Up for Bid: Antique Grecian Shelf Clock by E. Ingraham & Co.
A Rare Find: The Restored E. Ingraham Grecian Clock
In early January 2021, a successful online bidder acquired an E. Ingraham Grecian time and strike shelf clock, marking the first look at this unique piece by the renowned American clock manufacturer, E. Ingraham & Company. The clock, made between the years 1868 and 1883, was picked up after a 3-hour drive from one part of Nova Scotia to another.
Upon receipt, the E. Ingraham Grecian clock was found to be in better condition than expected. The dial, featuring Roman chapters and moon-shaped hands, is housed within a dial frame and bezel that form a single section, making up the hinged front access door. The bezel is molded Rosewood, with carved volutes below the dial frame, adding to the clock's aesthetic appeal.
The clock's movement, surprisingly good for its age, was in need of servicing. This was expertly undertaken, ensuring the clock's time, strike, and alarm functions now operate smoothly. The restoration of the case and dial further enhances the clock's charm, making it a worthy addition to any collection.
The Grecian clock model is noted for its unusual case, inspired by Greek or classical motifs, hence the name "Grecian." This design aesthetic, popular in the late 1800s to early 1900s, is a testament to the Neoclassical movement in the United States during that era.
While exact production dates for the Grecian model are not explicitly detailed, the Ingraham Company, which operated throughout the 19th and much of the 20th century, suggests the Grecian clock was likely produced during that period. The clock also bears a green triangular-shaped paper label inside the back panel of the case, with patent dates from 1862 to 1871.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, clock catalogs, including those by Ingraham and contemporaneous firms, used simple line illustrations to depict clocks realistically without stylization. The Grecian clock’s distinctive design suggests it aimed to appeal to consumers interested in classical aesthetics paired with reliable mechanical function.
In conclusion, the Grecian Clock by E. Ingraham & Co. is a classical-style mixed-wood 8-day mechanical clock with strike and alarm, produced during the company’s operation period from 1828 to 1978. Its design reflects 19th or early 20th-century American clockmaking trends, making it a valuable piece of American horological history.
This vintage E. Ingraham Grecian clock, a testament to 19th-century American clockmaking, will elevate any home-and-garden decor, blending seamlessly with a modern lifestyle that appreciates the charm of antiquity. Its restoration adds a unique piece to your home-and-garden or home-based vintage clocks collection, exemplifying the timeless appeal of the Neoclassical movement.
