The unusual amount of interest paid to the piece during preview proved an early clue for auctioneer Michael B. Grogan that he had something pretty special. Just how special, however, would not be revealed until the lot crossed the auction block.

The clock, which measured 21 inches in height and carried a presale estimate of $15/25,000, was actively bid, eventually selling for $100,000 more than the high estimate, bringing $126,500 from a dealer bidding on the telephone for a collector.

A complete review of the sale will appear in a future issue.