Posted 10 years ago
stabby
(3 items)
Of all the antiques I inherited from my late father, this is definitely my favorite. It was in his parents house, growing up, in New Jersey. All I know is it was made by Joachim Hill (circa 1790-1810).
It's at least a good 7-8' tall (now).. though, much to my horror, he sawed the feet off about 15 yrs ago when he moved in to his last home. Otherwise it's in pretty great condition and, up until very recently, was working like....well, like clockwork. Chimes and all.
Anyone have more insight into it's history or how much this could be worth? Google hasn't been much help.
Thanks!
Lousy pics but I love the clock (from what I can tell). If you can't post better pics & give better details, I'm afraid you have wasted your time here.
Couldn't agree with you more... Unfortunately, my father had taken them (and I live 2,000 miles away), so they're all I got. Perhaps it's better to wait until I have better photos. Guess I was just eager to get some educated opinions.
If you wanted ed-u-kat'd op-in-ons, why are you asking CyberAsylum people? LOL! Sorry, I meant "CW". Just having fun with you. I'm kind of the court jester, much to the consternation of staff. Yeah, get back with the program. Looks like a nice piece & with some good pics, our experts can fill you in. Please notice that I didn't refer to me. I'm only a 68 yr old beginner & some of these people scare me with their knowledge.
There's a lot of information readily available on the internet about Joachim Hill Clocks.
Here's a very good article on Joachim Hill: http://www.ettc.net/njarts/details.cfm?ID=965
Regarding value, the loss of your clocks legs will have a significant impact on its value. Clocks in good, complete, original
condition can be quite valuable.
Here's an example of a J. Hill clock which was apparantely complete and original. It sold for $7,000 in 2013:
http://p2.la-img.com/1477/36438/15279524_1_l.jpg
This example is missing its feet and has replacement finials. It sold for $4,000 in 2010
http://p2.la-img.com/302/23110/8140660_1_l.jpg
In addition to the first link above, I found the following entry from a collector in NJ:
...the fully developed New Jersey style is seen in a wonderful Federal period clock by Joachim Hill (Flemington, New Jersey circa 1815).
The primary woods are mahogany and mahogany veneer. The case is perfectly proportioned with a high arched pediment with inlaid rosettes
in the terminals. String and bookend inlay using holly and ebony are noted over the front of the clock.
The patina of the wood is old, if not original. Judging from the craftsmanship, the case was probably produced by one of
New Jersey's premier cabinetmakers e.g. John Tappen (Flemington), John Scudder (Elizabethtown), Oliver Parcells
or Matthew Egerton (New Brunswick).
Source: http://www.chubbcollectors.com/Vacnews/index.jsp?form=2&ArticleId=42
In summary, these are early examples of American Tall Case Clocks from the New Jersey area. They are valuable to collectors and should
be treated with care.
Here's a good concise Collectors Weekly article on Grandfather Clocks which may interest you: http://www.collectorsweekly.com/clocks/grandfather
Thanks for sharing your family heirloom with us.
Wow, that's so cool! Thank you for all the info Bruce! I am almost positive the case is Flemington, though it's weird that all other photos of Joachim Hill clocks I've found on the internet have solid wood doors. Yet, the front door on my clock is glass. Leaves me to wonder if that was actually the original design.
Either way, all very fascinating information. Unfortunately, it will have to go into storage until I actually buy a house big enough for it to stretch it's legs (pun intended). But I will be sure to take very special care to hopefully prevent any further damage.
Thanks again!
You're very welcome. If you have any other questions, ask away. Someone here can probably help you. If your mystery is solved, please indicate that in your listing. Thanks.