Pequegnat Simcoe supporting the ongoing trend
The Arthur Pequegnat Simcoe clock, a notable piece from the collection, is one of eight Simcoe clocks and one of nine Jewel clocks, both produced by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company in Berlin, Ontario (now Kitchener). These clocks are a testament to the craftsmanship of one of Canada's most prominent clock manufacturers in the early 20th century.
The Simcoe and the Jewel clocks share a similar style but have subtle differences in design and features. Both clocks are part of a broader group of clocks produced by Pequegnat, who was known for creating durable, stylish, and affordable household clocks. The company produced a variety of models, each with unique characteristics appealing to different tastes.
The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company was based in Berlin, Ontario, a city that was a hub for manufacturing and skilled artisanship. The company managed to establish a significant niche in the Canadian clock market despite fierce competition from American manufacturers. The Pequegnat clocks are particularly important as Canadian-made artifacts during a time when most clocks in Canada were imported or made by American firms, making the company a symbol of Canadian industrial capability and design.
The Simcoe clock, often referred to as a "Berlin" clock, features a nickel-plated movement, possibly to mitigate rust formation. It has a piecrust dial bezel, claw feet, and lions head handles with rings. The yellow oak case is in very good condition with a few minor imperfections. However, the dial pan has had an ugly repair with protruding solder at 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock. Despite this, the working movement of the Simcoe appears to be in good shape, but may have some wear due to its age.
In private sales and online for-sale sites, sellers of Pequegnat clocks are knowledgeable about their value. A Pequegnat clock will sell for many times more than a comparable mantel clock, specifically in Canada. The Simcoe is the newest addition to the collection of Pequegnat clocks, reflecting the enduring appeal of these historical pieces to collectors appreciating Canadian clockmaking heritage.
In conclusion, the Simcoe and Jewel clocks hold historical and cultural importance as representative examples of Canadian clockmaking by Arthur Pequegnat in Berlin, Ontario. They reflect local craftsmanship, design preferences of the era, and resilience against external market pressures, making them a significant part of Canadian horological history.
References: 1. Canadian Horological Institute 2. Canadian Clock and Watch Museum
Vintage Simcoe clocks, produced by the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, are highly valued by clock enthusiasts due to their unique design and historical significance, especially in Canada's clock market. These clocks, along with Jewel clocks, share a similar style with subtle differences and are categorized as part of the company's lifestyle offerings, which also include mantel clocks. The company's popularity extended beyond clocks, as they were also known for producing fashion-and-beauty gadgets and home-and-garden items. In today's tech-savvy world, their clocks stand as a testament to the company's ability to blend technology with timeless design, offering a unique contrast to modern gadgets.
