Weekly Discussion: Purchasing a Vintage Grandfather Clock - Reader's Query Answered
In the latest instalment of the popular "Tick-Talk Tuesday" series, reader MB has found a clock and is considering bidding on it. The clock, made in America during the 1990s, appears to be in a state of disrepair with its weights at different levels and the pendulum not working.
Generally, a clock in poor condition, whether working or not, would be worth around $100 to $125. However, this value significantly drops when the movement is non-functional, as is the case with MB's find. Clocks less than 100 years old are considered vintage, not antique, and usually command lower prices unless they are highly collectible.
The value of a clock can be influenced by several factors. For instance, certain designer clocks, such as those by Philippe Starck for Alessi, from the 1990s in working condition can be valuable. However, poor condition drastically reduces this value. American brands without unique design or historical value tend to have lower resale value.
Mechanical clock movement repairs can be expensive, often costing around $450 to $500. Given the clock's current state, it is likely worn out. Therefore, unless the clock is by a sought-after designer or brand, or has unique historic significance, its resale value is minimal, often under $20-$50, sometimes less, mostly for parts or aesthetic display only.
However, a similar clock in excellent condition with a recently serviced movement would be worth around $500. This underscores the importance of a working movement and good condition for higher valuation.
The "Tick-Talk Tuesday" series also seeks advice from fellow clock enthusiasts when questions are particularly challenging. It provides advice and responses to specific clock concerns, making it a valuable resource for clock enthusiasts and collectors.
Despite its popularity, the series does not explicitly mention the cost of sharing the articles on social media platforms, nor does it mention the frequency of publication or any advertisements.
In conclusion, for MB, it might be more cost-effective to service or replace the movement of the clock, rather than purchasing it in its current state. Nonetheless, the series offers a wealth of information and advice for those interested in clocks, regardless of their condition.
- The "Tick-Talk Tuesday" series, which provides valuable advice for clock enthusiasts, also discusses how certain designer clocks from the 1990s, such as those by Philippe Starck for Alessi in working condition, can be valuable.
- In the realm of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, where vintage items often carry charm, a clock less than 100 years old, like MB's find, may not command high prices unless it is by a sought-after designer or brand, has unique historic significance, or is in excellent condition with a recently serviced movement.
