Grecian Shelf Clock, Previously Auctioned by E. Ingraham & Co, Discovered
In an exciting discovery, a rare E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock has made its way into the hands of a passionate collector. The clock, which was picked up from an antique shop in a different part of Nova Scotia, is now undergoing a meticulous restoration process.
The clock, designed by E. Ingraham & Co. and named the "Grecian," boasts a striking Neoclassical design, a style that was popular in the United States during the late 19th century. The clock's case and dial are the initial focus of the restoration, with the hinged front access door consisting of a single section for the dial frame and bezel.
The dial of the Grecian shelf clock features a paint-on-zinc design, adorned with Roman chapters and moon-shaped hands. Inside the back panel of the case, a green triangular-shaped paper label bears three patent dates: September 30, 1862, March 31, 1868, and June 6th, 1871. Although specific details about the history, design, and production timeline of the Grecian clocks are scarce, it is known that the E. Ingraham Company was a significant American clock and watch manufacturer that produced a variety of clocks, including shelf clocks with time and strike mechanisms, from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s.
The movement of the clock, an 8-day time and hour-strike alarm version, is in good condition for its age, despite needing servicing. The movement of the Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock is currently being serviced after work on the case and dial pan.
The successful online bidder for this rare piece acquired it in early January 2021. The owner will soon share their first impressions and a detailed restoration plan for the clock. As the restoration progresses, the clock will be inspected more carefully, shedding light on its intricate mechanisms and preserving its historical significance.
For those interested in the history of horology, consulting specialized horological catalogs or archives from the E. Ingraham Company, or horological society records, would be necessary to uncover precise dates, design evolution details, and production specifics of the Grecian time and strike shelf clocks.
This article falls under the category of "American Clock."
The restoration of the E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock, a significant historical piece, not only focuses on its intricate mechanics but also embraces its Neoclassical fashion-and-beauty, making it a valuable addition to home-and-garden lifestyle enthusiasts who appreciate vintage clocks. The Grecian's distinctive design, recognized by its paint-on-zinc dial and Neoclassical case, embodies the style popular in the United States during the late 19th century, aligning it with the fashion trends of that era.
