Showing off the prized clock (from left) are auctioneers Frank and Dave Forsythe and Dr and Mrs Alan Luger, whose collection was featured in the auction.

RUSSELLVILLE, OHIO — A rare E. Howard & Co. No. 22 astronomical standing clock sold May 29 at Forsythes’ Auctions LLC when it hammered at $120,000, $138,000 with the buyer’s premium. Attracting much presale attention and bidders, the clock was hotly contested on the phones and went to a collector-dealer bidding by phone.

The longcase Gothic-style clock in walnut retaining its original varnish finish has a 16-inch diameter reverse painted glass dial marked “E. Howard & Co. Makers Boston” with Arabic numerals. It was consigned by a gentleman who has attended, and bought at, auctions here over the years, said auctioneer Dave Forsythe. It was originally purchased privately from a jeweler in the early 1970s and made its debut on the market in this sale.

“You always hope for the best. We had estimated it at $80/100,000, but there’s not a lot of auction records for this particular model,” he said after the auction. “We were excited, it is the top lot we have sold since we have been in business (35 years).”

For more information, www.forsythesauctions.com or 513-791-2323.