Expert: Michael Radi - 1/4/2011

Question
Mr. Radi,
I have seen a Waltham 31 day grandmother's clock in a local antiques shop. It is in pretty good condition with the exception of some kind of "smudge" about one inch in diameter on the wood surface of the clock. They are asking $79.00 lessq6v3r 10% during the month of January. I've been told it does work, and they would refund my money if it does not. My question is: since it is battery operated, does that meat it is worthless? It is attractive, but I don't want to purchase a novelty.
Thank you for your consideration.

Answer
It sounds like this clock has been converted to battery. 31 day referrers to how often it has to be wound and a battery clock does not need winding. Battery movements can be replaced for under $10.00 so the whole value is in the clock case. If it says made in Korea, run away as fast as possible. Korean 31 day clocks are low value and with a battery movement it's only worth what a person is willing to pay to own. You should never consider that there is any resale value in it.
If the case is an antique it may be worth more but only to a collector or clock repair person who can find and install the original parts.
If you don't feel that you would like to own this clock for a long time I don't suggest you purchase it at any price.