About the Ansonia “Double Figure Swing” Clock
Title: Ansonia “Double Figure Swing” Clock Model: A Collector’s Delight
The Ansonia “Double Figure Swing” clock model is a noteworthy mantel clock produced by the renowned American clock manufacturer, Ansonia Clock Company. This exquisite timepiece, crafted between 1880 and 1920 during the Victorian era, showcases Ansonia’s exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The “Double Figure Swing” clock is renowned for its intricate design and case materials that include brass or bronze with various decorative finishes such as gilt, black patina, or Verde antique. The clock features two standing figurines, often depicting children or cherubs, which swing back and forth at the hour mark, adding a captivating movement to the timepiece.
This model is highly collectible due to its unique design, rarity, and exceptional quality. The “Double Figure Swing” clock stands out among other Ansonia models due to its charming figurines and elegant brass or bronze construction. Notable features include a finely-crafted dial with Roman numerals and a high-quality movement that ensures precision and durability.
For antique clock collectors, the “Double Figure Swing” clock offers an opportunity to own a piece of American horology history, combining aesthetics, craftsmanship, and functionality in a delightful manner. The rarity and desirability of this model make it an excellent addition to any collection, reflecting the collector’s discerning taste and appreciation for the fine art of clockmaking.
Auction Records and Price History
The following 5 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Double Figure Swing” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Ansonia Double figure swing Clock
Jan 2020 – 86 Antique American Clocks Ansonia “Double Figure Swing”, ca. 1900. This uncommon swing clock stands 25 inches high on the rare deluxe base (see Ly, Ansonia Clocks & Watches , page 704), making it even less common; I can find no corresponding sales examples. The Fisher and the Huntress statues were finished in Japanese or Syrian bronze, I don’t know which one was used here, or if they are in their original finish. The enameled cast iron base is 14 inches wide; the gold highlighting of the incisings on the front is lost. The 4-inch nickeled can holding the clock is bright, the clean and bright paper dial is signed and patent-dated, the metal ornaments and pendulum rods are bright gold and I would assume replated. The support between the two figures is also bright gold. The details on these parts exactly match the Ansonia catalog drawings. There is a beveled dial-glass; the knob to set the time in back is missing. The 8-day movement is unsigned as is typical with these clocks; it matches the movements in other examples. It is running without problem. Horton’s sold one in 2014 for $1650; Schmitt’s sold two in 2018 for $1700 and $2200. None were on the deluxe base found here. $1600-$2400.
Retail: $1,600 | Date: 01/01/2020 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Antique Ansonia Double figure swing Clock
Jan 2021 – 8 Antique American Clocks Ansonia “Double Figure Swing”, ca. 1900. This uncommon swing clock stands 25 inches high on the rare deluxe base (see Ly, Ansonia Clocks & Watches , page 704), making it even less common; I can find no corresponding sales examples in the Antique Clocks Price Guide or on LiveAuctioneers. The Fisher and the Huntress statues were finished in Japanese or Syrian bronze, I don’t know which one was used here, or if they are in their original finish. The enameled cast iron base is 14 inches wide; the gold highlighting of the incisings on the front is lost. The 4-inch nickeled can holding the clock is bright, the clean and bright paper dial is signed and patent-dated, the metal ornaments and pendulum rods are bright gold and I would assume replated. The support between the two figures is also bright gold. The details on these parts exactly match the Ansonia catalog drawings. There is a beveled dial-glass; the knob to set the time in back is missing. The 8-day movement is unsigned as is typical with these clocks; it matches the movements in other examples. It is running without problem. AAC sold this example a year ago for $1600. $1500-$2000.
Retail: $2,300 | Date: 01/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Double Figure Swing” clock with a spring driven, 8 day, timepiece movement in a gilt and nickel cannister-style case with a bronze finished spelter statue on an enameled iron base.
The case is in very good condition with some finish restoration. The enameled iron base shows no loss. The signed paper dial is in very good condition with areas of minor discoloration. The hands are original. The nickel and gilt movement case is in nice condition.
Sold: $2200 | Date: May 19, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “Double Figure Swing”, 8 days timepiece with old swinging arm, c1901, associated with modern cast spelter and wood figural base
the old swinging arm has dents in its canister and dull worn surfaces. The signed paper dial is good. The signed movement ticks but was not tested long term, and the rear cover is from an alarm clock. The intact figures have old-looking surfaces but the painted wood base clearly is new and has an incorrect decorative central casting. Ht 25″ to canister top
Sold: $800 | Date: October 25, 2015 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “Double Figure Swing” mystery clock, 8 day, time only, spring driven movement in a nickel plated cylindrical case with cast ribbon ornament, held aloft by a pair of spelter figures standing on a black enamel base with paw feet.
The original paper dial has taken on a fairly uniform darker shade. The paper dial lists a patent date of 1878. The nickel cannister is somewhat tarnished, but in good condition. Some very small number have been inscribed on the back cover. The point an the end of the pendulum is absent. Both figures have good original patinated finishes. Standard enameled iron base is in good condition with gold paint within the recessed design. The movement appears to be correct, but is not signed. Occasionally, the trademark stamp is located on the less accessible front plate of the movement. A nice example.
Sold: $1700 | Date: October 27, 2018 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts