About the Ansonia “La Saone” Clock
Title: Ansonia “La Saone” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Ansonia “La Saone” clock model, produced by the renowned Ansonia Clock Company between 1897 and 1902, is a striking example of American art nouveau design. This exquisite mantel clock stands out as one of Ansonia’s most collectible models due to its unique blend of aesthetics, craftsmanship, and historical significance.
The “La Saone” clock model is characterized by its intricately sculpted case, typically made from mahogany or walnut, and adorned with lavish gilt-bronze decorations. The design takes inspiration from the iconic French steamship “La Saone,” as reflected in the nautical motifs such as anchors, ropework, and ships’ wheels that grace its case.
The “La Saone” clock model represents the pinnacle of art nouveau aesthetics during the late 19th century, a time when American clockmakers were experimenting with new styles while maintaining a high level of craftsmanship. Its collectibility stems from this exceptional combination of design and technique, as well as its rarity, given that only approximately 600 pieces were produced during its limited production run.
Notable features of the Ansonia “La Saone” clock model include its eight-day time-and-strike movement, which is driven by a weight-driven mechanism hidden within the sculpted base. The clock face is framed by a bezel featuring an intricate floral pattern, with Roman numerals marking the hours and Arabic numerals for the minutes. The pendulum, visible through an aperture in the base, adds to the clock’s overall charm and historical interest.
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Auction Records and Price History
The following 3 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “La Saone” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Ansonia Clock Co. Royal Bonn cased, “La Saone”, ca 1902.
Here is another huge clock I have never seen. It is 14.75 inches high, 14 inches wide. Awfully nice looking violet color, lots of gold highlighting the numerous leaves, vines, and branches. Large painted flowers in the front, top, and sides. Probably the most unusual things about the clock you won’t see in the picture. On top where there always seems to be a lions head or something like a shell, there is a large opening like a napkin holder. On the front each side of the dial are lions heads, also with openings. Same movement, dial, bezel, and everything else, like all the other nice Ansonia Royal Bonn clocks. Ly-Ansonia #2575. It sold for 29 dollars in 1902, was one of their most expensive clocks.
Sold: $3,150 | Date: June, 2004 | Source: Horton’s Antique Clocks
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “La Saone” Royal Bonn, 8 day, time and strike, porcelain mantel clock with visible escapement, c1902
this rare case is in very good condition. The rear front portion of the base appears to have some restoration. The beveled glass is fine; there are two small hairlines on the porcelain dial. See Ly’s Ansonai book [2nd ed], page 605, fig 2575. Ht 14.5″
Sold: $450 | Date: May 4, 2013 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, NY, “La Saone” Royal Bonn, 8 day, time and strike, porcelain mantel clock with visible escapement, c1902
this rare case is in excellent original condition. The beveled glass is fine; there are two small hairlines on the porcelain dial. Ht 14.5″
Sold: $1,000 | Date: October 28, 2012 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts