Expert: John Newman - 11/4/2011

Question
I have spotted two grandfather clocks. One is colonial and the other is antique. My husband likes the colonial because it's decorated more but I like the antique because it has very large chimes and it looks like it's antique. Unlike my husband's choice. The colonial clock appears more modern but I don't know if it's modern or old. How can we tell the difference from old and new? Thank you so much.

         Sincerely,
        
         Sharon Lynn

Answer
Sharon, there are many clues in determining the age of clocks such as numbers, styles and methods of manufacturer.  Because of variations in descriptions, it is best for someone evaluating a clock to actually see the clock.  From what I have picked up doing research on the Internet shows that Colonial evolved from another company in the late 1800's and took the name "The Colonial Clock Company" in 1914, and they ceased doing business in 1987.  There was an attempt to serialize the clocks, and the first two numbers would indicate the year, i.e. 6409 would have been manufactured in 1964.  However, it was stated that production was overestimated and the and the pre-numbered labels ran over into the subsequent years.

As far as it being modern or old, you would have to determine yourself that definition.  I have often described clocks as "modern production clocks", using the end of WWII as the starting date.  At that time mass production clock manufacturing really took off, and many of the models of clock movements are still being manufactured.

In your case, I feel the final decision is between you and your husband, not so much as the clocks. But, I don't think I better get involved in that!  8>)  One of the factors is how the clock would go with the rest of the decor in the room.  I will say that the chimes of the older clocks, particularly the old German clocks, are very impressive.  I would consider the condition of the cases and most importantly the state of the movement in either clock and what the costs would be to bring it up to good running condition and to maintain it.

I hope this helps a little.

John Newman
The Village Clocksmith
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama