The Print Clock A method for dating early books and prints S.
Blair Hedges, Pennsylvania State University The print clock is a
method for dating art prints and old books produced over the
centuries. It is described elsewhere in two technical
publications (Hedges, S. B, 2006, 2008a) and one review article
(Hedges, 2008b). The purpose of this web site is to provide a
general overview along with practical details for those who wish
to use the method. An early book printing shop illustrated in a
copperplate print by Stradanus (1590). Copyright S. Blair
Hedges. The print clock is a method for dating undated books and
prints that were produced by hand-operated presses, thus since
the 15th Century. It is based on the hypothesis, backed by
observations, that woodblocks and metal plates (e.g.,
copperplates) deteriorated in a clock-like manner during their
lifespan, which was often decades. In woodblocks, the
deterioration occurred mainly with aging and random cracking of
the wood, resulting in line breaks in the print