Preliminary identification

Schatz 'Jahresuhrenfabrik' 400-Day Anniversary Clock, c.1950s

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a classic German torsion pendulum 'anniversary clock' housed under a protective glass dome, featuring a brass frame, floral-decorated pillars, and a matching floral dial. Engineered to run for a full year on a single winding, it represents a peak era of mechanical convenience and domestic charm.

Story

Invented in the late 19th century, these clocks became legendary wedding gifts because they only needed winding once a year—traditionally on the couple's anniversary. This Schatz model brought Black Forest precision directly into mid-century living rooms.

Maker / Origin

August Schatz founded his clockmaking firm in the Black Forest region of Germany, eventually registering the name 'Jahresuhrenfabrik' (Year-Clock Factory). Schatz became the premier name in torsion-pendulum clocks, celebrated globally for making complex mechanical engineering accessible and beautiful for the everyday home.

Condition & Value

The glass dome appears intact without major cracks. There is some minor surface dust and light oxidation on the brass base and pillars consistent with age. The suspension wire must be inspected to ensure it isn't bent or broken, as this is the most common point of failure. A complete, running clock with its key holds the most value.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

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.