Grandfather clocks make a showstopping addition to any interior design plan. Beyond being a striking timepiece, they can hold their value well if you manage to get your hands on an authentic antique grandfather clock.
So how do you weed out the duds from the genuine antique crafted clocks? There are a few key features to keep an eye out for to ensure you’re purchasing a top quality piece.

Materials
A dead giveaway for contemporary grandfather clocks is that they will often be crafted from metal or blended materials. This can provide a more polished and modern look which can be desirable in more contemporary homes. However, these particular grandfather clocks will not hold any antique value.
Authentic antique grandfather clocks will almost always be crafted from wood. If your clock happens to feature solid parts such as bronze or gold, you will find it fetches a far higher price. Solid workmanship and detailed finishes will also add value to any antique, but particularly a grandfather clock due to its functional purpose.
Accurate timing and chiming
We might seem as though we are stating the obvious here – but yes, we are suggesting your clock should be capable of telling the time. More specifically, the best antique grandfather clocks should be able to tell the time accurately.
Old clocks can sometimes begin to run slow, which in turn affects their chiming. On the flip side, grandfather clocks that have been kept in mint or excellent condition should be capable of telling the time correctly. If you want to see any return on your purchase of an antique grandfather clock, make sure you select one that isn’t chiming at obscure times.
Check its details
The benefit of identifying antiques today is the access to online resources which can help determine an item’s value. To identify your particular grandfather clock, you’ll need to find the manufacturers name, plus any trademark or copyright markings. These may be found on the dial or further inside on a prominent part of the clock.
Once you’ve identified the make of your clock, you can punch the details into an online database to get an estimation at the value and authenticity of your piece.
Identifying the type
There are three prominent European grandfather clock styles. Being aware of the distinct features of each will allow you to determine the authentic antiques from the cheap imitations.
The first is the Comtoise which is one of the earlier grandfather clock designs. It features a long cabinet with a ‘pot-belly’ centre. The second style is a Bornholm which is more rectangular and often features white wood with gold trimming. The third style, the Mora, shares similarities with the Comtoise. However, the Mora is typically more curved in its edging and top, with a substantial ‘skirt’ beneath its cabinet. Knowing your Borhnholms from your Moras will provide more insight into your purchases. Plus, sellers may be more inclined to negotiate reasonably.
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