| I have been involved in the clock industry since the | | | | cabinet maker would have 200 years ago. Maybe |
| early 1970s. | | | | even more attention is given to detail, especially if its |
| The subject I want to address today is the debate | | | | a once off. No previous experience allows for |
| around reproductions and specifically the question: | | | | mindless work. It always shows. |
| Are all clocks made today reproductions of antique | | | | Maybe this is what lies behind the simplistic |
| clocks? | | | | categorisation of antique or real (!) clocks and |
| Quite often I come across clock enthusiasts who will | | | | reproductions - a fear of purchasing an item that is a |
| turn on their heels when they realize they're not | | | | mere copy of the original? Dare I say we see many |
| admiring an antique clock. My contention quite simply | | | | of these clocks that fall off production lines in cheap |
| is that not all clocks made today are reproductions, | | | | labour countries and are flogged at clock shops as |
| very much as not all automobiles are Model-T Ford | | | | grandfather clocks for sale in South Africa and for |
| reproductions. | | | | that matter anywhere else in the world. |
| Manufacturers like Comitti will proudly showcase a | | | | I do want to urge prospective clock buyers to show |
| reproduction. Indeed, there is no reason for shame | | | | more discernment when they categorise clocks |
| when a clock case is made with the inspiration and | | | | though - even eBay does! |
| care that is seen in a Comitti. Each clock is a work of | | | | Why not do as eBay does and categorize clocks |
| art, taking hours to manufacture and mirror the glory | | | | according to age or period. One may even use the |
| of a respected style. | | | | distinction of Classic and New World we see in the |
| Similarly we will take an order for a bespoke clock | | | | Wine Industry. |
| and execute it with the same skill and focus as a | | | | |