Elgin Starburst Clock Value Guide

The Elgin Starburst Clock is a quintessential artifact of the Atomic Age, representing the futuristic optimism of post-war American design. These timepieces are highly collectible for their dynamic walnut and brass rays that epitomize the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic.

What Is Elgin Starburst Clock Worth?

The typical price range for Elgin Starburst Clock is $200 - $240 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the brass, specifically the presence of original luster versus heavy pitting or corrosion.
• The integrity of the walnut spokes, as missing or chipped wooden elements significantly decrease the $200-$240 market range.
• Operational status of the clock movement, with original working mechanisms commanding the highest collector interest.
• Completeness of the design, including the original hands and the glass or acrylic convex cover over the dial.

How to Identify Elgin Starburst Clock?

• Look for the Elgin brand name printed clearly on the clock face, typically in a minimalist sans-serif typeface.
• Verify the construction materials, which should consist of genuine walnut wood spokes and solid brass accents rather than modern plastic imitations.
• Inspect the rear movement housing for original mechanical or early battery-operated components consistent with 1950-1970 manufacturing.
• Check for the characteristic 'sunburst' symmetry where wooden rays alternate with thinner brass rods.

History of Elgin Starburst Clock

Starburst clocks, also known as sunburst clocks, gained immense popularity during the Mid-Century Modern era, specifically from the 1950s to the 1970s. These clocks were a staple in homes embracing the atomic age aesthetic, characterized by futuristic and dynamic designs. Manufacturers like Elgin, Welby, and Seth Thomas produced numerous variations, often incorporating new materials and sleek lines that reflected the optimism and innovation of the post-war period. They quickly became iconic decorative pieces, symbolizing a blend of functionality and artistic expression.