Preliminary identification

Waterford Crystal Octagonal Desk Clock

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A beautiful heavy lead crystal desk clock featuring a classic octagonal silhouette with deep, geometric wedge cuts that capture and refract light. The center features a cream-colored dial with Roman numerals, elegant spade hands, and the iconic Waterford Crystal branding.

Story

In 1783, brothers George and William Penrose founded a crystal manufactory in the busy port town of Waterford, Ireland, aiming to make the finest quality glass in all of Europe. This desk clock represents the modern evolution of that dream, transforming functional timekeeping into a brilliant, light-catching sculpture for the executive desk.

Maker / Origin

Waterford Crystal is world-renowned for its high-quality lead crystal, characterized by its deep cuts, heavy weight, and brilliant clarity. Though the historic Irish factory in Waterford closed its main operations in 2009, the brand remains a global symbol of prestige, luxury, and traditional craftsmanship.

Condition & Value

The crystal body appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips or flea bites. The quartz clock insert may require a new battery to verify it is in working order. Excellent condition with working parts commands a premium. Value is driven by the brand name and condition.

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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.