I love French clocks. So I found this antique clock in Round Top, but it didn’t have any of the insides in it, meaning it is no longer functional. Did that keep me from buying it? Of course not. I just like it ’cause it’s pretty any way.
My rules for buying old stuff:
1. It’s usually okay if it doesn’t work any more. I will buy an old clock that doesn’t work. I will not buy wobbly furniture. I have not have a good experience fixing old furniture that isn’t sturdy.
2. It’s okay if it isn’t in pristine condition. Used things are going to have ‘issues’. Just decide which ones you can live with, and which ones will bug you every day you look at it. This clock is missing some of the decorative work on one side. I didn’t notice until after I bought it, which proves it shouldn’t be a big deal to me.
3. If you really like it, get it now. Don’t wait for the price to go down, because 9 times out of 10, it will be gone by then. If you like it, buy it (if you can afford it.) I can’t tell you how many times I’ve missed something because I hesitated. At the auction you have seconds to decide. At least at the thrift store I can take 10 minutes or so to think about it.
And lastly, HAPPY SHOPPING!
What are your tips for buying vintage or antique things?
Even at a thrift store, I have the front desk hold an item for me. Had something snatched up as I put it back down on the table to think about it. Learned a valuable lesson that day!
I think it’s lovely! I just bought a large wall clock at a yard sale it doesn’t work , but I love it just the same.
kathy
so stylish and classical, my favorite is this cloak ! Lovely. Eliza.
It’s a beautiful clock, Anita. I always buy what I am drawn to. That way I am never disappointed. There’s no explaining a certain attraction to found objects- they just speak to us. 😉
Great clock- and I agree buy what you like and love all the character!
I have absolutely loved this series! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. The clock is just fabulous.
As I will soon be moving to the Fort Worth area I can’t wait for the opportunity to visit Round Top.
Love this! Upcycling stuff is a great way to add to your decor. Thanks for sharing this gem!
Love the clock but love,love love your dear little 2 seater, its gorgeous.
I totally agree! If it’s pleasing to the eye, by all means, buy it and spend time musing about the stories it could tell about it’s past. I have an old chandelier(bulbs replaced by candles) hanging on my back porch. It’s the first thing noticed and commented on by visitors.
When buying an old clock that is no longer working, you can always buy one of those battery operated clockworks at Michaels or online and install it into your clock. The clockworks are very reasonable in cost. It’s not authentic but it will at least work. I just did that on a fabulous style hanging clock and no one would ever know unless they took it down and looked inside.