An Ingraham clock is one made by a company started by Elias Ingraham in 1831. He opened a clock case and cabinet making shop in Bristol, Connecticut. Elias is best known for his innovative clock-case styles and mass production.

The development by Eli Whitney of a system of precision manufacturing of interchangeable parts and the assembly line late in the late 1700s made Connecticut into a major center of manufacturing. This development enabled clockmakers to compete with the Germans and Swiss in making a quality product. Ingraham was known for his innovative case designs.

In 1860 Ingraham & company was created as a successor to various previous clock making operations run by Elias Ingraham . It soon set up shop in a facility it would later come to own near Birge’s Pond in Bristol, CT.

Ingraham originally bought its movements from assorted makers, but in 1865 decided to set up it’s own facility to make movements on site. Ingraham bought a hardware shop and had it hauled onto land the company owned and then hired Anson Atwood to set up and manage a movement making operation in that building.



Between 1857 and 1873, Elias Ingraham received 17 patents for many of the various popular cases and features he designed. For many of his cases, he used a unique figure 8 door design. The company also often made veneered case models with name slike Doric, Venetian, and Ionic which were produced in various sizes and were quite renowned and popular.

Elias had a son named Edward who took over the company for his father in 1885. Edward was a master craftsmen in his own right and had several patents in his name. Notably, he had perfected a technique for putting black enamel paint on wooden clock cases. He utilized this method to create imitations of expensive French marble mantel clocks. This technique was soon copied by many other companies, but Ingraham remained the leading maker of this type of clock model and introduced 221 other models over the next 30 years.

History and Origin of Antique Ingraham Clocks

Founding: Elias Ingraham established the company in Bristol, Connecticut, in 1831. Initially, it was a partnership, but by 1852, it became the E. Ingraham & Company.
Expansion: The company expanded rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming one of the largest clock manufacturers in the United States.
20th Century: The company continued to produce clocks and watches well into the 20th century, adapting to changing technologies and markets.

Types of Antique Ingraham Clocks

Mantel Clocks: These are small clocks designed to sit on a mantel or shelf. Ingraham mantel clocks often feature wooden cases with intricate designs.
Wall Clocks: Including regulator clocks and schoolhouse clocks, these were designed to be hung on the wall and often feature long pendulums.
Parlor Clocks: Larger and more ornate than mantel clocks, these were designed to be a focal point in a room.
Shelf Clocks: Smaller clocks intended for placement on a shelf or table, often featuring elegant designs.
Alarm Clocks: Smaller clocks with an alarm function, popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Gingerbread Clocks: Known for their ornate wooden cases with intricate scrollwork, these clocks were popular in American homes.

Materials and Craftsmanship of Ingraham Antique Clocks

Wooden Cases: Many Ingraham clocks feature cases made from high-quality woods such as oak, walnut, and mahogany, often intricately carved or adorned with inlays.
Metal Cases: Some clocks, particularly alarm clocks, have metal cases made from brass or other metals.
Mechanical Movements: Ingraham clocks typically feature mechanical movements, including weight-driven and spring-driven mechanisms.
Decorative Elements: Clocks often include decorative elements such as carvings, inlays, and reverse-painted glass tablets.

Notable Features and Styles of Ingraham Antique Clocks

Regulator Clocks: Known for their accuracy, these clocks feature long pendulums and were often used in offices and schools.
Gingerbread Clocks: Featuring ornate wooden cases with intricate scrollwork, these clocks were popular in American homes.
Parlor Clocks: Larger, ornate clocks often featured decorative elements such as columns, mirrors, and detailed carvings.
Alarm Clocks: Smaller and simpler in design, these clocks were functional and widely used in households.

Valuation and Collecting of ingraham Antique Clocks

Rarity and Condition: The value of an Ingraham clock depends on its rarity, condition, and craftsmanship. Clocks in excellent condition with original parts and finishes are highly prized.
Market Trends: Ingraham clocks are popular among collectors, and certain models and styles can command high prices.
Provenance: Clocks with a known history or connection to significant events or people can be more valuable.

Care and Maintenance of Ingraham Antique Clocks

Environment: Keep Ingraham clocks in a stable environment with controlled humidity and temperature to prevent damage to the wood and metal components.
Cleaning: Regular dusting and gentle cleaning with appropriate materials are recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the clock’s finish.
Repair: Have repairs and maintenance performed by professionals specializing in antique clocks to maintain the clock’s value and functionality.

Identification and Authentication of Ingraham Antique Clocks

Maker’s Marks: Look for the Ingraham name, often found on the clock dial, movement, or case.
Serial Numbers: Some Ingraham clocks have serial numbers that can help identify their age and model.
Stylistic Elements: Familiarity with the design elements typical of different periods and styles can aid in identifying and authenticating Ingraham clocks.

Popular Models of Ingraham Antique Clocks

Gingerbread Clocks: These ornate clocks with intricate scrollwork were very popular and are a hallmark of Ingraham’s craftsmanship.
Regulator Clocks: Known for their precision and elegant design, these wall clocks are highly valued.
Parlor Clocks: Featuring elaborate designs and often larger in size, these clocks were intended to be prominent display pieces in homes.

Antique Ingraham clocks are valued for their historical significance and craftsmanship. They can be a beautiful and functional addition to any collection, offering a glimpse into the history of American clockmaking.