Ansonia Clock

Ansonia clocks derived their name from the company that manufactured them. The Ansonia Company was famous for its ornamental imitation gold and decorative novelty clocks. Ethereal cupids and angels, deep thinkers, athletes, infants and leisurely ladies adorning the elegant clock designs are some of the defining characteristics that set Ansonia clocks apart.

Brief history of Ansonia clocks

The founder of the company was called Anson Phelps and it was located in Derby, Connecticut. Anson started off as an importer of tin, brass and copper to the Eastern section of the states where he already owned a copper mill and therefore, had substantial financial backing and business contacts. This encouraged him to establish The Ansonia Clock Company in 1851 and the two start firm names used were Ansonia Clock Co. and Ansonia Brass & Clock Co. both marked 'Ansonia, Conn.' Forceful sales endorsement methods and a strategy based on making and selling more clocks resulting in more brass being used, brought immediate success. With success came an enhanced reputation for the Ansonia clocks being synonymous with quality timepieces; the company being appreciated as manufacturers and dealers of every style and variety- as an outlet in 43 Hanover Street, Boston preferred to call them.

Range and scope of Ansonia clocks

The Ansonia clock range proved to be extremely saleable and the business did well till 1859 when the clock and brass companies separated. The financial year of 1873 was a bit tough but this is when the clock company was incorporated. The principal clock type around this period was the spring wound shelf clock, designed in myriad patterns. Extending the range were the regulator wall clocks with all cases made of wood, chiefly mahogany, rosewood or other veneer. The Ansonia Brass & Battery Co. tag was also used on some wood and iron covered marine 8 day and 30 hour clocks.

Development of Ansonia clocks

The company gained a factory in Brooklyn, New York and transferred the entire operation there but a fire struck in the first year of operation in 1879, destroying the factory. Showing impressive resilience, the Ansonia clock plant was immediately rebuilt and production in full swing by 1880. The company continued to taste success until production ceased in the Brooklyn plant in about 1930 when Russian interests bought over the machinery and shipped it to Russia.

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