For Anyone Dealing With Family Clocks
With some regularity I get clocks brought in that were passed down either when older family members have passed or are alive and passing on things to family for one reason or another. The common scenario is, "This was Great or Aunt or whoever's clock. They got this when so and so went West in a wagon, or it's been in the family for over 100 years ...etc.
Then comes the dangerous question, "How old is this clock?" You look at the clock and know it wasn't made until 1920 or in the case of a few clocks grandma had since she was young, it is a Korean clock from the 70's or the like. What do you say? If you tell them you could be bursting the bubble of some well travelled family story or with some people they are just out and out offended. I know there is no absolute answer. Being there helps you evaluate the situation and determine what level of diplomacy to use. But as a general rule how do those of you doing repairs for others address this situation.
This also includes the loaded question of how much is this clock worth. You just charged more to overhaul a kitchen clock or whatever than it would possibly sell for in this current soft clock market
I am not expecting a perfect answer. I just wanted to get thoughts from some of you and have a friendly discussion opened.
The floor is your ladies and gentlemen. Step up and be heard.
DPC
With some regularity I get clocks brought in that were passed down either when older family members have passed or are alive and passing on things to family for one reason or another. The common scenario is, "This was Great or Aunt or whoever's clock. They got this when so and so went West in a wagon, or it's been in the family for over 100 years ...etc.
Then comes the dangerous question, "How old is this clock?" You look at the clock and know it wasn't made until 1920 or in the case of a few clocks grandma had since she was young, it is a Korean clock from the 70's or the like. What do you say? If you tell them you could be bursting the bubble of some well travelled family story or with some people they are just out and out offended. I know there is no absolute answer. Being there helps you evaluate the situation and determine what level of diplomacy to use. But as a general rule how do those of you doing repairs for others address this situation.
This also includes the loaded question of how much is this clock worth. You just charged more to overhaul a kitchen clock or whatever than it would possibly sell for in this current soft clock market
I am not expecting a perfect answer. I just wanted to get thoughts from some of you and have a friendly discussion opened.
The floor is your ladies and gentlemen. Step up and be heard.
DPC