How do I identify my clock maker?

How do I identify my clock maker?

Check the clock for the name of the clock maker or company name. On many American-made clocks of the nineteenth century, the full name of the company typically appears somewhere on the timepiece. The name may be: Engraved or printed near the center face of the dial.

How can I tell how old my mantel clock is?

You can begin to determine the age of your American-made mantel clock by reviewing history. American clocks date to the 1600s, according to DiscoverClocks.com. Most of those originals were the tall, grandfather-style clocks.

Are old mantel clocks worth anything?

For your antique clock to be worth anything, it must be the real thing. If it is a 20th-century reproduction of an 18th-century German cuckoo clock, it won’t be highly desirable. If you can verify the period it’s from, your antique clock will be worth more.

How old is my Kienzle clock?

Kienzle Uhren GmbH is Germany’s oldest watchmakers. Founded in 1822 in Schwenningen, the company headquarters has been in Hamburg since 2002.

What is a witness mark on a clock?

A witness mark could be a small dent, a hole that once held a screw: These are actual impressions and dent lines and discolorations left inside the clock of pieces that may have once been there. They are clues as to what was in the clockmaker’s mind when he first created the thing.

What does S and F mean on a clock?

There is usually a small F (Faster) and S (Slower) printed on either side of the dial. French clocks may have an R (Retard) and A (Advance). To make the clock go faster, turn the key toward the F (or A). To make the clock go slower, turn the key toward the S (or R).

What is a Seth Thomas clock worth?

A Seth Thomas clock from about 1905 in “as found” condition sold for about $150.

How do you date a Seth Thomas mantle clock?

Many Seth Thomas clocks from 1881 to 1918 have a date code stamped in ink on the case back or bottom. Usually, the year is done in reverse, followed by a letter A–L representing the month. For example, April 1897 would appear as 7981 D.

How do I identify my Seth Thomas mantle clock?

Labels and Trademarks

1. Look for the remains of a label or the full paper label on the clock on its back, bottom or inside.
2. Study the pendulum inside the clock to determine if it has an etching on it.
3. Turn over the clock carefully and look for a metal plate that identifies the clock as a Seth Thomas clock.

Are Seth Thomas clocks worth anything?

Not surprisingly, the earliest clocks, especially those actually made by Seth Thomas, are worth the most money. If you can get a sense of the date your clock was made, either from the label, style, or date stamp, you have an important factor in assigning value.

How do you date a Howard Miller mantel clock?

How do You Determine the Age of a Howard Miller Clock?

1. Check for a stamped date. While stamped dates tend to be a rarity among these top-notch tickers, some do bear their date of manufacture.
2. Check for a serial number and model in one of three locations.
3. Do some follow-up investigative work.

What is a Kienzle clock?

Kienzle Clock History. Kienzle is founded in 1822 in Schwenningen by Johannes Schlenker. The company soon fabricates 20,000 wall clocks and pendulum clocks per annum. In 1893, 162,000 watches and alarm clocks are made per annum. The name of the company is changed into Schlenker & KIENZLE.

What are the best mantel clocks to buy?

Quality brands like Howard Miller, Bulova clocks, Seiko, Rhythm and Hermle mantel clocks are here at discount prices. We offer a complete selection of handsome mantel clocks you would be proud to own including both the Key-wound and the more practical Quartz clocks.

How long do mantel movements last?

Movements are made in Germany and these clocks will last generations if proper maintenance is performed. These Mantel clocks need oiling every few years and the movements should be cleaned at least every 10 years.

Do quartz mantel clocks need winding?

Quartz Mantel Clocks (Battery Operated with Chimes) Quartz mantel clocks are practical as they are reasonably priced and never require winding. They are the most accurate and most do have a chime feature. Movements usually last about 20 years without maintenance except for changing the battery every year.

What kind of clock is the Albright cherry mantel clock?

The Howard Miller 635-114 Albright Cherry Mantel Clock is the 77th Anniversary Edition tambour mantel clock that is rich in details. Gracefully carved side scrolls frame the dial and burl veneered front, and a wrap-around beaded dentil molding completes the picture. Under a convex glass crystal, the aged dial offers black Arabic numerals.