Clocks, Watches/Viking Clock

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Expert: - 1/4/2010


Question
Hello John,

I have an old Viking Grandfather Clock, and am trying to figure out if it is worth trying to sell it or if these clocks hold no real value.  The cover of the instruction manual says: Series#111~133.  So it's either a 111 or 133 I guess.  I am not sure on hold it is.  Are there any clocks of from this company that would be worth money?  Thanks for your help!

David

Answer
David, as explained in my Allexperts personal profile, I do not give values of clocks.  When you say "real value", I am not sure what you mean.  Generally, with few exceptions, modern production clocks do not appreciate in value.  As there is very little information available on these clocks, I don't know what the original selling price is or if other Viking clocks are "worth money".  The selling price of a clock of this type would depend on the original selling price, the condition of the movement and case, and the demand in your area for a clock of this type.  I would watch the selling prices on a Website such as Craigslist or Online auctions such as eBay to find a comparison.  Sorry I could not help you more.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama

Clocks, Watches

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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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