Are you in the market of buying an antique clock? It may be your first antique clock and you are very excited and a bit overwhelmed by all the different clocks that are available. Whether you are buying an antique clock as an investment or because it fits your house perfectly, there are a few questions you can ask yourself before you purchase an antique clock.
What kind of clock do I want?
There are various types of clocks in terms of size and how you can place them in your home, in case you want to have it in your home. If you want a smaller clock that you can place on a shelf or cabinet an antique mantel clock can suit your needs. Or closely related a bracket clock.
If you are looking for a clock to be hung on the wall the most well known clock – the antique wall clock– is your best solution or the smaller bracket clock could work out for you as well.
Last but not least there is a very impressive and large tall standing antique grandfather clock. This clock is a real eye catcher in your living room.
Do I want a striking clock or a silent clock?
Ding, Dong, Ding Dong… The sound of a striking clock is loved by many. However not everyone enjoys the sound. Either they prefer no sound at all, or there is already clock making sound and you don’t want multiple antique clocks making sounds.
How often and which sound?
When you do prefer your clock to make a sound, there are a few varieties as well. Some clocks strike once an hour or every 30 minutes. Other strike every quarter (called a Westminster strike). It’s not just the frequency however, there are some clocks that play melodies instead of classic sounds. A very general rule of thumb is if the dial has one hole it’s a silent clock, two holes it strikes every 30 minutes and with three holes it’s a Westminster strike.
What is the maximum I would like to spend?
Antique clocks start at a few hundred dollars for a clock. If you are looking at special collector’s items then of course the price can go up significantly. With the Rothschild Faberge Egg selling for €13.5 million in 2007.