AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a vintage commemorative mantel clock featuring a figural representation of U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The clock is constructed from cast pot metal (spelter) with a monochromatic gold-toned bronze finish. The sculpture depicts FDR in a double-breasted suit, standing alongside a nautical ship's wheel which houses the clock face. The base of the piece is embossed with the iconic political slogan "F.D.R. - THE MAN OF THE HOUR." The clock face features a pictorial scene, likely depicting a farmer with a horse and plow, symbolizing New Deal-era agrarian revitalization. In terms of condition, the gold finish shows significant signs of age and patina, with visible wear on high-friction areas like the hands and the edges of the wheel, revealing the darker base metal beneath. There appears to be a light layer of surface dust and oxidation typical of mid-20th-century metalware. The clock hands are black and the numerical markers are Arabic numerals. These clocks were popular political memorabilia produced primarily in the 1930s or 1940s, often by companies such as the United Metal Goods Mfg. Co. of Brooklyn, NY. The craftsmanship is typical of mass-produced commercial castings of the era, focusing on recognizable likeness and symbolic patriotic motifs.

I have virtually examined this 'Man of the Hour' Franklin D. Roosevelt commemorative ship’s wheel clock, likely manufactured by the United Metal Goods Mfg. Co. circa 1933-1945. The piece is a classic example of New Deal-era political memorabilia, utilizing cast spelter with a bronze-wash finish. My visual assessment confirms a heavy patina and significant loss to the gold-toned plating, particularly on FDR’s torso and the wheel’s rim, which is consistent with age but detracts from the aesthetic value compared to mint examples. The dial, featuring the 'Ploughman' motif, appears original, though the mechanical movement shows signs of oxidation that likely hinder functionality. Market demand for FDR memorabilia remains steady among political collectors, though mass production during the period limits its rarity. Most comparable examples in similar condition sell within the $125 to $200 range at auction, while those in pristine, working condition can reach $350. The value of this specific piece is tempered by the surface wear and the commonality of the casting. Limitations of this appraisal include the inability to test the internal clock mechanism or verify if the wiring (if electric) is original and safe. A physical inspection is necessary to check for cracks in the brittle pot metal and to confirm the presence of any manufacturer marks on the reverse or movement. For full authentication, I would recommend a cleaning by a horologist and research into provenance to determine if this was a retail purchase or a campaign distribution item.