Mercedes Timepiece - Not Produced by the Auto Manufacturing Company
The Mercedes ceramic mechanical shelf clock, crafted by the renowned German clock factory Gebruder Hauser, is a fascinating piece of vintage timekeeping equipment. Despite its value, it is more appreciated as a decorative collectible than a high-value antique clock.
Founded in 1923 by Otto and Josef Hauser in Weigheim, Germany, Gebruder Hauser was known for its ceramic items. The factory produced various clock variants, including mechanical, electrical, and quartz, with the mechanical variant being the most sought-after and valuable.
The Mercedes novelty clock, a unique addition to the collection, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. It is a ceramic mechanical clock, a type that collectors often admire for its mid-century German design. However, while Gebruder Hauser is not a high-end or rare clockmaker like some French or Swiss brands, the Mercedes novelty clock still holds a modicum of value.
Comparable West German ceramic mechanical clocks typically sell for around $47 to $50 on platforms like Etsy. The value of these clocks is primarily based on their condition and functionality. While it may not command high prices in the collectibles market, the Mercedes ceramic mechanical shelf clock remains an attractive vintage decorative piece.
The clock is in excellent condition, with no chips, cracks, or signs of wear. It is a novelty item, not a standard clock, and its appeal lies in its unique design and historical significance.
It's interesting to note that Gebruder Hauser also produced chess clock works, and during the 1950s, ten active clock companies were operating in Canada, primarily in the Toronto area. The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, once prominent in Canada, closed in 1941, but other companies continued to thrive.
The author of this article, a retired educator from Nova Scotia, Canada, collects, repairs, and writes about vintage and antique clocks. He focuses on horological areas of interest, interesting clocks, and clock stories in his search for new acquisitions.
The Gebruder Hauser KG clock factory in Weigheim closed its doors on 31 July 1998. Similar-looking clocks with the Mercedes name can be found on eBay and other auction sites, as well as under other retail names.
Despite its value, the cost of servicing the mechanical version of the Mercedes novelty clock is high, making it less practical for regular use. However, for collectors and enthusiasts, the charm and nostalgia of this vintage clock make it a worthwhile addition to any collection.
[1] Prices obtained from Etsy listings as of 17th March 2023.
This vintage Mercedes novelty clock, produced by the Gebruder Hauser factory in Weigheim, Germany, is a fascinating addition to both a home-and-garden and fashion-and-beauty lifestyle, with its mid-century German design making it an appealing antique collectible. Vintage collectors may also appreciate the factory's other offerings, such as antique clocks from the same era, including the sought-after and valuable ceramic mechanical varieties.
