Most people would readily choose the contemporary grandfather clocks – the smooth lines, buttoned down looks, and clock casing that has a polished brass finish. But some people are just looking for antique grandfather clocks. When are they right?
Let’s face the facts, most people just love whatever they can afford. Well, some things are worth more than others.
The Purples and Creams
Before we go into the different types of cases or clocks there are some basics to understand about these items. Whether your grandfather clock is genuine or replicas, you should think about its value to you.
If you are just starting out buying clocks, you have no idea about the value of authentic antique grandfather clocks till you’ve seen one. The figures that collectors go for are not easy to spot. Some are so rare that they’re almost liquid. The nice thing about these antique collections is that no one would ever think they’re valuable unless you talked to someone who knows.
Among collectors, those who are in the market for antique grandfather clocks are quite selective and possess much knowledge. This is good. You’re sure to be impressed with the caliber of their collections, as well as their taste in design and balance.
Most collector’s know that genuine antique grandfather clocks are just as superior in quality and craftsmanship, if not in BTI, then they are in genuineness. This is always the case.
When you finally think you’re ready to purchase, look at the clocks you want. Do not automatically assume that clocks made recently are inferior to those made a couple of decades ago.
By taking your time to talk to people who know the difference, as well as appreciate the part they play in making your timepiece into what it is, you’re bound to end up with the perfect choice.
The Antique Collection
If your collection is large, you might be able to settle on an antique collection. They are nice, to be sure, but they’re also pricey. To make sure you’re making a good investment, you want to focus on high-end clocks made between 1760 and 1920.
That’s a long time. So if you don’t have the budget for an antique, you may want to consider fine modern reproduction models.
It’s easy to get one if you know where to look.
A reproduction is a model that is exact to the specifications of a original. This doesn’t mean you can’t have some pride over your antique clock, but know that the quality you get with a reproduction is certainly worth it.
Made to Last
Powerful mantel clocks have long lived in the pockets of important people in history. That means if you want something that lasts, you should think about giving something that’s built to last.
The same is true for the pendulum wall clock. These clocks have been in production since the early 1750s. The earliest models where large segments of iron or copper were attached to the side of a building.
Once the design was perfected, clocks were produced in mass production from the central location. The idea was that the workers at the time, and the buildings housing the factories, could take advantage of the cheap productivity. The idea was that workers could install the production line outside their building.
As it turned out, most of the factories were near the edge of town, so the bulk of the production took place in less expensive areas. As a result, the quality control was much more highly developed, and often the clocks could endure much more severe misuse and aging than those produced in more homogeneous areas.
Those produced in more industrial areas were built to last through decades without repair. The clocks could be preserved for a much longer time, but they were also made to be ingenious and long lasting.
Audubon’s clocks were one of the first truly exquisite creations made by a real clock maker.
It is easy to follow the history of Audubon’s creations through the years. The 1872 design that earned him fame is the model that is represented today, and made from oak. A clock made by Audubon in 1876 might have flaskBrazilian cherry finish or an Italianchromed burst finish. Many Audubon clocks would also contain Chop fine maple leaves on a metallic base.
Those Audubon clocks that are made today resemble the Peter Henlein clocks. Trimal gravity pendulum, clockmaker’s signature, and Baccarat glass are contained in each one, along with a unique style. The Audubon Uncle clock is a good example of this.
If you are looking for a clock to call your own, or one that you can offer as a gift, consider the timeless elegance of the Audubon. Compare it to the new contemporary designs being poured into the market from the last minute.
