Posted 6 years ago
robtd
(1 item)
I've had this Ansonia clock for a number of years now. I've always thought it is a "Minstrel", but after looking around a bit I'm now thinking maybe it isn't. The base is different, the feet are different and the "thing" on top of the clock face is different. There is a broken screw in the top of the "thing on top of the clock face" that makes me think that once upon a time, there was something above that.
Any help in identifying this clock would be greatly appreciated. The main spring on the chime side has broken and I'm at the point of making a repair or sell decision.
I do not have my book any longer on Ansonia Clocks. If nothing or no other info exists on the web try getting the book at your library or they may be able to order it from one of their affiliate libraries.
Beautiful sculpted antique clock
In my reference material three different models featured this statuette.
1. Bard
2. Troubadour
3. Minstrel
Look on the web for examples.
The main differences between the models is the base and clock tower.
The base and clock tower of your Ansonia does not match illustrations of any of the three models mentioned. The Finial on top of the Clock Tower doesn't match anything in my reference book. You may have some type of composite example there. I can't say one way or the other with certainty. It's an Ansonia, but it looks altered. I think it's a nice looking clock all the same. Sorry I couldn't be more definitive.
I've added a second pic of a clock that looks like it has the same clock tower as mine, but a different figure and base. Mine is missing the little point on top, but there is evidence that it was broken off before I got it.
I tend to agree that this is an altered clock. I could see that easily happening in some clock shop where the guy had a few Ansonia parts laying around and didn't want to just throw them out. Or, I could be a romantic and think that it was the last one out of the "factory" and they used the last parts they had on hand to make one unique clock.
Maybe not. This may be how the clock came out of the factory.
See this link for what appears to be an identical model identified as a Troubadour:
http://www.antiqueclockprice.com/antique-ansonia-troubadour-statue-clock-2.html
My reference book is Tran Duy Ly and while it is very comprehensive with many dealer catalog illustrations it can't possibly document everything.
Again, nice Troubadour. Thanks for sharing it.
Thanks Bruce999 for finding that. Except for the face of the clock, everything I see in that picture is identical to what I have. Troubadour it is!
You're very welcome rob. The dials that were offered by Ansonia can vary on the same model. The brown open escapement dial shown in the linked example is made of some type of rubber material. I have one of those on our "Newton". I definitely prefer the porcelain enamel dials but they can be more easily damaged. However, if they are not cracked or otherwise broken I'm pretty sure they'll age better.