Preliminary identification

Waterford Crystal 'Metropolitan' Octagonal Desk Clock

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

An elegant, heavy lead crystal desk clock featuring a striking octagonal silhouette and deep wedge cuts that beautifully refract light. The clock face is marked with the prestigious Waterford Crystal logo and features a classic cream dial with Roman numerals and a gold-tone bezel.

Story

In 1783, two brothers started a glassworks in the Irish port town of Waterford, aiming to make the finest quality crystal in the world. This desk clock represents that centuries-old legacy, designed to turn a simple office desk into a statement of old-world sophistication.

Maker / Origin

Waterford Crystal was founded by George and William Penrose in Ireland, quickly earning a global reputation for producing crystal of unparalleled clarity and brilliance. Despite closures and relocations over its long history, the brand remains the gold standard for luxury lead crystal, famous for gracing royal palaces and the annual New Year's Eve ball drop in Times Square.

Condition & Value

The crystal appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips, cracks, or flea bites along the sharp faceted edges. The clock face is clean, though the functionality of the quartz movement and battery compartment must be tested. Working order is essential to reaching the top of the valuation range.

Full Research

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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.