How to Date a Gustav Becker Clock Using Serial Numbers

Gustav Becker clocks are among the most respected and collectible German timepieces of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for their precision, craftsmanship, and elegant cases, they remain sought after by collectors and clock enthusiasts worldwide. Dating one accurately adds historical value and helps in both restoration and appraisal.

One of the most effective ways to determine when a Gustav Becker clock was made is to use its serial number—but this requires careful observation and knowledge of the company’s history. This guide explains exactly how to identify and date your clock using its markings, while also showing you how to keep it running beautifully.

1. Understanding Gustav Becker’s History

Gustav Becker established his workshop in Freiburg, Silesia, in 1850. Over the decades, the company produced everything from simple wall clocks to elaborate regulators and anniversary clocks. By the late 1800’s, Becker had won numerous awards for quality and accuracy, and his clocks were exported worldwide.

The production period you are looking for will depend largely on the style, the movement design, and the serial number format. Importantly, Gustav Becker continued producing clocks until 1935, when the company merged into the Junghans group.

2. Locating the Serial Number

The serial number is the key to dating your Becker clock. You can usually find it:

• Stamped on the back plate of the movement
• Etched or impressed near the bottom edge of the back plate
• Occasionally on the front plate (visible only after dismantling)

If you see multiple numbers, the movement serial number—not the case number—is the one to use for dating. Always record it exactly as it appears.

3. Using Serial Number Ranges to Determine Age

Over time, Becker movements followed a general sequence of serial numbers that corresponded to production years. For example:

• Pre-1875: Serial numbers under 50,000
• 1880–1895: Numbers in the 200,000–900,000 range
• 1900–1915: Serial numbers over 1 million
• Post-1920: Often in the 2–2.5 million range

Serial number lists for Becker clocks are available in horology references, and comparing your number to these charts will give you a reliable estimate of the manufacturing year.

4. Look for Trademark Variations

In addition to serial numbers, Gustav Becker used specific trademarks during different time periods. These usually appear as a circular or anchor-shaped logo stamped on the movement plate, often accompanied by “Gustav Becker” and the city name “Freiburg i/S” (Freiburg in Silesia).

Changes in the trademark design can help confirm your date range. For example:

• Pre-1880: A simple anchor with “GB” initials
• 1880–1900: More elaborate circular medallions with award symbols
• Post-1900: Standardized anchor logo with “Gustav Becker” text

Matching the style of the trademark to the serial number provides a more accurate dating method.

5. Maintain Your Becker Clock for Accuracy and Longevity

Before you start dismantling or cleaning your Gustav Becker clock to check its movement, make sure it’s properly handled and maintained. Dust, worn bushings, or dried oil can affect both performance and legibility of markings.

At Clockworks, we offer:

• Professional cleaning and oiling services for Gustav Becker and other antique clocks
• Tools for safe disassembly, movement inspection, and reassembly
• Replacement parts for weight-driven, spring-driven, and anniversary models

If you’re not confident in your ability to clean and inspect your clock without damage, we can take care of it for you and ensure it’s ready for accurate timekeeping.

6. Movement Features That Help with Dating

Beyond the serial number, certain design elements in the movement can indicate the clock’s era:

• Early movements: Heavier brass plates, finely cut gears, and high-grade finishes
• Late 19th century: More standardized parts for mass production
• Early 20th century: Slightly thinner plates, cost-effective manufacturing techniques, and standardized pendulum lengths

If you note the pendulum length and any stamped codes (such as “P42” or “P48”), these can also be matched with Becker reference materials to confirm the age.

7. Case Design as a Supporting Clue

While the movement is the most accurate dating tool, the case can still offer supporting evidence. For instance:

• Pre-1890: Ornate carvings, turned finials, and elaborate crowns in solid walnut or oak
• 1890–1910: Streamlined regulator styles with large glass panels and minimal carving
• Post-1910: Simpler box regulators and Art Nouveau or Art Deco influences

If the case style doesn’t match the movement period, the movement may have been replaced or re-cased at some point.

Final Thoughts: Combining Evidence for Accuracy

Dating a Gustav Becker clock requires a combination of evidence: the serial number, the trademark, the movement features, and the case style. When you combine all these factors, you can arrive at a production date with a high degree of confidence.

Knowing when your clock was made not only deepens your appreciation of it, but also helps in restoration, insurance valuation, and historical research.

If you’d like expert help dating, cleaning, or repairing your Gustav Becker clock, visit www.clockworks.com or email clockworks@clockworks.com. Our team has the tools, parts, and experience to preserve the beauty and accuracy of your timepiece.

Updated on: 03/10/2025