In this economic downturn, now it the time to look for great deals on new and antique grandfather clocks. Some great deals can be found in this economy, but as always be careful. Knowledge is important when buying a grandfather clock. In this article I will give you some steps that will help you define your style, provide you with some shopping ideas, and some pointers on what to look for when evaluating a clock.

No two grandfather clocks are the same.

Let’s create a list of items to look from when evaluating a grandfather clock, so get out a pen and some paper.

The two basic designs stem from an American or European style, stay with the one you favor the most? The next thing to consider is the time period. Do you like the 1800s, the 1900s or a more contemporary period. Don’t forget the height limits imposed by your current home? Do you have a preference when it comes to the grandfathers clocks color or wood type? Do you want a grandfather clock that will produce sound or are you in the mood for the gentle click of the movement? Do not limit yourself, ask as many questions as you need to feel safe about buying a grandfather clock.

When considering the options available it can be extremely large. Before you run out to the local shops, look at the Antique Clock Price Guide site. They have more than 19,200 pictures of antique clocks with prices and descriptions to look at. Amazingly, 673 of these photographs are of Longcase/Grandfather clocks alone. You might consider getting a 1 month pass that gives you unlimited access to pricing and bids which could help you fix your budget.

Finding grandfather clocks?

After checking out the local shops, don’t forget the internet, craigslist and EBay for great information and nice clocks. But I can’t see, feel or touch them you say. Welcome to the digital age. With the new digital video cameras available, the shop owner could easily create a well lit high-quality video of every part of the grandfather clock including sound. Before purchasing a grandfather clock it must be looked at in person or by someone you trust.

The state of the clock is as important as the look and sound, so do not let your emotions drive your decisions. You need to know the history of this grandfather clock, where has it been, who owned it, have they a log of its repairs?

This is a good time to learn as much detail as possible about this grandfather clock. Now is then time to uncover any issues than after you get it home. Taking a closer look at this grandfather clock may save you from buying into costly repairs or a clock that just will not keep time. So asking questions like what repairs or alteration or restorations have been done to this clock are good questions, don’t be afraid to ask. During the course of a clock that is over one hundred years old normal repairs should be expected. You want to know if they were done right.

If you consider reselling it, knowing this information will help you in the future. Many owners keep a log or receipts of the history of their grandfather clock this is important information. The history of this grandfather clock will add depth, color, and character to an already great timepiece.

How well was the case treated.

A grandfather clock should not have any signs of damage or missing moldings, mold, mildew, or discoloration? Look for damage or changes in the finish color? Does it have the proper finish for a clock of its time?

Do not forget the flashlight, inside the case is dark. You are looking for needed repairs, missing pieces, rotted wood, water stains, and bad joints. If you see wood that is not visible from the outside with a smooth plained surface, ask about the repair work. Very rarely was plained wood used inside of a case in a clock more than 100 years old it was considered a wasteful.

Look for improper screws Screws should have a dark color and a slot head design. It is unlikely you would find a Phillips head screw in a grandfather clock built before 1936.

Now check around the movement. Check with available documentation if you suspect the movements has been changed or altered? If this is not the original movement this is indicated by unfilled screw holes or ghosting (faint outline of the original movement).

Check for original labeling or a signature on or near the dial, this adds value to the piece. Check that the material used on the face of the dial is consistent with the make and model originally manufactured. Check the hands, are they the right size. The minute hand should reach to the chapter ring, if one is present? Check that the hour hand reaches the numbers and does not overlap?

What type of clock movement is installed.

Does the movement keep time accurately? Is the movement designed to produce a sound? How often is winding required: once every 30-hours, 8-days or is it a 31-day movement? What material is the movement made of wood, brass, or steel? Does the material in the clock match what was originally installed? Is this a pendulum, verge or balance wheel grandfather clock? Make sure all chimes are present and working if so installed? If the movement uses chimes, make sure all the chimes are present and make a reasonable tone.

Check the Glass and Mirrors.

Older glass is worth more because it was not flawless. It was common to find imperfection in the glass such as small bubbles or discoloration near the edges. Check any painting to see if they are newly refinished or restored.

Summary.

I hope I have been some help on your journey to find that special grandfather clock. Just remember do the research and double-check what you are told with the facts about the clock you have selected. You will make wiser buying decisions if you put your emotions on hold till after you evaluate this grandfather clock.More information can be had at grandfather clock.

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