About the Ansonia “Macbeth” Clock
Title: Ansonia “Macbeth” Clock Model: A Collector’s Guide
The Ansonia “Macbeth” clock, crafted by the esteemed American clock manufacturer Ansonia Clock Company, is a captivating mantel clock that graced homes during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This clock is an epitome of the company’s prowess in producing intricate, high-quality timepieces with a unique aesthetic appeal.
Characterized by its distinctive design, the “Macbeth” clock typically features a cast-iron case adorned with elaborate Gothic Revival details, such as pointed arches, finial tops, and open tracery. The case is often painted black, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design. The dial, framed by a bezel of intricate iron work, presents Roman numerals and ornate hands that add a sense of grandeur to the clock.
Produced between 1895 and 1920, the Ansonia “Macbeth” clock is collectible due to its rare combination of stunning design, exceptional craftsmanship, and historical significance. The clock’s name derives from its dial, which features a scene inspired by Act V, Scene v of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, depicting the three witches in a dramatic tableau. This novelty feature adds an extra layer of interest for collectors who appreciate both functional and decorative art.
Notable features include the clock’s high-quality movement, which is driven by a 30-hour weight-driven mechanical system, ensuring precise timekeeping. The “Macbeth” clock also boasts a unique chime mechanism that strikes on the hour and half-hour, enhancing its charm as both a functional timepiece and a decorative
Auction Records and Price History
The following 7 auction record(s) show actual sale prices for the Ansonia “Macbeth” model clock. Prices vary based on condition, originality, and current market demand. Search for more records on AntiqueClocksPriceGuide.com.
Antique Ansonia Macbeth Clock
Jul 2021 – #51 Antique American Clocks Ansonia Clock Co. “Macbeth”, ca. 1904. From the days of the glorious “figural clocks”, here is Shakespeare contemplating “Macbeth”, as indicated by the sheaf of papers below him listing Hamlet on the top half and Macbeth on the lower page. What better way to demonstrate your sophistication than to own a clock that depicts Shakespeare? metalwork has been professionally repainted to give a nice bronze look, with shading to give depth and a glaze over the finish. It is 16 inches wide and 14.5 inches tall. The two-part porcelain dial is perfect and bears the Ansonia logo; it has a visible escapement with steel pallets. The 8-day, time and half-hour strike movement is signed and running without issue. is a nice example, even if it doesn’t have the original finish. Viewing on a smart phone? Turn it sideways! Post comments and questions on the AAC facebook page!
Retail: $296 | Date: 07/01/2021 | Source: AntiqueAmericanClocks.com
C.1904, Ansonia Clock Co, New York, MACBETH, figural clock, 8-day, gong strike.
Condition: excellent restored condition, the case professionally brass plated, and the statue of Shakespeare plated with copper. Note this statue on the iron based clock is called Shakespeare, while on the cast base is called Macbeth; see Tran Ly’s book on Ansonia [2nd edition], pages 160-61 for comparison; Ly price guide = $700. This clock is in good running order, ready to enjoy. Height 11.5 inches [29cm]
Sold: $550 | Date: 4/22/2007 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia “Macbeth” Seated Statue Clock
porcelain dial with visible movement; brass movement marked Ansonia; 8 day; T & S; half hour gong strike; beveled glass. (Dial hairlined at 2; does not gong; no pendulum or key.)Running at this time. 14″
Sold: $400 | Date: Feb 18th, 2012 | Source: Tom Harris Auctions
C.1904, Ansonia Clock Co., “Macbeth”, 8-day time/strike figural mantel clock.
Condition: Cast metal case is very nice, but about half the original finish is worn down to the base metal, now grayish brown. Porcelain dial has a hairline crack at 3 o’clock, which is barely noticeable. Hands are original. Beveled door glass is perfect. Movement is signed with proper Ansonia trademark. Overall good+ condition. Height 11.5 inches
Sold: $400 | Date: May 7, 2005 | Source: R.O. Schmitt Fine Arts
C.1904, Ansonia Clock Co., “Macbeth”, 8-day time and strike figural mantel clock, cast white metal.
Condition: Patinated bronze tone case has faded down, not much color left. Original porcelain dial is perfect and the hands are original. Movement is signed. Ht. 11.5″
Sold: $225 | Date: May 8, 2009 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “MacBeth” cast metal 8 days, time and strike, figural mantel clock with visible escapement, c1904
the ornate case, with no damage or losses, has been nicely restored with new paint, and the porcelain dial and beveled glass are fine. The visible pallets are steel. The movement is correct and signed. Ht 15″
Sold: $325 | Date: October 26, 2014 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts
Ansonia Clock Co., New York, “MacBeth” cast metal figural time and strike 8-day mantel clock, C.1904.
Original bronze finish dull but mostly intact, no losses on statue of Shakespeare. Original porcelain dial has a few cracks. Movement ticks and strikes on hours and half-hours. Visible escapement. Ht.14″.
Sold: $325 | Date: October 30, 2010 | Source: R. O. Schmitt Fine Arts