Reader's Timepiece: Ansonia Marquis Crystal Regulator Clock
In the realm of antique clocks, the Ansonia Marquis Crystal Regulator mantel clock is a noteworthy piece. Produced around 1904, this timepiece was part of a large collection purchased from an estate, with its history tracing back to a store that has been operational for over 73 years.
The Ansonia Clock Company, an American manufacturer established in 1844, was responsible for crafting this beauty. Known for its quality and craftsmanship, Ansonia clocks often sold in the range of $30 to $100 during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, depending on condition and model.
Let's delve into the pricing of the Ansonia Marquis specifically. The original price in 1904 was $40.00, which, when adjusted for inflation, equates to approximately $1,107.48 in 2019 purchasing power. To provide a rough estimate of the 2019 value, we can use the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation multiplier. With a multiplier of around 31, the 1904 price of $50 translates to approximately $1,550 in 2019 dollars.
The Ansonia Marquis boasts a polished brass case adorned with "rich gold" ornaments, standing 151⁄2 inches high and 71⁄2 inches wide. It features a 4-inch porcelain dial and an eight-day time and strike mechanism with an open escapement, jeweled pallets, and a brass bezel. The clock's movement was meticulously cleaned, disassembled, and polished, with one of the jeweled pallets requiring adjustment and resetting with shellac.
Interestingly, the Ansonia Marquis's price increased significantly in 1905, as shown in the Ansonia catalog, where it was listed at $41.80. This price hike underscores the clock's value and desirability during that era.
The Ansonia Crystal Regulator, another model from the same company, is also referred to as a four-glass clock. Its price in the 1905 Ansonia catalog is listed at $29.00 for the Prism model.
The Ansonia Clock Company played a significant role in the watch and clock industry, supplying machinery to the Soviet Union and employing many skilled workers to operate these machines in Russia. However, the company's machinery and dies were eventually sold to a Russian holding company, effectively marking the end of Ansonia's long reign.
For those interested in learning more about these antique clocks, the Ansonia catalog is a valuable resource. Whether you're a collector, historian, or simply admirer, the Ansonia Marquis Crystal Regulator mantel clock is a captivating piece of history that continues to tick away, reminding us of a bygone era.
The Ansonia Marquis Crystal Regulator mantel clock, classified as both an antique timepiece and a noteworthy piece of American craftsmanship, fits seamlessly into a vintage home-and-garden or lifestyle setting. As technology progressed, this artisanal gadget maintained its appeal, now a desirable addition for modern homeowners seeking a bridge between past and present.
