Antique and Vintage Mechanical Clocks

will antique and vintage clock prices go up or down in 2023? Is this the time to buy or sell? Allow me to share my insights and observations.

According to the United States Government, the term “antique” is reserved for items that are over a century old. Webster’s dictionary defines an antique as a work of art, piece of furniture, or decorative object made at an earlier period and according to various customs laws at least 100 years ago. Wikipedia defines antiques as applying to objects at least 100 years old.

On the other hand “vintage”, according to most sources, is a period that is less than 100 years but more than 30 years. Definitions of vintage may vary. In the jewelry business, for instance, vintage may be considered as anything 10 to 20 or more years.

There is no true “standard” pricing for any vintage or antique clock. As with most objects, there is a price range that most would consider reasonable. Similar to many other items, vintage or antique clocks do not have a set standard price. Instead, there exists a range of prices that most people would view as reasonable. Having said that, prices for common antique clocks have largely stagnated over the past several years while rare and highly prized clocks appear to have retained their value.

People who frequently purchase antique or vintage clocks are likely aware that the clock market has been experiencing a decline in prices for some time. Is 2023 a good time to sell or buy? Of course!

How are clock prices set?

Setting the price for an antique or vintage clock is not a straightforward process. It involves various factors, such as the condition of the clock, its history, and the seller’s personal experience in the market.

Some sellers may price their clocks higher than their actual value to leave room for negotiation, while others may count on buyers’ lack of knowledge about the true value of the clock. However, a well-informed buyer can use their knowledge to find a great deal, by looking for prices consistent with reputable auction houses and online marketplaces.

Factors affecting the sale of clocks

As said, high-end and truly rare clocks, such as those with historical significance or exceptional craftsmanship, have managed to retain their value in the market. However, even for these clocks, sales are still largely based on market conditions and demand. For example, if there is a sudden influx of similar clocks on the market, it could drive down the demand and price for those clocks. Therefore, while rare clocks may be more likely to hold their value, they are not completely immune to market fluctuations.

But what conditions influence the sale of run-of-the-mill antique and vintage mechanical clocks and those of slightly better quality?

Two factors have influenced the decline in prices. Common antique and vintage clocks have flooded the market in the past several years driving prices steadily downwards. Secondly, the new generation of millennials has little interest in antiques and finds it pointless to collect antique and vintage clocks. Sentimental reasons aside, the cost of servicing an antique or vintage clock far exceeds its value.

Moreover, modern homes do not have room for clocks as floor and wall space is limited. In an age when families are living in 800-square-foot apartments space is at a premium. That could change as people migrate from dense cities to smaller communities.

And when space is at a premium grandfather clocks and jeweler’s regulator clocks though finely crafted and cost thousands when new are not items many would consider appropriate for the modern family home.

While I cannot predict the future with certainty, based on the prices observed over the past few years, I anticipate that the antique clock market will remain largely unchanged in 2023 and beyond. Currently, it appears to be a buyer’s market, and there may be excellent deals available for those who are knowledgeable and take the time to shop carefully and do their research.

It’s important to remember that knowledge is power when it comes to purchasing antique clocks. Doing your homework can help you identify the most valuable and unique pieces, and can also help you avoid overpaying for items that may not hold as much value. While there may be some great clocks out there, it’s crucial to approach the market with a discerning eye to ensure that you get the most value for your money.