Jefferson Golden Hour Electric Mystery Clock Value Guide

The Jefferson Golden Hour is a quintessential piece of mid-century American design, first introduced in 1949 by the Jefferson Electric Company. It is highly collectible for its 'mystery' movement, which uses a hidden motor in the base to rotate a glass disc, creating the illusion of hands floating in mid-air.

What Is Jefferson Golden Hour Electric Mystery Clock Worth?

The typical price range for Jefferson Golden Hour Electric Mystery Clock is $150 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical condition is paramount; the motor should run silently without the grinding noise common in aged units.
• The clarity of the glass dial significantly impacts price, as scratches or clouding diminish the 'mystery' effect.
• Originality of the power cord and the presence of the original box can push values toward the $250 range.
• The state of the gold plating, specifically looking for signs of pitting or wear on the base and ring.

How to Identify Jefferson Golden Hour Electric Mystery Clock?

• Check for the 'Jefferson Electric Co. Bellwood, ILL' stamp on the bottom of the heavy brass base.
• Verify that the dial is a single piece of clear glass with the minute hand attached directly to it.
• Inspect the 24-karat gold-plated finish on the brass frame and numerals, which should have a distinct luster.
• Ensure the hour hand is mounted to a center friction post that allows it to move independently of the rotating glass.

History of Jefferson Golden Hour Electric Mystery Clock

The Jefferson Golden Hour clock, first introduced in 1949, quickly became a mid-century American classic. Manufactured by the Jefferson Electric Company, these clocks were renowned for their 'mystery' design, where the hands appear to float magically without any visible connection to the mechanism. This illusion is achieved by having the hands attached to clear, rotating glass discs within the main frame, driven by a hidden motor in the base. The Golden Hour represented a blend of innovative engineering and sleek, modernist aesthetics, making it a popular decorative item in homes across the United States throughout the 1950s and 60s.