Laura Ashley Clocks

Discovering Beauty in Every Tick and Tock

When I first moved into my cottage-style home three years ago, the walls felt desperately bare. Each room echoed with emptiness despite the furniture I’d carefully selected. Something was missing—something that would bring character, functionality, and a touch of elegance to each space. That “something” turned out to be clocks, but not just any timepieces. Laura Ashley clocks transformed my house into a home, marrying function and style in ways I never imagined possible.

Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these beautiful timekeepers, from where to find them to how to choose the perfect one for your space. Consider this your comprehensive guide to the world of Laura Ashley clocks—written by someone who’s gone from casual admirer to passionate collector.

The Allure of Laura Ashley Clocks: A Brief History

Before diving into the buying details, let’s appreciate what makes Laura Ashley timepieces special. The brand began in the 1950s as a small business run by Laura and Bernard Ashley, printing fabrics on their kitchen table. What started as humble beginnings evolved into a global brand synonymous with English countryside aesthetics and floral designs.

Laura Ashley clocks embody this heritage. They aren’t just functional objects; they’re pieces of decorative art that capture the brand’s quintessentially British charm. From delicate floral motifs to rustic farmhouse designs, these clocks carry the DNA of a brand that has defined elegant country living for decades.

Where to Find Your Perfect Laura Ashley Clock

The hunt for the perfect timepiece is half the fun! I’ve discovered Laura Ashley clocks through various channels, each with their own advantages:

Official Retail Channels

The Laura Ashley website remains the most reliable source for current collections. Their online store features exclusive designs not available elsewhere, and you’ll often find detailed descriptions of each clock’s mechanism and materials. Prices typically range from $45-$150 for standard wall clocks, with premium designs reaching $200+.

The benefit of purchasing directly is the assurance of authenticity and usually a manufacturer’s warranty of 1-2 years. However, I’ve found their inventory can be limited during popular seasons.

Department Stores and Home Décor Retailers

Stores like John Lewis, Debenhams, and House of Fraser (in the UK) and Macy’s or Nordstrom (in the US) frequently stock Laura Ashley clock collections. The advantage here is seeing the clock in person—something I highly recommend whenever possible. The texture of the materials and the subtle details don’t always translate well in online photos.

These retailers occasionally offer exclusive collaborations with Laura Ashley, resulting in unique designs you won’t find elsewhere. During seasonal sales, I’ve found beautiful wall clocks marked down by 30-40%.

Online Marketplaces

Amazon, Wayfair, and eBay have become reliable sources for Laura Ashley timepieces. The selection is often vast, particularly for discontinued models. Amazon typically offers competitive pricing and quick shipping, while eBay is treasure trove for vintage and limited-edition models.

One word of caution from personal experience: always verify the seller’s reputation when purchasing through these platforms. I once purchased what was advertised as a genuine Laura Ashley wall clock only to receive a convincing replica. Authentic pieces will have consistent quality in the printing, materials, and mechanism.

Outlet Stores and Clearance Sales

If you’re budget-conscious like me, Laura Ashley outlet stores are worth exploring. Located in select shopping centers, these outlets offer discontinued styles at significantly reduced prices. I found my kitchen clock—a charming cream-colored piece with subtle rose detailing—at an outlet for just $35, marked down from $89.

Twice yearly, Laura Ashley runs clearance events where prices drop dramatically. Setting a calendar reminder for these sales has saved me hundreds of dollars over the years.

Styles and Designs: Finding Your Perfect Match

Laura Ashley’s clock collections span various aesthetic categories, each with distinct characteristics:

Cottage and Country Styles

These designs form the core of Laura Ashley’s clock offerings, featuring soft pastels, floral motifs, and distressed finishes. My dining room showcases a classic country-style wall clock with a weathered cream frame and delicate lavender sprigs decorating the face.

Country-style clocks typically feature Roman numerals and ornate hands, creating a sense of traditional elegance. Materials tend toward painted wood and metal with antiqued finishes. Prices generally range from $60-120, with larger statement pieces reaching $180.

