Need Help Identifying German Grandfather Clock

Posted: Fri Jun 10, 2011 1:35 pm     Post subject: Need Help Identifying German Grandfather Clock

How can I identify a grandfather clock I inherited? I've not been able to find any identifying inscriptions on the clock except on the movement pieces (which say they are original Kieninger). I do know the clock was made in (West) Germany in the late '80s/early 90s. I've contacted antique appraisers (even though the clock is not old enough to be considered an antique) and they've been unable to help. Any suggestions?

Posted: Fri Jun 10, 2011 4:30 pm     Post subject:

That is the unfortunate part about newer case assemblies. Back around the turn of the century (into the 1900's, and before, that is), clock manufacturers would often label the case assembly with their information (whether a certificate of origin, or woodburned company logo, etc). Unfortunately, this practice has seemed to die out throughout the 1950s and beyond (probably with the decline of clock making companies and the rise of inexpensive production clocks mass produced for companies such as Montgomery Ward - who had the wood cases manufactured primarily in Asia). If you have checked over the wooden case and found nothing, then you will probably be unable to identify the wood case manufacturer. That being said, it is good that you have identified the clock movement manufacturer (as this information would prove useful if the movement ever needed service and/or repair).