In the current economic climate, which we believe firmly is just beginning to emerge from the recession (and yes, we do have a credible Economics background), discounts and sales are something that are increasingly on the minds of grandfather clocks shopper and other shoppers just about everywhere. Thankfully for our industry, despite this latest and longest downturn in our lifetime, we find many individuals, or rather they find us, who view clocks and timepieces as purchases important enough not to be put off until a time that might be more convenient financially.
Most certainly, customers are inquiring more about the 12 month zero & financing we offer on grandfather clocks and all new clocks which cost $1,000 or more. And yes,we have wheeler dealer types who come into our shop and call us and try to get the best deals possible. It’s human nature, and it is especially smart of them in this recessionary time period.
We have certain discounts available which with some manufacturers we are severely discouraged from being price aggressive online. Others less so. But so many of our clients are return clocks shopping customers that it has fortunately become less of an issue.
Interesting, and sadly, two of our biggest competitors in the New York City area are gone and it does not appear as though they will be resurrected. One is the Astor Club, long-known for selling both pianos and grandfather clocks. The other, much better known, is Fortunoff, which has gone into Chapter 11 for a second time in a year (as we understand it), and this time, as we understand it, it is likely gone for good. Sad, because it was truly a great store in many ways.
Someone has even suggested to us that with Fortunoff’s demise, we should change our tag line to 1-800-4CLOCKS.com, The New Source?
All you time travelers and collectors and clocks enthusiasts, please let us know.
© Grandfather Clocks Blog and 1-800-4CLOCKS
