- On the back of the grandfather clock is a plate that has a serial and model number.
- It may also be on a foil label located on the clock's door. Swing it open and look for the label just inside the front panel door.
- If there is not a front door that opens, check for the foil label along one of the inside rails in the interior of the clock.
What are the different types of grandfather clocks?
Types of Grandfather Clocks. 1 Comtoise Clocks. Also known as ‘Morez clocks’ and ‘Morbier clocks,’ this is one of the most common types of grandfather clocks. Comtoise Clocks are a ... 2 Bornholm Clocks. 3 Mora Clocks.
How can you tell how old a clock is?
Look at other items on the clock for clues as to when it was made, and who manufactured it. These include the type of glass, the material used to make the dial, the type of bell (or chime), and the type of fasteners on the clock. All these items have dates and the names of companies that manufactured them.
When did grandfather clocks start using Roman numerals?
Similarly, Gold spandrel corners date a grandfather clock to between 1775 and 1785. From 1700 to 1870, Roman numerals were used on faces of the grandfather clocks. Although it was rare, the clockmakers not only used Roman numbers during that period but also Arabic numerals on the clock dials from as early as 1795 to 1820.
How long is a minute hand on a grandfather clock?
The minute hand typically has a length of 4 inches or so, give or take. A grandfather clock has a case that’s highly decorated with engravings. The carvings are normally made out of pine trees and are on each side of the front case of the clock.
How can I tell what kind of grandfather clock I have?
You can tell the early grandfather clock designs apart by their cabinetry. A long, rounded waist and pot-belly cabinet marks the antique Comtoise designs, and the clock face has a convex, round enameled dial.
How do I identify my antique clock?
Using the Maker's Name or Company Name to Identify an Antique ClockEngraved or printed near the center face of the dial.Engraved or printed around the edge of the dial's face and may be covered by the bezel.Stamped or engraved on the clock movement's backplate.A paper label pasted on the back of the clock.More items...
What makes a grandfather clock valuable?
Craftsmanship. A big reason why the clocks are so expensive, and also why they're so coveted, is because of the talent and craftsmanship that goes into them. A lot of skilled labour goes into making a masterpiece like a grandfather clock.
How old does a grandfather clock have to be to be an antique?
An antique is any collectible item — from a piece furniture or artwork to a ring or a clock — that has high value because of its age. Typically, the item must be more than 100 years old to be considered an antique.
When was my grandfather's clock made?
"My Grandfather's Clock" is a song written in 1876 by Henry Clay Work, the author of "Marching Through Georgia". It is a standard of British brass bands and colliery bands, and is also popular in bluegrass music.
Is there a market for grandfather clocks?
How Much Can A Grandfather Clock Sell For? A grandfather clock can sell for anywhere from $200 to more than $20,000.
Can you move a grandfather clock laying down?
It's possible to move it his way, but it's generally not advised because laying the clock down horizontally adds pressure to the panels and glass elements. While newer grandfather clocks have a smaller chance of being damaged being transported horizontally, antique clocks are more susceptible to damage.
What are the 3 weights for on a grandfather clock?
The three weights provide power to the hour strike (left weight), time (center weight), and chime melody (right weight). Without these weights, the Grandfather Clock would not operate.
How much does it cost to restore a grandfather clock?
The cost of servicing a grandfather clock can vary between $100 and $2,500, depending on what services are necessary. Normal servicing is not too costly while repairing and replacing parts can quickly add up. Major factors that impact the cost include: The type of clock and internal mechanisms.
What clocks are worth money?
The most coveted antique clocks are those from the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries that have their original components still intact. Clocks made by E. Howard & Co., Durfee & Enches, Waltham Clock Company and Simon Willard are some of the most popular with antique buyers.
What's the difference between a grandmother clock and a grandfather clock?
What is the difference between a grandmother and a grandfather clock? Both grandmother and grandfather clocks are long case pendulum clocks, but grandfather clocks are generally taller than grandmother clocks, measuring in between 6 and 7 feet, while grandmother clocks typically measure between 5 and 6 feet.
How do you move a grandfather clock?
How to: Moving a Grandfather ClockRound up your tools and supplies. ... Familiarise yourself with the Grandfather Clock. ... Remove the hood. ... Tie cables or chains to prevent from tangling. ... Remove the weights. ... Remove the pendulum. ... Remove the workings of the clock. ... Move the Grandfather Clock to the van.
What are the most valuable antique clocks?
The 5 Most Expensive Clocks Ever Sold at AuctionFlamingo and lotus automation clock – $1.2M.Magpie's treasure nest – $2.3M.Thomas Tompion Clock – $2M.#2. Chinese Ormolu clock (1736-1795) – $4M.
How do I identify my grandmother clock?
This can be found printed or engraved at the centre or edge of the face or stamped on the movements backplate. This is sometimes accompanied by a serial number on the back of the dial that can give a very accurate date and place of origin.
How do you identify a mantle clock?
The wood of which a mantel clock is made can help you identify the clock's place of origin. For example, clocks produced in the United States were usually made of cherry. This attractive red-brown wood often displays touches of deeper red or pink. Some clocks were manufactured of mahogany, a rich dark red-brown wood.
How can you tell how old a Howard Miller clock is?
How do You Determine the Age of a Howard Miller Clock?Check for a stamped date. While stamped dates tend to be a rarity among these top-notch tickers, some do bear their date of manufacture. ... Check for a serial number and model in one of three locations. ... Do some follow-up investigative work.
How much does a grandfather clock cost?
