Ask the expert - Question Eight

Marty Weil answers your questions

 

Question:

 

Rockincobra asks, "I am interested in finding out the value of an 1807 gilbert grandmother clock (I think thats the right name for it), it stands about five feet eight inches tall, has a brass face plate with gilbert 1807 on it, with a glass door and a floral decal on the front lower case. I understand that William T Gilbert clockmaker started his clock making buisness in 1807, so that would mean that this clock is one of the first clocks built by William T Gilbert. This clock has the pendulum and key and a weight."

 

Answer:

 

To find the value of your clock, you will need to seek the service of a qualified appraiser. After examining the clock, an expert antique clock appraiser should be able to determine the authenticity of the clock and an approximate value. You can’t expect a valid appraisal if you can only provide pictures, email, and a written description; it is impossible to describe the internal working mechanism of a clock. An appraiser will not be able to determine the true condition of the clock based on photographs. The best photographs in the world won’t convey whether or not the clock can even keep time. An appraiser will need to see and handle the clock. Any reputable antique clocks appraiser will provide an appraisal based on the amount of time it will take to do the appraisal. If the appraiser says he charges a percentage of the value of the clock, find somebody else. For a list of qualified appraisers, you can check with an association such as the International Society of Appraisers. 

 

Best,

  

Marty

 

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