Classic and Traditional Designs

For more formal spaces, Laura Ashley offers timeless designs with sophisticated elements. These clocks often feature polished woods like mahogany or walnut, brass accents, and crisp white clock faces. My study houses a traditional pendulum wall clock with a rich cherry finish that adds gravitas to the room.

Traditional designs often incorporate pendulums, Westminster chimes, or moon phase displays. These feature-rich models typically start around $100 and can exceed $300 for larger grandfather-style floor clocks.

Contemporary and Modern Collections

Contrary to popular belief, Laura Ashley doesn’t exclusively create traditional designs. Their contemporary collection features clean lines, geometric patterns, and modern color palettes including metallics, deep blues, and sophisticated grays.

My guest bedroom features a sleek silver-framed wall clock with a minimalist face—proof that Laura Ashley can do modern just as beautifully as traditional. These contemporary pieces typically range from $50-$130.

Limited Editions and Seasonal Collections

Each year, Laura Ashley releases special collections tied to seasons or design themes. Last autumn’s woodland collection included a stunning wall clock featuring delicate illustrations of British wildlife among autumn leaves. These limited runs command higher prices ($100-200) but offer unique aesthetic value.

The seasonal collections sell out quickly, so I’ve learned to check their website at the beginning of each season to avoid disappointment.

Wall-Mounted vs. Tabletop: Choosing the Right Format

Laura Ashley excels in both wall-mounted and tabletop clock designs, each serving different purposes in home décor:

Wall Clocks: Making a Statement

Wall clocks constitute approximately 70% of Laura Ashley’s timepiece offerings. Sizes typically range from intimate 8-inch diameter faces suitable for hallways or kitchens to substantial 24-inch statement pieces designed for living rooms and open-concept spaces.

My entryway features a medium-sized 14-inch wall clock—the perfect scale to greet visitors without overwhelming the space. When selecting a wall clock, I’ve found that the 12-18 inch range works in most standard rooms, while larger spaces benefit from 18-24 inch designs.

The mounting systems vary by model. Most use a simple keyhole mounting that hangs on a single nail or screw, while heavier models include reinforced hanging hardware. Installation is typically straightforward, though I recommend using a level and measuring twice before making holes in your wall!

Tabletop and Mantel Clocks: Elegant Accents

Tabletop clocks offer versatility and ease of placement. Laura Ashley’s mantel clock collection features charming designs with substantial bases for stability. Most range from 6-10 inches in height, making them perfect for bookshelves, nightstands, or fireplace mantels.

My bedside table hosts a small Laura Ashley alarm clock with a gentle chime that makes mornings more bearable. These intimate timepieces typically range from $35-$80, with more elaborate designs reaching $120.

The beauty of tabletop clocks lies in their portability—I’ve moved mine between rooms seasonally, sometimes featuring the same clock on my office desk and other times using it as a dining room table centerpiece.

Materials and Construction: Quality You Can See and Feel

Laura Ashley clocks are crafted from various materials, each influencing both aesthetics and durability:

Wood and Wood Composites

Wooden frames dominate the Laura Ashley collection, ranging from solid oak and pine to engineered wood composites. The finish options span from natural wood grains to painted surfaces in classic Laura Ashley color palettes.

My kitchen wall clock features a distressed white wooden frame that has maintained its charm despite exposure to cooking humidity for over two years. Solid wood models command premium prices ($90-180) but offer exceptional durability.

Metal Elements

Brushed nickel, antique brass, and copper accents frequently appear in Laura Ashley clock designs. These metal elements typically form the clock hands, number markers, or decorative embellishments. Some contemporary designs feature full metal frames, usually in silver, gold, or rose gold finishes.

The metal components generally resist tarnishing well, though I’ve found that wiping them occasionally with a soft cloth maintains their luster. All-metal designs typically range from $70-150.

