Found at Auction: E. Ingraham & Co. Greek-Style Wall Clock by Manufacturer
In the world of antique clock collecting, the latest addition to one collector's growing collection is causing quite a stir. The E. Ingraham & Company Grecian shelf clock, a prized piece from the American clockmaking era, has made its debut.
The Grecian, as it's affectionately known, was made by E. Ingraham & Co. and boasts a design inspired by the Neoclassical movement, specifically Greek furniture design. This particular model, acquired in an online auction in early January 2021, has captured the attention of collectors with its intricate woodwork and ornate details.
Upon acquiring the clock, the successful bidder embarked on a 3-hour journey from one part of Nova Scotia to another to pick up their new treasure. The clock, in better condition than expected, features a molded Rosewood bezel with carved volutes, a hinged front access door, and a paint-on-zinc dial.
The movement of the Grecian time and strike shelf clock is in surprisingly good condition for its age. However, it is currently undergoing servicing to ensure it ticks and chimes as beautifully as it did when it first left the factory. Further details about the clock, including first impressions and the work needed for restoration, will be shared at a later time.
The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock is a testament to the craftsmanship and design prowess of the E. Ingraham Company, often referred to as the "Gingerbread clocks" due to their elaborate woodwork. These clocks, popular in American homes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, are a blend of functionality and aesthetics, reflecting the period when American clockmaking was at its peak.
While the specific 8-day time and hour-strike alarm version of the Grecian shelf clock was not the focus of this article, it's worth noting that this model incorporates an 8-day mechanical movement and features an hour-strike function and an alarm mechanism. This combination of features makes this model a multifunctional and sought-after piece for collectors.
The E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, with its green triangular-shaped paper label inside the back panel, dates back to a period between 1871 and 1878, as it does not have the patent dates of October 8, 1878, and November 11, 1879. This antique clock is a fascinating piece of history, embodying the functional and decorative elements that were characteristic of the E. Ingraham Company's production era.
As the collector continues to uncover the secrets and stories hidden within this beautiful timepiece, we look forward to sharing more about the E. Ingraham & Company Grecian shelf clock in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for updates on its restoration and further insights into this captivating antique clock.
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This E. Ingraham Grecian shelf clock, with its vintage elegance, will likely impact the home-and-garden lifestyle of its new owner as they restore this prized antique piece. Considered a sought-after item in the home-and-garden and vintage clocks market, this Grecian model embodies the aesthetic and functional elements sought by collectors interested in the lifestyle of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
