larger clock if it has the wall to itself or you’re making it the center of your design.
Does Your Wall Have Windows?
The answer to this question is more important than you think. Windows break up space visually and limit the appropriate clock size in the process. A 10-inch clock will look much different on an uninterrupted 100-inch wall than on the same size wall placed between two windows. The natural light flowing in can also affect the clock’s visibility.
Once you’ve determined the appropriate clock size for your needs, shop at Chelsea Clock for sophisticated wall clocks. We have mechanical clocks, quartz clocks, nautical clocks and many others that are handcrafted in the U.S.
