Legally and traditionally, an antique is usually defined as an object over 100 years old. In the history of clocks and time-keeping, one of the earliest clocks was driven by water. Most early mechanical clocks were driven by the fall of weights. The first mechanical clocks only indicated time by sounding a bell each hour.

During the 20th century, clocks as well as many other objects became desirable collector items of the past. With the growth of interest in antique clocks, an expertise in historical styles, construction styles and methods for the care and identification of clocks, as well as other objects has developed. Grandfather clocks are among the most appealing of all clocks. Most were made in England between the late 17th and 19th centuries, although lesser numbers were also produced in Europe and America. Although some exceptions exist, the two basic types of grandfather clocks are 8 day and 30 hour clocks. The 8 day clock is the more elaborate of the two types of antique grandfather clocks. Have clocks become family heirlooms?

Emotional factors, such as belonging to a family member or if the clock can be proven to have belonged to a celebrity or someone of historical importance may make the clock more desirable. Clocks hold their intrinsic value as it is passed along by family members. Touch the smooth fine wood of the clock, listen to the melodious chimes or sounds it makes. The décor of a home is complete when adorned with a fine gift of time, a clock. Clocks are sold in all budgets from modest pieces with little decoration to clocks with moving parts and works of art that can occupy an entire wall or table.

Why do they last so long?

With proper care and maintenance, a clock can keep perfect time for many years. Someone experienced with clocks such as a clockmaker should oil the clock to keep it from being damaged.

How well do antique clocks hold their value?

A clockmaker guide can help identify the maker of a clock. The signature on the clock can help indicate when the clock was made. The physical appearance of a mantle clock, grandfather clock, cuckoo clock, or wall clock, is an important factor in estimating the value of a clock. Clocks that have the original elements, which have never been restored and are clean clocks, have a greater value than those in poor condition or have been altered. A clock with the makers label or signature intact, and a clock with its original glass and decorative elements can all increase the value of a clock. To determine when a clock was made might prove to be a difficult task. Some have a signature located on the movement of the clock dial. Relying on the signature however may be deceiving. Sometimes the signature is the name of the distributor rather than the clockmaker. Sometimes signatures are added to give an appearance of age and value. A clockmaker guide can help identify the maker of a clock. The signature on the clock may help identify when the clock was made. All of the above can help in determining the value of a clock.

Reference: Wikipedia