Impulsively Acquired Auction Timer
In the world of antique clocks, finding the perfect piece can be a thrilling adventure. One such adventure recently took place when an individual from Nova Scotia, Canada, stumbled upon a unique find – an antique walnut bracket style mantel clock from E. Ingraham & Company, known as the Grecian.
The clock, bought from an online auction, was in better condition than expected. Its polished brass outer dial and walnut case were untouched by restoration, making it a genuine treasure for the collector. The individual, who frequently follows online for-sale and estate auction sites, was particularly drawn to this clock due to its rarity and the auction house's reputation.
The auction house, one of the premier venues for art and Canadiana, is considered the better one by the individual. While there are several common auction houses for buying antique and vintage clocks, this specific auction house stood out for its expertise in the field.
The movement of the clock is likely German, possibly made by Hamburg American Clock Co. (HAC). Given that HAC was a prominent early 20th-century German clockmaker, it's not surprising that the collector kept an eye out for auctions focused on early 20th-century German mechanical clocks or Black Forest and other German regional clockmakers.
The individual paid a reserve bid of $75 for the clock. Tax and the auction house buyer's premium were added to the final invoice. Interestingly, the collector had already bought another clock from the same auction house in February 2021.
The Grecian shelf clock is not the first antique timepiece the individual has added to their collection. In early January 2021, they also bought an E. Ingraham & Co. clock. The journey to find these unique pieces often leads the collector to travel great distances, as was the case when they traveled 3 hours to pick up the Grecian from a different part of Nova Scotia.
For those interested in following in the footsteps of this collector, it's advisable to monitor auction previews, consignments, and specialist clock auctions, especially those that advertise German or early 20th-century American-German clock brands. Other well-regarded venues include major international auction houses like Sotheby's, Christie's, and Bonhams, as well as specialized clock and antiques auctioneers like Duggleby’s.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, the world of antique clocks offers a fascinating exploration into history and craftsmanship. Each piece tells a story, and with a little patience and research, you too can find your own unique treasure.
The unique antique walnut bracket style mantel clock from E. Ingraham & Company, known as the Grecian, is a testament to how vintage clocks can enhance one's lifestyle, becoming a significant addition to a fashion-and-beauty-conscious individual's home-and-garden decor. The pursuit of finding such treasures often necessitates monitoring specialized auction houses and previews, as demonstrated by this diligent collector's frequent visits to Duggleby’s, Sotheby’s, Christie’s, Bonhams, and other well-regarded venues.
