A Few Tips in Collecting Clocks…Mainly Old Clocks
A passion for locating and collecting clocks is something more than just a handful of individuals possess. I’m amazed at how valuable some of these collections are. Besides the value, the history behind each clock is often quite interesting. I’m not about to attempt an expose on this blog about the history of the clock. However, a good starting point for your background filler can be found at Wikipedia when you click on CLOCKS.
It’s reasonably safe to say that the majority of clocks made during the 15th to the middle of the 17th centuries are now mostly in museums. A small percentage can be found in various individuals’ private collections. However, most people will never set eyes on these amazing timekeepers. Candidly, most would not even be able to recognize them.
Keep in mind that because of mass production, clocks created during the 1800′s and through to the early 1900’s are significantly more numerous. Clocks built in the mid 1600′s do still exist. You’ll find that some of these are valued at $70,000 or more. A few extremely rare models are worth over $100,000. So, probably the biggest tip you’ll get from me is to have your prospective clock purchased appraised by a reputable source BEFORE you agree to the purchase. That’s wisdom for just about any large expenditure, particularly with clock collectibles.
It’s important to learn the language of clock collectors. For this, I like the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, Inc. Besides a wealth of great information, you can begin to pick up the lingo simply by perusing the messages boards and forum posts. As with just about any sizable purchase you’re going to want to conduct your own research so that you can avoid making a mistake in your purchases. This is particularly relevant today due to the proliferation of reproductions. Reproductions have made finding authentic items quite challenging. So, do your research beforehand. The Internet provides a wealth of tools for learning and research all at your fingertips.
Collectible clocks are unusual in that it is a working piece of art. Knowing that, the clock should be in good working order for you to get the most enjoyment and value from it. I would definitely think twice about purchasing any clock that is not working with the expectation that it will be a simple matter to get it up and running. Because the truth is that it may be neither easy nor even possible to do so. Often it takes a skilled clock maker to repair a clock. Then it’s usually not cheap. So, be careful here. I have known people to get a better deal on a non-working clock. But they also knew that it was fixable and the right someone to repair it.
Remember that this collectible clock you’re considering is primarily a timepiece. What a pleasure it can be to have the hour or half-hour tolled by a chime or bell throughout the day and evening!
Today, you can find clocks worth collecting at a variety of places: flea markets, estate sales, local auctions, newspaper ads, and online auction sites. In addition to online auctions, established auction houses sometimes hold auctions for antique grandfather clocks, although these may happen infrequently. To be certain of a clocks authenticity, you should purchase from a trusted and reputable seller. Read any listing carefully to ensure that the product you are buying is truly what it is being claimed to be.
Antiques: Collecting 19th Century Clocks : How to Collect Antique English Grandfather Clocks