Clock Goes Astronomical at Fontaine’s Auction Gallery
Published June 23rd, 2008
A magnificent E. Howard & Co. #61 astronomical floor regulator, consigned from an estate in Baltimore and never before offered for sale, soared to $195,500 at a Spring Clock Auction held June 14 by Fontaine’s Auction Gallery. It was the second highest amount ever paid for a Howard astronomical regulator and was by far the top lot in a sale that grossed over $1.2 million.
Over 500 antique clocks – many of them exceedingly rare and museum-quality pieces – crossed the block in an auction that was over in less than six hours.
“The clock collecting community is a small, tight-knit group that is very cordial, very friendly and knows exactly what they want when they come to an auction,” said John Fontaine. “But when the gavel starts to pound and paddles are wagging, their competitive juices begin to flow and they take no prisoners. We had over 200 people in attendance – a healthy mix of dedicated collectors and dealers.”
The online bidding component was strong, as about 500 registered bidders participated through eBay Live and another 25 or so used Proxibid. “I was surprised that we had bidders from as far away as Europe and China,” said Mr. Fontaine. “In fact, two clocks that sold for over $30,000 went to Chinese bidders.” In addition, he said, there were about 230 phone bidders and a modest 50 or so absentee bids.
Fontaine Auction Gallery has another major clock auction planned for Saturday, November 8. Watch the website for more details as the sale date approaches: www.fontainesauction.net. Prior to that, the firm will conduct a Discovery Sale in early September and a Major Catalog sale in late September.
The astronomical floor regulator was the undisputed champion lot of the sale. The majestic, 19th century piece stood nearly eight feet tall and featured a solid brass movement and mercury pendulum. It sailed past its high estimate of $75,000 within a minute of bidding. The Texan, a clock collector for 30 years, said he’s paid more for clocks at other sales and that this one will occupy a nook in his home.
To learn more about Fontaine’s Auction Gallery and its calendar of upcoming auctions, visit www.fontainesauction.net
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