Discussion Series: Junghans Bracket Clock Identification - Episode 40
In the heart of a contemporary home, a relic from the past ticks away, its rhythmic beat echoing the passage of time. This is the Junghans 8-day Westminster chime bracket style clock, a treasure that has found a new home in September 2020.
The clock, with its Regency style veneered mahogany case, stands 14 inches high, 10 inches wide, and 6 inches deep, boasting attractive brass accents that gleam in the light. It is a later model compared to the one that has been in the writer's grandparent's home since the 1930s, a testament to the enduring charm of Junghans clocks.
Manufactured in Germany in 1911, the Junghans bracket clock bears a trademark on the back of its movement, a distinctive mark that sets it apart. The dial, while some might find it plain, is currently being cleaned to reveal its original beauty.
Determining the production year of a Junghans bracket clock can be a challenging task without specific documentation or markings. However, with diligent research and the aid of experts, it is possible to narrow down the timeframe.
One of the first steps is to check for any signatures, logos, or serial numbers on the clock. Junghans clocks often have distinctive markings that can be linked to specific time periods. Additionally, changes in clock hands, finials, and pendulum designs can indicate different production years.
Comparing the design of the clock with those in historical catalogs or online archives can help find similarities. Visiting the Junghans historical index or archives can provide catalog images and descriptions from the era the clock might have been produced.
Engaging with collector communities or forums where enthusiasts share knowledge and images of vintage clocks can also be beneficial. Posting images of the clock and asking for insights from experienced collectors can provide valuable information.
Consulting horology experts or antique dealers who specialize in Junghans clocks can provide a more precise estimate based on their experience with similar clocks. If access to a professional clock restorer or appraiser is available, they might be able to inspect the clock's internal mechanisms and provide a more accurate assessment of its age.
The gong on the clock may also hold clues, as it may have a name on it that can help date the clock. With patience and persistence, the mystery of the Junghans bracket clock's production year can be unraveled, providing a fascinating glimpse into its history.
The Junghans bracket clock holds a special place in the writer's family, not just for its historical value, but also for the daily ritual it represents. The writer's father recalls his grandfather winding the clock every day, a tradition that continues with the new owner.
As the clock continues to tick away, it serves as a reminder of the past, a bridge connecting generations, and a testament to the enduring charm of Junghans clocks.
The Junghans bracket clock, with its vintage design and intricate brass accents, is a charming addition to the home-and-garden lifestyle, reflecting a blend of contemporary and heritage aesthetics. As a treasure that has been researched extensively, this 1911-made clock, while not as old as the one in the writer's grandparent's home, still embodies the timeless appeal of vintage clocks, serving as a lifestyle statement as much as a relic of the past.
