A memorial for the E. Ingraham gingerbread clock - that magnificent case indeed!
In the world of antique clock collecting, the decision to restore a piece can often hinge on a variety of factors. This is particularly true when it comes to E. Ingraham's iconic gingerbread clocks, a popular design that emerged after the American Civil War and reigned supreme until World War I.
Recently, a collector purchased an E. Ingraham Ocean series gingerbread clock at auction, joining the ranks of hundreds of thousands of these clocks that have survived for over a century. However, this particular clock, made of steam-pressed oak and boasting the S-shaped logo, will not be restored by its new owner.
Several reasons contribute to this decision. For one, the condition of the clock is less than ideal, with missing parts and evidence of amateur repairs. Restoration of such clocks can be costly, especially when original replacement parts are hard to find.
Moreover, the movement of the gingerbread clock may require servicing, which can be time-consuming and expensive. E. Ingraham movements, while common, may not hold the same allure as those from other makers, affecting demand.
The abundance of these clocks on the market also plays a role. With so many available, a clock in average condition may not be as valuable as a rarer or more collectible brand. Additionally, some collectors prefer clocks with unique features, rare woods, or intricate designs, and gingerbread clocks, with their simpler pressed wood "gingerbread" trim, may not command as high a price.
Lastly, competition from other brands can sway collectors' preferences. Brands like Sessions or Gilbert, which are sometimes seen as having better build quality or more desirable aesthetics, can make gingerbread clocks seem less attractive, especially when fully serviced and in good working order.
Despite these reasons, the appeal of gingerbread clocks remains divisive among collectors. Some adore their charming simplicity, while others find them less appealing. Regardless, the gingerbread clock in question, bought at auction this spring, will not be restored, with the author planning to use the dial for a Sessions clock and keeping the case for future projects.
[1] "The History of Sessions Clocks." Sessions Clocks, www.sessionsclocks.com/history. [2] "E. Ingraham & Co." National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, www.nawcc.org/history/ingraham. [3] "The History of Gilbert Clocks." Gilbert Clock Company, www.gilbertclock.com/history. [4] "Gingerbread Clocks." National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors, www.nawcc.org/collections/gingerbread. [5] "Gingerbread Clocks: A Collector's Guide." Antique Clock Shop, www.antiqueclockshop.com/gingerbread-clocks-a-collectors-guide.
- The collector's decision to forgo restoration of the gingerbread clock could be influenced by the lifestyle trend favoring unique home-and-garden pieces with rare features, so the dial might be repurposed for a Sessions clock while keeping the case for future projects.
- Despite the divisive opinion among collectors regarding vintage clocks like gingerbread clocks, the price appreciation and demand for brands like Sessions or Gilbert, known for superior quality and distinct aesthetics, can make such clocks seem less attractive compared to rarer or more collectible designs.
