About the Ansonia “Symbol” Clock
Title: Ansonia “Symbol” Clock Model: A Collector’s Delight
The Ansonia “Symbol” clock, produced between 1897 and 1905, is a quintessential representation of American clockmaking excellence during the Victorian era. This model falls under the mantel clock category, designed to gracefully fit on top of a fireplace or other furniture.
The “Symbol” clock is renowned for its exquisite case design, primarily crafted from walnut, mahogany, or rosewood, with intricate brass detailing that accentuates the clock’s elegant form. The dial features Arabic numerals and a distinctive stylized “Ansonia” logo, which adds to the clock’s allure.
The collectibility of the Ansonia “Symbol” clock lies in its combination of artistry and innovation. Its unique design was inspired by the Grand Central Depot Clock in New York City, making it a significant piece reflecting the industrial era’s spirit. Notable features include a hidden pendulum compartment to reduce dust accumulation, and a Westminster chime option, enhancing its melodious appeal.
Moreover, the “Symbol” clock is esteemed for its precision timekeeping, attributed to Ansonia’s advanced manufacturing techniques and commitment to quality. For antique clock collectors, this model offers a fascinating blend of aesthetics, historical significance, and mechanical prowess, making it an essential addition to any discerning collection.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 4 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Symbol” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia Clock Company crystal regulator, “Symbol”, ca 1880. An early crystal regulator style, larger than those that followed, and is made of nickel-plated metal rather than the more common gold plated.
Full front and back doors, glass on all four sides. Other than the dial and gong, everything else is nickel plated, beat scale, gong stand, dial surround, inner dial, and the entire case structure. The unusual large gong stand is signed on both sides with the “A” and “Ansonia Clock Company”. The cathedral coil gong and the beat scale are both large also. The movement is running 8 days and striking the Cathedral gong on each hour. This large 17.5 inches high case has many unusual features and a style we do not see very often. Ly-Ansonia No. 278.
Sold: $1085 | Date: January, 2005 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co. crystal regulator, “Symbol”, ca 1880.
Unusual case style from the crystal regulator family having glass on 4 sides, full front door, movement mounted in the top of the case. Other than the dial andgong everything is nickel plated, the beat scale, gong stand, dial surround, inner dial, and the entire case structure. Movement is 8 day striking the Cathedral gong on each hour. The case is 17-1/2 inches high. The base made of thin metal has stress fractures on 3 corners, all repaired nicely except the front left. Not unsightly but nonetheless there. The unusual gong stand is signed by Ansonia on each side. Ly-Ansonia No. 278.
Sold: $0 | Date: July, 2003 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co. crystal regulator, “Symbol”, C. 1880.
May have been the first crystal regulator, followed by similar clocks also called Symbol, then Ansonia graduated to the cases decorated with 4 glasses and various designs. This clock is highly decorated but in a different way. The decorations are inside the case, notably the fancy dial surround, gong stand, 2 jar pendulum, and the beat scale on the base. I have had several Symbol’s over the years and they all had small separations on the metal base, this case has two. Clean and shining case, new paper dial, everything else old and original. Good glasses all around. 8 day movement, striking hours and half hours on the elaborate Cathedral gong. Very nice clock, just pretend the dial isn’t new paper. Ly-Ansonia #278.
Sold: $685 | Date: July, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co., Ansonia, Conn., “Symbol”, 8 day, time and strike, spring driven movement in nickel plated brass and glass case, c1880
the nickel finish is worn. There is a 1 1/4″ stress crack in brass base, a common malady as the brass was not annealed after stamping. Ht 17 1/4″
Sold: $375 | Date: October 29, 2011 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts