The first clock I purchased was from a thrift store in 1969. It was a French mantel clock c1880 and cost $1, today this clock is still working and is now worth $550.

When you purchase an antique British clock it's not just a piece of furniture or clock, it's a sound investment, a piece of history, a work of art and a 200 year old antique.

Most British grandfather clocks use simple and robust escapements. This results in a reliable clock that has been running for the past 200 years. There is no reason why, with appropriate maintenance the clock could not run for an additional 200 years.

If you purchase a modern grandfather clock today you will be throwing the movement away in thirty years or less. Below is a picture showing a side-by-side comparison of a modern and old clock. As you can see the older clock, on the right, is far more robust.

Which clock do you think will last longer? You may be surprised but the one on the right will last longer.

If you purchased an authentic antique clock five years ago, today it will be worth more than you paid for it and will most likely keep up with inflation. It may even be a better investment than your 401k. If you purchased a new clock at the same time, today it will be worth a fraction of its original cost.

What To Look For When Buying A British Clock.

Make sure the clock is in full working order. Tell the dealer you will come back later in the week to verify the clock is working and keeping good time. A clock that seems like a bargain will no longer be a bargain when you have to spend over $800 to have it repaired. Come back on the hour and watch the clock chime or strike. Make sure it is indicating the correct date and moon phase.

Insist upon a written one-year warranty with your receipt.

Only purchase clocks from a dealer that has knowledge on the product he is selling.

Insist on supporting documentation to prove the clock is what the seller is claiming it to be. A clock with an inappropriate mixture of dial and case is like purchasing a fake painting.

Ask to see the clock without the hood.

Only purchase a grandfather clock from a dealer that can come to your location to deal with any problems you may encounter. If the dealer is saying he will send a clock repairman to your house, think about how that will work when it comes time to pay the bill.

Always purchase clocks that have been overhauled. The dealer may say it has been serviced but what does that mean?