I have been getting a lot of inquiries lately on how one would evaluate the value of a grandfather clock. Let?s take a look at some of the key points in evaluating a grandfather clock.

What is the general condition of the grandfather clock?

Before we get started it is best to be in the right frame of mind. You will need to detach yourself from the old friend or family heirloom. The more detached you are the more unbiased and fair your will be. You must look at value from the buyer?s point of view. If this is not possible than get a friend or coworker to do the evaluation. Assuming you can do it yourself, or have found someone, let?s start with the overall state of the grandfather clock.

To simplify the process I have included twenty questions that you will rate from zero to five. Zero is bad or needs repair and five is great or near factory fresh. Now be reasonable and sincere; it is important that you don?t overrate the grandfather clock evaluation but at the same time don?t underrate the value either. This is where an appraiser has an advantage: they have seen many grandfather clocks and have an internal gauge, if you will ? something to compare an evaluation against. Let?s get started. Either download the ?Eval.pdf? on my website or you can use a notepad.

The grandfather clock appraisal questionnaire.

1. Is the clock running? (5 ? yes otherwise 0)

2. Is the grandfather clock keeping accurate time?

3. Do the bells or chimes function correctly?

4. Does the clock have moon phase dial that is work and looks nice?

5. Do the weights look clean and properly cared for?

6. Does the clock face look good and well cared for?

7. Rate the appearance of the pendulum, (does it look bright and clean?) from zero to five.

8. Does the pendulum swing smoothly and without bumps?

9. Are the clock hands original, straight and bright?

10. Are the correct and original hands (may take some research) installed for the second, minute and hour hand?

11. Is this the original gear train and has it been rebuilt in the last year?

12. Has the grandfather clock been oiled every year you have owned it (0-never, 1-once, 2-twice, 3-every other year, 4-every year, 5-every six months)

13. Has any cabinet glass been replaced?

14. Is this the original glass (if older than 100 years it should have a discoloration and possible bubbles)?

15. Are all parts present (keys, exterior parts (wood or metal))?

16. Rate the condition of the grandfather clock case.

17. Rate the case damage (many dents=0, some bad dents=1, some dents=3, minor dings, none=5)?

18. Do all the sliding doors (glass/wood) and hinged doors work properly?

19. What is the condition of the cabinet finish (1=damaged to 5=perfect)?

20. Rate the color change from one side to the other of the cabinet (0=major color change and 5=for none)?

Let?s total it up.

Now added up the column and total it. Do not worry about the total it is only a gauge to help you evaluate the value of your grandfather clock.

OK – now we have a gauge, although not complete. Next you will need to know the time period the clock was built. This may require some research, but I will give you some resources a little later on. We will now need to find out what your clock last sold for or one that is very close in style, movement used and the time it was originally produced.

What did the grandfather clock last sell for?

With all this information at hand, buy a three day subscription at Antique Clock Price Guide (dot) com where you can look up your grandfather clock. This site has a list of the selling prices of most grandfather clocks, the value (most often based on an appraiser) and the place it was last sold. Now look up your clock and find the selling price and note the condition; pristine, excellent, good, fair, etc. Now looking at your evaluation, you can increase the selling price if your clock is in better condition than the last one sold. You can also decrease the price if the one sold was of a greater value.

I will add that if you feel that you may have buffered the price in your favor a little too much then knock off 10% before listing it.

A little more to consider before setting the price.

It is important to note that if the grandfather clock was maintained regularly this will add considerately to its value. The history of the clock will also add color and value to an otherwise ordinary clock. Always remember that a grandfather clock over 100+ years old also increases its value, even if the clock has not been well maintained, it still has value and will reflect in its selling price.

Some resources to help you:

A more detailed Evaluation guide in PDF format can be found on my website named Eval.pdf.

For last sold price check out: AntiqueClockPriceGuide.com

We have more information about antique clocks at antique grandfather clocks

A basic definition of a clock is “A time keeping device“. This explanation does not do it justice. These time keeping devices do so much more that just keep track of the time. They are a wall decoration, a symbol of a city and so much more.

IF keeping time was their only function then they would not be so grand or a varied. This so called time keeping device come in many different styles and are capable of doing other functions besides telling time. They make a statement in your home. They have been used to adorn the buildings in major cities for centuries.

