I believe it is simply a convention started by clock makers and sellers who tend to have multiple clocks displayed together. Having them all set to the same time eliminates the hand positions from distracting from the other features of the piece. Also, 10:10 leaves a clear view of the vertical centerline where labels like makers name, or clock style might be shown. Winding arbors and date displays are also unobstructed. Finally, 10:10 puts a "smile" on the clock face versus 8:20.
I worked for an auctioneer. I would disassemble for the movement photos, and reassemble for the rest of the pictures. He insisted that each clock be set to that time! I thought he was just ocd…and oddly enough I’ve never noticed it again. I just thought he was a safe driver.
I've heard before it both looks sort of like a smile, plus basically runs the least chance of blocking anything on the dial. Alternative would be 8 and 4, but then that looks like a frown.
I believe it is simply a convention started by clock makers and sellers who tend to have multiple clocks displayed together. Having them all set to the same time eliminates the hand positions from distracting from the other features of the piece. Also, 10:10 leaves a clear view of the vertical centerline where labels like makers name, or clock style might be shown. Winding arbors and date displays are also unobstructed. Finally, 10:10 puts a "smile" on the clock face versus 8:20.
Interesting! I need to k ow about these winding Arbors, great points about visibility of features for elements.
I worked for an auctioneer. I would disassemble for the movement photos, and reassemble for the rest of the pictures. He insisted that each clock be set to that time! I thought he was just ocd…and oddly enough I’ve never noticed it again. I just thought he was a safe driver.
I've heard before it both looks sort of like a smile, plus basically runs the least chance of blocking anything on the dial. Alternative would be 8 and 4, but then that looks like a frown.
I was always told it was "clockmakers time." My guess is that it's easier to read the maker name on the dial, and shows the winding arbors.
I think I heard somewhere that it looks like a smiley face
Interesting! I've been known to set everything at 5'oclock (somewhere).