Grandparent's mantel piece clock | ||
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Posted 4 years ago
FinlayPaol…
(1 item)
New to the site. Does anyone have any info on this clock? Looks like a Waterbury but has 'Gordon' on back, in bold letters. Two key-operation. Probably 100+ years old, as the owner is 80 yrs old and was grandparents' mantel piece clock. Thank you.
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Hi. Welcome to Collectors Weekly, Clocks.
As you have pointed out to us, you have a Waterbury "Gordon" model. It dates back to circa 1903 and could have been manufactured several years before or after that date. The model was produced in either Oak or Walnut and came with a Thermometer and Barometer.
Your heirloom happens to be the GORDON-Calendar. It seems to be missing the day hand which is long and narrow and would point to the day of the month on the outside of the Hour Chapter Ring. It's a simple calendar mechanism. On months with fewer than 31 days, the owner would simply advance the hand to day one at the start of the next month.
It looks like one of your relatives keep a small jar of kerosene in the case. It was believed that the kerosene evaporated and helped to keep the movement lubricated. Not sure how well that worked and the kerosene vapors could be hard on other parts of the clock but in any case, it was a common practice for many years.
This model listed for about $6 in 1903. When you adjust for inflation that would be roughly $175 in 2020.
It should only need one key to wind. If they both fit well, one is just a spare.
It looks like the barometer has given up working. Does it have a functioning thermometer? Does the movement still run?
It's a nice clock. It would make a nice decorative, heirloom piece. If you plan to run it, you should probably have it examined by a good clock shop. The mainsprings in these clocks can store a lot of power. It's not a pretty sight if they break loose on you.
If you have any more questions, please let us know. If that solves your "Mystery", please indicate "Mystery Solved" in your listing.
Thanks for sharing your heirloom Waterbury Clock with us.
Bruce