While the time keeping devices found on buildings in major cities do provide onlookers with the time they have also made proud statements in many major cities. Perhaps the best known of these is located in England at the top of the tower of Westminster in London. Big Ben is perhaps the best known of all time keeping devices in the world. This four faced device has been providing time to everyone in the city of London for over 150 years.

One of the oldest time keeping devices in the world is located in the city known for its watch makers, Bern, Switzerland. This device that sits at the top of the Zytglogge Tower has been providing the time for over 500 years. This device also provides information about the sun, stars and the moon.

Another popular astronomical is the Prague Astronomical. This device located in the Old Town section of the city of Prague in Poland has been telling time and providing astronomical information since 1410. It displays the position of the sun and the moon, and displays an hourly showing of figures of the Apostles of Christ, known as. “The Walk of the Apostles. “. It also displays a calendar.

Household clocks come in every shape and size imaginable. They all provide a way to tell the time and possibly serve other functions such as an alarm or timer. Regardless of what style you prefer, they all provide a decorative accent that adds to the d?cor of a room and also displays your unique tastes.

Learn more about the best clock. Stop by our popular clock site where you can find out all about clocks and find out why they’re so popular.

Antique clocks are vintage pieces in these modern times. There are people who have the impression that these can only be found in old homes or some other historical places. However, these are also out there in some modern homes to be functional time tellers.

Antique clocks also come in several varieties like an antique mantel clock, antique wall clock, and a French clock. Many branded clocks are actually still working and are sold in the market for a stiff price. These are available in many antique shops.

Make sure that the antique clocks you would buy are good buys. This includes being able to check how appropriate the clock is for you in every way. Here are some of the things you should consider before buying the items.

Aesthetic Value

Antique clocks are well aged, but then a well-built clock would not fall down easily. The clocks should be as beautiful as it was during its heydays. Many shops repair minor scratches and lose parts as if they were not they did not exists. Be sure to ask the keeper if the antique clock has been refurbished or if these are in its original.

The beauty of the clock should still be present. There are no missing or broken parts and pieces. The aesthetic value of the clock should also include the artistry of the clock. The year when the clocks were designed and the inspiration behind the designs are also included in the aesthetic value.

Design Value

Antique clocks are classy but the designs should be in line with the theme of you home. Think of a small space that would have a large antique grandfather clock. This would definitely look immense rather than sophisticated. Just choose a design that fits like a smaller antique mantle clock or an antique wall clock.

There are also some who base from the theme of the house. For example, a French inspired home, then it is preferable to use an antique French clock for this. This would put the clock right at home and create harmony.

Market Value

These antique clocks are expensive if you do not look closer. There are some stores that can cut the price significantly. There are some shops that can refurbish minor problems, like lose pieces and small scratches without any noticeable change. For those antique clocks that are repaired or refurbished, the price can go down to almost half.

To choose the ideal antique clocks, make sure that these three important points are checked. These points would direct you to a piece that has great value. It would have a fine-looking design that matches the home and also has a reasonable cost.

These magnificent pieces bear the marks of a celebrated history but remained to witness more in the modern times. Antique clocks will serve as a remembrance while it still functions for modern age.

Keep in mind to always carefully choose your and avoid ones that is not right for you. These should be the best buy for your own elegant taste.

Great, is it time to sell that family heirloom, the antique grandfather wall clock, or buy a new family heirloom? Well your nearly done, have you had the antique clock or grandfather wall clock appraised? If not, do you know how to pick an appraiser? When looking for a professional appraiser, look for one who has an accreditation from a nationally recognized organization such as the “International Society of Appraisers (ISA)” or “American Society of Appraisers” or “Appraisers Association of America”. Appraises that don’t belong to one of these groups is not held to any ethical standard and maybe unqualified to appraise an antique grandfather wall clock.

Are they qualified?

When working with an accredited appraiser, they will be able to provide you with a professional profile and resume. A professional appraiser will have a formal education in appraisal theory, procedures, and ethics. They will have a deep understanding and knowledge of grandfather walls and will be up to date in the law. Remember, if the appraiser is not accredited, buyer beware!

Can’t any appraiser do the job?

