About the Ansonia “Helmsman” Clock
Title: Ansonia Helmsman Clock Model – A Collector’s Delight
The Ansonia “Helmsman” clock, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company between 1896 and 1914, is a remarkable mantel clock that continues to captivate antique clock collectors worldwide. This model showcases Ansonia’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design during the late Victorian era.
The Helmsman clock typically features an intricately detailed brass case, with a unique nautical theme inspired by ships’ helmsmen or steering captains. The case design often includes a helmsman figure standing atop a ship’s wheel, surrounded by various maritime motifs such as compass roses, anchors, and mermaids. This distinctive design sets the Helmsman clock apart from other mantel clocks of the era.
What makes the Ansonia Helmsman clock particularly collectible is its exceptional quality, rarity, and the nostalgic appeal of its nautical theme. The intricate brass detailing and the high-quality movement are hallmarks of the Ansonia Clock Company’s reputation for producing some of the finest clocks in America during the 19th century. Additionally, due to the labor-intensive nature of creating these detailed brass cases, the Helmsman clock is relatively rare compared to other models produced by Ansonia.
Notable features of the Ansonia Helmsman clock include its eight-day time-and-strike movement and the chiming of Westminster quarters or the Whittington full hour. The clock’s pendulum, often featuring a brass disk with a nautical motif, swings behind a glass door in the case. This unique combination of design, craftsmanship, rarity, and function
Auction Records and Price History
The following 1 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Helmsman” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Ansonia Helmsman Iron Case Clock
iron case with porcelain painted dial; time and strike; half hour gong strike; has key and pendulum; movement marked Ansonia Clock Co. New York Patented June 18, 1882; note with clock says “Repaired in March 1960, to make it go slow turn the wheel to the left; to make it go fast turn the wheel to the right”. 17 1/2″ x 15″ x 7 1/4″ and running at this time
Sold: $950 | Date: October 1, 2011 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions