Bake Your Own Gingerbread Clock at Sessions Grand Assortment 3 Event
In the early 20th century, mantel clocks adorned American homes, and among them, the Grand Assortment gingerbread clocks by the Sessions Clock Company stood out. These intricately designed clocks, known for their ornate wooden cases resembling gingerbread house trim, were a popular choice for middle-class households.
Produced by the Sessions Clock Company, a prominent American clock manufacturer based in Connecticut, the "Grand Assortment" likely refers to a collection or variety within their gingerbread clock lineup. The term "gingerbread" refers to the intricate, fret-cut woodwork that these clocks are famous for.
While these clocks are considered collectible, their value is moderate, heavily dependent on condition, originality, and completeness. Thousands of Grand Assortment clocks have survived, making them common but valued antiques today. Prices at auctions and sales vary, often ranging from modest to a few hundred dollars for restored or well-preserved examples.
This particular Grand Assortment clock is 22 inches tall, ten inches wide with a 6-inch dial. It was purchased at auction for $20, listed as a non-working clock. However, after some TLC, its mainsprings were found to be in good condition after being cleaned with steel wool and WD-40. The case, made of steam-pressed oak, is in decent shape. The clock requires 4 bushings for its movement.
The clock, specifically Grand #3, was sold for $4.00 in 1915 and could be configured with an alarm and/or cathedral bell. It has three factory drilled holes in the inside floor, likely for shipping. The label on the back of the clock states it was purchased at Benson Clock's auction in the late 1940s.
Interestingly, the Grand Assortment clocks were sold "six in a case" to retailers. The author of this article has previously repaired a Grand Assortment clock from the Sessions Clock Co., and the process of stripping a clock case is discussed in related posts.
For those interested in antique and vintage clocks, the Grand Assortment by Sessions is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. However, it's essential to examine specific clock condition and provenance when considering acquisition or appraisal, and consulting specialized antique clock experts or auction results would provide more precise valuations.
If you're a clock enthusiast, consider subscribing for email updates on our latest articles. We invite you to share this article on various social media platforms using the links provided. Whether you're a fan of gingerbread clocks or not, the charm of these historical timepieces is undeniable.
[1] Gingerbread Clocks: A Brief History [2] Stripping a Clock Case: A Step-by-Step Guide
- The fashion-and-beauty enthusiast might find interest in the Grand Assortment gingerbread clocks, a vintage artifact that once graced American homes during the early 20th century.
- When exploring home-and-garden curiosities, antique books on the subject could offer valuable insights about the design, history, and preservation of the intricate vintage clocks, such as the Grand Assortment gingerbread clocks.
- While food-and-drink might not have a direct connection to vintage clocks, hosting a themed party featuring classic decor, including the Grand Assortment gingerbread clocks, could enhance the entertainment value of the event, blending timeless elegance with contemporary lifestyle.