They must know this category of timepieces not just clocks or antique furniture in general. Without this specialized knowledge they will not be able to discover or identify if any grandfather wall clock has been altered, properly repaired or restored. A qualified appraiser will know whether the grandfather clock movement has been altered by the manufacture or altered after it was bought. They will know whether the pendulum or movement has been swapped/replaced so it could be sold as a more expensive piece. Only a qualified appraiser will know if the case has been altered or refinished. They will know whether the grandfather wall clock chime or tubes have been altered or changed from the original manufacturer. These are just a few of the items you need to know before buying or selling any grandfather wall clock.

Are they an accredited appraiser?

If an appraiser belongs to one of the national appraiser societies, they will have a high ethical standard. They must maintain this standard to be in good standing with the society. If not, they may find themselves barred from the society and this will affect their ability to do business. This means that an accredited appraiser we have a set of standards set forth by the society they belong to and must adhere to them. On the other hand, an unaccredited independent appraiser will not be held to any standard and can say and do anything they want. Is this someone you would trust when buying an expensive grandfather wall clock?

It’s important to know how the appraiser is paid?

Professional appraisers are paid by the hour, a flat rate or by the piece. A professional appraiser will never charge a percentage of the value of the grandfather wall clock or charge a contingency fee. This is barred because it causes the appraiser to fug on the value of the grandfather wall clock and they will not give you an unemotional unbiased report. This is why most well written and accepted appraisal reports contain a paragraph on the method of payment.

What does an appraisal report contain?

An appraisal report must be typewritten. It will contain the “purpose” of this appraisal and the “type of value” that the appraisal is for. It will specify the resources and methods used in determining its value and condition. One of the major points of the report is the detailed description of the grandfather wall clock such that any professional appraiser can clearly identify the grandfather wall clock without a photograph. The report will also contain how the appraiser was paid and a statement that the appraiser has no financial interest in the grandfather wall clock and if they do what their financial interest is. Finally it will state the appraiser’s qualifications and signature.

If you are a buyer, this is for you.

When buying a grandfather wall clock or an antique clock of great value, it is best to have an appraiser’s report. If the seller will not provide one, see if they will allow you to have an accredited appraiser of your choice come in to do an appraisal. If they still won’t allow an appraisal to be done then move on, the clock is not likely to be of any great value. If they do provide an appraisal report then check it for a valid description, a statement of purpose, what fees were based on (hourly, by piece, by project), and the appraiser’s qualifications. Also make sure the appraiser is willing to back any statements in a court of law (subject to a separate fee arrangement).

Michael

Much has changed over time. The clothes we wear has evolved from leaves of tunics clothing that is on the back today. Transportation has evolved to travel on foot from moving by the animal to travel by cars, airplanes and trains.

Telling time has also evolved. Many years ago man told the time merely by the suns placement in the sky. Then the invention of the sundial came about. Finally the clocks and watches that we use now were invented.

Watches have also evolved with time and change. Watches have been mechanical, battery powered, solar, and kinetic. In the nineteenth century Cartier among others popularized the watches we wear now.

The function of watches has also evolved. The first watches that the only time. Then many watches told the time and date. Now you can find a watch that will calculate for you. You can also take photos, listen to music and watching movies with a clock.

The function of watches is not the only thing people look at when they decide which shows they are going to wear. They also look at the style of the watch. Divers search for a diver’s watch that can withstand a lot of pressure.

Connoisseurs look for golden watches, watches with gems, or watches that are unique in different ways. Scientists search out wristwatches that can help them do their work better. Adventurers seek out watches that are tough and functional for their lifestyle.

Children are attracted to the watches that are cute and extravagant. Sometimes you try to just play those songs, like the Disney watches. Adolescents tend to look for a watch that is fashionable and trendy.

The watch that we wear is not only functional, but said that we are as a person. Make sure the watch you choose shows people your true self. Your watch must accompany your arms and your sense of fashion.

The place to buy watches has also evolved from specialty shops just about anywhere you find merchandise. Stores wristwatches have Antique. You can find watches in many stores you find in a mall. Auctions, shops and even street corners are also places where you can buy a watch. Another place you can buy watches online.

Watches are not done evolving and changing. People are still tinkering with wristwatches. They are continually looking to improve the technology in wristwatches. They are also continuing to seek out new functions that they can add to watches.

Just as our fashion sense in clothing changes so does our fashion sense in watches. Watches are forever being redesigned to fit the current trends and styles. Some things in this world may be done changing, the watch, however, may change so long as peoples needs and wants continue to change.

