best place to value a Grandfather clock

hughm

Hi,

A relative of mine has a superb old grandfather clock which she wants to sell. Can anyone advise on the best way or place to obtain a fair valuation for it. We have 2 interested parties both making offers but no idea of it's value.

Thanks.

ODD-JOB

Ok,... very handsome clock. Call it a long-case , not granfather when your dealing with a potential buyer, it may give the buyer a hint that you know a little about it.
it might discourage a chancer having a go at turning you over on a cheap price.
I worry a little about its age though,...
By rite , these clocks should be from the george III period, it should be 1790 in date origin.
This example is definately not georgian in my opinion.
The inlay and timber(mahogany) quality suggests it is Georgian revival , which should date to around 1900 or so. (Edwardian period)

I'd like to see an image of the movment/works. The hood should slip off cleanly. Also have a butchers and check the brass dial for an inscription.

They can be a difficult thing to value from the pictures.
The very top of the clock is called the "swan-neck" pediment. It is generally well decorated , either carved or finely moulded when 18th century.
This example is blank , and especially the round bits at the end of the "swan neck" should be applied with a carved roundel which is applied with glue.
Inbetween the swan necks there should be a further carving, or brass/ivory finial or something.

Your relative may know how long its been in the family, or the history to the clock !

A geoIII example :

An Edwardian example can be found at the bottom of this page:
http://www.auction-net.co.uk/viewAuction.php?id=149&offset=450&PHPSESSID=02dc66f39ebefeae5e80cb12b
scroll down to lot 492 ,... this is the clock centre of the 3 ! click the image to enlarge .

Id imagine the price is somewhat around what you'd be aiming at. just remember that is sterling.
The height of the clock , it may restrict your market as it wouldnt be suitable for houses with low ceilings !

hughm

Thanks you very much for the advice. I'll check into the things you suggested and post results. I'll also get pic of movement

Roll the dice

I'm interested in knowing if you got a sound/solid valuation. I've been in the market for a long face clock for the past year - and have attended numerous auctions. Price is dependant on manufacturer, period and current condition.