Found at Auction: E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian Shelf Clock
The world of antique clock enthusiasts was recently treated to a fascinating discovery when a successful online bidder acquired an E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian time and strike shelf clock in early January 2021. This acquisition marked the first look at this particular piece, adding to the intrigue surrounding this notable 19th-century American timepiece.
The Grecian clock, made between the years 1871 and 1878, is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the E. Ingraham Company, a prominent clockmaker established in the mid-1800s. Known as the Grecian from E. Ingraham & Company, this clock is a prime example of the company's ability to blend decorative appeal with practical engineering.
The clock's design is a marvel of the Neoclassical movement in the United States, featuring a molded Rosewood bezel adorned with carved volutes below the dial frame. The dial frame and bezel are one section that makes up the hinged front access door, providing easy access for maintenance and inspection. The clock's face boasts a paint-on-zinc dial, moon-shaped hands, and Roman chapters, adding to its classical elegance.
Upon closer inspection, it was revealed that the clock was in better condition than expected. The movement, a crucial component of any clock, was surprisingly well-preserved for its age. Despite its advanced years, the movement had been serviced in the past, ensuring its continued functionality. The clock's current movement servicing is now underway, with the writer planning to share their first impressions and the work required to restore the clock in future posts.
The clock's movement houses a green triangular-shaped paper label inside the back panel of the case, bearing three patent dates, further emphasizing its historical significance. The clock's eight-day time and hour-strike mechanism adds to its charm, providing accurate timekeeping and a pleasing rhythmic ticking sound.
While specific details about the E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian clock may be scarce, its existence serves as a reminder of the company's influence on American clockmaking during the 19th century. The Ingraham Clock Company, which operated under various name variations over the years, was a significant player in the field, alongside companies like Waltham. The Grecian motif was part of a broader neoclassical design movement popular in American decorative arts in that century.
For those seeking more detailed production dates, specific model variants, or historical auction records, specialized horological references or antique clock auction databases would be recommended for comprehensive information. However, this recent acquisition offers a unique glimpse into the world of 19th-century American clockmaking, showcasing the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and enduring appeal of the E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian clock.
[1] Waltham Watch Company, another prominent American clock and watch manufacturer during the 19th century.
- The discovery of the E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian timepiece has sparked an interest among vintage clock enthusiasts, adding to the conversation in the world of lifestyle and antique collectibles.
- The success of this auction not only highlights the popularity of fashion-and-beauty related items but also underscores the enduring appeal of historical pieces, such as the Grecian clock, in the home-and-garden sphere.
- For those with an interest in education-and-self-development, studying the mechanics and history of clocks like the E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian could serve as a captivating case study, offering insights into American industry during the 19th century.
- Food-and-drink aficionados might enjoy pairing the charm of the E. Ingraham & Co. Grecian clock with a vintage setting, creating an ambiance that transcends time and aids in relaxation or entertainment.
