Buying Antique Clocks

Disappointments are all too common in the antique world, especially when you are a specialist in your field and try to handle only the best you can find. This doesn't mean a high price, but a good and substantially reasonable example of that particular kind of clock.

Some people have their clocks overhauled through local jewelers, or other facilities, who have taken the escapement out. When this is done, the value of the clock has been reduced. It is suggested that the clock be taken back to the place that overhauled it to see if the original escapement could be found and reinstalled.

On French carriage clocks, the escapement, which may be seen through the top glass, is frequently replaced with a modern one. This happens either because the original would be difficult, or time consuming to restore, or to improve time-keeping. This is particularly important if the escapement is a specialized one.

When a dealer, particularly one in a specialized field, such as clocks, is offered an item, he has to be careful that it is in a substantially original condition to safeguard both the seller's and his own reputation. He will be laying out his own money, and, if he makes a mistake, will lose at least some of it. However, if an auctioneer takes an item in for sale, it costs him nothing, and, if it fails to sell, he can return it.

There are many ways in which a dealer can make certain that the clock in question is an original one, free from any major restoration. The best way is to buy back items he has sold in the past which is easiest for businesses which have been established a long time.

When buying from private customers, especially those who have little knowledge of clocks, it is always more difficult. Genuine mistakes are likely to be made. Considerable care has to be taken, especially if you are considering making the purchase without seeing the clock.

To be successful in buying back items, particularly from overseas, keep records, including the date when the clock was sold and the price paid. A full description, and photographs, for insurance reasons, will enable you to assess the clock accurately, even if you cannot recall it to mind.

One of the things which keep antique dealers involved in the trade, long after other people have retired, is its unpredictability. Unexpected discoveries are now rarely encountered. Nowadays they are seldom items you are interested in.

Buying From Dealers

Another safe method of buying is from another dealer, who has a good knowledge of the type of antique you are interested in. He will give you his own accurate assessment of the item, just as you would, if the tables were turned.

See some clocks that are not antique.

http://www.thewatchtheclock.com/alarm_clocks/

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