Glass and Crystal Components

Many Laura Ashley clocks incorporate glass elements, from simple protective faces to beveled or etched decorative components. Their premium lines sometimes feature crystal embellishments that catch and reflect light beautifully.

My dining room clock has a slightly convex glass covering that adds subtle dimension to the floral face beneath. Glass-heavy designs typically start at $85 and can exceed $200 for models with premium crystal elements.

Fabric Accents

True to the brand’s textile heritage, some Laura Ashley clocks incorporate fabric elements. These might appear as cloth-covered frames, fabric clock faces with printed designs, or textile accents on wooden structures.

I have a charming desk clock with Laura Ashley’s signature wildflower print fabric behind the clock face. These fabric-accented pieces typically range from $45-90, offering a softer aesthetic than all-wood or metal designs.

Clock Mechanisms and Functionality: Beyond Beautiful Faces

The internal workings of Laura Ashley clocks vary, affecting both performance and price:

Quartz Movement: Reliable and Quiet

The majority of Laura Ashley clocks utilize quartz movement mechanisms, powered by standard AA or AAA batteries. These offer excellent accuracy and require minimal maintenance beyond battery replacement every 12-18 months.

What sets quality Laura Ashley quartz clocks apart is their silent sweep technology in premium models. My bedroom wall clock features this silent mechanism—no ticking to disturb light sleepers. Silent sweep models typically cost $20-30 more than standard quartz clocks but are worth the investment for bedrooms and quiet spaces.

Standard quartz models produce the familiar ticking sound, which many (myself included) find comforting in living spaces. My kitchen clock’s gentle tick provides a soothing background rhythm while I’m cooking.

Pendulum Mechanisms

For traditionalists, Laura Ashley offers pendulum wall clocks and grandfather-style floor models. These feature decorative pendulums that swing in hypnotic rhythm. Most use quartz mechanisms for timekeeping while the pendulum operates independently.

My father-in-law fell in love with the Laura Ashley pendulum clock in our hallway, eventually purchasing one for himself. These models start around $120 and can reach $400+ for floor-standing designs.

Chiming Features

Select Laura Ashley clocks incorporate chiming functions, ranging from simple hourly chimes to elaborate Westminster or Whittington melodies. Most offer volume control or nighttime silencing options.

I once owned a chiming Laura Ashley mantel clock but found it too intrusive for my modest-sized home. If you have larger spaces, however, these musical timepieces add wonderful character. Chiming models typically start at $150.

Battery vs. Plug-in Power

The vast majority of Laura Ashley clocks operate on standard batteries, offering placement flexibility without worrying about proximity to outlets. Battery life varies by mechanism type, with standard quartz movements typically running 12-18 months on a single AA battery.

A few specialized models, particularly those with illuminated features, may require AC power. My illuminated kitchen clock plugs into a standard outlet but includes a battery backup to maintain time during power outages.

Price Points: What to Expect at Different Budgets

Laura Ashley clocks span a wide price range, accommodating various budgets while maintaining brand quality:

Entry-Level ($35-75)

At this price point, expect smaller wall clocks (8-12 inches) or basic tabletop designs. Materials typically include painted wood composites and standard quartz movements. These offer excellent value while still displaying Laura Ashley’s signature style.

My first Laura Ashley purchase was a modest $45 wall clock for my home office—simple but charming with a white frame and subtle floral numerals. Despite its modest price, it’s maintained perfect time for three years.

Mid-Range ($75-150)

The sweet spot for most Laura Ashley clocks falls in this range. Here you’ll find medium to large wall clocks (12-18 inches), quality tabletop designs, and enhanced features like silent sweep mechanisms or more elaborate decorative elements.

Most of my collection falls into this category, including my living room’s 16-inch statement clock with a distressed blue frame and botanical face design ($129). The craftsmanship at this price point offers excellent longevity—my oldest mid-range clock is approaching five years without issues.

Premium ($150-300+)

Premium Laura Ashley timepieces feature larger dimensions, premium materials (solid woods, crystal elements), and advanced features like chiming mechanisms or illumination. Limited edition designs and collector’s pieces also occupy this category.

