Mysterious Pequegnat timepiece uncovered in secondhand shop
A Rare Find: The Arthur Pequegnat Brandon II Clock
A recent discovery by an antique enthusiast has brought to light a piece of Canadian industrial history – the Arthur Pequegnat Brandon II clock. This timepiece, found in an antique shop in Victoria, British Columbia, is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of the Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, one of Canada's premier clock manufacturers.
The Brandon II model, produced from 1917 to 1941, is a time-only wall clock that showcases the elegant wood bezel and dial typical of Pequegnat clocks. However, the hands and case of the author's find are likely from the Sessions or Waterbury companies, indicating a "marriage" in the clock world – a term used to describe a clock with significant parts from different sources.
The Arthur Pequegnat Clock Company, based in Kitchener, Ontario, operated from 1903 to 1941. During this period, the company faced stiff competition from American firms but managed to maintain its reputation as a quality clock-maker among Canadian collectors. The company's closure in 1941 was due to a shortage of brass during the war effort.
Pequegnat clocks, including mantel clocks, wall clocks, and larger floor models, are valued for their durability, design, and status as symbols of Canadian manufacturing heritage. The Arthur Pequegnat Brandon II clock, priced around $300, is a collectible item and is the author's first Arthur Pequegnat clock.
When shopping for antique clocks, it is essential to be cautious, as the clock's health may not always be apparent. A good rule for checking the health of a mechanical clock is to inspect it every 2-4 years.
Despite having closed over 75 years ago, the Arthur Pequegnat name remains respected among Canadian clock collectors. The company's clocks serve as a reminder of a significant part of Canadian industrial history and a testament to the country's manufacturing capabilities in the early 20th century.
- The discovery of the Arthur Pequegnat Brandon II clock, a valuable piece of Canadian industrial history, is cherished by clock enthusiasts, particularly those with an interest in vintage and antique clocks.
- Amidst a variety of home-and-garden antique finds, mechanical clocks like the Arthur Pequegnant Brandon II, with their intricate mechanisms and timeless design, continue to elevate the lifestyle and decor of many homes.
- For those passionate about Canadian manufacturing history, the investment in an antique clock, such as the Arthur Pequegnant Brandon II, offers not only a symbol of the country's robust past but also a Father Time's-eye view into the craftsmanship of bygone eras.
