Gilbert Mantle Clock "Acheron": need info

[Birchwood]

I'm looking for more information on a mantle clock. According to family, it was purchased by my great grandparents for their wedding in 1890 in eastern North Dakota for $5.

The label on the back reads "Acheron", William C. Gilbert Clock Co., Winsted, Conn. It was apparently repaired in Oct, 1943. It is 18.5" tall, with a 13" x 4.5" base. The clock face is approximately 5.75" in diameter.

Any additional information would be appreciated. Is "Acheron" the model name? In which years were these made? Any estimation of current value would also be helpful.

I'm attempting to post some pics below. In case they don't come through, they may be viewed at http://www.flickr.com/photos/83926545@N00/sets/72157594461632377/

Thank you very much.

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[harold bain]

Hi, Birchwood, Welcome to the message board.
I can't tell you much more than you already know about your clock. Acheron is the model name. Tran Duy Ly's Gilbert book shows your clock circa 1891, in walnut or oak, one day strike, height 19 1/2 inches, 6 inch dial.
we are not allowed to give valuations on this board, but you could check for similar clocks on ebay for a guide as to value.
With the family history (which you should write down and keep with the clock), your clock is priceless to you (or should be).
Harold

 

[LaBounty]

Hi Birchwood and welcome to the Message Board!

You have a kitchen style mantel clock which was made by the Gilbert Clock Co. in the late 1880's to early 1890's. The model name is "Acheron", as you've discovered on the label on the back of your clock case, and as Harold mentions above.

Your clock is a 30 hour time, strike, and alarm. The case is made out of walnut. Everything looks original but your glass has lost its pattern and been wiped clean or it was broken and replaced. You are also missing the top 1/2 inch of your case which should come to a point.

A line drawing of your clock, from an 1891 catalog, appears in Tran Duy Ly's "Gilbert Clocks" book on page 327.