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Is This Vintage Felix The Cat Clock Worth Buying. Captivate Your Home Decor

Introduction to Felix the Cat Vintage Clocks and Their History

Felix the Cat, the iconic black and white cartoon cat with a giant grin, made his debut in 1919 and soon became one of the most popular cartoon characters in history. His image and likeness were used extensively on merchandise and collectibles during the vintage era, including on charming antique wall clocks that can still be found today.

Felix first appeared in the silent animated short Feline Follies, created by animator Otto Messmer for Paramount Pictures. With his simple black body, white eyes, and giant smile, Felix was an instant hit. By 1923, he had his own cartoon series, becoming the first character from animation to be made into a movie star. At the height of his popularity, Felix the Cat was one of the most recognizable images in the world.

The character of Felix played a major role in shaping the early style and spirit of animated cartoons. Felix established key traits like morphing his body into unique shapes, as well as his curiosity, mischievousness, and resourcefulness. He laid the foundation for future iconic cartoon characters like Mickey Mouse to build upon.

As Felix rose to fame during the Roaring Twenties, his image appeared on a wide array of merchandise and pop culture ephemera.everything from toys to housewares featured his likeness. This included beautiful vintage Felix the Cat clocks, which became coveted decorative items.

The Popularity of Felix the Cat Clocks in the Early 20th Century

During the 1920s and 30s, Felix the Cat clocks were very popular and commonly found in American households. Felix’s wide grin and large eyes made him a natural fit for whimsical clock designs. The character appealed to both children and adults, making Felix clocks a fun, kitschy accent for many homes.

Several clock manufacturers produced licensed Felix the Cat wall clocks, including the Ansonia Clock Company, Ingraham, Telechron, and Lux. These clocks featured round or square wooden case designs housing a simple dial with Felix’s smiling face and iconic ears, tails, and gloves.

Felix clocks from these vintage brands were well-made and utilized reliable movements from prominent American clock companies. Many households at the time relied on Felix clocks to keep time in their kitchens, bedrooms, and nurseries. The charming clocks highlighted Felix’s instant recognizability and cultural relevance during this era.

Collecting Vintage 1920s-1930s Felix the Cat Clocks Today

For both Felix fans and vintage animation collectors, Felix the Cat clocks remain popular decorative accent pieces. Finding an antique Felix clock in good restored condition can be like unearthing buried treasure.

Popular vintage models include the Ansonia round or square clocks, which had wood cases framed by metal trim. Lux clocks featured detailed embossed metal square cases with a smiling bust of Felix in the middle. Ingraham made a plastic cat-shaped Felix clock in vibrant colors like red, yellow, and blue.

When evaluating potential Felix the Cat clocks to collect, look for signs of restoration done to clock mechanisms and cases. Many vintage Felix clocks have survived decades simply because the famous cat’s face made owners reluctant to discard them. With a bit of mechanical repair and aesthetic restoration, these clocks can be brought back to their former glory.

Rarity is an important factor in the value of vintage Felix clocks today. Especially scarce finds include working Lux illuminated clocks with light-up dial features. Kidney-shaped wood Felix clocks made by Ansonia and a rare birdhouse-shaped wood Felix clock made by Phinney Walker Co. also command high prices.

The Enduring Pop Culture Legacy of Felix the Cat

Though Felix the Cat may not be as ubiquitous today as contemporaries like Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny, he still holds an important place in animation history. His influence can be seen in later cartoon characters like Mickey and even Felix the Cat clocks remain a testament to his cultural impact.

Beyond collectibles, Felix continues to appear in television and movies. The 1958 cartoon series The Adventures of Felix the Cat brought him back to television, followed by the 1991 Felix the Cat series. In 2019, a new 3D CGI reboot of Felix was released on YouTube. Felix also inspired the anime series Black Jack and had cameos in movies like Gremlins and Who Framed Roger Rabbit.

The vintage charm and Art Deco style of antique Felix the Cat clocks will never go out of fashion for collectors and decorative arts enthusiasts. For animation fans, they are a tangible representation of the magic and appeal this iconic cartoon cat has brought to millions of people for over a century. When it comes to vintage pop culture collectibles, Felix the Cat clocks remain a historic and worthwhile investment.

Overview of the iconic character Felix the Cat

Felix the Cat is one of the most iconic cartoon characters from the early 20th century. Created by animator Otto Messmer, Felix first appeared in 1919 in a short film called Feline Follies. With his black body, white eyes, and giant grin, Felix had an instantly recognizable look that resonated with audiences.

Throughout the 1920s, Felix grew hugely popular in cartoon shorts. His personality was playful, curious, and mischievous. Many of his cartoons centered around Felix trying to outwit dogs and other animals to get food or protect his girlfriend Kitty. Felix had an ability to reshape his tail into tools and other objects, which got him out of many jams.

In the 1950s and 60s, Felix enjoyed a revival in popularity through television. The Felix the Cat TV show introduced Felix to a whole new generation. While the shorts were dialogue-free, the TV Felix could talk. He was given a “Magic Bag of Tricks” that could produce anything he needed. Felix was voiced by Jack Mercer, who also voiced Popeye.

Over the decades, Felix remains one of the most iconic cartoon characters. He is recognized around the world as a symbol of cool cats. Felix inspired other characters like Mickey Mouse. His image has been used in popular culture, art, and advertising. Today Felix lives on through reruns and merchandise aimed at both nostalgic adults and young kids discovering him for the first time.

The appeal of vintage Felix the Cat clocks

With Felix the Cat’s long history and retro appeal, Felix-themed collectibles have become popular, especially among fans of mid-century decor. One item that combines Felix’s image with mid-century flair is the vintage Felix the Cat wall clock.

These clocks feature a plastic Felix figurine with swinging arms and tail that mark the time. Felix’s eyes and mouth also move in synchronization. The styling is very kitschy and mod, representing the height of Felix’s popularity in the 50s and 60s. For retro design lovers, the Felix clock has a very distinct look that evokes the atomic era obsession with space age styling and new technology.

Beyond just telling time, these clocks are functional nostalgic art pieces. They add a playful focal point full of color, motion, and character. The mid-century nostalgia also taps into fond childhood memories among adult collectors who may remember Felix from Saturday morning cartoons decades ago.

Considerations when buying a vintage Felix clock

For all their retro charm, vintage Felix Cat clocks can also come with some drawbacks. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering adding one of these clocks to your home decor.

They may need repairs. Given their age, some of the older Felix clocks can have issues like faulty motors or mechanisms in disrepair. So be sure to closely inspect any vintage clock before purchasing.
Noise. The ticking and motion of the swinging pendulum, eyes, and tail can create a fair bit of ambient noise. This may not suit more quiet, zen home environments.
Kitschy aesthetic. While many love the over-the-top retro look, it also isn’t for everyone. The exaggerated features and colors make Felix clocks a very bold statement piece.

If properly repaired and maintained, Felix clocks can be functional for many years. But ultimately they are novelty items that emphasize fun decor over more practical timekeeping.

Where to buy vintage Felix the Cat clocks

For collectors interested in acquiring one of these mid-century Felix clocks, here are some places to look:

eBay – A wide selection of used Felix clocks are sold regularly on eBay. Be sure to inspect seller photos closely for any damage or repairs needed.
Etsy – Similar to eBay, many vintage Felix clocks can be found on Etsy shops. Individual sellers offer a range of conditions and prices.
Collector forums – Websites and message boards devoted to antiques and kitschy collectibles sometimes have Felix clocks for sale. Collector forums are also great resources for repair tips.
Thrift stores – It takes patience, but you can sometimes uncover a real gem of a Felix clock at second-hand and vintage shops. Thrift stores in retro-decorated areas are a good bet.
Auctions – Live and online auctions can have Felix clocks alongside other novelty vintage items. Be prepared for bidding competition that may drive up the price.

