Antique Wall Clocks
The clock as we know it has evolved a lot since it’s early days; at first, even the name was different. The first antique wall clocks were called lanterns and were made mainly from brass or iron; they were 16 inches tall, weight driven and wall hung. Starting with the 17th century, clocks were added balanced weighted wheels, and were replaced by the verge and pendulum. The shape of the clock changed a lot too, it knew lots of different sizes till the modern ones imposed themselves.
Presently antique wall clocks are very expensive and precious items for a collector. This is why it is very important to have all the information about the clock before making the actual purchase; some documents that would prove its provenience and the manufacturing features should do for the matter. The selection criteria for a collection include model, date of production and even brand name, with functionality being left as a “last but not least” issue.
The information that needs to be taken into consideration when you want to pay a small fortune for the clock also includes the history of the clock, whether it is still working and if it needs improvements. Then, try to find out who worked with it, and how well it was preserved. There are experts in the field that are specialized in the expertise of antique wall clocks, so you can take advantage of a professional opinion too.
A collector may buy or sell antique wall clocks, and even spare parts from old models. Among the most common types of antique wall clocks we could mention advertising clocks, pendulum clocks, regulators and even water clocks. If you have set your mind about what to buy it’s best to go and search the perfect item at one of the mainstream dealers, that usually provide certifications too.
The prices may very much vary. For a clock manufactured a few hundred years ago and coming from the high European society for instance the quotes will be way beyond the reach of the average buyer. The country of origin and the style of execution have an important role in the matter, increasing the starting sell price of the clock.
Presently, antique wall clocks could very well represent important assets, sometimes being passed from one owner to another, within the same family as inheritance. Mention should be made that such special objects require special preservation conditions: humidity, temperature and even maintenance are highly important to ensure a longer lifespan of the clocks.