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Ansonia Regulator Wall Clock

ProbableCredible evidence exists but classification is not fully established.

Record status

Individual type · partial

Period

circa 1890

This wall clock is an American regulator wall clock manufactured by Ansonia, attributed to circa 1890. The case is constructed from mahogany and features extensive hand-carved floral and foliate ornamentation surrounding the circular dial bezel, complemented by turned finials at the base.

The clock retains its original dial, which displays Roman numerals and spade-shaped hands. The lower section of the case incorporates a glass-fronted door providing visibility to the pendulum; this glass is decorated with the word "REGULATOR" and the letter "A". The movement is an 8-day mechanical system equipped with a gong striking mechanism. The clock is reported to have its original components, with the wooden case showing a natural patina and surface wear consistent with age.

It is described as being in good condition relative to its age, with minor signs of wear on the mahogany finish.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
1
Photograph views
1
Catalogue references
0

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Technical characteristics

Date
circa 1890
Dial
Roman numerals
Type
Regulator Wall clock
Maker
Ansonia
Origin
USA
Material
Mahogany
Movement
8-day
Striking
Gong striking
Place recorded
United States
Maker / attribution
Ansonia

Design

Dial and Hands
The clock features a circular dial marked with Roman numerals. The hands are configured in the spade style. According to the provided information, both the dial and the hands are original to the timepiece, maintaining the aesthetic unity of the clock's design. The dial is set within a metallic bezel that sits flush against the carved wooden frame.
Visible features
• Floral and foliate wood carvings • Lower glass panel with 'REGULATOR' lettering • Spade-shaped hands on white dial • Turned wooden finials at the lower corners
Movement and Function
The clock is powered by an 8-day mechanical movement. It includes a strike train that utilizes a metal gong for acoustic signaling. The movement is contained within the wooden case, which is designed to allow sound transmission while protecting the internal mechanics. The source notes that the clock is in good condition for its age. It is advised that prospective collectors verify the status of the mainsprings, gear train, and striking levers to confirm mechanical functionality, as these components were not explicitly assessed in the provided source material.
Case and Aesthetic Features
The clock is housed in a mahogany case featuring elaborate hand-carved decorations. The upper circular frame surrounding the dial is adorned with detailed floral and leaf motifs. Decorative carvings extend to the lower section of the case, which also features turned finials flanking the pendulum chamber. The lower door consists of a glass panel designed for viewing the internal pendulum. This panel bears the stenciled text "REGULATOR" above the letter "A," which is integrated into the center of the glass design. The wood displays a patina consistent with the item's age, with reported surface wear.

Identification

Source note
Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.

Research required

  • Research required: Movement and internal mechanical integrity not verified
  • Research required: Originality of dial and hands based on vendor claim
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