I splurged on a premium Laura Ashley grandfather-style floor clock ($275) for our dining room last year. Its substantial presence and impeccable detailing justify the investment for centerpiece timepieces.

Finding Value: Sales and Discounts

Patient shoppers can find substantial savings on Laura Ashley clocks. Beyond the previously mentioned outlet stores, I’ve had success with:

• Seasonal sales (typically January and July) offering 25-40% discounts
• Email newsletter promotions (signing up saved me 15% on my second purchase)
• Display model clearance events (my mantel clock was 50% off as a floor sample)
• Holiday promotions, particularly during Black Friday and pre-Christmas events

Color Palettes: Finding Your Perfect Match

Laura Ashley’s color offerings reflect their distinctive aesthetic, ranging from subtle neutrals to statement hues:

Classic Neutrals

Cream, ivory, and soft white frames dominate the collection, offering versatile options that blend with various décor schemes. These neutral frames often feature clock faces with delicate colored accents or floral motifs.

My dining room clock pairs a creamy white frame with lavender and sage details on the face—subtle enough to complement seasonal décor changes. Neutral-framed clocks typically range from $45-120 depending on size and detailing.

Pastoral Hues

Soft blues, gentle greens, dusty pinks, and lavenders feature prominently in Laura Ashley’s pastoral color collection. These soothing colors create a tranquil presence on walls and tabletops.

The duck egg blue clock in my guest bathroom has received countless compliments, its color reminiscent of vintage robin’s eggs. These colored frames typically range from $60-140.

Statement Colors

For those seeking bolder options, Laura Ashley offers select clocks in statement colors like navy, emerald green, or rich burgundy. These deeper tones often appear in traditional or library-inspired designs.

My home office features a handsome clock with a deep navy frame and brass accents—a sophisticated counterpoint to lighter furnishings. Statement-colored models typically range from $80-150.

Metallics and Gilt

Contemporary collections increasingly feature metallic finishes, from subtle champagne gold to dramatic copper and rose gold. These finishes add modern sophistication to the traditional Laura Ashley aesthetic.

The rose gold tabletop clock in my dressing area catches morning light beautifully, creating a warm glow. Metallic-finished clocks typically range from $70-160.

Special Features Worth Considering

Beyond basic timekeeping, many Laura Ashley clocks offer special features that enhance both function and aesthetics:

Temperature Displays

Select models incorporate temperature readings alongside time, typically displaying in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. My kitchen clock includes this feature, which proves surprisingly useful when cooking.

Dual-function temperature/time models typically add $15-25 to the base price but offer excellent practical value.

Calendar Functions

Some tabletop and wall designs include date displays, showing day, date, and sometimes month. These functional additions maintain Laura Ashley’s aesthetic standards while adding practical value.

My father particularly appreciates the calendar function on the clock I gifted him, as it helps him keep track of appointments. Calendar-equipped models typically range from $65-120.

Illumination Options

For practical nighttime viewing, some Laura Ashley clocks feature subtle illumination. Options range from backlit displays to glow-in-the-dark hands and numerals.

My bedside clock features gentle illumination activated by a touch sensor—bright enough to check the time at night without disturbing sleep. Illuminated models typically range from $70-140.

Alarm Functions

Primarily found in tabletop designs, alarm functions vary from simple beeping alerts to graduated alarms that increase in volume. Most offer snooze functionality.

I particularly appreciate my bedside Laura Ashley alarm clock’s dual alarm settings, allowing different wake times for weekdays and weekends. Alarm-equipped models typically range from $45-90.

Matching Sets and Coordinated Designs

For those seeking design cohesion across spaces, Laura Ashley offers several approaches to coordinated timepieces:

Identical Clocks in Various Sizes

Some popular designs come in multiple size options, allowing you to place matching clocks in different rooms while scaling appropriately to each space.

