|
Antique Clock Appraisal
You are obviously doing your investigations, since you
found us. So far, so
good -- you are doing your homework! Keep going. Before you
dig too far
into your antique clock appraisal, make sure you know what you
need an appraisal for. Did you inherit or find your antique
clock? Are you considering a purchase? Armed with your
purpose, you should be able to get and antique clock appraisal
suited just for your needs. Keep in mind an appraisal can cost
good money.
Antique Clock Appraisal - Some Don'ts
DON'T expect a good antique clock appraisal if all you
can do is provide pictures, e-mails and written descriptions.
It's impossible to describe the internal working mechanisms of
a clock. Appraisers will need to see and handle the clock.
Although photographs can help with getting a crude estimate
from an appraiser, the appraiser CAN'T determine the true
condition of the clock from most photographs. Any reputable antique clocks appraiser
will provide an appraisal based on the amount of time it will take him to do the
appraisal. If the appraiser says he charges a percentage of the value of
the clock, DON'T bite -- find somebody
else!
Antique Clock Appraisal: If Your
Purpose is More than Casual and You Need a Quality
Appraisal...
Start with a local merchant you trust. Although your
local dealer is likely a generalist, he will be able to refer
you to a specialist for your antique clock appraisal if the
need arises. A good antique clock appraisal will cost money, so anything more than a
casual over-the-counter estimate, could cost you more than the
clock is worth. Don't spend more than your purpose
dictates.
Antique Clock Appraisal: Get the
Appraisal in
Writing
There are different reasons
for appraisals, but if your reason/purpose is for insurance
coverage or tax reasons, get the appraisal in writing.
Antique Clock Appraisal - A Few More Tips
If you are buying an antique clock, there are a few things
you can look for yourself. Is the dial original?
It can be painted, paper or metal but try to tell if it's original to the clock. Even the dirty or slightly chipped dials add more value than one that has been touched-up, patched or replaced.
Look inside. Can you tell if the movement is original to the clock?
At least look for the tell-tale signs of "extra
holes" in the case that indicates the movement may have
been replaced.
|
