Antique and Vintage Mechanical Clocks

During my recent exploration of Facebook Marketplace, I came across many clocks at a variety of price points. It was no surprise to find many options, ranging from reasonably priced ones to some that seemed somewhat overpriced. The listings included quartz mantel clocks from the 1970s and 80s, vintage Chinese clocks from the 60s, as well as the typical assortment of Bulova and Howard Miller mantel and grandfather clocks. Some clocks were marketed as antiques, though clearly, they did not meet the criteria. However, none of these caught my attention enough to warrant a closer inspection.

One clock piqued my curiosity – a Gilbert model that bore a striking resemblance to one already in my collection though by a different maker. The seller had priced it at $225 and provided detailed photos showcasing different angles, including a shot of the movement. Interestingly, the final photo displayed a screenshot from eBay, where the same clock was listed for a whopping $925 by a different seller. The intent of course was to make it seem that the seller’s clock was a bargain by comparison.

So, being curious, I ventured onto eBay and came across several intriguing listings. However, I noticed that some of these listings did not accurately represent the actual value of the clocks being sold.

For instance, there was a Sessions mission-style mantel clock listed at a staggering price of $1092. Personally, I find it hard to believe that any Sessions clock ever made could command such a high value. A New Haven mantel clock touted as “rare” and painted in a “modern eye-catching” blue shade, is listed at $341. However, the cost is further escalated by a $95 shipping fee, making it a rather expensive purchase.

To be fair, I did come across some clocks on eBay that were reasonably priced. However, in general, it is becoming increasingly common to find clocks listed at prices that don’t align with their true value.

So why is this happening?

There are a number of reasons, some of which are:

1. Sellers might overvalue their items, hoping to fetch a high price, especially if they believe their clock is rare or unique.
2. Inexperienced sellers might set prices based on misinformation about the item’s market worth, leading to an inflated listing.
3. Sellers may use misleading or exaggerated descriptions and photos, making the clock appear more valuable or rare than it actually is.
4. eBay’s algorithm might suggest prices based on historical data, including past listings where sellers may have inflated prices. This can create a cycle of high listings.
5. Established sellers with positive feedback may be able to command higher prices based on their reputation, even if the item’s value doesn’t align with the actual price.
6. And finally, some sellers might attach sentimental value to their clocks, leading them to set prices higher than what the market might dictate.

While sellers may set higher listing prices, what many shoppers may not undersatnd is that the realized price, the amount the item actually sells for, is what truly matters. It’s essential for buyers to assess the realized prices of similar items to gauge the market value accurately and make informed purchasing decisions.

Advice for buyers and sellers

Buy antique clocks locally if you can. When purchasing locally, you can physically inspect the clock, assess its condition, and verify its authenticity. This hands-on approach minimizes the risk of buying misrepresented or damaged items. Local purchases eliminate the need for shipping, which can be otherwise costly. Dealing face-to-face with a local seller provides an opportunity for negotiation.

Personal interactions can often lead to better deals and a chance to learn more about the clock’s history from the seller. And finally, purchasing locally allows you to take your antique clock home immediately after the transaction, without waiting for shipping and delivery times.

For sellers, look for similar antique clocks online or in specialized antique shops to see what similar pieces are being sold for. This will give you a baseline for comparison. Auction houses often publish realized prices on items sold. They can also offer insights into the current market demand and the prices similar clocks have fetched at recent auctions.

Attending antique shows and fairs can provide an opportunity to see a wide variety of antique clocks and gauge their prices. You can also talk to dealers and collectors, gaining valuable knowledge from their expertise. Online marketplaces other than eBay, such as Etsy, or specialized antique platforms can give you an idea of what similar clocks are listed for.

Antique-related magazines and publications that feature clocks can provide insights into current trends, notable sales, and expert opinions.

Joining local or online antique collector’s clubs can connect you with enthusiasts and experts who have extensive knowledge about specific types of clocks. These communities often share information about recent sales and market trends.

By consulting these various sources, buyers and sellers can gather a comprehensive understanding of the antique clock market, enabling them to make informed decisions about pricing their items.

Online antique purchases can be fraught with potential problems but preparation and thorough research are always a benefit to both the buyer and the seller.