Are Grandfather Clocks a Good Investment?

If you are still ruminating about whether to invest in a grandfather clock, here are the reasons why it might be a good idea.

➤  Find your perfect Grandfather Clock at Premier Clocks.

 

Are People Still Buying Grandfather Clocks?

Yes, and yes! It's important to emphasize that the term investment extends beyond simply to a purchase of an item to sell at a later date for profit.

Choosing to invest in a grandfather clock could be motivated by many factors beyond seeking personal financial gain. For instance, you may see a tall clock as a cherished family heirloom, intending to pass it down to your children as a tangible connection to your legacy or as a form of security, recognizing its potential for increased value over time.

Even with the market currently in decline, grandfather clocks are still something of a premium item and relatively expensive.

 

Should You Invest in a New or Antique Clock?

If you decided to invest in a grandfather clocks, you will face a decision to buy a new grandfather clock or an antique grandfather clock. There is no right or wrong answer, but we will provide you with some information that should help you to make a choice.

 

What Is a New Grandfather Clock and Why to Buy It?

If you are looking around for a grandfather clock, you probably know what it is. But just in case, here is a quick definition from wikipedia. A grandfather clock is is a tall, freestanding, weight-driven pendulum clock, with the pendulum held inside the tower or waist of the case.

 

A more important question - what are the reasons to invest in a new grandfather clock?

Even though grandfather clocks can be a financial investment, for many people it's rather a secondary reason. The biggest factor that makes people to buy a grandfather clock is the emotional or sentimental value. If you want to start a family heirloom that will be passed down to multiple generations, a grandfather clock is the right choice. It will be your legacy, something that will remind your grand-grand-grand children about you.

 

What is an Antique Clock and Why to Buy It?

First things first. Let's begin with defining what an antique clock is. A grandfather clock must be at least 100 years old to be considered antique. Clocks that are less than 100 years old are considered vintage.

 

Investing in an antique grandfather clock has quite different reasons behind.

Antique grandfather clocks are often purchased for their rarity or condition. Some antique clock collectors are looking for the only one right timepiece, while others own hundreds of them. Fine antique clocks are a good financial investment and make a beautiful addition to your home décor. A rare grandfather clock or grandmother clock (the difference is in a smaller in size) with a high market value is what you should look for if you want to make a financial investment.

 

What Does Have More Value - New or Antique Clocks?

Sorry to disappoint you, but again there is no one answer. It really depends on each grandfather clock.

 

Value of a New Grandfather Clock  

Since the technology of producing modern grandfather clocks improved significantly, these timepieces will have a high value because, with proper care, they will last for a long period of time. For example, Howard Miller clocks have rare tubular movement that are made from high quality materials. These "modern" clocks will have much higher value than antique clocks.Clock styles can range from traditional to modern grandfather clocks, but inner workings will play a significant part in clock's price and value.

A monetary value also will depend on the construction of the case. The more detailed design of longcase clocks, the higher value they will have. A clock face, long pendulum, regal appearance will all influence the cost.

 

Value of an Antique Grandfather Clock  

At the same time, an antique grandfather clock that is confirmed with the presence of a clockmaker’s trademark or insignia engraved on the clock’s movement can have a really high value on the market. At the same time, if it is the known style of a specific maker but not confirmed by a marking, it will most likely be valued less. As with most antiques, if a grandfather clock is rare and in good condition, it can be very valuable.

You should always look at the overall shape and appearance of a grandfather clock. Even ordinary timepieces in extraordinary condition are worth more than those with damage or flaws. Having all the original components has a huge impact on value of a grandfather clock.

The value of most grandfather clocks will decrease if they were reconditioned and had unprofessional repairs. You need to pay attention that the clock has its original paint, glass, and appropriately functioning movement.

 

An Average Price of a New and Antique Grandfather Clock

The price of a new high quality grandfather clock can range from $1000 to $5000. But there are timepieces that are worth tens thousands of dollars. For example, the Howard Miller J.H. Miller II Grandfather Clock 611031 is worth more than $30,000.

The price of a rare antique grandfather clock can vary $5000 to $20,000. But of course, the antique grandfather clocks with unique design and original movement can cost even $100,000 or more. For example, the 17th Century English Grandfather Clock by Thomas Tompion costs $49,995.

 

Where Can I Buy a Grandfather Clock?

Let's start with that you can buy a grandfather clock both in an online and offline.

➤  Find more information in our Buying Guide: Grandfather Clocks.

 

Buying New Grandfather Clocks

If you set your mind on buying a new grandfather clock, you can check out a specialized clock shop, for example Premier Clocks. Stores that focus specifically on grandfather clocks will help you with all questions that you might have regarding a clock and purchase process.

In addition, a clock store will have a wider selection, a special warranty, clock friendly delivery and a professional team that will do a clock setup for you.

 

Buying Antique Clocks

To buy an antique clock, you can start with auction houses. Auctions can be a great place to find unique and rare grandfather clocks. Look for local or online auctions specializing in antiques and collectibles.

You may also find your perfect antique clock for sale through online marketplaces or estate sales. Be sure to inspect the clock thoroughly and ask about its history before making a purchase from a private seller. The risk of purchasing a clock through market place is that you can make a high investment into a clock that worth noting.

To make a great investment, it's always better to spend some extra money on consulting with clock collectors or clock professionals. They will help you to identify an antique clock that is extremely valuable and will remain its high investment value.

 

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Grandfather Clock?

Many antique clocks have lasted for hundreds of years because they were treated properly. Your grandfather clock may well outlast you. Generally, a well-crafted and properly maintained grandfather clock can last for generations, potentially exceeding 100 years or more.

 

Do Grandfather Clocks Depreciate in Value?

While some grandfather clocks may depreciate in value over time, others may appreciate or maintain their worth depending on factors such as clock's age, condition, quality, and market demand. It's essential to research and assess each clock individually to determine its potential value and investment prospects.

If kept in good condition, grandfather clocks can retain or appreciate their value over time. You can find more information on How to Make a Grandfather Clock Last for Years in Premier Clocks Blog.

 

Whether grandfather tall clocks are a good investment depends on personal preferences, financial goals, and market conditions. While they may not always provide significant financial returns, their intrinsic value in terms of history, craftsmanship, and sentimental attachment can make them worthwhile investments for some people.