Whoever you are you can find a watch that suits your needs and desires. Remember that people are continually making watches to meet our functional needs and wants, there will always be able to find the watch that best fits us.

When you think of antiques, you sometimes think of an item’s value both as collectible and as a monetary value. The challenge with a lot of ways to value an antique monetarily is that a lot of antiques are very unique so it is hard to put a price on these things. Antique clocks are no different in the ever popular antique world. When you look at things like antique vehicles, it is a lot easier to value since there are specific value guides that are published for these types of items. No such thing for clocks!

A lot of times with clocks and many other antique items of interest, the value is greatly determined by how interested the potential buyer is in the antique clock. If an antique collector absolutely has to have it in his or her collection, a lot of times that will bring the value up immensely.

A lot of times, the real estate market affects the antique market as well. It seems that whenever real estate takes a dip, so do antiques. And then when the real estate market is booming, the antique market becomes a booming industry as well. There is not a lot of information out there on why this is but it is an interesting fact.

One other rather interesting fact is that antique clocks have been able to hold their value even though the antique market as a whole has taken a declining trend in the last ten years or so. Other antique items have been slowly decreasing, but the clocks have managed to stay relatively stable in value. This is a good thing to know if you are looking at various types of antique clocks to invest in. There just might be a grandfather clock out there with your name on it!

Another excellent thing about investing in these old clocks is that you are not taxed on any capital gains that you acquire when you buy an antique clock. Also, prices of these clocks have been steadily rising in the past eight to ten years. This makes an antique clock a sound investment.

If you are more interested in collecting clocks, there are many books out there on the subject. Visit your local library or bookstore! Also, when buying, only buy from respected antique dealers and make sure you do your research to make sure you are not getting bitten with a bad deal. Enjoy your collection!

Clocks are more than just mere timepieces. They can be used as good decorative pieces in your home. They come in various sizes and shapes. Clocks also are made from different materials. The nature of the material used and the clock manufacturer are among the most crucial factors in determining the quality of the clock, including its price. For example, a simple digital clock might fetch you a few dollars, while those wooden and antique grandfather clocks generally cost up to thousands or more. Today’s clocks are do not just provide time correctly, but they also add glamour and beauty in your home. There are many clocks available, especially of the pendulum type. From miniature, table-accent clocks to grandfather ones, clocks are a gorgeous addition to your home. Don’t you think it is now time to think of clocks as not just mere timepieces?

1. Clocks In History

Clocks first came into existence in 1656 when the first pendulum clock was built by Dutch astronomer and mathematician Christian Huygens. Prior to his invention, clocks during Huygens’ time were not inaccurate. The most accurate clocks that time were off by several minutes daily. Thanks to Huygens, having a reliable clock everyday proved to be possible. Huygens used a pendulum as the timer of the clock. Before Huygens, however, Galileo was already doing some work on how to invent a clock! Galileo even had a pendulum system to keep track of time. Unfortunately, he died before he was able to complete his work.

2. Decorating with Clocks

Decorating a home using clocks is not exactly new. Since a few hundred years ago, home owners and good decorators have been choosing clocks as decorative devices in their homes. Ever since the pendulum clock was invented by Christian Huygens in the 1600s to measure weights and as a type of swinging pendulum, clocks have been known as good decorative items.

3. Modern Clocks

Compared with past ones, today’s clocks are stylish and sleeker in style aside from serving its main purpose. More than just telling time, clocks of today’s age, thanks to the state-of-the-art technology, are definitely more elegant and nice to look at than compared with their older counterparts.

4. When Choosing A Clock:

- Remember that the clock you are buying should reflect your personal tastes and serve as a decorative complement in the room you are putting it in

- One good tip in choosing clocks is to look for the fashion and style in a clock. When looking for a clock, choose one that makes a statement

- If you want to have a French country look in your home, select wall clocks that reflect country accents, such as having a patina finish on the clock’s face, wrought iron accents, or wood base that were whitewashed

- If you, on the other hand, want a contemporary look, why not try to shop around for a clock that has minimalist lines as well as chrome. There are also clocks that are sleek and have stainless detailing.

- You could also choose big and oversized clocks if you want to emphasize your timepiece, compared with a smaller one that could get lost in a clutter.

