Impromptu purchase of an auction clock
In the world of antique clock collecting, one individual's optimism shines as they recently added a unique piece to their collection - a vintage E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock. This acquisition was made in early January 2021, during an online auction.
The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, a time and strike clock, boasts an antique walnut bracket style mantel design with a polished brass outer dial. The auction house described the clock as being in running order, although it may require a clean, and it has a mellow tone chime.
The individual's interest in this particular clock is not surprising, given their penchant for unique clocks, such as the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, and the Hamburg American Clock Company's (HAC) renowned bracket style mantel clocks. The HAC, founded in 1873, is a German clock manufacturer that gained popularity among clock collectors worldwide for its quality clocks, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
HAC combined traditional German clockmaking with an appeal to the American market. Their clocks often featured solid construction and reliable mechanical movements, reflecting the advancements in clock technology during that era. The bracket style mantel clocks often had distinct cases that could be mounted on a shelf or bracket, making them ideal for various settings.
The movement of the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock is suspected to be German, possibly made by the Hamburg American Clock Company, given the clock's design and the company's reputation for producing high-quality clocks.
The individual considers one of the auction houses to be the better one, specializing in art and Canadiana but occasionally offering clocks. They frequently follow online for-sale and estate auction sites, a habit that led them to this recent purchase. However, their expectations for the condition of the clock, based on auction photos, were higher than the actual condition received. The individual had to travel 3 hours to pick up the clock and will receive a final invoice that includes the reserve bid of $75, as well as additional costs such as tax and the auction house buyer's premium.
Despite the unexpected condition of the clock, the individual remains optimistic about their purchase. They have even sold a few clocks locally in the past year. The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, being an American clock, adds another interesting piece to their collection, further showcasing their passion for unique and well-crafted timepieces.
Interestingly, the E. Ingraham Clock Company operated under multiple name variations. In Nova Scotia, there are two estate auction houses, one of which offers premium items. The individual successfully bid for the E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock in this prestigious auction house.
The acquisition of the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock continues the individual's journey in the world of antique clock collecting, adding another piece of history to their collection and reinforcing their dedication to this fascinating hobby.
- The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, obtained by the individual, not only enhances their ever-growing collection of vintage clocks but also blends seamlessly with their distinctive lifestyle.
- In the realms of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, the unique charm of the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock could potentially find a niche, given its antique walnut bracket style design and polished brass outer dial.
