Grecian Shelf Clock by E. Ingraham: Initial Inspection and Strategic Outline
The E. Ingraham & Company Grecian shelf clock, a notable piece of 19th-century American mantel clock design, is currently undergoing restoration. This unique clock, purchased in early January 2021, boasts a neoclassical design with a moulded Rosewood bezel, intricate carved volutes, and a Rosewood veneered case.
The clock's case shows signs of age, with some small chips of veneer missing from the corner edges of the base and age-related cracks in two places on the backboard. The painted zinc dial face appears to be original, albeit with some flaking on the edges. There is a missing time side grommet, and the alarm dial is loose.
Previous tinkering with the dial involved using cellophane tape and soldering, which resulted in the dial pan separating from the bezel and the dial being misaligned. The seller used cellophane tape to secure the dial pan to the bezel and soldered two of the tabs poorly. Despite these issues, the painted zinc dial face will be left as-is during the restoration process.
The movement of the Ingraham Grecian clock is in surprisingly good condition for its age. The movement is a pinned movement, and the two lower pins look original, but the top pins appear to be replacements. The next step in the restoration process is to service the movement of the clock.
The alarm mechanism is in excellent condition, and the spring on the alarm is fine. A 2 3/4 inch moon minute hand is needed for the clock to function correctly. The dial screws came out too easily, and both the minute and hour hands are incorrect.
The Grecian clock, an E. Ingraham & Company product, is not rare but is collectible. The company, based in Bristol, Connecticut, was active in manufacturing clocks from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century. The Grecian shelf clock style was prominent roughly from the 1850s until the late 1880s, reflecting the popularity of Victorian and classical revival aesthetics in clocks during that era.
The E. Ingraham & Company, known as The Ingraham Company, operated under various name variations from 1844 to 1885. Later, the company manufactured electric clocks and wristwatches, and is currently owned by McGraw-Edison.
The restoration of the case and dial of the Ingraham Grecian clock will be completed soon, preserving the historical significance of this 19th-century American shelf clock. The clock exemplifies American industrial clockmaking's transition from handcrafted to mass-produced yet decorative clocks, combining functional timekeeping with appealing design. It remains a collector’s item representing 19th-century American shelf clock craftsmanship.
After the restoration, the vintage clocks collection will certainly become more appealing, as the E. Ingraham & Company Grecian shelf clock, a noteworthy piece of 19th-century American mantel clock design, will join. This restoration process also gives a glimpse into the lifestyle of those who appreciate the blend of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden elements in antique pieces. Post-restoration, considering its original condition and historical value, the clock might be paired nicely with other food-and-drink accessories for a stylish vintage setup, or perhaps it could be the perfect addition to a travel-themed lifestyle, serving as a conversation starter during trips.
