Top Picks for Timekeeping Devices in 2021
In the world of antique and vintage clock collecting, every tick tock tells a story. This year, one avid collector has amassed a remarkable collection of timepieces, each with its unique charm and history.
From the quiet town of Shawville, Quebec, a Gilbert mantel or Shawville clock emerged, boasting a time-and-strike movement from 1917 and spending most of its life in the picturesque town. Another remarkable find was the Chauncey Jerome ogee clock, a nearly flawless piece with a mahogany veneer case, moon hands, a wood dial, and a movement that matches the case's age. However, it requires replacing a suspension spring and rod and a wooden movement block.
The author's wife often plays an essential role in the hunt for new acquisitions, her keen eye helping to uncover hidden gems. One such find was a Sawin banjo clock, over 180 years old and purchased at a garage sale. Like many of the collector's finds, it requires repairs, including replacing a suspension spring.
An E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, discovered at an estate auction, also joined the collection. With an alarm feature, it had incorrect hands and needed sourcing, but the case has been cleaned, and the movement serviced. A Waterbury Wren mantel clock, with a mismatched Seth Thomas movement, was another intriguing find, picked up from an antique store.
The author's passion for collecting extends to a preference for interesting, rare, or special provenance clocks, including some mantel clocks. The Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) mantel clock, a German-made piece, and a Schatz Schatz carriage clock, made by August Schatz and Söhne of Germany, are examples of this preference.
The collector has acquired a total of 9 antique and vintage clocks in 2021, including the ones mentioned above. At the end of the year, readers will have an opportunity to vote on the best clock acquisition of 2021. The author is planning to reveal their best acquisition of 2021 in a future post and is inviting readers to guess which clock it is.
Several key factors influence the value of antique and vintage clocks, making each timepiece unique in its market appeal and price. Understanding these factors helps collectors and buyers make informed decisions and recognize true value.
**Main Factors Influencing Value**
1. Craftsmanship and Materials: Clocks with superior craftsmanship, such as those made by renowned clockmakers, tend to command higher values. The use of high-quality materials—like solid brass for plates and precision-machined gears—enhances both durability and collectability.
2. Brand and Maker: Clocks made by famous or historically significant makers are highly sought after. The brand’s reputation and the rarity of specific models or makers can significantly elevate a clock’s value.
3. Provenance: The ownership history or provenance can add value, especially if the clock belonged to a notable person or was used in a significant historical context.
4. Age and Historical Significance: Older clocks, particularly those from significant eras or those that represent important advancements in clockmaking technology, are often more valuable.
5. Condition and Authenticity: Clocks that retain their original parts, finishes, and mechanisms are more valuable than those that have been heavily restored or altered. Clocks in excellent working order and with minimal wear or damage are preferred by collectors.
6. Rarity and Design: Rare designs, limited production runs, or clocks with unusual features are more desirable. Ornate cases, decorative elements, and distinctive styles can enhance a clock’s visual appeal and market value.
7. Market Trends and Demand: Current trends in collecting, regional preferences, and the availability of similar clocks on the market all affect value. Clocks that maintain their original function, especially those with striking or chiming mechanisms, are often valued more highly.
As the year draws to a close, the collector invites readers to join in the excitement and anticipation of discovering the best acquisition of 2021. Subscribe to their blog for the latest posts about antique and vintage clocks and don't forget to cast your vote!
- The author's collection includes a variety of rare and unique mantel clocks, such as the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) mantel clock and the Schatz Schatz carriage clock, showcasing a preference for clocks with special provenance.
- In addition to vintage clocks, the author's lifestyle interests also extend to food-and-drink, home-and-garden, travel, entertainment, and sports, as evidenced by their blog posts and various acquisitions throughout the year.
- The author's curious nature and keen eye for hidden gems have led them to discover numerous valuable timepieces in unexpected places, like the Sawin banjo clock at a garage sale and the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock at an estate auction.
- Factors such as craftsmanship, brand, provenance, age, condition, rarity, design, market trends, and demand play crucial roles in determining the value and market appeal of antique and vintage clocks, influencing every tick-tock within these stories.
