Dealing with antique stores – a rant

Let me begin by saying that I love antique stores and I spend a considerable amount of time in them. While I don’t always buy, if I  see something I try to get a fair price. Browsing through the aisles looking for that unique, one of a kind item can be a very satisfying experience.

I was in a local antique shop the other day and I was impressed at the number of antique clocks offered for sale but the prices were, in my view, way out of line.

For example, a Gilbert Admiral time-only wall clock, that I bought in the fall of 2019 for a fraction of the $300 the store wanted was missing its decorative pendulum and was not running. $150 is a fair price with the original pendulum but at $300 it will stay on the wall of this shop for a long time. So, naturally, I passed on it.

Continue reading “Dealing with antique stores – a rant”

Tick Talk Tuesday #21 – What is my Ansonia schoolhouse clock worth?

Ansonia clock project is complete
Ansonia schoolhouse clock
Tick-Talk Tuesday is about the letters and comments I have received from you, the reader, concerning your clock, issues you might have had, challenges you face or a clock you would like me to profile and my responses to your questions with advice on your particular clock concern. For those comments and questions that stump even me, I consult within my clock circles for the best possible answer

JM says, “I have an Ansonia Octagonal Schoolhouse clock dated 1878 exactly like the one featured here. I also have the pendulum and key. It’s in good working order, but I am looking to sell it. I don’t know its value. I paid $500 for it in 1975. It’s a darker wood, the face is in good condition, and the description label in the pendulum area is intact. What would you suggest for a sale price?”

My reply. “First of all, I am not an appraiser but I have several years experience buying and selling clocks.

Continue reading “Tick Talk Tuesday #21 – What is my Ansonia schoolhouse clock worth?”

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