About the Ansonia “Combatants” Clock
Title: Ansonia Combatants Clock Model – A Notable Antique Novelty Timepiece
The Ansonia Combatants clock, produced between 1876 and 1900, is a captivating example of American novelties in the realm of antique clocks. This unique piece is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the renowned Ansonia Clock Company.
Typical case materials for the Combatants clock include cast iron, brass, and sometimes bronze. The design features two soldiers, one representing the Union Army and the other the Confederate Army, engaged in a friendly wrestling match atop the clock’s dial. This intricate and detailed sculpture is a striking example of the Ansonia Clock Company’s commitment to creating visually appealing and historically significant clocks.
What makes the Combatants clock collectible is its historical context, novelty design, and rarity. The piece was produced during the late 19th century, a time when America was recovering from the Civil War, making it a tangible artifact of that era. Its novelty design, featuring two soldiers in friendly combat, offers a unique perspective on the post-Civil War period’s reconciliation and healing process. Additionally, due to its complex manufacturing process and limited production run, finding an original Combatants clock can be challenging, making it highly sought after by collectors.
Notable features of the Ansonia Combatants clock include a weight-driven movement with a pendulum visible through an opening in the case, a dial featuring Roman numerals, and a striking mechanism that plays Westminster or Whittington chimes on a bell housed within the base. The clock’s dial is often adorned with intricate details such as stars, stripes, and eagles, further
Auction Records and Price History
The following 4 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Combatants” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia Clock Co. figure clock, the “Combatants”, ca 1894.
One of their most poplar double statue clocks. Individually they are Attila and Mars. This one has been in a private collection for many years, and well protected. As nice and original as you will find. The enameled iron base is 19 inches wide and has a Frieze of Roman characters across the bottom. With the clock tower it is 21 inches high. The metal is finished in French Bronze and retains all the finish. Original pendulum and weapons.Movement is 8 day, striking a gong on half hours., and running. 2 piece porcelain dial with open escapement, Rocco sash, beveled glass, all near perfect. If you want one of Ansonia’s most poplar double statue clocks, and want it near perfect, this is the one. Ly-Ansonia No.478.
Sold: $2,201 | Date: 1/1/2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
![Ansonia Clock Co., New York, C.1894, "COMBATANTS" double statue figural clock [rare model], with open escapement on porcelain dial, gong striking, 8-day.](https://antiqueclockspriceguide.com/images/robertoschmitt19/s_1887_a.jpg)
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, C.1894, “COMBATANTS” double statue figural clock [rare model], with open escapement on porcelain dial, gong striking, 8-day.
the rear extension of the axe handle of left combatant has broken and is in a plastic bag, along with a key and a pendulum from a regular black mantel clock {long replacements are available from Timesavers.com}. Note the mace of the right combatant is behind him – see side view. Glass crystal has a 2″ scratch. The entire clock was restored by the late Bruce Bazeluk around 10 years ago, to a dark gray and bronze combination scheme. Overall very good+ condition. Ht 21″
Sold: $1,093 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, ÒCombatantsÓ double statue figural shelf clock, 8 days, time and strike, spring driven movement with decorated back plate. Silver finished spelter case on enameled cast iron base with silver finished friezes around perimeter with cream enamel dial and open escapement, c1894
the clock is in good original condition, complete with battle axe and mace. There is some wear to the Ansonia ÒSilverÓ finish on the figures and minor pitting to the black enamel, but otherwise this rare model with exciting theme is a nice example. Original gilt hands. Ticks and strikes, but will need cleaning and service. Ht 21Ò, Width 19Ó
Sold: $1,200 | Date: May 16, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “COMBATANTS”, double statue figural clock, 8 day, time and strike with fancy multi-color dial and open escapement, c1894
there has been a chip glued in at numerals 3+4 that is slightly misaligned; balance of clock has been professionally restored and is in excellent condition, with no breaks no repairs to statues. Note the mace and axe are separate pieces, press fit only, and we removed them and tied them to the clock after the photo. Ht 21″
Sold: $1,100 | Date: October 28, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts