Ancient Timepiece and Identity Crisis Dilemma
In the world of antique collecting, few items spark as much debate as antique clocks. The question of originality and restoration is a contentious one, with collectors and enthusiasts often finding themselves at odds.
A true "original" antique clock, as defined by horological standards, is one that retains all the components it had when it first left the clockmaker's workshop. This includes not just major parts but also lesser-known elements integral to its initial construction[1]. Any changes or restorations that introduce non-original parts or remove original features diminish the clock’s originality, making it no longer fully "original" in the eyes of collectors.
However, the line between restoration and diminishing originality is not always clear-cut. Restorations that preserve or sympathetically repair existing original parts while maintaining their historic integrity may still retain much of the clock’s originality. But significant changes generally reduce its status as an original antique.
The seller of a changed antique clock may or may not be aware of the changes made. A person may find an antique clock that appears authentic but has been changed over the years. This raises the question: if all parts of a clock are replaced, is it still the same clock? Whether a restored clock is fundamentally the same as the original is a matter of opinion.
This intriguing discussion is beautifully showcased in the video titled "My Antique Wall Clock Collection," uploaded in January 2019 on YouTube. The video features a collection of 19 antique wall clocks, each identified by its maker, where known. A brief segment of sound highlights the winding of a Mauthe wall clock, while background music is used throughout. The collection took 6 years to assemble, and the collector's particular favorites are wall clocks.
The video offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of antique clock collecting, showcasing a variety of clocks from different eras and makers. It serves as a reminder that each clock tells a unique story, and its value lies not only in its mechanical workings but also in its historical and aesthetic significance.
[1] Source: The National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC)
You can watch the video here: [Link to the video]
- The debate about originality and restoration in antique horology is a complex one, as sympathetic repairs to original parts can maintain a clock's historic integrity while significant changes may reduce its status as an original antique clock.
- A collection of antique wall clocks, each with its unique history and aesthetic value, is the focus of a YouTube video titled "My Antique Wall Clock Collection," launched in January 2019.
- In the pursuit of a clock collection, one's lifestyle intertwines with the world of antique clocks, vintage clocks, and home-and-garden fashions, offering a glimpse into the past and a glimpse of historical and aesthetic significance.
- The video presents a diverse assortment of antique wall clocks, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship and the story each piece tells, reminding us that the value of a clock goes beyond its mechanical workings.
