About the Ansonia “Don Caesar and Don Juan” Clock
Title: Ansonia Don Caesar and Don Juan Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Ansonia Don Caesar and Don Juan clock model, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company between 1896 and 1917, is a captivating novelty timepiece that continues to intrigue antique clock collectors worldwide. This extraordinary piece combines the charm of a mantel clock with the allure of a whimsical figurine, making it a unique addition to any collection.
The Don Caesar and Don Juan clock features a striking cast-iron case, intricately designed in the likeness of two knights – Don Caesar de Bazan and Don Juan of Austria – engaged in a playful tug-of-war with a large anchor chain connecting them. The case is typically adorned with vivid enamel details and gilt accents, adding to its visual appeal.
What sets the Ansonia Don Caesar and Don Juan clock apart as a collectible item is its historical significance, artistic merit, and rarity. This model was one of the most popular novelty clocks produced by the Ansonia Clock Company during their golden era, and only a limited number were manufactured due to the intricate production process. The clock’s association with the Ansonia name further enhances its collectible value, as the company is renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs.
Notable features of this timepiece include the self-striking mechanism, which chimes the hours and quarters on a bell inside the clock, and the exquisite attention to detail in both the figurines and the case design. The Don Caesar and Don Juan clock model also boasts a precision movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping throughout its life span.
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Auction Records and Price History
The following 3 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Don Caesar and Don Juan” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, C.1880, “DON CAESAR and DON JUAN” double figure mantel clock, and with open escapement on porcelain dial.
this clock was restored by the late Bruce Bazeluk of Ohio, and is in excellent restored condition. See Ly Ansonia book, figure 471, current price guide = $2000. Ht 20″
Sold: $920 | Date: 5/15/2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Don Caesar and Don Juan” figural shelf clock with a spring driven, 8 day, time and half hour strike movement with visible escapement in an enameled iron base with two Japanese bronze spelter statues.
The enameled iron base is in very good and retains most of its original color. The two statues and the clock case are all in very good condition and still retain some of the Japanese Bronze finish. The porcelain dial is in excellent condition with no hairline cracks. The hands are original. The beveled glass has no chips. The movement is signed.
Sold: $700 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Don Caesar and Don Juan” figural mantel clock, 8 day, time and strike, spring driven movement with visible Brocot escapement, black enameled iron base on paw feet supporting clock with cream enamel dial and Louis XV style hands, flanked by the two soldier figures.
The black enameled base is in good condition with a few small losses of finish. Paw feet have the original Japanese Bronze finish. The dial and hands are excellent. The clock case and figures look to have been replated with copper. Some attempt was made to selectively darken the finish, but overall it is rather too bright and uniform. This should improve with age. The door hinge will need to be repaired. Sword for the figure on the left is included, but will need to be reattached. The pendulum is the proper Ansonia type. The movement is signed.
Sold: $600 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts