Clocks, Watches/age of sligh clock

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Expert: - 10/14/2010


Question

Sligh grandfather cloc
I recently purchased a sligh grandfather clock.  The model #0961-1-1893.  It does say 'Newport' on a label stuck to the housing.  Would you have some idea of the approximate age and original purchase price?  I have attached a picture.

Answer
Uri, I'm sorry but I do not have any information on the ages of Sligh Clocks, as they are no longer in the clock business and here is very little avilable history of models.  Also I do not give values of clocks as I am not an cerified apprasier.  I would suggest that you go to some of the on-line auction sites such as eBay for similar clocks being sold.  Most modern production clock do not appreciate in value.  The value would depend on the original selling price (not listed or asking), the condition of the movement and case and the demand and economy of the area in which you are in.  Sorry I could not help you.

John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama  

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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