Expert: Michael Radi - 7/30/2010

Question
I have a 40-year-old Colonial Mfg. Co. grandmother clock (movement 1752, dial DC) which is not working. During a move, all the "innards" were removed, and we've tried to put them back correctly. The chains had slipped from the gears; we put them back on and actually had it running for a minute...but alas, no more. We're considering selling it, as it's in good shape but no longer fits in our home.  We're debating about getting it fixed (or continuing to try to fix it ourselves) or trying to sell it as is. Obviously a working clock is worth more; any sense of how much more or how much it might cost to repair it? Or perhaps there's something more we can do here. Thanks so much for the benefit of your expertise.

Answer
Hi Lori, here are the magic ifs:
If it was running before the move and if I were in the area, I would put the clock back together and get it running for about $75.00. I say "if" because I don't know what clock repair people charge in your area. Prices could range from $50 to $150 (and beyond) for this job.
The range of selling price also varies by geographic location and the probability of finding the right buyer. However I'll throw some prices out there.
I have seen non working grandmother clocks sell for $40 to $150. Working ones generally bring $250 to $400.
Michael