Impulsive purchase of an auction timer
In the world of antique clock collecting, a recent acquisition has caught the eye of a passionate collector based in Nova Scotia. The individual, who frequently follows online for-sale and estate auction sites, successfully bid for an E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock in early January 2021.
The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, an American antique, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the E. Ingraham Clock Company, which operated under various name variations, including E. Ingraham, E & A Ingraham, and the E. Ingraham Company. Established in the 19th century, the company is renowned for producing high-quality clocks that combine mechanical complexity with timeless design.
Described by the auction house as an antique walnut bracket style mantel clock, the second clock purchased by the individual measures 14 inches tall by 10 1/4 wide and 5 3/4 inches deep. It boasts a polished brass outer dial, a mellow tone chime, and a brass movement, albeit with no makers marks. The individual suspects that the movement might be German, possibly made by the Hamburg American Clock Co. (HAC) in the early part of the 20th century.
In contrast, the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, bought in better condition than expected based on auction photos, is a time and strike shelf clock, typical of the company's offerings. The individual's wife and they were taking a small staycation during the time of the pickup, and the individual traveled 3 hours to pick up the clock from another part of Nova Scotia.
The collector has a preference for one of the auction houses in the region, which he considers "the better auction house," specializing in art and Canadiana, but occasionally offering clocks. This particular auction house offered the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, and the individual was pleased with his purchase.
Remarkably, the individual has sold a few clocks locally in the past year, demonstrating his active participation in the antique clock collecting community. His latest acquisition, the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, adds another valuable piece to his collection.
The Hamburg American Clock Co. (HAC), founded in 1873, is a notable German clock manufacturer recognized among antique clock collectors for producing quality clocks, especially spring-driven mechanical clocks. HAC clocks are respected for their craftsmanship and historic significance in the development of clockmaking during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
While there is no direct connection found between HAC and the E. Ingraham Clock Company, both companies have contributed significantly to the horological community, with their clocks remaining collectible antiques appreciated for their mechanical complexity, design, and historical value.
The individual's latest acquisition, the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, is not only a valuable addition to his collection but also a perfect fit for his vintage clocks-themed home and garden, enhancing his unique lifestyle. On the other hand, the individual suspects that the movement of a different clock, which he believes might be from the Hamburg American Clock Co., could potentially make its way into a home adorning a lifestyle appreciative of antique and high-quality home-and-garden items.
