By Baptiste Murier, antique and second-hand dealer in Île-de-France.
An antique comtoise clock does not have a single value. Everything depends on its age, movement, dial, case and state of preservation. Many comtoise clocks are common and easy to find. Others are more sought after: a fine dial, a well-preserved original case, a complete movement that still runs. One photo of the whole clock and one of the dial are enough for a first opinion, free and with no obligation.
What is a comtoise clock?
A comtoise is a tall French longcase clock that stands on the floor. It runs on weights and a pendulum, and it is housed in a tall wooden case, also called the "gaine".
Its name comes from Franche-Comté, the region where this type of production developed. You may also hear it called a "morbier" or a "Morez clock", after two places in the Jura.
This type of clock has been made since the 18th century, and over a long period. That is one reason why so many are still found in family homes, attics and apartment hallways.
A comtoise is made up of four main parts:
- the movement, meaning the mechanism;
- the dial, often decorated;
- the case, made of wood, with its door and mouldings;
- the accessories: weights, pendulum, and sometimes a key and chains.
Is an antique comtoise clock worth a lot?
Not necessarily. A comtoise is a common object, because so many were made. Its value is therefore not guaranteed by its age alone or by its large size.
What makes the difference is the whole: a clock that is consistent, original, well preserved and in working order. On the other hand, a clock assembled from parts of different clocks, with a damaged case or a heavily restored dial, is of less interest.
We never give a figure without having seen the piece or at least good photos. Two comtoise clocks that look alike from a distance can be very different up close.
Which criteria determine the value of an antique comtoise clock?
The movement
The movement is the heart of the clock. We look at whether it is complete, whether it runs, whether it has been repaired, and above all whether it truly belongs to this clock.
A few useful points:
- a working striking mechanism with its original parts is appreciated;
- added parts or visible repairs can reduce interest;
- a movement replaced by another, more recent one, changes the opinion one can have of the clock.
Do not try to restart a clock that has stood still for a long time by forcing the wheels. An old movement can break.
The dial
The dial is the first thing you see, and it matters a great deal. Depending on the clock, it can be enamel or brass, with a painted, engraved or embossed decoration.
We look at:
- cracks and chips, especially on an enamel dial;
- restorations and touch-ups;
- how crisp the numerals and decorations are;
- the presence of a signature or a clockmaker's name.
A signed dial can give clues about the origin of the clock. But a signature alone does not tell the whole story: it is the consistency of the whole that counts.
The case
The case gives the comtoise its look, and it is an integral part of its value. An original case in good condition, with fine mouldings and harmonious proportions, is a real asset.
We check:
- the type of wood and its patina;
- signs of damp, especially at the bottom of the case, where the wood rests on the floor;
- active woodworm (small holes with fresh sawdust);
- splits, missing pieces and damaged feet;
- repainting or recent stripping.
A remade case, or a clock "remarried" to a case that is not its own, is a frequent situation. It is not always serious, but it shows in the valuation. To better understand what matters when judging the wood, our page on period furniture valuation can help, since a case is judged somewhat like a piece of furniture.
The accessories
The weights, the pendulum and the chains or cords are part of the whole. Missing or replaced weights, or a pendulum that does not match, are noticeable. Keep them carefully, even if they look damaged, and do not throw them away.
The overall condition
A clean clock with a consistent appearance and normal wear is always preferable to one that has been repainted, over-cleaned or tinkered with. A natural patina is a quality, not a flaw.
How can you tell an antique comtoise from a recent clock?
There are many clocks "in the comtoise style" made more recently. They imitate the look of the old ones, sometimes with a modern movement.
A few clues should raise suspicion:
- wood that looks new, too even, with no wear where it is touched;
- a dial that looks too sharp and too uniform;
- a battery-powered movement or a mechanism that looks modern;
- joints and screws that look industrial.
No single clue is enough on its own. To decide, the door has to be opened and the movement and dial examined closely. That is exactly what we do during a valuation. For other types of clocks, you can read our guide on how to value an antique clock.
What should you check before having your comtoise valued?
A few minutes are enough to prepare. Here is what you can do:
- Photograph the whole clock, from the front, standing straight, with a little distance.
- Photograph the dial up close, without reflections, so the numerals and decorations are legible.
- Open the case door and photograph the inside: movement, weights, pendulum.
- Look for inscriptions: name, place, number, label or mark, on the dial or on the movement.
- Note the flaws you can see: split, missing piece, sign of damp, replaced part.
- Measure the clock, especially its height.
- Write down what you know: where the clock comes from, how long it has been in the family, whether it runs.
This lets us answer you faster and more precisely. For an overview of the process, see our page on the valuation of antique clocks, cartel clocks and pocket watches.
Should you restore your comtoise before selling it?
As a general rule, no, or not before asking for an opinion. A poorly chosen restoration costs time and money, and it can even reduce the interest of the clock.
A few rules of caution:
- do not repaint the dial or clean it with harsh products;
- do not strip the case or wax it excessively;
- do not take the movement apart if you are not a clockmaker;
- do not replace original parts, even damaged ones.
It is better to show the clock as it is. We can then tell you whether a restoration is worthwhile or not.
How do you move a large comtoise clock?
A comtoise is tall, heavy and fragile. Before any move:
- remove the weights and the pendulum, and store them separately, well protected;
- close the door or secure it without damaging the wood;
- lay the clock down or carry it with care, protecting the dial and the mouldings;
- never pull it by the top of the case.
On a narrow staircase or in an apartment without a lift, it is better to be two or three people. If in doubt, call us before moving it.
Where can you sell an antique comtoise clock?
Several options exist: an antiques dealer, a flea market, a consignment shop or a sale between private individuals. Each has its advantages, but all take time, especially for such a bulky piece of furniture.
If you wish to sell, we can buy your clock with immediate payment, after a valuation. The home valuation is free and with no obligation, and travel is free in Paris and Île-de-France.
What if the comtoise is part of a house to be cleared?
This is a very frequent case: the family clock is in the hallway, and the house has to be cleared. In that case, the comtoise can be valued together with the rest, and the buyback amount is deducted from the price of the house clearance. What finds no buyer but can still be used is given to charities such as Emmaüs, the Secours catholique, the Armée du Salut or nearby ressourceries (reuse centres).
Can a comtoise be worth more sentimentally than on the market?
Yes, and it is often the case. A comtoise that marked the hours in your grandparents' home means something different from just another object. A valuation lets you know what it represents, so that you can decide with full knowledge: keep it, pass it on or sell it. We never push you to sell.
If you are hesitating, simply send us photos. You will know what your clock is worth before you choose.
Have your comtoise clock valued with us
Do you have a comtoise clock, antique or thought to be? Call us on +33 6 24 56 38 58 (06 24 56 38 58 from France) or send a few photos on WhatsApp to the same number: the valuation is free and with no obligation.
