About the Ansonia “Mercury” Clock
Title: Ansonia “Mercury” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Ansonia “Mercury” clock, produced between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a standout mantel clock in the extensive catalog of the Ansonia Clock Company. This model, named for its distinctive Mercury figure atop the hourglass-shaped case, is a testament to Ansonia’s mastery in combining artistry and precision mechanics.
The “Mercury” clock typically features an ornate cast iron case with intricate detailing, often adorned with gilt decorations. The case design incorporates an hourglass silhouette, making it visually appealing and unique among mantel clocks of the era. The case’s dimensions usually measure around 20 inches tall by 12 inches wide, making it a suitable addition to most contemporary living spaces.
What sets the Ansonia “Mercury” clock apart as a collectible piece is its combination of exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design. The company’s reputation for quality and attention to detail is evident in this model, which showcases both the aesthetic appeal of art nouveau and the functional excellence of American clockmaking during this period.
Notable features of the Ansonia “Mercury” clock include its 8-day time-only movement, strike on the hour and half-hour, and the whimsical Mercury figure atop the case. The clock’s pendulum swings from side to side within the base, adding a dynamic element to this otherwise static object.
For collectors, the Ansonia “Mercury” clock offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of American clockmaking history that beautifully blends artistry and functionality. Its rarity, combined with its timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship,
Auction Records and Price History
The following 8 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Mercury” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
C.1894, Ansonia Cast Figural Clock “Mercury”
in good, as-found condition. This clock had been in storage, and we had to scrub off the fly spots. The bronze finish has long been absent, but the spelter itself has an antique look. Note the left wing on Mercury’s helmet is bent (but not broken). The movement is complete and sound and the porcelain dial is absolutely perfect. Original fancy cast hands intact as well. Height 15″ Worth $750 if perfect. Modest reserve $300
Sold: $490 | Date: 5/8/2000 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “Mercury” figure shelf clock with a spring driven, 8 day time and half hour strike movement in a japanese bronzed metal case.
The case still retains a fair amount of the bronze finish. The original finial atop the movement case is missing and there is a partial replacement with the clock. The porcelain dial has one faint hairline crack at the numeral 6. The hands are original. The movement is signed.
Sold: $300 | Date: April 29, 2017 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co. figure clock, “Mercury”, ca 1894.
This seated statue is sometimes seen on other bases and sometimes seen with wings on his helmet. The clock is 17.5 inches long, 15 inches high. One thing you can’s see in the catalog pictures and maybe not in our picture is the long lizard on top of his helmet and mythical lizard things on the urn. The gold was repainted but with some cleaning and tightening of screws you may just love the clock anyway because the two piece porcelain dial is perfect, and everything is on the case that is supposed to be there. The urn is broken at the base but when it is tightened down you can’t tell it. If it bothers you order a replacement urn from Timesavers. The movement as always is 8 day, half hour gong strike, outside escapement on the dial, running and striking. Ly-Ansonia No. 513.
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: January, 2005 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co. “Mercury”. ca.1894.
Original Japanese bronze finish, 15 inches high by 17.5 inches wide, one teardrop missing and both wing tips of helmet damaged. 8 day time and strike movement, original pendulum, outside escapement, two piece porcelain dial, very small flake at 12.Running; could use servicing. Ly-Ansonia #513.
Sold: $0 unsold | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Mercury cast metal figural 8 day time and strike mantel clock, c1894.
original Japanese Bronze statue surface, black painted metal base has some small chips. Rear left foot and the figure’s right wing on helmet are broken off but included. White porcelain dial has one small chip at winding hole, visible escapement has steel pallets. Movement looks clean. 15″ high
Sold: $250 | Date: May 15, 2011 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1894 Ansonia Clock Co., “Mercury”, 8-day time/strike figural mantel clock.
Condition: Cast white metal case is in nice condition, but has lost most of its original bronze finish. Note that Mercury’s winged helmet is still intact with good wings. Porcelain dial is perfect and hands are original. Movement is signed; and with proper pendulum. Height 15 inches
Sold: $450 | Date: May 7, 2005 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “Mercury” statue mantel clock with an 8 day spring driven time and strike movement with visible escapement in an enameled iron base and cast figurine case.
The original Japanese bronze finish shows wear. The urn ornament above the clock case is missing some detail (reproductions are available). The two wings on Mercury’s helmet are absent. The clock dial bezel has been painted gold. The black and gilt hard rubber dial and gilt hands are original.
Sold: $250 | Date: October 22, 2016 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Mercury” mantel clock, 8 day, time and strike, spring driven movement with visible Brocot escapement in a figural case featuring the Roman god Mercury, two-piece white enamel dial and blued steel hands.
cast metal figure, clock drum, and applied ornaments have been repainted gold. Portions of the black iron base have scratched paint. Figure appears to be in good condition. Enameled dial is very good. Hands and pendulum are correct. The movement is signed. In the Roman pantheon, Mercury was the god of commerce, eloquence, messages, communication, travelers, boundaries, luck, and trickery.
Sold: $225 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts