Grecian Shelf Clock by E. Ingraham: Initial Inspection and Strategic Plan
**Restoring a 19th-Century Grecian Shelf Clock**
A rare E. Ingraham & Company Grecian shelf clock, dating back to around 1871, has been purchased and is set for restoration. This notable piece of American clockmaking, renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship, is a fine example of the neoclassical style that was popular during the mid-19th century.
The clock, featuring a moulded Rosewood bezel, carved volutes below the dial frame, and a Rosewood veneered case, has seen some wear over the years. Small chips of veneer are missing from the corner edges of the base, and there is wear on the top part of the base under the door. Age-related cracks can be found in two places on the backboard, and there is a slight corner separation on the left side of the base.
Upon inspection, it was found that the dial screws came out too easily, causing the dial to be misaligned. Both the minute and hour hands are incorrect, and the painted zinc dial face has some flaking on the edges and a missing time side grommet. Despite these issues, the dial will be left as-is, with plans to clean the clock's wood surfaces with Murphy's Soap and apply new shellac.
The alarm mechanism, in excellent condition, and the bell, cast brass, are in fair condition, with pieces missing at the lower cracked section of the backboard. The alarm mechanism will be taken apart and cleaned, while the movement will be completely disassembled, inspected for wear, cleaned, and new bushings will be installed if needed.
The movement is a pinned one, with the two lower pins looking original but the top pins appearing to be replacements. The dial pan's tabs, which were poorly soldered by a past tinkerer, will be fixed, and the dial pan has separated from the bezel, with a past tinkerer using cellophane tape to secure it.
The mainsprings appear to be in good condition and provide plenty of power. However, a 2 3/4 inch moon minute hand is difficult to source. The crutch will be repaired, and the clock was found to run correctly for two days after some adjustments. The crutch loop is twisted around the pendulum rod, and since there is no impulse, it is not surprising the clock would stop, having run for only a few seconds.
The Grecian clock, now in the hands of a dedicated restorer, was purchased in an online auction in early January 2021. Museums like the American Clock and Watch Museum in Bristol, Connecticut, or the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., might have similar clocks on display. For those interested in purchasing or viewing a Grecian shelf clock, platforms like PicClick or specialized antique auction houses might offer these items. However, availability can vary, and condition, provenance, and authenticity are important factors to consider during purchase.
Elisha Ingraham founded the E. Ingraham & Company in 1830, and the company became renowned for its high-quality clocks. The Grecian style, characterized by its classical motifs, was popular during this period. The company operated under various names from 1844 to 1885 and later produced electric clocks and wristwatches. Today, the company is owned by McGraw-Edison. The restoration of this Grecian shelf clock is set to begin soon, with the only delay being a Seth Thomas #2 clock that needs attention.
This vintage clocks restoration project, a rare E. Ingraham & Company Grecian shelf clock, will not only showcase the restorer's skill but also contribute to preserving a piece of American lifestyle history from the mid-19th century. As this restoration unfolds, it might inspire fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts to seek similar vintage finds, enhancing their homes-and-garden with timeless pieces. A well-restored Grecian clock may even stir the wanderlust for travel, conjuring visions of historical museums showcasing such artifacts, such as the American Clock and Watch Museum or the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Whether you're a clock enthusiast, an interior designer, or an avid traveler, browsing platforms like PicClick or antique auction houses can bring you closer to acquiring a unique piece of history.