For the Felix fan seeking the perfect centerpiece for their mod style room, the hunt for a vintage Felix the Cat clock can be rewarding. Just be selective in assessing condition and repair needs to ensure your Felix investment is a wise one.

Popularity and demand for Felix the Cat clocks

As a character that has managed to stay relevant for over a century, Felix the Cat retains a nostalgic appeal that fuels interest in vintage Felix collectibles like clocks. Felix’s heyday in the 1950s and 60s makes him a natural fit for mid-century decor enthusiasts looking to add kitschy character to their space.

Baby boomers who grew up watching Felix on Saturday morning cartoons are one demographic that may be drawn to Felix clocks as a fun reminder of their childhood. The retro styling and moving eyes, mouth, and pendulum provide plenty of kitschy entertainment.

Younger generations are also discovering the appeal of feline-themed clocks. With vintage culture permeating decor, fashion, and social media, the quirky novelty of a Felix clock fits right in with modern trends. The clocks pair well with other collected vintage items to create a one-of-a-kind interior collage.

Interior designers have also taken notice of the decor potential of Felix and other novelty clocks. The unique conversational piece can become the anchor for an entire mod or kitschy room concept. The colors and fluid shapes pair well with atomic era furniture and lighting for a retro lounge look.

For collectors, the limited supply and fragile nature of vintage clocks also makes Felix timepieces valued finds. Sourcing a Felix clock in good working condition with all original parts can be difficult. When they do appear at auction or for sale, competition can be fierce.

Beyond retro appeal, Felix clock prices also benefit from the high value of antique clocks in general. As functional antique objects, they appeal to collector markets beyond just pop culture fandoms. This expands the pool of potential buyers.

Though prices vary widely based on condition, rarity, and seller, Felix clocks typically auction in the $50-$300 range. Rare styles in exceptional restored shape can fetch higher prices from especially devoted collectors. Damaged or non-working clocks sell for under $100.

There are also some reproductions and modern Felix clocks that mimic the retro style. But for most collectors, only the original vintage models have the nostalgic value that makes the Felix Cat clock worth the investment. The hunt itself is part of the fun of collecting.

As Felix nears his 100th anniversary in 2019, interest in Felix collectibles is on the rise. For interior designers, vintage culture lovers, animation fans, and kitsch collectors, the Felix the Cat clock remains an iconic and whimsical addition full of retro machine age charm.

Identifying authentic vintage Felix the Cat clocks

When browsing listings and sales for vintage Felix the Cat clocks, being able to properly authenticate the age and origins of these clocks is an important skill for collectors.

Here are some tips for identifying true vintage Felix clocks versus newer replicas:

Materials – Authentic Felix clocks from the 50s-60s were made with metal parts rather than plastic. Look for metal casing, pendulums, and internal clockwork.
Manufacturer marks – Vintage Felix clocks often have markings like “P.M.C.” or “Rhythm” on the back from the original manufacturers like the Perzel-McLain Clock Company.
Movement style – The pendulum swing on original clocks mimics Felix’s tail. Replicas often use different pendulum designs.
Production quality – Vintage Felix clocks have noticeable wear on things like paint and decals, while replicas look cleaner and more mass produced.
Dimensions – Standard vintage Felix clocks are around 13″ tall x 9″ wide. Different sizes may indicate a replica.
Clockwork type – Vintage Felix clocks operate mechanically without batteries. Look for wind-up or electric cord mechanisms.

Evaluating the seller is also important when determining if a Felix clock is authentically from the era:

Check seller ratings – Highly rated sellers with positive feedback are less likely to misrepresent items.
Ask about the source – Did the seller acquire the clock from the original owner? More vague origins may be questionable.
Ask for repair and service history – Having past maintenance records indicates provenance.
Evaluate seller expertise – Sellers who specialize in vintage items tend to accurately assess authenticity.

