Tips for Buying Antique Clocks

Of all the different kinds of antiques that you can collect, most collectors consider antique clocks the most rewarding. They are not only well-crafted and beautiful, they are also very practical. Another good thing is that such clocks are usually made of very durable materials and can be used on a daily basis without problems in its accuracy.

If you want to look for antique clocks for sale, you can check various sources. This includes estate sales, auctions and antique shops. You can even find antique clocks on eBay. However, you should be careful when purchasing such items because there are too many unscrupulous and dishonest sellers who would try to sell a reproduction as a real antique. If you’re not an expert, you should take someone more knowledgeable with you so that you won’t make the mistake of paying too much for an item of little value.

Before you do that, you must do some research regarding the different clock makers and their trademarks. You can usually find a lot of resources in the library and in the internet that can help you.

When you look at an antique clock, check first the date and the name of the clock maker. There should be a trademark or a trade name on the clock itself, and sometimes even a serial number. This will help you in verifying the authenticity of the clock.

Another tip is to check the materials and style used in the clock. If the clock has minute hands, it was probably manufactured after 1661 when this feature was first introduced. If the clock has seconds hands, it was probably manufactured after 1780 when this innovation was first launched. If the clock is made of Bakelite or any other kind of plastic, then the clock was probably made sometime in the 1900’s.

In 1896, it became a worldwide requirement to mark the originating country on the clock itself. This can help you if you are trying to date a clock. If you can’t find this mark, try to look for any other signature somewhere on the face.

Check the wear and tear of the clock you want to buy. If it’s in perfect condition, you should be a little doubtful. Although it’s not impossible, it is extremely unlikely for a clock that has been around for a hundred years to not show any damages. You should notice a level of degradation in the materials.