Posted 3 years ago
Novocastrian
(2 items)
** updated with photos of my clock ** I've just bought an Ansonia mantel clock - the timber case is identical to this one but the pattern on the glass is different.
Will need nasty dial replaced - sources? Seems to be working nicely. Hints and tips on cleaning the case would be appreciated, too.
I'm hoping someone can tell me the model name/age of it? Thanks!
Nice Gingerbread Clock. Thanks for sharing. You can use something mild like Murphy's Oil Soap and an old toothbrush to clean the wood. Don't apply too much liquid and let the oil dry before applying some wax/polish. I like to use Lemon Oil and Bee's Wax. When applied as directed, it will leave a nice sheen. Not too shiny but not flat either. It goes on into details easily and it doesn't lead to a rapid waxy build up. Just my preferences.
If the photos shown are of your clock and dial, I would *not* replace the original dial. The clock is over a century old so it should not look new. Genuine, original dials which are still legible have honest age and add value to collectors. A new dial will reduce the value of the clock. If the dial isn't badly damaged, you would do best to leave it. Again, just my preferences. Besides, doing a good job of replacing the dial is more than a notion.
Your clock is an example from Ansonia's "A" Assortment. Your model is the "Aspen" from circa 1906. This clock could have been manufactured several years before or after that date. Other "A" models are the Antler and Arctic (along with the Aspen, all in Oak). The other three are the Arlington, Aden and Andes. (All in dark wood). The six models have a similar style but are distinctly different. You may be able to find examples with an online search using Ansonia and the model name as your keywords.
These clocks listed in 1906 for somewhere between $3.95 through $4.75 depending upon the movement and optional alarm movement. Adjusted for inflation, in 2021 that roughly comes out to $120 through $145. Good values.
So called "Gingerbread" or "Kitchen" clocks were in very high demand. They were fairly accurate time-keepers for their day. They were relatively inexpensive and offered in a wide range of styles by all of the major American Clock Manufacturers.
It was a very active and competitive market.
Your glass tablet's stenciled design looks to be original. Be careful if you clean the glass. I would leave the inside surface of the glass alone. If you do anything, just gently wipe it down with a very soft, damp (water) cloth. Just one or two passes to remove any loose dust or dirt. Be very careful if you do attempt it. These old, surviving, original patterns are easily destroyed. Again, I would probably leave it as is.
From what little I can see, your pendulum appears to be original to the clock as well.
Does the winding key look original (or at least an old replacement?)
You have acquired a nice example. With antiques which are in good original condition, *less is more*. It's your clock to do with as you will but my advice is to care for, and preserve it like the family of owners before you. Don't destroy the 1906 originality. Once it's gone, it's gone. Once it's gone, what exactly are you left with?
Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Bruce
BTW, if that answers your questions, please indicate "Mystery Solved" in your listing. If you have additional questions, ask away. Someone here will probably know the answer(s). Thanks again.
Thanks @bruce99 - that's great info, I appreciate it. The dial that's currently in it looks like a very nasty photocopy that has been laminated.
Suit yourself. Here's one source: https://timesavers.com/search.html?q=ansonia+dial&go=Search
There are probably many others.
Good luck