Antique and Vintage Clocks

Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clock, issues you might have had and challenges you face and my responses to your questions with advice on your  particular clock concern and of course, my general comments. For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circle for the best possible answer.

NV writes about her Arthur Pequegnat Nelson hall (tall-case) clock.

“I have an antique, oak ‘hall’ clock that’s been handed down in my family. I read in an article you wrote that you collect them.

This clock was in my home growing up and my grandmother, now 96, reminds me of its history and knows whose home it was originally from in our family.(my grandfather’s grandparents, I believe). I’ve started to look into the history of these clocks.  I’m interested to know what your thoughts are if you are interested in sharing them.

I can tell you that it’s in beautiful condition, however although it had always worked and sounded well (still sounds beautiful) when it was shipped here to BC in the 90s, it was never restarted and the finial became dislodged, but it is not cracked or broken.  So it’d since been stored at my grandmother’s but she never got it going after it arrived and needs to ‘be started’ as the weights are still off (or possibly a repair?)  Also the key was lost.

I’ve just recently brought it to my apartment (Gramma wanted the space!) And she supports me in whether I decide to keep it or not.Please contact me if you are interested as I am considering selling but regardless I will need to determine value/appraisal if I do keep it, at least for insurance. ”

My reply.

“You have a real Canadian treasure. Though it is called a hall clock it’s actual name is the “Nelson”. There is one on display at the Canadian Clock Museum in Deep River Ontario. Unlike many tall case clocks that decline in value yours is actually increasing since it is continually sought after by collectors.  If it says Berlin on the lower part of the dial it was made before 1917. Clocks made after that simply said, “The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company of Canada”. The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company closed its doors in 1941.

You can easily find a replacement key. Perrins would have the key although off hand I do not know the correct size. The finial on top is a friction fit.

It would be in the neighbourhood of $2000. You should keep it not only because it has strong sentimental value but it is an important part of Canadian history. It would also be worth repairing.

NV cannot keep the clock and has plans to sell it.