How to Buy an Antique 8-Day Clock

Antique 8-day clocks are highly desirable among collectors. Eight-day clocks are found as tall case grandfather clocks as well as mantel clocks, wall clocks and cuckoo clocks. These timepieces are unique in that they need to be wound every eighth day (actually a 7-day clock with a day's grace period). Read on to find out more about these antique treasures.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Understand what an 8-day clock is. You'll know an 8-day clock by its 2 winding holes and a key. It has 2 weights inside, 1 for the striker and 1 for the winding. The other more common and less expensive type of grandfather clock is the 30-day clock.

2. Look for extras that will make an 8-day clock more valuable, including dials with moon phases, musical bells or chimes. Remember that original parts are always better than replacement parts, and condition is very important when valuing a clock.

3. Find the clockmaker's signature on the back of the clock mechanism. Then research the age of the clock at the Ruralnet site listed in the Resources section. Don't be duped by imitation signatures, because they're out there.

4. Research current prices of 8-day clocks. On eBay, a Sessions Mozartian 1903 8-day clock was offered for $295, while a Waterbury clock was selling for $450.

5. Search for an 8-day clock in a variety of places. Chances are not good that you'll find one of these hanging out on the garage sale tables, but it's worth a try. More likely spots include antique stores, where you may be paying more than actual value, flea markets, auctions and estate sales.

6. Read more about 8-day clocks at the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) website (see Resources below).

Resources

• The Ruralnet website includes valuable information on 8-day clocks.
• National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) website