What is My Atmos Clock Worth?

Serving primarily as a timepiece, Atmos clocks are fascinating to collectors not only due to their changing appearances over the years, but also the ingenious science that powers them. First designed in Switzerland in 1928, the clocks are powered by a mechanical torsion pendulum, which is moved by expansion and contraction of gas within hermetically sealed metal bellows, which is created by external temperature change.

^{A Rare Jaeger LeCoultre Silver Cased Atmos Clock}

^{Sold for £13,000}

Commercial production began in 1929, before Jaegar-LeCoultre took over production in 1935 and began producing what became known as ‘Atmos 2’ models from mid-1939. Since then, the company has released countless models, all making a feature of the clock’s unique shape. Model variety can include the style of numeral – for example Roman or Arabic – as well as discs indicating the month, moon phase, amongst other points of interest. As any timepiece enthusiast will know, these features can be incredibly exciting to see, especially on older clocks, due to the care and intricate detail that many contain. Some Atmos clocks can even serve as something of an art piece in their own right due to the beauty in their craftsmanship. Over the years, Atmos clocks have taken inspiration from changing styles and tastes, but remain timeless. They are unique in that way.

^{A scarce 150th anniversary Jaeger Le Couture Atmos Anniversary Clock}

^{Sold for £2,200}

That being said, just as with watches and other timepieces, not all Atmos clocks are made equal. Thankfully, all Atmos clocks possess a serial number, which can be very helpful in getting an initial idea for the value of the clock:

Under 10,000: The very early ‘mercury’ type Atmos clocks generally have serial numbers under 10,000, and can be worth several thousand pounds. However, even early serial numbers do not guarantee a high fee, as they were mass-produced.

25,000-300,000: The most commonly available Atmos clocks will have a serial number between 25,000-300,000. They are normally the cheapest to acquire – as many are not in mint condition, and sometimes have slight defects.  

If you are thinking of selling, or perhaps just curious, it is possible to take your Atmos clock directly to Jaegar-LeCoultre for a general estimated value, but the charge for this service can be eye-watering. Here at Dawsons, our expert team would be delighted to provide a complimentary and current market valuation.

^{A Jaeger Le Coultre Rhodium plated Atmos Classique mantel clock}

^{Sold for £1,900}

In addition to serial numbers, other variables should be considered when determining an accurate valuation:

Is it still working? This is the most important factor for the item’s value – no matter how beautiful the model, if the clock doesn’t work, unfortunately its value will be severely undermined.

Condition. This is especially important with models that are more commonplace, as any kind of defect or imperfection can severely affect potential value.

Age. Although Atmos clocks could theoretically run for hundreds of years without human intervention due to their mechanism, Jaegar-LeCoultre advise that you should have your model serviced every 20 years to ensure it stays in perfect condition.  

Authenticity. If you believe that you have an Atmos clock, it is important to ascertain that you do indeed possess an authentic product. Provenance such as a receipt of purchase can be invaluable, whilst we would always recommend conferring with an expert Valuer who can also help to verify authenticity.

Uniqueness. Since the 1980s, Jaegar-LeCoultre have begun releasing a much wider range of Atmos clocks, with rare and unique cases. These will, of course, be worth much more than a standard, mass-produced model.

Market. As with any collectible, market demand will dictate how much your Atmos clock is worth, and the rarer and more desired the model, the higher the price you may realise. This being the case, we would always recommend marketing your Atmos to the widest audience possible, to ensure that all interested parties have the chance to buy it.

A reputable international Auction House.  Here at Dawsons, our sole aim is to achieve the highest possible price for any items we market and sell for our clients. Our sales are broadcast live across multiple auction platforms to a huge global audience of active bidders for maximum exposure. Whilst Dawsons’ creative social media posts and dynamic in-house marketing will directly target buyers and collectors all over the world.

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Are you considering selling an Atmos clock?

With a global audience of over 10 million known bidders, Dawsons can secure the best price.

Get in touch with an expert Valuer for confidential sales advice, we would be delighted to help you:

0207 431 9445 / info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk