How To Choose Garden Sundial

Sundials are traditional devices for time-keeping used by peoples in many parts of the world. They told time based on the movement patterns of the sun. Even with the advent of modern clocks and watches, sundials retain their charm and attraction, if only as a decorative item for the home. They are highly accurate time tellers and are often crafted in beautiful, striking designs. How to choose a garden sundial depends on several factors.

Types of Sundials

Different types of sundials are made from different materials. Decide if you want a stone garden sundial or a metal one made from aluminium, brass, cast iron, stainless steel, bronze with resin mediums for additional longevity and even terra cotta. Some models are flat/horizontal and others are upright, equatorial pieces such as armillary spheres. Other models are designed to be placed in the ground; these are know as human sundials or sun clocks or by the old-fashioned term ‘analammatic’ dials.

Keep in mind if your sundial is expected to weather year-round conditions or only fair weather. Also, some sundials come on a pedestal for upright placement and other need to be set on top of a sturdy surface.  Sundial makers have also gotten creative with modern versions and come up with interesting designs such as garden sundial birdbaths. Original antique garden sundials can also be obtained as long as you’re willing to pay their worth.

How To Choose – Considerations

When choosing to buy a garden sundial keep in mind that it will be a central point in your garden so select one that you find attractive and fits in well with theme of your garden. A sundial often reflects the  history and culture of the region from where it comes from. Garden sundial designs come in different designs, symbolic and etchings.  For example there are Celtic designs, French Romanesque designs, ancient Roman numerical designs, zodiac astrological drawings, maritime themes, spiritual connotations, poetic inscriptions, heavenly images and the yearly seasons. Take time to discover the meaning and associations of the designs.  You can also purchase tailor-made bespoke sundials created by specialist makers.

Pay attention to the location you select for sundial as it should have pride of place for good viewing. For example growing shrubs and blooms in the spring and summer may obscure your sundial. Some sundials are portable and require frequent movement. Others need to be mounted on a wall so select a place with good sun views.

When purchasing a sundial online, review their warranty or guarantee conditions, or if they have a return policy in case you need to do an exchange. Also, do they ship to your location?

How To Choose – Conclusion

Your home and garden are a reflection of who you are. Therefore, choose a garden sundial that manifests the qualities you cherish, compliments the personality of your garden and ensures many years of its enjoyment. So take some time to research on how to choose a garden sundial.