Posted 12 years ago
raffesberger
(2 items)
Can anyone tell me more about my grandma's clock? She sent me the pics as well as the email below. Thanks for your help!
"These are pictures of a clock that my Grandparents had (Dad's side). Know it came from Germany. Can't find any writing or identifying marks on the clock itself. One key says WEST-GERMANY the other VIGOR M 599
Can you find out anything about this clock, please! I can't be sure both belong to this clock. The one that says West-Germany was in my drawer in my sewing room. That is where the clock is."
It looks like you may have a clock model named the "Devonia" manufactured by the Waterbury Clock Company. See: http://www.collectorsweekly.com/clocks/waterbury for more information on Waterbury.
If you have the Devonia, it would be from circa 1906 and it would be relatively light, having an enameled wood case. Eight-Day Time and Strike movement with the hour on a gong and the half-hour on a cup bell. It originally retailed for $7.40 and can be foud on page 325 of Tran Duy Ly's book on Waterbury Clock and Watches.
When trying to identify clocks, it would be helpful if you can provide the following information:
Any and all information printed, stamped or labeled on the dial, movement, case, pendulum and key. This includes names, trademarks, serial/model/patent numbers and dates. (It just happens that I was able to read "Waterbury" on the dial of your clock. That's the only way I really knew where to look for it)
If mechanical, how often does it need to be re-wound?
Measurements of the dial and case. Please take measurements at the longest, widest, and deepest points only.
Well lit photos of the entire case, with close-ups of the dial, movement and any distinctive decorative feature(s) or labels.
Please note if the case appears to have a simulated or "faux" finish. Your clock model was made to look like Iron or even Marble...that's just how American manufacturers attempted to replicate the look of more expensive European Mantel Clocks.
Any provenance information....which you have provided.
Bear in mind that this information will be very helpful, but it still may not lead to a definitive model or date.
I hope that helps solve your "mystery". If so, please indicate "Mystery Solved" on your listing.
Thanks for sharing your heirloom with us.
P.S. Keys are often lost and replaced with whatever works. Keys very seldom help in identifying an antique clock