Uncovered Treasure: 181-year-old Banjo Clock Unearthed at Garage Sale, Sells for Lower Than Anticipated Cost
In a serendipitous find on Facebook Marketplace, a collector stumbled upon a **John Sawin Boston made banjo clock** from the 1800s. The clock, priced at $100, was eventually purchased for $75 in late June 2021. This discovery has sparked excitement among the collector, who believes it could be the find of the year.
John Sawin was a renowned clockmaker active in Boston during the mid-19th century. He was known for his banjo clocks, a popular American style that originated around 1800 by Simon Willard. Sawin's clocks are valued by collectors for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and the reputation of Boston clockmakers.
The discovered clock is a **federal style mahogany-cased banjo clock** with an original top acorn finial. These clocks are highly desirable among antique collectors, with prices generally ranging from $2,000–$6,000 for good, original examples. This particular find, in good condition with working mechanics, could be valued at $3,000–$5,000.
Before restoring the clock, it's essential to retain originality, use expert clockmakers and conservators, and document the process with photos and notes. Proper restoration involves cleaning the case gently, restoring reverse-painted glass panels with care, servicing the movement professionally, and replacing missing parts with period-correct replicas.
The acquisition of this rare banjo clock would go a long way to completing the collector's collection. The clock's provenance, having spent more than 60 years in a family and most of its life in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, adds to its historical value. With minor veneer work and a replacement for the broken glass bezel, this valuable piece of history will soon be restored to its former glory.
This discovery underscores the importance of keeping an eye out for hidden gems among everyday items. With the right knowledge and a keen eye, one could stumble upon a significant find like this John Sawin banjo clock.
The collector's recent acquisition, a John Sawin federal style mahogany-cased banjo clock, has ignited enthusiasm due to its historical significance and potential value. Given Sawin's renown as a 19th-century Boston clockmaker and his craftsmanship in creating banjo clocks, this find could be a noteworthy addition to any vintage clocks collection, making it a significant discovery in the home-and-garden or lifestyle shopping scene. The general news of this rare find serves as a reminder to examine everyday items, seeking out hidden treasures that may hold incredible value.
