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Question
I have been given a Baldwin Grandfather clock serial #15789 and model #CS716CHY, it is in perfect condition, has 3 brass chain wind pulleys, 3 different chimes, a cut off switch to turn of chime. Can you tell me about what it is worth, and how old is it, Baldwin went out of business making clocks and I can't find out anything about it.
REQUESTS FOR APPRAISALS
My main Internet contact is through the Allexperts Website. The first statement in my Allexperts personal bio states that I am not a certified appraiser and therefore do not give values of clocks. On what I consider modern production clocks (WWII and later) there are very few of these clocks that have any available history of values, and most depreciate from the original selling price with time. The values of a few limited production and top line models have risen. Generally, the value of a modern production clock will depend on the original selling price (usually not the retail listed price), the condition of the case and movement, and most importantly, the area in which you are selling the clock, the demand and the economy. I suggest you check listings for a clock similar to yours in local classified listings, selling venues such as Craigslist and Internet auction sites like eBay. I'm sorry I cannot help you.
Jeri, there is very limited availability for information of modern production clocks. Baldwin made furniture, pianos and clock cases, intermingling the divisions at various times. They would make the clock cases and then "populate" them with movements, dials, weight, pendulums, chime rod assemblies, etc. The only clue that I know of might be the markings on the back of the clock movement. Some had dates in the codes. If it is a Hermle movement, the information would be on the lower right corner as you look at the back. There would be a two digit number at the top of the information like "87". That would mean that the clock was manufactured in 1987. In 1988 Hermle changed the code to Alpha characters. So, "A" would be 1988, "B" would be 1989, etc. That's about all I can help you with.
John Newman
THE VILLAGE CLOCKSMITH
Old Prattvillage
Prattville, Alabama
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| Comment | Thanks John, you were very helpful and your immediate responce was appreciated. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
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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