Determining the value of an antique clock is not an easy task. It is a tedious process that involves a lot of factors to take into consideration and is usually best be left to the handling of clock experts and professionals.
However, being the ever curious antique clock aficionados that we are, we try to understand and grasp the manner and means of vintage clocks valuation.
Value of antique clocks
There is no such thing as an easy pursuit when it comes to deciding the value of any antique collectible. This even gets more complicated when it comes to antique clocks. They are not only beautiful and elegant time tellers but they are historical witnesses of time and antiquity as well.
We cannot deny that today’s technological advancements gives way to new mechanical clocks. But why do we still prefer the old ones? They’re aged, out of style, and needs a lot of maintenance.
Actually it’s quite simple, these stately timepieces has the charm brought about by time, unique artistry, passion and skilled craftsmanship dedicated to perfection and precision.
The antique clock market continues to progress despite the presence of modern timepieces. But its value does not cease to rise thus making vintage clocks the ever sought after collectibles they always were.
Antique clock identification
One cannot bestow a particular value on an antique clock if it isn’t really an antique in the first place. So before anything else, make a thorough examination on your clock.
The first thing to do is to look for evident traces of skilled hand crafting (vintage clocks are generally hand made). Inspect the case’s intricate details and woodworks, this should give a clue.
Other clock parts such as the glass, the dial and clock hands, the case materials have dates and company marks that may suggest antiquity.
The style of the clock or the antique clock identification is also a must refer to feature. Their distinct forms have been documented along with the country, clock maker, and the year they were first made thus suggest a traceable history that can be a liable reference.
If the maker’s signature and label is still intact and readable, this should be even better as it’s easier to determine the clock’s age. If none of this is available, the movement is your best shot at identification, however it is very tricky, not to mention complex.
Antique clock valuation
Antiquity somehow often associates itself to value, hence antique clocks are rightfully considered valuable. But it doesn’t end solely on antiquity, there is more to it, as such, antique clocks valuation was formulated for this particular purpose.
In order to determine the price of old clocks, certain features have been made key points that served as guides on how we can identify its value.
Evaluating the price of an antique clock needs sufficient skills and enough time for a thorough assessment.
Factors that affect the worth and price of antique clocks are as follows:
• The condition of antique clocks
The working condition of a old clock is the first thing you must consider, it’s what antique clock buyers look for and it’s your clock’s best asset if you want to sell it.
Is the clock unaltered, was never restored and well-preserved with a clean and well-working clock movement? Check if the clock is all-original, with the genuine case finish, glass and decorative elements still intact.
• Antique clockmaker and or manufacturer
Vintage clock makers are reputed skilled craftsmen and are famous for their exceptional woodworking abilities. This is often reflected on the antique clocks they have produced.
With this in mind, the reputation of the clock maker and the manufacturer contributes greatly to the worth of your vintage timepiece.
• The age of antique clocks
The age of an antique clock marks a vital aspect in order to consider a timepiece an antique in the first place.
• Aesthetics of antique clocks
In terms of vintage timepieces, aesthetics pertains mainly to the style and the desirability of your aged time teller. The rarity of an antique clock as well as its unique and elegant façade is a strong combination that attracts greater value towards it.
• The mechanical complexity of antique clocks
A old clock’s movement is as complex as it is precise. They drive antique clocks into being the ever accurate timepieces that they are. The mechanical complexity of an antique clock is an attractive factor that presents added value.
• The origin of antique clocks
The place of origin can somehow affect an antique clock price. In terms of geographical consideration, there are old clocks that can be sold for greater value in some countries while in others, it can be acquired at a much lesser price.
Price and worth of antique clocks
Like all the other collectible items, antique clocks are almost impossible to fix a value on. And like all the other antiques, one is only worth what its buyer is willing to pay for at the time of its sale, of course considering the market trend and personal interest.
When it comes to selling antique clocks or even buying one, keep in mind that an antique clock’s worth is the prime interest of collectors. Hence, make sure to provide a well-working and unique timepiece.
Antique clocks price guide are however available but they are not that factual and are usually focused only on the high value timepieces. They seldom include other fewer variations and they never seem to be updated.
This is where local sales and auctions come in, these are good places to check and compare current price range on antique clocks. Just be sure to remember the clock type being sold and its distinct clock parts as they make great difference on antique clock valuation.
Antique clock appraisal
Appraising an antique clock is a good strategy and a must do process to undergo if you want to increase and have an honest and professional opinion on an antique clock’s value.
Upon deciding to appraise your antique clock, choose someone that has an impressive reputation. Check his credentials and if this appraiser is familiar with the wide variety of antique clocks and an even wider experience at antique clocks appraising.
Bear in mind that appraisers will need to physically see and examine your antique clock. Photographs and written descriptions can be of some help but it is not reliable enough to determine the true condition of your old clock especially when it comes to the timepiece’s internal workings.
Vintage clocks usually sell quite a few times more than their original cost based on their distinct features and rarity in which what antique clock collectors sought after.
Have your appraisal documented. This will serve as an authoritative proof that your antique timepiece is valuable thus makes important information intact. Documented appraisal is also useful and applicable for tax reasons and insurance coverage.
