Thinking of buying my first grandfather clock

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2011 3:59 pm     Post subject: Thinking of buying my first grandfather clock

My great grandmother used to have a lot of grandfather clocks so I have always wanted one. So I have found one at a local auction and would like some advice.

Here are the pictures.
http://www.auctionzip.com/Full-Image/1071764/fi65.cgi

http://www.auctionzip.com/Full-Image/1071764/fi64.cgi

Has anyone come across one of these before? I can't seem to find any info or even any pictures that resemble this clock. It is very large. Has brass/bronze trim. And has a sun styled pendulum.

How high should I bid?

It looks to be in rough shape. Do you think it can be restored to working order? I know I should see the mechanism to say for sure but just from the picture do you think it can be restored?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2011 4:27 pm     Post subject:

I would look at the movement to make sure it is original. The dial being offset in the opening leaves a big question mark.

No doubt it could be restored, the case just needs a dusting or cleaning. Looks like just the movement may need work.

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2011 7:49 pm     Post subject:

I was concerned about the dial not being centered also. You wouldn't happen to know anything about this clock. Even as little as a style. I am clueless even how to search for it.

Posted: Mon Feb 14, 2011 10:45 pm     Post subject:

It is a Tall Clock from the 1800's, has a European look.

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2011 11:48 am     Post subject:

there is also a piece of brass decor missing.

never seen one before.

my advice...save your money and look at another...

Posted: Tue Feb 15, 2011 12:46 pm     Post subject:

I actually saw that this piece was missing. A friend of mine casts small sculptures and I don't think he would have a problem duplicating the piece from the other side.

There are a couple of other clocks there so I may end up passing on that particular one especially if it is too tall or if I don't think I could handle most of the restoration. Thanks though.

Posted: Wed Feb 16, 2011 10:40 am     Post subject:

Good luck with the restoration!