Kundo 400-Day Anniversary Clock Value Guide

The Kundo 400-Day Anniversary Clock, produced by Kieninger & Obergfell, is a masterpiece of German engineering celebrated for its low-friction torsion pendulum. These mid-century brass clocks are highly collectible due to their ability to run for over a year on a single winding, making them iconic symbols of longevity and precision.

What Is Kundo 400-Day Anniversary Clock Worth?

The typical price range for Kundo 400-Day Anniversary 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 and the integrity of the delicate suspension spring, which is vital for the 400-day operation.
• The physical state of the brass finish, specifically looking for signs of heavy oxidation, pitting, or loss of original lacquer.
• The presence and condition of the original glass dome, as replacements can decrease the item's historical value.
• Completeness of the set, including the original winding key which is often missing in secondary market sales.

How to Identify Kundo 400-Day Anniversary Clock?

• Look for the 'Kundo' or 'Kieninger & Obergfell' trademark stamped clearly on the back plate of the movement.
• Verify the presence of the signature rotating torsion pendulum featuring four weighted balls under a glass dome.
• Check for the 'Made in West Germany' or 'Germany' origin mark typically found at the bottom of the dial or on the movement.
• Examine the brass construction and mechanical wind-up mechanism, as modern reproductions often use plastic or battery-operated quartz movements.

History of Kundo 400-Day Anniversary Clock

Anniversary clocks, also known as 400-day clocks, were first produced in 1883 by August Schatz and Anton Harder in Germany. These clocks are designed to run for 400 days on a single winding, thanks to their low-friction torsion pendulum. Kundo, a brand of Kieninger & Obergfell, became a prominent manufacturer of these clocks, known for their precision engineering and elegant designs. They gained popularity as gifts, often given for anniversaries, hence their common name.