Otto Gerdau Appraisal

The Otto Gerdau Co. Brass Ship's Clock in Wooden Box

This is a marine-style clock housed within a hinged wooden box, suggesting it is a ship's clock or a similar navigational instrument. The clock features a prominent brass bezel and a brushed metallic face. The hour markers are presented in both standard 12-hour format (numerals 1-12) and 24-hour military time format (numerals 13-24, where 00 is also present for 12 AM). The numerals are black against the light metallic face. The minute track is finely delineated around the perimeter. The clock has three hands: a black hour hand, a black minute hand, and a red second hand, all appearing to be in good condition. The clock face is marked "THE OTTO GERDAU CO." and includes "EST. 1872", indicating the manufacturer and founding year. The brass bezel shows a clean, polished appearance with no obvious signs of significant corrosion or heavy patination, though some minor surface wear consistent with age may be present upon closer inspection. The clock is set into a rectangular wooden box, likely made of a hardwood like teak or mahogany given its rich, warm brown color and visible wood grain. The box features two brass-colored hinges that connect the lid to the base, suggesting a protective or presentational function. The wood appears to be in excellent condition with a smooth finish, exhibiting some natural variations in grain pattern and color. No significant scratches, chips, or repairs are immediately visible on the wooden box or the clock itself. The overall aesthetic points to a robust and functional nautical instrument, likely from the mid to late 20th century given the style and visible branding, possibly intended for practical use on a vessel or as a decorative item for a nautical enthusiast.