Is it hard to sell a grandfather clock, and where should I sell it?

Honestly, yes, many grandfather clocks are hard to sell. Most of the tall case clocks found in homes today were made in the 1970s through the 1990s by companies like Howard Miller, Ridgeway and Sligh. They are well made, but there are a lot of them, they're heavy, and fewer buyers have room for one. Many sell for far less than their original price.

The exceptions are true antiques, such as 18th and early 19th century American and English tall case clocks with hand-painted dials and original cases, and high-quality clocks with special features like moon phase dials or fine chimes in excellent condition.

Before you move it, take off the weights and pendulum and secure the chains or cables, or have a clock shop do it. Moving one fully assembled can damage the movement.

For newer clocks, local selling, an estate sale or a local auction often works best because buyers can pick it up. For a true antique, an auction company that handles clocks and fine furniture will reach serious collectors.