Preliminary identification

Mastercrafters Ceramic Plate Wall Clock, Model 119

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a charming mid-century electric wall clock featuring a glazed ceramic plate body in a warm butterscotch yellow. Produced by the famous Mastercrafters company, it combines the cozy aesthetic of kitchen pottery with the sleek, mechanical optimism of post-war American design.

Story

In 1950s America, the kitchen became the heart of the modern home. Mastercrafters captured this domestic shift by disguising electric clocks as decorative ceramic plates, blending utility seamlessly with cozy kitchen decor.

Maker / Origin

The Mastercrafters Clock & Radio Company of Chicago was famous for its whimsical, novelty, and motion clocks during the mid-20th century. Founded by Albert L. Landa and Ben Landa, the company specialized in eye-catching designs that brought theater and joy into everyday households, often utilizing materials like Catalin, Bakelite, and glazed ceramics.

Condition & Value

The ceramic body appears intact with no major visible chips from the front, though there is typical light crazing in the yellow glaze. The original power cord is present but shows age; the functionality of the electric movement is unverified. A non-working motor or frayed cord reduces value by about 50%.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.