5. Large Clocks

- If you want to balance out an oversized lamp, try putting a traditional anniversary clock on the end of the table

- You could also put a wall clocked placed on a sturdy and decorative easel in your kitchen for quick and instant charm

- Having an antique grandfather clock in your den provides extra comfort and warmth. Of course, the grandfather clock should be in a nice condition. Otherwise, the effect is somewhat diminished

What you need to know before buying antique clocks online, in order to prevent making the most common mistakes that many do.

Collecting Antiques is a passion many know too well, many of these antique these collections are surprisingly valuable and extremely interesting and valuable.

The majority of clocks that were made from the 15th to the middle of the 17th century are now mostly in museums and a small percentage in different individuals’ private collection. Most people will never set eyes on these timekeepers nor will be able to recognize them.

Those antique clocks that were made during the 1800’s through the early 1900’s are more in number since the periods mentioned were the time when clocks and watches were produced in mass quantities.

Antique clocks from the mid 1600s still exist. Some of these are worth well over $70,000. Some extremely rare models are worth over $100,000. A wise consumer, before spending this type of money, would have any prospective clock appraised before purchase.

Everyone thinking of investing in antique items will be surprised at all the things that they first need to know, before you go out and buy antique items. This is because, as with any other purchase, there are a number of things that you need to research so that you can avoid making a mistake in your purchases. Today this has become very true for antiques because of the proliferation of antique reproductions, which can make finding authentic antique items very confusing. One example that you should know with regard to antique items is the language that antique sellers and antique enthusiast use to describe items. This is because knowing the language they speak can greatly help you with your decisions.

An antique clock is unusual in the world of antiques in that it is a working piece of art, or should be in order to get the most enjoyment and value. I would definitely think twice about attempting to buy a clock that is not working and expect that it will be easy to get it up and running. It may be neither easy nor maybe even impossible. Often it takes a skilled clock maker to repair a clock and it is usually not cheap. That being said, perhaps you may get a better deal on a non-working clock if you know someone to repair it or can do it yourself.

The antique clock is primarily a timepiece after all. I have had the pleasure to have owned some and been in homes that had them and I can personally attest to the soothing feeling mentioned previously that comes from the hour on the hour ( or even half hour) chime or bell in the middle of the night. To me it is somewhat like a fog horn, lonesome and soothing at the same time.

These timeless treasures are available at flea markets, estate sales, local auctions, and through newspaper ads. Antique clocks can also sometimes be found at online auction sites. To be certain of a clock’s authenticity, you should only buy from a trusted and reputable seller. Read any listing carefully to ensure that the product you are buying is truly an antique. In addition to online auctions, established auction houses hold auctions for antique grandfather clocks, although these may happen only twice a year.

What you need to know before buying antique clocks online, in order to prevent making the most common mistakes that many do.

One place to find cheap antique clocks online is: http://www.antiqueclockradio.com/

“Just imagine the chiming of a Grandfather Clock – that is the sound that turns a house into a home…”

Around 1875, the American songwriter Henry Work was staying at the George Hotel during a trip to England. He was told the unique story of their old clock and it’s previous owner, and after seeing the clock for himself, he decided to write a song about the fascinating coincidence that the clock stopped forever the moment its owner died. Mr. Work returned to America and published the song that sold over a million copies of sheet music about the clock grandfather entitled “My Grandfather’s Clock”. Until that time, clocks such as the one in the old George Hotel were given various names, but only since Henry Work’s song have large upright clocks been called ‘Grandfather Clocks’.

Grandfather clocks, also sometimes known as ‘Coffin Clocks’, come in a huge variety of sizes and designs, ranging from antiques built by famous clock makers several centuries ago, to those made today.

Pendulum clocks were developed by clockmakers in the mid 1600’s in a bid to obtain a greater degree of time-keeping accuracy. By giving them longer pendulums, clocks kept better time. These long-pendulum clocks were placed in tall wooden cases so that they could stand upright on the floor.

Since then, Grandfather clocks have become very popular items of household furniture, and have appeared in a huge variety of cases – many styles of which became fashionable, and then fell out of favor as fashion tastes changed. Grandfather clocks were sometimes embellished with ornate woodcarving, and often came complete with chimes, tunes, and moon-phase dials.

Clock collecting is a serious passion for many clock lovers around the world. Today, some antique clocks from the 1600’s to 1700’s fetch tens of thousands of dollars.

by Simon Oldmann