Some quick visual cues can help determine real vintage Felix clocks as well:

Old clock face and hands
Faded or yellowed white plastic parts
Scratches, chips, or rust
Retro dial numbering style
Signed j.k.s. mark near bottom from founder Joe Korenkiewicz

Taking time to carefully examine a Felix clock and ask the seller questions can help avoid spending premium vintage prices on a modern replica. For collectors seeking true mid-century charm, authentic age and wear marks like those outlined here are part of the appeal of owning a real retro Felix the Cat clock.

Typical design elements of Felix the Cat clocks

The vintage Felix the Cat clocks produced in the 1950s and 60s have many distinctive design elements that make them visually appealing pop-art decor items. Here are some of the most common features seen on authentic mid-century Felix clocks:

Large plastic or metal Felix figurine – Usually around 5-6 inches tall, with swinging pendulum tail and moving eyes and mouth.
Bold eyes – Felix’s signature pie-cut eyes in yellow, white, and black are prominently featured.
Cheshire grin – The oversized smiling mouth stretches almost ear to ear.
Bell alarm – Many styles have a shiny metal bell mounted on top that rings when the alarm is triggered.
Moon dial backdrop – Felix is often set against a yellow crescent moon clock face.
Atomic era fonts – Mid-century modern number and letter designs around the clock face.
Sputnik-shaped plastic clock housing – Some models encase the clockwork in a round, spiked clear plastic cover reminscent of satellites.
Retro color schemes – Lots of shiny blacks, yellows, whites, chrome, and primary colors like red and blue.
Kitschy phrases – Catchy sayings like “Time’s Fun When You’re Having Flies” printed around the dial.
Manufacturer logos – Markings from companies like General Time, Lux, or Rhythm on the housing.

These playful, space age design choices all reflect the art and culture that surrounded Felix the Cat in the peak of his popularity. The clocks have a very Googie mod look that aligns with the Atomic Age optimism and futurism of the era.

For collectors and decor fans looking to capture a colorful retro mood, the vintage Felix clock encompasses all the key traits of fun 1950s and 60s novelty items. The whimsical creativity and craftsmanship elevate Felix timepieces into true mid-century folk art.

Most valuable and rare Felix the Cat clock designs

While all vintage Felix the Cat clocks have a certain kitschy appeal, some particular styles and designs stand out as more rare and valuable for collectors.

Here are some of the most prized and hard-to-find Felix clock variants:

Jumbo 19-inch Pendulum Clock – Extra large plastic Felix figure on big moon face dial. Very rare.
Double-sided Two-Faced Clock – Felix figures on both sides, with clock faces back to back. Unusual.
Wooden Window Clock – Small wooden Felix leans out the window frame with moving parts. Intricate design.
Flocked Face Calendar Clock – Velvet fabric background behind Felix instead of plastic. Textured look.
Pocket Watch Style – Extremely rare scaled-down pocket watch with tiny Felix figure inside.
Original Box – Complete with packaging makes any Felix clock more valuable.
Transistor Radio Combo – Built-in vintage transistor radio adds electronic novelty.
Lunch Box Model – Rarest of all, with printed metal lunchbox design.

There are also some desired manufacturing quirks and defects that can increase value:

Misprinted phrases – Clocks with odd malformed words and spacing.
Mixed up parts – Shipping errors resulted in some mismatched model parts.
Hand-painted details – Some custom touches were added to clocks.
Prototypes – Experimental models that never made it to full production.

Since the Felix clock was produced for a relatively short run in the 1950s and 60s before waning popularity, intact specimens from any company are becoming scarce. But the really rare bird clocks like the ones listed here can command prices into the thousands from elite collectors.

Even common Felix clocks in excellent restored condition still hold value for the right buyer seeking eyecatching vintage kitsch. But the few specially designed, defected, or otherwise unique Felix clocks possess an extra level of market desirability and historical cachet.

Evaluating condition of antique Felix the Cat clocks

When examining a potential vintage Felix the Cat clock purchase, carefully inspecting the item’s physical condition is crucial for determining value and required repairs.

Here are some tips on evaluating the condition of antique Felix clocks:

Examine the casing – Look for scratches, chips, dents, rust, or other signs of wear. Pristine casing increases value.
Check the clock face – Is the dial faded or discolored? Are there marks or damage? A clean dial is ideal.
Assess decorative elements – Do embellishments like the moon face, bell alarm, or plastic housing have any missing or damaged parts?
Look at Felix’s moving components – Do the eyes, mouth, arms, and pendulum swing smoothly and properly? Any stuttering movements lower value.
Listen to the ticking – Irregular or grinding ticking sounds suggest issues like worn gears.
Evaluate any repairs – Were replacements done properly using authentic materials and styles?
Examine the inner mechanisms – Clock should be opened to look for rust, stripped gears, detached coils and other problems affecting function.

Restoration condition should also be considered:

Were original paints preserved? Overpainting decreases antique value.
Do repairs match the clock’s era? Modern replacements lower vintage appeal.
Was clock movement overhauled and tested? Verify clocks work properly.
Were missing parts replaced with authentic components?

While completely original, pristine condition is ideal, the most important factors are good working order and repairs that retained the retro visual style. Some wear and repairs may even add character.

By thoroughly inspecting both visible facades and internal mechanisms, vintage Felix clock collectors can make an informed decision on condition to determine price and maintenance needs.

Estimating value of vintage Felix the Cat clocks

Determining fair pricing for sought-after vintage Felix the Cat clocks can be tricky for both buyers and sellers.

Some key factors that impact a Felix clock’s value include:

Age – The older clocks from the 1950s command higher prices than later 1960s models. Pre-1950s prototypes are very rare.
Condition – Clocks in original working order or properly restored fetch higher prices than damaged or altered pieces.
Rarity – Unusual color variants, limited editions, oddities and mistakes have added value for collectors.
Completeness – Clocks with all original components and the original box intact tend to cost more.
Manufacturer – Certain brands like Lux and Sessions are considered higher quality and more sought-after.
Documentation – Provenance paperwork proving authenticity increases resale value.

Sold listings on auction sites like eBay provide a good baseline for comparing prices of clocks in similar shape. Some current ranges to expect include:

Common working clocks: $50 – $150
Well-restored clocks: $150 – $300+
Rare designs in original box: $300 – $600
One-of-a-kind rarities: $600+

Higher prices beyond this range usually indicate a particularly rare color, limited edition, or prototype model pursued by top collectors. Celebrities and other famous owners can also increase value.

Broken or damaged clocks typically sell for under $100, though rare models still hold parts value. Replicas and modern Felix clocks have little resale value.

Vintage Felix Cat clocks make a fun investment for collectors, especially when able to spot underpriced fixer-uppers. But avoid overpaying by carefully comparing clocks of similar make and era before purchase.

Negotiating price when buying Felix the Cat clocks

When looking to purchase a vintage Felix the Cat clock, there are some effective strategies to negotiate the price lower than the asking price:

Compare prices of similar clocks – Reference current sold prices of comparable clocks to argue your maximum offer.
Mention repair costs – If repairs are needed, use this to justify lowering the price from the seller’s asking amount.
Point out flaws – Politely note any scratches, missing parts, etc. to demonstrate why the clock is overpriced.
Ask about length of listing – A clock that has been listed for many months without selling typically motivates sellers to accept lower bids.
Bundle purchase – Offer to buy multiple clocks to negotiate a reduced per-clock price.
Suggest payment methods – PayPal or wire transfer may be preferred for the seller over checks, supporting a discount.
Remain polite – A rude tone will not curry favor for a bargain. Be courteous in seeking cost reductions.

Some other money saving tips include:

Buy clocks needing some TLC – Restore yourself then resell for profit.
Search locally – Less competition than online auctions sometimes translates to better prices.
Ask about other timepieces – Sellers may offer lower prices on less popular clocks they are trying to unload.
Wait for sales – Holidays, clock conventions, and seller moving sales prompt temporary price drops.

With persistence, respect, and skillful haggling, significant savings can be achieved when adding a vintage Felix clock to your collection. The fun pursuit of bargaining for the best deal can make obtaining your ideal cat clock even sweeter.

Recommended places to buy Felix the Cat clocks

For collectors seeking to add an authentic vintage Felix the Cat clock to their home, here are some top recommended sources to find quality timepieces:

eBay – This auction site has one of the widest selections of Felix clocks available. Sort by newly listed and check often for new additions.
Etsy – Along with eBay, Etsy features many individual sellers offering rare collectible Felix clocks in a range of conditions.
Collector forums – Websites like CollectorsWeekly often have sales listings along with repair advice from experienced collectors.
Collector conventions – Events like the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors show feature vendors with horological rarities.
Antique malls – Brick and mortar shops specializing in antiques and vintage items are worth browsing for unique Felix clocks.
Estate sales – Felix clocks sometimes surface amidst other retro belongings at estate sales.
Thrift stores – It takes persistence, but Felix clocks can turn up discounted at second-hand stores.
Clock repair shops – Long-running local clock shops may buy and sell vintage clocks in addition to repairs.
Facebook Marketplace – Vintage collectors often list rare timepieces for local pickup on Marketplace.
Craigslist – The vintage and collectibles section can yield occasional Felix clock listings.

Casting a wide net across multiple platforms, both online and physical, is key to discovering that perfect rare Felix clock specimen for your collection. Happy thrifting!

Restoring and repairing old Felix the Cat clocks

To keep vintage Felix the Cat clocks in good working order and preserve their retro charm, proper restoration and occasional repairs are often needed.

Here are some tips for fixing up an antique Felix clock:

Clean gently – Use a soft dry cloth to wipe down the clock casing to remove dust and dirt. Avoid wet cleaning methods.
Lubricate moving parts – Carefully lubricate pendulum pivot points and gears with clock oil to prevent sticking.
Inspect mechanisms – Examine the inner workings for worn gears, detached coils and other issues. Replace damaged components with authentic parts.
Consider part upgrades – Upgrade plastic gears to more durable metal gears to improve function.
Check clock movements – Wind up the motor and listen/observe that the ticking is regular and the hands are aligned.
Realign hands – Use a hand-setting tool to carefully reset the hands if they are askew.
Test alarm function – Trigger the bell alarm to check for proper sound and motion.
Tighten loose parts – Use a small screwdriver to tighten any hardware like fasteners that have become loose over time.
Touch up paint – Use hobby paint in original colors to conceal chips and scratches.

For major repairs beyond simple cleaning and adjustments, experienced clock repair professionals should be consulted. Proper repairs to restore function and preserve vintage style can extend the life of cherished Felix clocks.

While keeping your Felix clock in good working order takes some care, the reward is enjoying this kitschy icon as a functioning timepiece instead of just a display piece. Take time to maintain Felix and he’ll keep time for you!

Displaying and decorating with Felix the Cat clocks

Once you’ve acquired an authentic vintage Felix the Cat clock, there are creative ways to prominently display it as a focal decor piece.

Ideal places to exhibit your Felix clock include:

Kitchen – Felix makes a fun retro accent in 50s-style kitchens. Place on a counter or hang by a dining area.
Bedroom – For a whimsical bedside clock, set Felix on a nightstand or dresser.
Office – Let Felix liven up a desk or bookshelf among other collectibles.
Living room – Display on the mantel or an end table as a conversation starter.
Den – Felix clocks pair nicely with midcentury smoking lounge aesthetics.
Bar area – Add Felix above the liquor selection as a kitschy garnish.

Lighting tips:

Illuminate Felix to highlight his vibrant colors and details.
Backlight him to create a striking silhouette effect.
Use spot lighting to make Felix pop off dark walls.

Complementary decor ideas:

Match with atomic-style furnishings like kidney bean tables and egg chairs.
Surround with 50s kitsch like tiki memorabilia and bowling decor.
Incorporate other lighthearted themes like Disney, Vegas, or tropical motifs.

With creativity and the right setting, your special Felix clock can be showcased as the fun centerpiece it deserves to be. Let Felix take pride of place in your retro pad!

Investment potential of vintage Felix the Cat clocks

For some collectors, acquiring vintage Felix the Cat clocks goes beyond just decoration – they can also be sound investments.

Here’s why Felix clocks have investment appeal:

Rarity – With a limited number made decades ago, intact clocks are getting harder to find, driving up values.
Iconic character – Felix the Cat retains strong pop culture appeal, ensuring continued collector demand.
Vintage appeal – Mid-century and atomic era designs are hugely popular for decor and collecting.
Kitsch factor – The quirkiness and colors strike a chord with tiki/lounge decor fans.
Multiple markets – Felix clocks attract both pop culture collectors and serious horological collectors.
Strong prices – Common clocks sell for $100+ with rare pieces fetching $1000 or more.

Maximizing investment return:

Seeking mint condition or rare versions means greater profit potential upon resale.
Restoring damaged clocks to good working order increases value significantly.
Holding clocks for several years allows values to rise over time with inflation.
Buying underpriced clocks and reselling at market value is an easy profit.

While any vintage purchase is speculative, Felix clocks have demonstrated a steady increase in value over the decades. As more of these kitschy timepieces enter private collections, prices for the remaining available pieces in any condition will likely continue appreciating. For the investor with an eye for retro charm, Felix clocks can be a rewarding and fun vintage item to include in their portfolio.

Tips for maintaining and cleaning Felix the Cat clocks

To keep your vintage Felix the Cat clock running smoothly and looking its best, proper maintenance and occasional cleaning are recommended.

Maintenance tips:

Wind clocks regularly if non-electric – Try to wind the clock motor daily at the same time.
Lubricate moving parts twice a year – Use light clock oil on the pendulum pivot and gears.
Check for worn parts yearly – Examine the mechanisms for stripped gears or loosened components and replace as needed.
Dust lightly monthly – Use a soft brush to gently remove dust, errant lint, etc. from the case and components.
Check alignment of hands – Over time hands can slip; realign if they are slightly off.

Cleaning tips:

Use dry methods only – Avoid moisture which can damage the inner workings.
Wipe down the case carefully – Gently clean the casing with a microfiber cloth.
Don’t touch the clock face – Tempting as it is, avoid touching the dial to avert dirt and oil transfer.
Clean glass/plastic with care – Use a specialized plastic cleaner and very soft cloth on the clock crystal and other transparent parts.
Inspect after cleaning – Verify all hands and parts are still correctly aligned after any cleaning.

With proper care, your Felix clock can keep time for decades to come. Routinely care for your rare Felix find to preserve this special piece of kitsch history.

Conclusion – Why Felix the Cat clocks make great collectibles

For pop culture fans, mid-century decor lovers, and kitsch collectors, few vintage items encapsulate an era quite like the vintage Felix the Cat clock.

Beyond their flashy retro style, Felix clocks have lasting appeal due to:

Nostalgia – Felix evokes happy childhood memories for those who grew up watching his cartoons.
Personality – Felix’s playful spirit and famous grin give the clocks loads of character.
Atomic Age design – The clocks epitomize Googie and Space Age stylings.
Rarity – Few were produced, and intact ones are increasingly hard to find.
Appreciation – Prices have steadily risen over the decades as demand outpaces supply.
Conversation piece – The wacky, eye-catching look is a unique decorative focal point.

For the collector seeking a vintage item that combines investment potential with family-friendly appeal, the Felix the Cat clock checks all the boxes.

Just wind up the motor and let Felix transport you back to the wild, innocent wonder of the 1950s. Those seeking mid-century nostalgia with a playful wink need look no further than this iconic clock kitty.

When the opportunity arises to adopt one of these rare feline timepieces, don’t hesitate – supplies are limited, and demand continues to grow. Let the magic of Felix brighten your home today!