There is something special about a house with a large fireplace with ample space for a collection of antique mantel clocks. If you’ve considered starting a mantel clock collection, you may want to take the time to do some homework. Collecting vintage mantel clocks can be rewarding, but it can also be expensive, especially if your knowledge is limited. Although you can find affordable mantel clocks in a variety of styles, you’ll want to make sure you buy a real antique rather than a modern replica, or worse, a fake antique. Take the time to do your research before buying your first watch and you’ll know you’re getting your money’s worth.
Antique mantel clocks come in many types and styles. You can find alarm clocks, floor clocks and cuckoo clocks. Since there are so many styles available, it would be helpful to choose one type to collect instead of trying to collect them all. If you can narrow your choice to one type of watch, it will make collecting much easier. While you want each mantel clock to be able to stand on its own, you also want each one to be suitable for grouping together. If you find a rare vintage Mickey Mouse mantel clock and just have to get it, be prepared to put it in a different place than in your cuckoo clock collection. Knowing what your collection goals are will help you decide whether or not to buy that great watch and whether it will fit in with your current collection.
While it is possible to have fun collecting vintage mantel clocks, and there is a chance of profit, you will want to be aware of some of the pitfalls you may encounter. Lots of people are interested in this type of collection, so you might find some clever reproductions. In fact, some of the replicas are so well made that it’s hard to tell them apart from a real antique. You can use the same advice that federal agents are given when learning to say counterfeit money: “Spend as much time learning about real dollars so you can easily tell fake ones.” This is especially important if you are a hobbyist. Doing your homework will help you avoid being taken advantage of and losing money. What can you do? Read descriptions online and more books about real things to know what key elements to look for. Then, if possible, find an independent appraisal of any vintage mantel clock you’re interested in before you buy.
While you might find a rare vintage mantel clock at a garage sale or online auction, don’t get your hopes up. You will most likely have to search reputable dealers or antique stores for what you are looking for. If you’re looking for a particular piece to add to your collection, shop around and do your research before investing your hard-earned money. By comparing prices, you may be able to find the same part for less money. It may also be in better condition.
Collecting vintage mantel clocks can be an enjoyable activity. Be careful to jump right in without learning everything you can about the subject, determining what are the key signs to recognize a true antique and what mistakes to avoid. Having this knowledge will prevent you from making an expensive purchase and then finding out that you have been cheated on. When it comes to purchasing any type of collectible, the Latin phrase “caveat emptor,” meaning buyer beware, holds true.
