Grecian Shelf Clock Sold at Auction - E. Ingraham & Co. Item
In early January 2021, a successful online bidder acquired an E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock. This antique piece, made by the renowned American clock manufacturer, was picked up after a 3-hour drive from one part of Nova Scotia to another.
The E. Ingraham Company, known for its mantel clocks, including the Grecian style, produced these clocks during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Grecian models, characterised by their architectural elements inspired by Greek designs, were typically made of wood and were popular during this period.
Upon receiving the clock, it was found to be in better condition than expected. The dial frame and bezel, which make up the hinged front access door, were in good shape. The dial itself features a paint-on-zinc design with moon-shaped hands and Roman chapters, all of which have undergone restoration work.
The clock's case, too, has been restored. It boasts a molded Rosewood bezel with carved volutes below the dial frame, adding to its classical influence and aesthetic appeal. The clock is the 8-day time and hour-strike alarm version, making it a desirable find for collectors.
Inside the back panel of the case, a green triangular-shaped paper label can be found. This label bears three patent dates: September 30, 1862, March 31, 1868, and June 6th, 1871. The clock was made after 1871 and before 1878, as indicated by these dates.
The Ingraham Clock Company operated under various names over the years, including E. Ingraham, E & A Ingraham, and the E. Ingraham Company. The movement of the clock has been assessed and found to be in good condition for its age.
The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock is a type that was available as a 30-hour spring-driven, time and strike, 30-hour time and strike with alarm, 8-day time and strike, and 8-day time and strike with alarm. The movement of the clock is now being serviced after the restoration of the case and dial.
Today, these vintage E. Ingraham mantel clocks are widely recognized as authentic American antiques, primarily from the late 1800s through the first half of the 1900s. The listings for vintage E. Ingraham mantel clocks on sites like Etsy and others confirm their popularity as collectible antiques today. The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, with its classical influence and aesthetically pleasing design, is no exception.
The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, with its vintage design and architectural elements inspired by Greek styles, aligns well with a lifestyle that appreciates home-and-garden aesthetics. Collectors and enthusiasts of home-and-garden decor might find such vintage clocks, like this restored Grecian model, an appealing addition to their collection.
