Impulsive Purchase of Auction Timepiece
In early January 2021, an individual successfully bid for an E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock in an online auction. This acquisition marks the latest addition to their growing collection of antique clocks.
The auction house described the clock as an antique walnut bracket style mantel clock with a polished brass outer dial, in running order but possibly needing a clean, and with a mellow tone chime. Although no specific details about the restoration plan for the clock's case and dial were provided, the individual is optimistic about their purchase.
The E. Ingraham & Company, known for its Grecian shelf clock line, operated under various name variations over the years. However, the exact model of the purchased clock remains undetermined. What is known, however, is that the movement of the clock is likely German, possibly made by the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC), one of Germany's most respected clockmakers in the early 20th century.
HAC built a strong reputation as a German clockmaker specializing in quality timepieces. Its founding in the late 19th century places it firmly within the flourishing period of German industrial clock manufacturing. While specific styles aren't detailed in the search results, German clocks of this period, including those by HAC, were typically characterized by precise mechanical movements and often featured decorative elements reflecting contemporary tastes.
The better auction house in Nova Scotia specializes in art and Canadiana, occasionally offering clocks. The individual, who frequently follows online for-sale and estate auction sites, purchased this clock from the same auction house where they bought a second clock in February 2021. Interestingly, one of the clocks the individual bought was the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock.
The individual and their wife were taking a small staycation during the time of the purchase. To collect the clock, they had to travel 3 hours to pick it up from another part of Nova Scotia. Despite the journey, they were pleased with their purchase, as the clock was in better condition than they expected based on auction photos.
In the past year, the individual has sold a few clocks locally to reduce their collection. This latest acquisition adds to their collection, which continues to grow with unique and intriguing timepieces. The restoration of the E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock is set to begin soon, promising an exciting journey into the world of horology and antique clock restoration.
The individual's acquisition of the vintage E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, with its intricate design and antique walnut bracket style, aligns perfectly with their growing collection, a testament to their appreciation for the lifestyle of vintage clocks and the art of horology. In the harmonious setting of their home-and-garden, this one-of-a-kind timepiece, echoing the contemporary fashion-and-beauty of early 20th-century clockmaking, will certainly be a conversation starter for their guests.
