Started in Ansonia, Connecticut (1851), Asonia Clocks moved to moved to Brooklyn, New York in 18??. Asonia produced many novel and collectible clocks, and was quite sucessful till WWI. However, around 1914, other companies began to more effectively compete with the classic clock maker, and the company died with the stock market crash in 1929. As you get started, we found a great website that hs a few ansonia clocks for sale to have a look before you dig in further below.
Today, vintage Ansonia clocks are sought after by historians and collectors. An old Ansonia clock, for it’s craftmenship, as well as it’s novel beauty will crown a collection. With a little patience, anyone could buy an Ansonia clock on eBay, and spend a couple dimes fixing it up.
Ansonia Clock Company was a prominent American clock manufacturer based in Ansonia, Connecticut, that operated from 1851 to 1929. Here's some information about Ansonia clocks:
History:
Ansonia Clock Company was founded in 1851 by Anson G. Phelps and two partners, Theodore Terry and Franklin C. Andrews.
Initially, the company produced a variety of brass items, including clock movements, before focusing exclusively on clock manufacturing.
Product Range:
Ansonia Clock Company produced a wide range of clocks, including mantel clocks, wall clocks, shelf clocks, and novelty clocks.
Their clocks were known for their high-quality craftsmanship, elegant designs, and reliable movements.
Popular Models:
Ansonia produced many popular clock models during its operation, including:
"Royal Bonn" porcelain mantel clocks, featuring ornate hand-painted designs on porcelain cases.
"Crystal Palace" shelf clocks, which were named after the Crystal Palace Exhibition in London in 1851.
"Swing" or "Swinging" clocks, which featured a pendulum that swung from side to side rather than the typical back-and-forth motion.
Innovation:
Ansonia Clock Company was known for its innovation in clockmaking techniques and materials.
They were one of the first American clockmakers to use brass movements extensively in their clocks, which contributed to their durability and accuracy.
Decline and Closure:
Despite its early success, Ansonia Clock Company faced financial difficulties in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The company struggled to adapt to changing market conditions and faced stiff competition from both domestic and foreign clock manufacturers.
Ansonia Clock Company declared bankruptcy in 1929, marking the end of its operations after nearly 80 years in business.
Collectibility:
Ansonia clocks are highly collectible among antique clock enthusiasts.
Collectors appreciate the craftsmanship, design, and historical significance of Ansonia clocks, with some models commanding significant prices at auctions and antique markets.
Legacy:
Despite its closure, the legacy of Ansonia Clock Company lives on through the many clocks it produced, which continue to be cherished by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Ansonia clocks serve as a reminder of America's rich history of clockmaking and craftsmanship during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Overall, Ansonia Clock Company played an important role in the development of American clockmaking and left behind a lasting legacy of quality and innovation in the industry.
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