I have the “Botanical Garden” design in both a large 18-inch version for my living room and a smaller 10-inch version for my hallway. These coordinated sets typically offer a 10-15% discount when purchased together.

Design Families

Rather than identical clocks, design families share aesthetic elements while varying in format and features. For example, the “English Rose” collection includes wall clocks, mantel clocks, and alarm clocks with consistent rose motifs but different configurations.

My guest bedroom features an “English Countryside” wall clock that coordinates with the alarm clock on the nightstand—similar enough to feel cohesive but not identical. These design families typically span the full price spectrum from $45-200.

Matching Home Accessories

For comprehensive décor coordination, many Laura Ashley clocks match with other home accessories including cushions, throws, and lampshades. This allows for sophisticated design integration beyond timepieces.

My living room wall clock perfectly matches the fabric pattern on nearby cushions, creating subtle design harmony. Coordinated accessories typically range from $30-80 per item.

Durability and Maintenance: Keeping Time Beautifully

With proper care, Laura Ashley clocks maintain both function and beauty for many years:

Typical Lifespan

Based on my experience and collector communities, Laura Ashley clocks typically offer 7-10+ years of reliable service before potentially requiring mechanism replacement. The decorative elements and frames often last decades with proper care.

My oldest Laura Ashley clock is approaching its eighth birthday and still keeps perfect time with only battery changes. This longevity makes even premium-priced models a reasonable long-term investment.

Cleaning Recommendations

Different materials require specific cleaning approaches:

• Wooden frames: Dust regularly with a soft cloth; occasionally treat with appropriate wood polish
• Glass elements: Clean with a slightly dampened microfiber cloth, avoiding liquid seepage into the mechanism
• Metal components: Buff with a dry microfiber cloth; avoid harsh chemical cleaners
• Fabric elements: Gentle vacuum with upholstery attachment; spot clean carefully if necessary

I maintain a quarterly clock cleaning routine, giving each timepiece attention during seasonal décor changes. This regular maintenance has preserved even delicate details beautifully.

Battery Replacement

Most Laura Ashley clocks use standard AA or AAA batteries, making replacement simple and inexpensive. I’ve found that premium alkaline batteries typically last 12-18 months in standard quartz movements.

A helpful tip: I note the date of battery installation on a small piece of masking tape inside the battery compartment, eliminating guesswork when troubleshooting.

Mechanism Troubleshooting

Occasionally, clock mechanisms may require adjustment or repair. Common issues include:

• Hands misalignment: Carefully reset hands to the correct position
• Sticking second hand: Often resolved by gentle movement or battery replacement
• Inaccurate timekeeping: May require mechanism replacement (available through customer service)

When my kitchen clock began losing time after three years, Laura Ashley customer service provided a replacement mechanism under warranty with simple installation instructions.

Reviews and Reliability: What Owners Say

Before making significant purchases, I always research customer experiences. Laura Ashley clocks generally receive favorable reviews, with specific patterns emerging:

Strengths Consistently Mentioned

• Aesthetic appeal and design details receive the highest praise
• Color accuracy between online images and actual products
• Packaging quality protecting clocks during shipping
• Battery life exceeding expectations
• Customer service responsiveness for warranty issues

My experiences align with these common praises. The packaging, in particular, has impressed me—each clock arrives nestled in protective materials that prevent damage.

Common Criticisms

Transparency requires acknowledging reported drawbacks:

• Some models produce louder ticking than expected (particularly relevant for bedrooms)
• Limited availability of replacement parts for discontinued models
• Occasional quality variation in mechanical elements between production batches
• Higher price point compared to generic alternatives

The ticking volume concern proved valid in my experience—I returned one clock intended for my bedroom after finding its tick too pronounced. Reading reviews specifically mentioning noise levels helps avoid this issue.

Warranty Considerations

Laura Ashley typically offers a 1-2 year warranty on clock mechanisms, with frame and decorative elements covered for manufacturing defects. Extended warranties are sometimes available through retailers for an additional fee.

