Antique clock, black with gold inlay
15 July 2024
Description

I'm hoping you can assist with age and what it's made of. My Dad thought it was onyx. It's very heavy, weighing 21 lbs. No maker info unless it's on the inside mechanics. The etching on the back was my Dad's way of "protecting " it. Why so heavy?

Dimensions

10 3/4" high 10 1/4" wide1 5 3/4" depth'1

Acquired from
Inherited
For sale
Yes
Answered within 1 day
By Delia
Jul 17, 11:59 UTC
Fair Market Value
$75 - $125 USD
Suggested Asking Price $150 USD
What does this mean?

Hi Marie,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This clock was one of literally thousands made in Europe and England in the mid and late 19th Century; sadly, supply far outweighs demand and these tend to sell - when offered at auction - for between $50-125, with working clocks more likely to bring the higher value. I've valued this at $75-125 as it's a nice example but would be very surprised if it were to bring more.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A Victorian parcel gilt onyx mantel clock
unattributed maker, probably English, mid-late 19th Century
Of rectangular section, with peaked cornice over an entablature decorated with cherubs, over a cast brass dial with Arabic chapter rings, flanked by engaged columns, on a box base; incised gilt decoration throughout. The back later engraved "119 280"
Height: 10-3/4 inches; width 15-3/4 inches; depth 5-3/4 inches.
CONDITION: Working condition not verified; this clock appears to have no cosmetic defects other than minor age commensurate to age and use.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$75-125*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia

Delia Jul 22, 22:24 UTC

Hi Marie!
I got the following message from our customer service rep:
"Final question: are there any other uses for onyx? Do you know if there is any value or market for just the onyx?"
There is always a small market for scrap material. An antiques dealer, jeweler or restorer might be interested but aside from that I don't know who would buy it.
I hope this is helpful; please let me know if you have additional questions, etc.
Delia

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