Collecting Antique Mantle Clocks
Collecting Antique Mantle Clocks
When considering the décor of a family room with an inviting fireplace, a specially designed mantle clock can add an elegant touch. These graceful timepieces can be used as a special accent in various other places around the home or office as well.
For someone interested in starting a collection of mantle clocks, it can prove to be a satisfying and rewarding hobby. At the same time, however, depending on the type of clocks sought, it can also become a costly one. Affordable mantle clocks are available in an array of designs and styles, with the more affordable ones leaning to the more modern variety, novelty or replicas. Antique clocks are another story, however. If an antique clock is more to your liking, do your homework before you purchase, including values determined by reputable appraisers. Decide on the particular type of mantle clock you want, set a budget and stick to it. Then don’t stop looking until you find it at a price to fit your budget.
Antique mantle clocks come in a large variety. Among the styles available are grandfather, cuckoo and alarm clocks. To make the search for your special clock a bit easier, narrow your niche down a bit. If you are acquiring a number of clocks for either a collection or various locations in your home, select each piece so it will enhance the others, in addition to being able to stand on its own. Your selections should coordinate to some degree. For example, if you enjoy cuckoo clocks and come upon a rare antique Betty Boop clock, consider how it will fit with the rest of the group. Before you begin your search, keep in mind the collection you have already acquired and then decide on the purpose for the new clock.
Though some may have the idea collecting antique mantle clocks can be not only a fun experience, but possibly profitable as well, there are also pitfalls you need to beware of and strive to avoid. If you are a novice in the clock collection world, keep in mind, popular pieces have many replicas out there. Unless you know what to look for, you could pay out a lot thinking you have an antique, only to find out you acquired a young replica instead. We cannot emphasize enough - make sure you have done your homework first. Browse through books and search online websites for various key elements to help reassure you the clock you choose is truly the antique you desire. Otherwise, you may think you are walking away with a real bargain, only to find out later you paid a chunk of money for a replica. If you have access to an independent appraiser, consider having the clock checked for authenticity prior to purchase.
Though not impossible, the likelihood of finding a real gem of an antique clock through an online auction or in a garage sale is rather low. Normally, the clocks found in these searches have identical octuplets elsewhere. Again, be sure to do your research first so you will know what you are looking for. Enjoy the fun of antique clock collecting, but do so with caution so your clocks will bring you true enjoyment for many years to come.