I’ve only needed to use the warranty service once, and the process was straightforward—requiring proof of purchase and photos of the defective mechanism. The replacement arrived within two weeks.

Finding Your Perfect Laura Ashley Clock: A Strategic Approach

After years of collecting these beautiful timepieces, I’ve developed a methodical approach to selection:

Step 1: Assess Your Space

Before browsing, measure the wall space or surface where your clock will live. Consider:

• For wall clocks: Available wall space, viewing distance, and surrounding décor
• For tabletop clocks: Surface dimensions, height restrictions, and visibility angles

I photograph potential locations before shopping, keeping these images on my phone for reference when considering options.

Step 2: Define Functional Requirements

Beyond aesthetics, clarify what you need from your timepiece:

• Visibility requirements (size of numbers, contrast between hands and face)
• Sound preferences (silent sweep vs. traditional ticking)
• Special features needed (temperature display, alarm functions, etc.)
• Power source constraints (battery accessibility, outlet proximity)

My kitchen clock selection prioritized temperature display and high visibility across the room, which narrowed my options effectively.

Step 3: Establish Your Budget

With prices ranging from $35 to $300+, setting a clear budget helps focus your search. Remember to factor in:

• Base price of the clock
• Shipping costs (if ordering online)
• Battery costs over time
• Any installation hardware needed

I typically set a target budget but allow a 15% flexibility for exceptional pieces that might serve as focal points in important rooms.

Step 4: Consider Long-Term Design Compatibility

Unlike trendy décor items, quality clocks often remain in place for many years. Consider:

• How the design will age with evolving décor preferences
• Seasonal décor changes and how the clock will complement them
• Color scheme durability in your overall design vision

I’ve found that clocks with neutral frames and subtle design elements offer the greatest longevity as my décor evolves around them.

Installation and Placement: Showcasing Your Selection

Once you’ve selected your perfect Laura Ashley clock, proper installation ensures both functionality and aesthetic impact:

Wall Clock Placement Guidelines

For optimal visibility and impact, consider these placement principles:

• Center wall clocks at approximately 57-60 inches from the floor (eye level for average adults)
• Allow adequate space around the clock (minimum 8-12 inches from furniture or other wall art)
• Consider sight lines from primary seating areas
• Be mindful of glare from windows or lighting that might affect visibility

When hanging my living room statement clock, I temporarily taped paper templates to the wall at different heights before committing to hardware installation.

Secure Mounting Techniques

Proper installation ensures safety and longevity:

• Use appropriate anchors based on wall material and clock weight
• Verify level placement before finalizing (crooked clocks are immediately noticeable)
• For heavier models, consider professional installation or reinforced mounting
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for specialized hanging hardware

I invested in a stud finder and quality level—tools that have proven invaluable for perfect clock placement throughout my home.

Tabletop Placement Considerations

For mantel clocks and desktop models, consider:

• Stability of the surface (avoid wobbly tables or vibration-prone areas)
• Protection from direct sunlight that might fade decorative elements
• Clearance for pendulum movement if applicable
• Visibility from typical viewing positions

My mantel clock sits on a small, felt-bottomed tray that both protects the surface and allows for easy movement during dusting.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Laura Ashley Clocks

As I glance around my home, each Laura Ashley clock marks more than just hours and minutes—they mark a commitment to bringing beauty into everyday functionality. From the gentle tick of my kitchen timepiece to the statement presence of my living room wall clock, these pieces have transformed mundane moments into opportunities for appreciation.

What began as a simple quest to fill empty wall space has evolved into a thoughtful collection that expresses my aesthetic while serving practical needs. Laura Ashley clocks have a remarkable ability to elevate a space while remaining authentically useful objects, proving that the most successful home accessories are those that beautifully bridge form and function.

Whether you’re considering your first Laura Ashley clock or adding to an existing collection, I hope this guide helps you navigate the delightful world of these timepieces. Happy clock hunting—may you find pieces that make checking the time a moment of pleasure rather than mere necessity.