About the Ansonia “Sonia No. 1” Clock
Title: Ansonia Sonia No. 1 Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Ansonia Sonia No. 1 is a quintessential mantel clock from the American Clock Company, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and distinctive design. This model, produced predominantly between 1895 and 1920, falls under the mantel clock category due to its compact size, designed for placement on a shelf or mantelpiece.
The Sonia No. 1 is characterized by its elegant brass case, often adorned with intricate floral and geometric patterns, adding a touch of Victorian elegance to any room. The clock’s case is typically crafted using the lost-wax casting method, which allows for detailed designs and a smooth finish. Notable variations include marquetry inlays, porcelain plaques, or even silver-plated cases, making these rarer versions highly sought after by collectors.
What makes the Ansonia Sonia No. 1 a desirable addition to any antique clock collection is its combination of aesthetic appeal and mechanical precision. The clock features an eight-day movement with a chime striking mechanism, adding a melodious touch to its functionality. A notable feature is the convex dial, which is often decorated with Roman numerals and intricate painted details. Some versions may even include a moon phase complication, further enhancing its collectible value.
The Ansonia Sonia No. 1’s enduring popularity among collectors is due to its excellent craftsmanship, iconic design, and the historical significance of the Ansonia Clock Company during the Industrial Revolution. As with all antiques, the value can vary greatly depending on the condition, rarity, and provenance of each piece. Therefore, it is essential for collectors to research
Auction Records and Price History
The following 7 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Sonia No. 1” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
ANSONIA “SONIA No. 1” WESTMINSTER TAMBOUR IN A MAHOGANY CASE. CIRCA 1925-30.
SILVER DIAL WITH ENGRAVED NUMERALS AND A LEVEL UNDER THE No.12. PLAYS THE WESTMINSTER CHIMES ON THE 1/4 HOURS AND STRIKES THE HOURS ON RODS. H-10 1/4″ x W-23″ Additional keywords: mantel, mantle, shelf
Date: 10/21/2002 | Source: Clocksmith
Ansonia Clock Co. Tambour, “Sonia No. 1”, ca 1926.
Mahogany case is 23″ wide, 10″ high, has 4 cast adjustable round feet, one of which is missing. Six inch silver plated dial with raised bronze numerals, correct pair of hands, beveled convex glass, chime silencer concealed in the mat behind sash, and a spirit level on the dial indicates when the clock is in beat. It has a signed 8 day Westminster Chime movement. I had it running but not striking. It will need service and a foot but the rewards should be great if you can restore it. Ly-Ansonia, page 430.
Sold: $75 | Date: 7/31/2010 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co. Chiming Tambour, “Sonia No. 1”, ca 1926.
This is a much larger and heavier clock than the catalog pictures would lead you to believe. It is 23 inches wide, 10inches high, solid mahogany. Apparently it has never been pampered as many small nicked places are evident. Just for kicks I rubbed it with Nu-Life. It helped a lot but would have been better if I had used something with stain in it. 8 day movement is running; full Westminster quarter-hour strike on 5 “Melodious Tru-Toned Rods”. Their words. 6 inch silver plated dial, dull gold finished cast sash, beveled convex glass, raised bronze numerals, bronze hands, sash and mat. Spirit level on dial to indicate when clock is in beat. Esberger Bros, Cincinnati, label on the door with guarantee. Selling date, Dec. 25, 1926. Ly-Ansonia #1690.
Sold: $230 | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia “Sonia No. 1” Tambour Chiming Clock
With a signed 8 day T&S with chime movement and 4 rod strike. There is a marked silver colored dial with intaglio numbers and a level. The case is signed and matches the movement. The pendulum is with the clock. The clock runs at this time. (The clock does not chime. There is no key with the clock. There are scratches on the case.) 10 3/4″ Tall x 22 3/4″ Wide
Sold: $120 | Date: Oct 05, 2013 | Source: Tom Harris
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Sonia No. 1”, 8 days, time and strike and Westminster chime on rods tambour mantel clock, c1922
Mahogany case in original finish with dings and some wear to finish on the back edge. Original silvered dial with inset level is worn with scratches at the winding arbors. The hands are not the same as those illustrated in the catalog, but may be original. There is small plaque that reads: “Presented to Elkkan Levey by the members of the East End Liberal Club as a mark of their high appreciation of his valuable services 23 March 1922”. This clock was exported and sold in England. Ht 10″
Sold: $80 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1928 Ansonia Clock Co., ÒSonia No. 1Ó, 8-day Westminster chime tambour mantel clock.
Condition: Mahogany case is in very nice condition with some minor dings and scratches. The silvered dial is in quite good condition with small scratches around the winding holes. The signed movement chimes on 4 rods and has been recently serviced; running and chiming. Height 10.25 inches
Sold: $175 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1927, Ansonia ÒSonia No. 1Ó Westminster chime mantel clock, with raised brass numerals and spirit level on the dial.
Condition: This clock is in very clean original condition, running and chiming. When new, this clock retailed for 75 dollars, a large sum at the time. The solid plate movement is about the finest America produced at the time. The inside of the rear door bears a brass Ansonia plaque with the model name ÒSoniaÓ, and with the struck number 1.. For details, see LyÕs Ansonia book, 1998, page 430. The 2004 price update lists this at 350 dollars. Height 10 inches
Sold: $250 | Date: October 31, 2004 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts