About the Ansonia “Banjo No. 3” Clock
Title: Ansonia Banjo No. 3 Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Ansonia Banjo No. 3 clock, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company, is a captivating mantel clock that graced homes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This model is a unique blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it highly sought after among antique clock collectors.
The Banjo No. 3 boasts a distinctive design characterized by an elongated banjo-shaped case, typically crafted from walnut or mahogany. The case is adorned with intricate inlays and exquisite bracket feet, which contribute to its timeless elegance. The clock face is usually silvered dial with Roman numerals and a finely crafted pendulum visible through the open front of the banjo-shaped case.
Produced between 1890 and 1920, the Banjo No. 3 represents the height of the Ansonia Clock Company’s creativity and technical prowess during this period. What makes it collectible is not just its appealing design but also its high-quality craftsmanship, mechanical accuracy, and rarity, especially in excellent condition.
Notable features of the Banjo No. 3 include its unique banjo shape, which allows for a deeper, richer sound from the bell striking mechanism, adding to its charm. Additionally, this model often features an eight-day movement, ensuring long-lasting operation between windings. The visible pendulum and the ability to hear the clock’s workings are features that set it apart from many other mantel clocks of the era.
For collectors, the Ansonia Banjo No. 3 offers a wonderful opportunity to own a piece of American
Auction Records and Price History
The following 4 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Banjo No. 3” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia No. 3 Banjo Clock with Rare “Chipped” Crystal Tablets,
in a mahogany case, with bronzed side ornaments and eagle finial, and original “chipped glasses” tablets. Movement retains its original dial with Arabic numerals. Has full Westminster chime, on the quarter hour. Retains its original finish; 40.5″ high x 12″ wide x 6.5″ deep. See Tran Duy Ly, p. 62. Condition report Minor age cracks to case, no apparent damage to tablets. We do not guarantee the working order of clocks.
Sold: $5,000 (1 Bid) | Date: Oct 7th, 2005 | Source: Cowan’s Auctions
Antique Ansonia Banjo No. 3 Clock
Jan 2022 – #121 Antique American Clocks Ansonia “Banjo No. 3”, Ansonia made three banjo models that used this “beveled chipped glass” in the throat and lower door; this is the only one with Westminster chimes on the quarter-hours, played on “Melodious True-toned Rods”. It counts the hours on a fifth rod. The 40-inch case is solid mahogany with craquelure but no scuffs or scratches; the silvered dial shows wear. The hands are not as shown in the catalog illustration but are identical to the hands found on other examples. There is no damage to the glasses; the dial glass is convex, the eagle on top is original. The clock is running, chiming, and striking. Horton’s sold one in 2016 for $3456; Schmitt’s sold one in 2017 for $2400. $2000-$3000.
Retail: $3,260 | Date: 01/01/2022 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1924, Ansonia “Banjo No. 3”, Westminster chime banjo clock in very good original condition.
The only minor wear that keeps it from being excellent is a small bit of dial discoloration. The original finish is intact and the well made 3 train movement is complete and intact. This is a hard-to-find Ansonia model. Height 40.5 inches
Sold: $4,200 | Date: October 18, 2003 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Ansonia Banjo No. 3”, 8 day, time and strike with Westminster chime spring brass movement banjo wall clock.
Mahogany case in an aged original finish. Original beveled chipped design glasses in both doors. Original silvered dial has some surface wear, scratches and surface wear at the winding arbors. Original hands, pendulum and eagle finial. Overall this a very nice example.
Sold: $2,400 | Date: October 21, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts