About the Ansonia “Alhambra” Clock
Title: The Ansonia Alhambra Clock Model – A Collector’s Delight
The Ansonia Alhambra clock, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company, is a striking example of American clockmaking artistry. This exquisite timepiece belongs to the mantel clock category, designed for placement on a shelf or mantel rather than mounted on a wall.
Typical case materials for the Alhambra model include richly-grained mahogany and walnut, adorned with intricate brass accents and finials. The design is characterized by an elegant combination of geometric and floral motifs, creating a visually appealing and ornate appearance that enhances any decor.
Production of the Alhambra clock commenced in the late 19th century, primarily between 1875 and 1900, during the height of the Victorian era. The Alhambra’s collectibility stems from its exceptional craftsmanship, rarity, and association with the Ansonia Clock Company, a leading manufacturer known for producing high-quality clocks that have stood the test of time.
Notable features of the Ansonia Alhambra include its distinctive moon phase complication, which displays the phases of the moon alongside the hours and minutes, as well as the beautifully designed brass-faced dial with Roman numerals. Additionally, the Alhambra boasts a high-quality movement that ensures accurate timekeeping for decades, making it a valuable addition to any antique clock collection.
In summary, the Ansonia Alhambra is an exceptional mantel clock with a rich history and stunning design. Its collectibility lies in its association with the prestigious Ansonia Clock Company, intricate craftsmanship, rarity, and notable features such as the moon phase
Auction Records and Price History
The following 6 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Alhambra” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1883, Ansonia “ALHAMBRA”, mantel clock
ebonized wooden cased mantel clock with decorated rubber panels, and in generally good original condition, wear to decorations commensurate with age. Ansonia’s experiments with hard rubber cases, dials and decorations only lasted a few years, and examples in each category don’t turn up that often. This particular model also has a gilt rubber dial (both the inset and the chapter ring). On the rubber panels, there are hand painted scenes of flowers and birds which are difficult to make out. The pendulum is not Ansonia, however replacements are available. The movement is Ansonia’s premium with brass covers for the springs. And lastly, someone cut a small hole in the case bottom for starting the pendulum without turning the clock around on the mantel. Ly illustrates this model in his 1989 Ansonia book, page 182, item 870. Height 19″
Sold: $350 | Date: 4/21/2001 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., “Alhambra” ca. 1886.
Similar to the “Chippendale” model by Ansonia. Impressive 19 inches high by 19 inches wide case, ebonized with hand decorated rubber panels. This model is unusual as Ansonia didn’t make many of the rubberized paneled clocks. Two piece dial with outside escapement. 8 day movement strikes on a cathedral gong.
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1880, Ansonia Clock Co., “Alhambra”, 8-day time/strike mantel clock.
Condition: Ebonized wood case in nice condition with some wear to the paint on the bottom front corners. The two center brass turned feet in the back are missing. Original porcelain dial has a couple of hairline cracks and chips at the right winding hole, other edge roughness. Hands and pendulum are original. Nice original label on the back. Movement is signed. Also with 1884 repair label from Hibarger Jewelers. Height 18.5 inches
Sold: $325 | Date: May 6th, 2006 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1892, Ansonia Clock Co., “Alhambra”, 8-day time/strike marble mantel clock.
The highly figured marble case is in very nice condition with a couple of tiny chips on the right base corner and along the back edge of the top. The very ornate dial with porcelain number inserts is perfect. The hands are original and the beveled door glass is perfect. The movement is signed by the maker. Overall, this is a clock that has survived in excellent condition. With a jeweler’s label of C. H. Dygert, where it was cleaned in 1918 for $1.50. See Ly’s Ansonia book, page 355 (yes this is really called the Alhambra) Height 9 inches
Sold: $170 | Date: May 8th, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Fancy Ansonia “Alhambra” Iron Shelf Clock
time and strike, open escapement; signed. 13 1/2″ escapement, porcelain dial.
Sold: $225 | Date: October 1, 2011 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
C.1904, Ansonia Clock Co., ALHAMBRA, in good original condition,
complete with hard rubber dial with open escapement, and with a clean label on the rear. A very nice example of this model. Height 18 inches
Sold: $400 | Date: October 18, 2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts