What is my old mantel clock or wall clock worth?

Most antique mantel and wall clocks were mass produced by American companies like Seth Thomas, Ansonia, Waterbury, Gilbert, Sessions and Ingraham. Common models, such as the black mantel clocks of the late 1800s and early 1900s and plain oak kitchen clocks, tend to sell for modest amounts, even in good running order.

Value goes up with unusual case designs, fancy figural or porcelain cases, original paint and tablets, rare makers, and quality movements. Regulator wall clocks, early American shelf clocks with original labels, and fine French or German clocks with good movements can do well. Condition and originality matter a lot. A replaced dial, missing pendulum or key, refinished case or non-running movement all lower the price.

Look for a paper label inside the case or on the back, and check the movement for a stamped maker's name. Then search sold prices for that maker and model, not asking prices.

An auction company that sells clocks regularly can tell you where yours fits, and a clock repair shop can say whether it's worth fixing.