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Clocks, Watches/My grandma's Linden clock
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Question
My grandmother left me a Linden Black forest 8-day chime clock that went on top of her mantle. It was made in west Germany and the model number is 341-020. I was wondering if this is worth anything? I have children and I'm not sure if this is something I can leave out, in their reach, or I should keep it somewhere very safe. Your answer is greatly appreciated!
Hi, Maureen. The 341-020 movement was manufactured by Hermle. If you look on the back of the movement you will see some information on the back plate in the lower left-hand corner. The name could be Hermle or another name stamped on it, as Hermle would apply the name of a company at their request if enough movements were ordered. The two-digit number above the name would indicate the year in which it was manufactured, like "78" for 1978. In 1988 they started using alpha characters like "A" for 1988, "B" for 1989, etc.
In answer to your question, yes it is worth something. I would keep it out of the children's reach until you could be assured they would not harm it. As far as what it is worth, say to sell, I cannot tell. But let me tell you a very short story that might help you decide.
A man brings a clock into a clock shop and asks what it is worth.
The clockmaker says, "Oh, you want to sell it?"
"Of course not." said the man, "It's been in the family for years"
"Then, it's priceless" said the clockmaker.
It just depends on how much something of your grandmothers might be worth to you, and later, to your children.
I hope this helps a little.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
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Answers by Expert:
John Newman
Expertise
As much as I would like to offer values of clocks, I am not a certified appraiser and will not venture into giving an unresearched guess. There is very little published information on what I consider to be the value of "modern production clocks". Considerations are what the clock originally sold for, the condition of the case and movement, and particularly the area in which you live, the demand and the economy. ALSO, WATCHES ARE NOT MY FIELD. However, I can advise the clock owner on proper maintenance of a clock to keep it running, small corrections and adjustments and how to move a clock without damaging it. I can also advise on obtaining parts for clocks. It helps if you can send any information on the clock movement which is usually found on the back plate of the movement. I have been a clockmaker for about 35 years and was plant engineer in the mid 90's and later operations and engineering consultant at Emperor Clock Company in Fairhope, Alabama. I now have my own clock shop.
Experience
One of my greatest accomplishments was traveling to China to assist a clock factory in building clocks to the standards which we required. With the proper specifications and quality control, some beautiful clock cases were built. The factory people from the wood carvers to the plant manager were very congenial, friendly and I left a lot of wonderful friends when I returned from my trips.
Organizations
Chamber of Commerce
Small Business Committee
Publications
Horological Times, a publication of the American Watch and Clockmakers Instute. Collaberated column author, with Photos and ideas for clock movement conversion article.
Education/Credentials
Associate of Science Mechanical Engineering Technology
Emperor Introductory Clock Repair (Eventually taught a portion of the class after becoming employee)
Awards and Honors
Small Business of the Quarter (Prattville, Alabama)
Leadership Class of 2009 (Autauga County, Alabama)
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