Top Picks for Timepiece Acquisition in 2021

In the world of antique collecting, few pursuits are as captivating as the hunt for vintage clocks. For one enthusiast, the year 2021 proved to be a bountiful one, with several remarkable finds gracing their collection.

The E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian shelf clock, a treasure unearthed at an estate auction, is an antique with an alarm feature that adds to its allure. Although the clock required some minor repairs, its charm was undeniable. Another acquisition, the Chauncey Jerome ogee clock, is a nearly flawless mahogany veneer clock, boasting a wood dial, moon hands, and a matching movement.

The author's collection also includes a Sawin banjo clock, purchased at a garage sale, and a Gilbert mantel or Shawville clock, found in Shawville, Quebec. The Sawin banjo clock, estimated to have been made by John Sawin of Boston around 1840, is a weight-driven clock without any markings. The Gilbert mantel clock, manufactured in 1917, has a simple, unadorned mahogany tinted case.

The author encountered difficulties sourcing the correct hands for the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, but the challenge was worth it, as the clock now stands proudly on display in their home. The Chauncey Jerome ogee clock, with its original mechanisms and minimal wear, is considered the most original of the author's three other 30-hour ogee clocks.

A Waterbury Wren mantel clock, found in an antique store, is destined to be sold, as it has a Waterbury case but a mismatched Seth Thomas movement. The clock is missing the brass bezel and glass, but it holds an interesting history nonetheless.

The value of vintage and antique clocks is influenced by several key factors. Clocks produced by renowned makers or prestigious brands, such as E. Ingraham & Co., tend to hold higher value. Age and rarity also play a significant role, with older, scarce clocks being more valuable. The condition of the clock is crucial, with original, well-preserved pieces fetching higher prices. Craftsmanship, materials, historical significance, provenance, original documentation, market trends, and economic factors also impact the value of these timepieces.

Among the author's finds for the year, the Schatz Schatz carriage clock stands out. Although it is working and keeping time, it runs for about 4 days and stops, requiring cleaning. Made by August Schatz and Sohne of Germany and saying "West Germany" on the dial, indicating it was made in the 1970s, the clock has an interesting lower visible escapement and an exposed movement. The Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) mantel clock, made around 1895, features an interesting 14-day movement, produced early in HAC's history.

The New Haven tall-case clock, acquired for $90, despite its weight-driven appearance, is a spring-driven clock. The case was very dark from years of dirt and grime but revealed a wonderful red oak finish after cleaning. The clock's movement is large and robust, but it appears to be an early "kit clock" with no evidence of a seat board or additional holes for mounting the movement to the case.

The Fleet Time Co. mantel clock, although inexpensive, had potential but required mainspring and movement repairs. The author completed minor veneer work on the Sawin banjo clock's case and replaced the broken glass dial. The movement has been serviced, but a replacement suspension spring is needed.

As the author continues their clock-collecting hobby, they look forward to the adventures and discoveries that await in the coming years. Whether it's a rare find or a beloved classic, each clock tells a story and serves as a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

The author's pursuit of vintage clocks in the realm of antiques extends to lifestyle choices, merging fashion-and-beauty with home-and-garden decor.
The author's collection now boasts a diverse array of treasured items, ranging from items found through travel and shopping, such as pets and cars, to more specialized interests like food-and-drink and relationships.
As the author's collection grows, maintaining the clocks' health and functionality becomes paramount, inviting experiences in workshops often found in locations like pet stores, car repair shops, or baking supply stores.
The author's travels may lead them to various markets for sourcing unique finds, with each destination offering a new chapter in the narrative of their collection and a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.
The value of the author's vintage clock collection not only reflects their personal passions and collecting skills but also serves as a reflection of evolving market trends, mirroring the dynamic nature of the fashion-and-beauty and food-and-drink industries.