About the Ansonia “Apex” Clock
Title: The Ansonia “Apex”: A Pinnacle of American Clock Craftsmanship
The Ansonia “Apex” clock model, manufactured by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company between 1897 and 1925, is an exquisite mantel clock that continues to captivate collectors today. This masterpiece represents the pinnacle of American clock-making during the late Victorian era.
The Apex boasts a unique case design, often crafted from mahogany or walnut, with intricate marquetry and elaborate gilt decorations adorning its surfaces. The dial is typically made of enamel and features Roman numerals, while the pendulum bob is often embellished with finely sculpted figures or scenes, adding an element of novelty to this already stunning timepiece.
What makes the Ansonia “Apex” particularly collectible is its exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and rarity. Each Apex clock is a testament to the artistry of the Ansonia Clock Company during its golden age, showcasing exquisite materials, painstakingly detailed marquetry work, and intricate mechanical movements. Notable features include the use of high-quality movement components such as jeweled bearings and Swiss lever escapements, ensuring precision and durability.
Additionally, the Apex is renowned for its grandeur, with many examples featuring elaborate scenes depicting historical events, famous landmarks, or mythical subjects. These unique designs not only make each Apex clock a standout piece but also provide fascinating insights into Victorian-era culture and aesthetics. For any serious antique clock collector, the Ansonia “Apex” is an essential addition to their collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 12 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Apex” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia Clock Co. crystal regulator, “Apex”, ca 1905.
One of their better and most collectable crystal regulators, along with the Regal and Excelsior. The 18 1/2 inch case is finished in original rich gold, still retains about half, with maybe a lot more under the tarnish and grime. The case has never been cleaned. The pendulum is correct. 8 day movement strikes on a gong, and it is running. Good 2 piece porcelain dial with open escapement. If you like it bright with new gilt, we’ll be happy to supply you with the names of companies that will do it. Actually, most collectors seem to want it original even if some of the finish is worn. Ly-Ansonia, page 109.
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: 1/1/2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
C.1905, Ansonia Clock Co., “Apex” , crystal regulator
in Syrian Bronze and in very good condition. Much of the dark bronze color has been polished away on the corners and high spots, but this is still an eye catching clockÖthe top of the Ansonia line sold for around $100 at the time. Retains original cast and gilded pendulum; excellent porcelain dial with open escape and in running order. All the beveled glass is fine. This extra heavy clock will require premium packing and shipping. If you want one crystal regulator, this is the one. Height 18″ $3250-4250
Sold: $4,700 | Date: 11/1/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co. New York, C.1905, “APEX and CANDELABRAS”, 3-pc set, 8-day, gong strike, with open escapement on porcelain dial.
the gilt metal case and candle stands were polished some time ago, and now with a very pleasant patina that photographs like gold. Mov’t is clean and running. All drip shields are intact. Note unique pendulum used on Apex and Regal. Height of clock = 18.5″, and candle stands about an inch higher.
Sold: $2,300 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., NY, APEX crystal regulator, 8-day time and gong strike with open escapement on dial.
the front glass has a crack and small chip lower left corner; rear glass with small chip, The rich gold color on the case is especially fine. Porcelain dial is excellent. Retains origina cast and gilt pendulum, lady’s head on a baroque background. Some of the trim pieces on the case are a bit loose. Ht 18.5″
Sold: $2,415 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “Apex” crystal regulator, 8 day, time and strike spring driven movement with visible escapement
Heavy cast metal case has retained a lot of its original gilding. Original porcelain dial is perfect. Original hands and fancy gilt pendulum. All the beveled glass panels are fine. Movement is signed. Extra-special packing should be specified if shipping this clock.
Sold: $1,700 | Date: April 29, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co. Crystal Regulator, “Apex”, ca 1905.
This is an original gold plated case with about 50 percent of the gold still trying to hold on. It was originally, or at least is now, an antique gold. Most of the case has a Syrian bronze color, which is fine. If it were redone I would probably have suggested Syrian Bronze plating. All 4 beveled glasses are perfect, or appear so without a magnifying glass examination. 8 day movement strikes half hours on a standing gong. 2 piece porcelain dial is near perfect, open escapement with jeweled pallets, correct hands, clock just keeps on running. Outstanding pendulum bob with ladies head embossed on it. This is another of those collectable crystal regulators that we were buying 5-6 years ago for $2000. Ly-Ansonia, page 109.
Sold: $4,770 | Date: July, 2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Apex” crystal regulator shelf clock with a spring driven time and half hour rack strike movement with a visible escapement, a fancy pendulum and jewelled bezel in a rich gold and brass case.
The case retains a nice gilt and brass finish. The front door glass is chipped away at the top right corner. The rear door glass is cracked. The other two glasses are fine. The porcelain dial is in excellent condition and fitted with a jeweled sash (see Tran Duy Ly’s Ansonia Book, page 109, number 280): The hands are original. The movement is signed.
Sold: $1600 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ornate Ansonia “Apex” Crystal Regulator Clock
signed porcelain dial; open escapement; fabulous finish and pendulum. 18 1/2″
Sold: $2,800 | Date: October 1, 2011 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
Antique Ansonia “Apex” Crystal Regulator Clock
marked Ansonia two piece dial with open escapement; time and strike; has pendulum; no key; beveled glass; rich gold finish. 18″ x 10 1/4″ x 9″
Sold: $2,800 | Date: October 1, 2011 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “Apex”, 8 days, time and strike, spring driven brass movement crystal regulator mantel clock, c1905
Brass and gilt cast bronze case with loss of the some of the original gilding. Original porcelain dial has a hairline crack at both winding arbors and at 10 o’clock. Original hands and fancy pendulum. Rating nut for the pendulum is missing. Beveled glass panels are fine. Rack striking movement is signed. Ht 18 1/2″
Sold: $1,400 | Date: October 25, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “APEX” crystal regulator, a heavy cast metal case with bronze finish, this model and the Regal at the top of the Ansonia crystal line; c1905
bronze finish is worn to base metal in a few high spots, but overall very good. The porcelain dial has hairlines near 2, 10 and 12, otherwise good with no chips. Open escapement and original hands are intact. Original cast brass pendulum with female head in center. Overall a clean example. Movement ticks and strikes, but would benefit from cleaning. More details on this model can be found in Tran Ly’s book titled “Ansonia Clocks” (1998), page 109. Ht 18.5″
Sold: $2,400 | Date: October 28, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Apex” crystal regulator three piece garniture set with matching candelabra 8 day, time and gong strike spring driven movement in gilded brass case with four beveled glasses and Roman numeral cream enamel dial, c1905
ticking briskly. The gilded case and candelabra have some slight darkening. The dial has one hairline in the center. Please note the unique pendulum used on the Apex and the Regal models. We recently sold another nice example in our May 16th, 2010 auction, lot 494, for $2000 plus 15% buyer’s premium. Ht 18 1/2″, Candelabra Ht 19 1/2″
Sold: $2,400 | Date: October 29, 2011 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts