Cast Iron Art Nouveau Mantel Clock | ||
| Unsolved mystery items20098 of 96464 |  |  |
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Posted 6 years ago
Auntiques
(6 items)
I just acquired this clock from a local junk store. It needs a key, I hope to find the right one. It has all the ear-markings of an Ansonia Clock, but the paper label is gone. I wonder if there is another identifier that will help. It is very heavy, so I am assuming it is cast iron with a plating, that underneath appears to have been gold. It's beautiful and would love to have it tell the time.
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I used to have a copy of the book on Ansonia. Wish I still did, but possibly your library can order one from another library, part of the services they offer.
Thank you PhilDMorris. I will look into it. :)
I do not think this is an Ansonia Clock.
While I can not find a matching model in my references, from the dial, winding arbor placements, hands and pendulum and general "style", I believe that you have a Waterbury Crystal Regulator. Probably circa 1910 give or take 5 years would be my guess.
Crystal Regulators are typical made of brass or bronze although the tops and bases can be made of porcelain, stone, finished spelter, and of course brass. Some were gold plated, some were just highly polished or given a satin-like gold finish. It was a popular style of clock with a wide variety of styles and materials.
You can use a magnet to see if the top and base are made of plated iron or steel.
Look for stamped markings in the back movement plate. Waterbury sometimes marked the front plate which you wouldn't be able to see unless you remove the works from the case. If you don't have any experience working with Crystal Regulators, I wouldn't advise it. It could be a French Clock too. We would really need to see more detailed photos showing close-ups of the movement to be of further assistance.
Don't use anything abrasive to clean it up, or any type of polish on the finish. I would just use a non-abrasive hand cleaner like "Goop", an old soft toothbrush and plenty of paper towels to get the metal parts clean. A little glass cleaner applied to a paper towel for the glass.
If a clock has been sitting idle for a long time, it's usually a good idea to have it examined by a good clock shop. The movement may just need oil, or it could need a more thorough servicing before you put it in constant use.
Nice looking Crystal Regulator
Waterbury, Gilbert, French, whatever...if you got it for $20, you got one heck of a deal...especially if all of the beveled glass is in good shape.
Enjoy.
Thank you Bruce99 I am appreciative of the input, and will take it all into consideration, including more images.
Bruce99 Thank you. I looked at the back plate and all I see is [A.1] ? If that identifies this clock?
Also, you are spot on, the clock is not iron or steel, it is as you suggested most likely brass.
Hi Auntiques. Can you add a clear closeup of the back of the clock and movement?