A 1986 #4480 even in perfect condition could go for anywhere from a couple hundred up to maybe $2,000. It all depends on the market in your area. To find it's value in your area, take several really good photos of the clock from multiple angles and with the front door open and closed. Also, take a photo of any label, stamp or plate that has the info about the clock. Then take the pictures to a clock shop, if there is one, OR look one up from nearby and call them. Ask if they have an email or text # you can use to send them the photos, and see if they can give you an appraisal. Good luck !!!
How much does a Seth Thomas clock cost?
In some markets they can sell for $2500. In other markets the exact same clock will fetch $100. In a third market it may fetch $900.
When was Seth Thomas clock purchased?
This clock was purchased new in June 1986. Seth Thomas #4490. It's beautiful and is as accurate as my digital watch. I'm just curious what I could sell it for.
Is a grandfather clock considered an antique?
Your clock is certainly not old enough to be considered an antique, but it is a beauty just the same. There are so many things that factor into a clock's value, that you really should get it appraised by someone who knows grandfather clocks. Advertisement.
Do grandfather clocks have the same value?
0 found this helpful. Best Answer. Grandfather clocks do not generally have the same value as they did even as late as the 90s but they are still selling - just slow sellers - may take months/years to sell especially considering that your location will have a big impact on the final value.
Do you say where you live on clocks?
You do not say where you live but most of these clocks that are individually owned are sold a 'local pick up only' which means the area where you live will have a very large baring on the final value of this item as shipping cost would probably make it out of the question.
Do brand name clocks have the same mechanism?
Advertisement. Brand name clocks may have the same or very near the same mechanisms but the name itself will increase the value. I do not believe your clock is a brand name or it would have been shown on this label/certificate.
How to tell if a clock is unsigned?
Read the label if the clock is unsigned. Quite often glued labels can be found on antique clocks. Labels are a great source of information when they are legible Labels can help identify who made the clock along with the site of the clock's origin. They can also help identify when the clock was made. This information is especially valuable because it is not uncommon for a clockmaker to have changed where he manufactured clocks or the company name. By knowing the history of a clock manufacturer, it will tell you a lot about the clock.
Why is it so hard to identify a clockmaker?
This can make identifying a clock more difficult. It can be more difficult to identify a foreign clockmaker because they often only used initials or trademarks. Be aware of forgeries and reproductions. Antique clocks come in many different sizes, styles and designs and can be made of many different materials.
What are the labels on antique clocks?
Quite often glued labels can be found on antique clocks. Labels are a great source of information when they are legible Labels can help identify who made the clock along with the site of the clock's origin. They can also help identify when the clock was made. This information is especially valuable because it is not uncommon for a clockmaker ...
Who is the most comprehensive on the clock and watch?
There are a host of informative and comprehensive books on the subject. According to Clockparts.com, the Clock and Watch Trademark Index by Karl Kochmann is the most comprehensive on the subject. Contact the International Society of Appraisers.
Does a clockmaker have a name on the dial?
Quite often a clockmaker clearly placed his name on the movement or dial, but in some cases the name that appears there may be the name of a retailer. People who buy clocks in large quantities may also have their own name placed on the dial. If that's the case, look for the clockmaker's name or trademark on the movement.
What is a grandfather clock?
A grandfather clock is a symbol of exceptional cultural significance. Its functionality and design gave it a special place in the world of clocks. The grandfather clock had a deep attachment to the lives of people around it, for it told the household members and servants when to work, when to eat, and when to rest.
How many hands does a grandfather clock have?
In the beginning, brass-dial grandfather clocks had only one clock hand, as the clock owners believed that the hour of the day was much more important than minutes. It was in 1730, grandfather clocks with two hands began showing up in England, even though local villages and country areas still had clockmakers making clocks with only the hour hand.
Why do clockmakers use spandrels?
The hands of the clock often broke and were replaced, in that case, spandrels are used to determine the age of the grandfather clock as they are able to give better explanations to date the clock.
What clocks were written on them in the 70s?
In The 70s 80s and 90s, Grandfather Clock’ Manufacturers Had “Tempus Fugit” Written On Them. If You Want To Know More About These Clocks “ Click Here “
When was the grandfather clock invented?
Grandfather clock was invented after Dutchman named Christiaan Huygens efficiently used a pendulum as a clock-winding device back in 1656. But it was in 1670 that these clocks gained popularity and local clockmakers began to master the working of the pendulum for error-free timekeeping with the use of an anchor escapement which was ...
What are clocks made of?
In the beginning, clocks were primarily made from oak. But the premium quality clocks’ wood cases were made from veneers in walnut and ebony. A lot of work went into the construction of the case with intricate moldings, expensive brass fittings, and detailed inlays.
When did clocks start having moon dials?
Grandfather clocks with moon dials began to appear in clocks made from 1770 through 1830.
What does it mean when a grandfather clock is older?
The older a grandfather clock is, the more money you will be able to get for it.
What is the condition of a clock?
The condition of the clock goes beyond just its functionality but also includes the overall condition and look of the clock.
What are the dials made of?
The dials will be made up of a few different parts, including the winding holes and the dial arch.
Why should the pendulum be moving?
The pendulum should be moving in a very consistent motion as this is what will determine the time that is kept by the clock.
Do grandfather clocks pay to keep reading?
If you have a grandfather clock and want to ensure that you can get some money for it when you sell it, then it pays to keep on reading .
Does the original price of a clock affect its resale value?
The original price that you paid for your clock may have nothing to do with the resale value.
Is the clock on the right track?
If the clock does a great job of keeping time, you are on the right track.