Steven Thompson of Sundial nyc Quoted in The New York TimesSteven Thompson discusses novelty clocks in April 10, 2009, article (scroll to bottom). |
- + - |
Sundial nyc Celebrates Spring with Exhibition of Rare Antique Mystery, Novelty and Fantasy Clocks that Move in Amazing WaysApril 1st Through June 30thSundial nyc, gallery #54 at The Manhattan Art & Antiques Center, celebrates the arrival of spring with an extraordinary exhibition of rare and unique antique clocks that move in amazing ways. After a brutally cold and bitter winter, the much-anticipated longer and warmer days that come with Daylight Savings Time are finally here. What better way to mark them than with this special collection of 50 one-of-a-kind mystery, novelty and fantasy timepieces to delight and capture the imagination? Each clock has its own exceptional way of keeping time. Parts that move independently of the time keeping mechanisms are endlessly fascinating. The exhibition opens Wednesday, April 1st and runs through Tuesday, June 30th. All clocks are available for purchase. Some of the marvelous finds at Sundial nyc include an extremely rare Swiss early 20th century enamel and silver annular dial clock with Roman numerals for the hours and a silver ship mounted to the mirrored center that indicates the time; a very rare English silver and enamel gravity globe timepiece. As the clock runs, Father Time indicates the time on the painted and gilded black leather band from which the timepiece hangs; a 1910 gilt, silvered, coppered and patinated bronze and variegated marble car clock which is both a clock and a barometer with moving wheels; an 1895 French gilt and silvered bronze and onyx sailing compendium, both an eight-day clock and a barometer. This is just a small sampling of this intriguing collection. Since the dawn of civilization, man has been fascinated by the passage of time and its measurement. Unlike many other decorative antiques, the clock has always been a delicate combination of form and function. It not only had to be aesthetically pleasing; it had to function with precision. The fabrication of a single clock involved the cooperation of the clock maker with many specialists such as bronzers, hand makers, movement makers, case makers, etc. The result was a decorative object that kept time. Sundial nyc has some of the most original and extraordinary timepieces available anywhere. Each of their clocks is in excellent condition and sold as a working timepiece. The movements are serviced and the cases are always properly restored. What determines the value of these rare old timepieces? Steve Thompson of Sundial maintains,"Rarity, condition, quality, provenance, demand and originality are some of the factors considered in evaluating the fair market value of a time piece. While all are significant, special consideration is placed upon originality and condition. The value might be in the case, the accuracy of the movement or a combination of the two. Occasionally a piece is not particularly rare but is in high demand. Often it is just the best example we've seen with great castings and exceptional finishing work." The Manhattan Art & Antiques Center |
| - + - |
Time Gallery becomes Sundial nycWe are pleased to announce that after 14 years Time Gallery has become Sundial nyc. The gallery will now serve solely as the New York City showroom for our family business, Sundial Farm, where we hope to broaden the exceptional reputation we've earned over the past 35 years. Though our name has changed, we will continue to be the premier resource for fine antique clocks and offer the largest and most diverse collection in Manhattan. Our extensive inventory ranges from miniature carriage clocks and boudoir timepieces to grandiose tallcases, with works from the early Louis XV period into the 20th century. Many great makers such as Lepine, Tiffany and Cartier are represented, but we also offer some wonderful examples by lesser known makers who created superb work, but do not necessarily demand a premium. With special emphasis placed on authenticity and condition, Sundial nyc will continue to offer pieces uncompromised in either form or function. Each piece is guaranteed to be as represented and also guaranteed mechanically for at least two years, so regardless of whether you are buying for your client or yourself, you can always do so with confidence. If you would like to view the pieces in person we invite you to our newly renovated gallery. We are open 11-5 daily except Wednesday and Sunday, when we can be there by either chance or appointment. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us by email or phone. We look forward to seeing you the next time you are in New York. Sincerely, The Thompson Family Sundial nyc |