Preliminary identification

Junghans Brass Square Travel Alarm Clock, c.1930s

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a beautifully compact, German-made brass travel alarm clock featuring a hinged, folding case design. The dial displays stylized Art Deco numerals, cathedral-style hands, and the iconic Junghans eight-pointed star logo with a central 'J'.

Story

During the golden age of rail and ocean liner travel, Junghans engineered this miniature marvel. Its clever hinged back allowed elite travelers to easily pack it away, then prop it open on a foreign nightstand. It represents a time when even utilitarian objects were crafted to be lifelong companions.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1861 by Erhard Junghans in Schramberg, Germany, the company grew to become the largest clock manufacturer in the world by the early 20th century. Renowned for combining rigorous Black Forest engineering with elegant design, Junghans became a pioneer in both domestic clocks and early aviation instrumentation.

Condition & Value

The brass case shows a wonderful, authentic aged patina with minor surface oxidation, scuffs, and wear consistent with travel use. The glass crystal appears intact, and the dial has minor aging; functionality of the mechanical movement is untested. A working movement greatly preserves the upper end of the value.

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.