Timepiece equipped with Ansonia Crystal Regulator mechanism
In the world of antique and vintage clocks, the Ansonia Prism Crystal Regulator stands out as a distinctive piece of American clockmaking history. This mantel clock, produced primarily between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is renowned for its unique glass and brass crystal-regulator case.
Manufactured by the Ansonia Clock Company, a prominent American clockmaker established in the mid-1800s, the Prism model features prismatic or faceted beveled glass panels on all sides, allowing light to pass through and showcase the inner workings, particularly the pendulum.
Built with brass framings and crystal glass panels, the case offers both durability and an aesthetically elegant, transparent design. The movement is typically an 8-day mechanical movement with a visible gridiron pendulum or mercury pendulum, both common in crystal regulators for their precision and decorative appeal.
Production of the Ansonia Prism Crystal Regulator peaked from the 1880s to the early 1900s, a time when American clock companies were competing with European styles, blending utility with decorative appeal. These clocks were popular as mantel or shelf clocks in homes, prized for their accuracy and the beauty of their design that combined functional clockworks with glass artistry.
While auction sites list various related antiques, specific detailed descriptions of the Ansonia Prism model highlight its semi-transparent, prismatic glass panels and brass framework typical of crystal regulator clocks. However, a single detailed source does not provide a comprehensive overview of the Prism model.
Recently, a blogger shared their admiration for an antique Ansonia Prism Crystal Regulator in a blog post. The overall condition of the clock is good, with tarnished brass that polished up nicely with Brasso cleaner. A gentle push of the pendulum produced a few ticks and then stopped, suggesting a potential issue with the Brocot escapement. The four glass panels are in very good condition, with the exception of a small corner chip on one panel noticed several days after purchasing the clock.
The blogger plans to delve deeper into the servicing of the movement, detailing the process in a future post. Before disassembling and cleaning the movement, the owner will research the Brocot escapement to understand any necessary precautions or steps.
In conclusion, the Ansonia Prism Crystal Regulator is a captivating piece of American clockmaking history, combining functional precision with aesthetic elegance. For those interested in learning more about this unique clock, specialized horological references or antique clock collectors’ resources may be required for exact specifications or valuation details.
[1] Auction Site Link 1 [2] Auction Site Link 2
Collectors of vintage and home-and-garden enthusiasts often seek out unique pieces like the Ansonia Prism Crystal Regulator, a wall clock renowned for its combination of functional precision and aesthetic elegance. Despite its popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a mantel or shelf clock, the Prism model offers a timeless appeal that can complement a variety of lifestyles today.
Aside from auction sites, antique clock collectors' resources and specialized horological references can provide valuable information about the specifications and history of the Ansonia Prism Crystal Regulator, helping you make informed decisions when purchasing these mantel clocks, vintage clocks, or wall clocks.
